The longer routes are extensions of the short route - so all start with route 8a

Head south out of Ballantrae and cross River Stinchar (Note old bridge). Turn left immediately over bridge and continue for 2 miles. Turn left (sp Colmonell). Follow through to Colmonell (just under 4 miles). At T-junction (Give Way sign) turn left for Route 8a (For routes 8b/c see below ).

*Stay left at junction about 1.75 miles from town and follow through to Ballantrae.

ROUTE B / C - at T-junction in a Colmonell (above) turn right. After 5 miles turn left onto A714. (Small village of Pinwherry is down on right - with ivy-clad Pinwherry Castle at south end). (Route c turns right after 1.75 miles - sign-posted Barr). Just before Pinmore turn sharp left onto minor road ** route c rejoins. Follow for 5.5 miles with a good descent to Lendalfoot . Turn left onto A77 then immediately left again. Head uphill and turn right to Colmonell at T-junction (after 3 miles). Continue through Colmonell as *above.

ROUTE C - turn right (as above) crossing river. Be prepared for a short, steep climb. Follow pleasant undulating road to Barr (6 miles). At T-junction turn right to explore Barr. Return to this point and continue. Immediate right turn and continue up hill for 4.5 miles. At T-junction turn left and continue to Pinmore (5.5 miles). Turn left onto A714 then very soon right onto minor road at **on route b.

This area is sparsely populated and routes offer a more out of the way feel. Thisis the unkown side of Ayrshire as few tourists find the roads that we have chosen for your cycle rides.

Ballantrae, Colmonell and Barr ahve timeless atmosphere so allow a little time to look around and relax.

If you tackle the longer route to Bar you'll be following the River Stinchar for almost three - quarters of it's total length.