Loch Doon to Lochranza

The view from Loch Doon campsite in the early morning was worth savouring:

The low sun was dazzling during the first miles towards Troon and at Patna a car approaching the main road from the left and towards the low sun did not see me and luckily my sharp swerve to the right avoided an accident. The car seemed a foot or two from me as it turned left while I veered right and there was no response to my yell.

The non-stop progress to Troon pier before breakfast was an achievement, but there was the sudden shock that on this bank-holiday weekend even foot passengers should pre-book. A few of us were put on standby and were allowed on board last.

Two of my favourite shops, Arran Active and the bakers Wooleys, both in Brodick, close each Sunday but The Corrie Hotel en route for Lochranza is open and their garden offers pleasing views over the sea as shown in the photo. The coffee was wonderful and also the smoked salmon and pomegranate on bread together with a portion of chips. Staff were all cheerful although working quickly and the manager was serving at pace with quick conversations. A fellow diner volunteered that the new owners had made a huge and welcome change to the hotel.

At Lochranza campsite, phone and watch charged whilst tasks were completed: pitching tent and unpacking luggage, (needed) shower and hand-washing of clothes before they dripped and dried on a whirligig in the sunshine and breeze. A neighbouring camper from living near the large slate quarry in North Wales was enjoying the quiet around Lochranza and bemoaning how at home the tourists had multiplied and caused problems for locals.

Campers agreed how easy it is to live in a tent when the weather is so supportive, and there seemed to be a happy, contented atmosphere throughout the site.