Golf

Ayrshire is the birthplace of Open Golf, with Open Championship courses at Troon and Turnberry, and the site of the very first British Open at Prestwick. 2004 saw the return of the British Open to Royal Troon, and Turnberry will stage the 2009 event.

The sheltered waters of the Firth of Clyde make a wonderful playground for anyone who loves being on or beside the sea. The estuary has that magical west coast of Scotland feel, but getting there is so quick you can spend more time relaxing instead of travelling. That means a few more hours to stroll along a wide beach, dodging each wave as it wets the golden sand a little higher. Or an extra day to point your bow towards distant hills while crystal clear water slides under your hull. And as befits an area with a world-class reputation for yachting, Ayrshire boasts three superb marinas: at Largs, Ardrossan and Troon. And 80 miles of spacious beaches for building sandcastles and plenty of attractions to keep the children amused!

If you’d rather just sit back and enjoy the scenery, a boat trip is the perfect way to enjoy the freedom of the open sea. Take a cruise on the Waverley, the world’s last ocean-going paddle steamer, which plies the Ayrshire ports. Alternatively join a pleasure trip to see some of the Clyde’s marine wildlife.

The Isle of Arran is one of the most southerly Scottish islands and is known as 'Scotland in miniature'. It's the ideal place for cycling, hillwalking and island golf ….as well as relaxing on the coast and in the countryside while taking in the history, craft and culture of a Scottish island whose history is intertwined with Celtic myth and legend.

Planning a short break in Scotland, a vacation, a golf holiday, a hillwalking break, a visit to trace your family's Scottish history….. or just a relaxing time away from the rat race? - Ayrshire and the Isle of Arran can help give you all you're looking for.

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