South Ayrshire is a wonderful place for a holiday It is perfect for both a relaxing break to get away from it all, or for a fun family vacation.

There are many castles and historic places to explore, including the magnificent Culzean Castle near Maidens, which has a wonderful country park with plenty of attractions.

There are several other beautiful gardens to visit, particularly good in late spring when the rhododendrons and azaleas are in flower.

The area is famous for its golf courses - the championship courses at Turnberry and Troon are nearby and there are several interesting and friendly local courses where it is inexpensive to play or learn.

Also, this is really a great place for walking, either hill walking, or along the shingle and sandy beaches which are fun for children and dogs. The area is also good for bird watching. See the Stinchar Valley web site.

There are plenty of places to go and visit, some of which make an excellent day trip. Fans of Robert Burns must visit the Burns Cottage Museum and Monument, near Ayr.

We recommend trips to visit Portpatrick with its picturesque harbour and pubs, and Loch Trool set in the magnificent hills of the Glen Trool National Forrest Park.

For longer trips it is possible to get to Arran, Edinburgh, Glasgow or even Northern Ireland by taking the ferry from Stranraer.

If you are interested in fishing there is usually fly fishing available on the River Stinchar, one of the most productive of the Scottish west coast salmon rivers. Sea fishing trips can be made from Girvan or Ballantrae & Loch fishing is also available nearby.