Cycling north from Ardrossan gives a taste of why the Firth of clyde is famous in story and song. With highland hills as a northern backdrop and the rugged profile of Arran in view across the water, you'll find that the grandeur of Scotland doesn't start at the Highland line.

Route Details

All routes start at Saltcoats or Ardrossan sea front. Head north on the signed cycle route crossing straight over at traffic lights in Ardrossan. Continue to Seamill and turn left on cycle route at north end of town. Follow round on to the cycle path. At junction with road turn left.

Route 1A - continue down to Portencross. Return by same route for shorter outing or retrace continuing past cycle route to main road. Cross with care and continue up to roundabout. Go down St Bride's Road to Station and continue past it. Continue for almost 3 miles then turn right. Descend into Ardrossan crossing main road with care. At T-junction turn left and rejoin cycle route. Follow through to start.

Route 1B - after left turn on to Portercross road take first right after about 1/2 mile. Turn right after 3/4 mile up to main road, turn left then cross A78 (with care) and head up to West Kilbride. At roundabout take second exit then third left into Gateside Street and bear right after 1/3 mile. Continue for almost 4 miles taking second right. At T-junction turn right and continue to Saltcoats crossing main road (High Rd) with care. Take third right into Argyle Road and continue for 3/4 mile before turning left into South Beach Road to return to shore.

Route 1C - after left turn on to Portencross Road take first right after about 1/2 mile. Turn right after 3/4 mile up to main road and turn left. After 400yds turn left and follow round past Hunterston Castle. Proceed to T-junction, turn right and after 600yds take track to left. Stay on track for over 1/2 mile then cross on to Dalry Hill Road. This is a serious climb for 1 1/2 miles. At next junction (after 4.5 miles) bear left and after 3/4 mile bear right to continue to Dalry. At T-junction turn right and follow this road back to Ardrossan crossing straight over main road and turning left at T-junction. This takes you back onto the outward route. Retrace to start.

Cycling north from Ardrossan gives a taste of why the Firth of Clyde is famous in story and song. With highland hills as a northern backdrop and the rugged profile of Arran in view across the water, you'll find that the grandeur of Scotland doesn't start at the Highland line.

Treat route (c) as a serious cycle challenge as it has a heavy climb but remember that there is no shame in getting off to push.