Ballantrae, South Ayrshire
Friday, midday
Check into Glenapp Castle ( doubles from £ 351, www. glenappcastle. com). A recent rejuvenation under debonair entrepreneur Paul Szkiler has fashioned an impressively luxurious escape.
1pm
Enjoy a lazy start with lunch at the Mackenzie and Moncur Victorian Glasshouse. Opened in August, five characterful spaces tempt amidst verdant flora.
2: 30pm
A network of trails ramble around Glenapp’s grounds. The Glen Walk sweeps you along the banks of the Kilphin Burn. Look up to spy some of the most dramatic trees in Ayrshire and the tallest Sicilian Fir in Britain.
6pm
Time for an aperitif in one of their grand public spaces. Your local Hendrick’s G& T comes spiced with views of Ailsa Craig and Kintyre.
7pm
Savour a six- course feast at Glenapp of local meat and fish, with more than 70 per cent of the fruit and vegetables harvested from the 36- acre grounds.
Saturday, 10am
Head down into sleepy Ballantrae, a village immortalised by the nonlighthouse forging Stevenson.
10: 30am
It’s all about the simple pleasures in Ballantrae. Stroll along the pebbly beach with just the Atlantic and views across to Kintyre and Ireland for company.
Midday
Enjoy the spectacular coastal drive to Girvan, where you’ll pick up a boat trip to Ailsa Craig. You can do it in style as Glenapp have their own RIB that cuts through the waves.
1pm
Wander around this famous isle exploring the Stevenson- built lighthouse and the old mine workings; if you’re feeling energetic hike to the top for stellar views across the Clyde and on to Ireland.
1: 30pm
Tuck into your Glenapp hamper, or the one you fashioned in Girvan. If you time your visit well it will just be you, the seals and thousands of seabirds.
7pm
Pop north to Trump Turnberry. Myriad dining options await, many with views of Ailsa Craig.
Sunday, 9am
Work off a breakfast of Ayrshire bacon and tattie scones with a stroll around Glenapp’s Azalea Pond. ■
Robin Mckelvie
You need a car for exploring South Ayrshire; www. visitscotland. com