But you don't have to be a hardened enthusiast to take advantage of what's on offer. Walkers have a choice of hillwalking and rambling while Arran poses greater challenges of ridge walking, mountaineering and the Coastal Way.

Anyone looking for gentler pace, though, will find it in the form of numerous nature trails, coastal walks and waymarked country paths. There are easy walks to well known local landmarks and seasonal ranger-led walks from some of Ayrshire and Arran's country parks.

Ayrshire shares the Clyde Muirshiel Regional Park and the Galloway Forest Park with neighbouring counties and both provide a beautiful setting for walking or cycling.

The National Cycling Network has routes in Ayrshire passing through some of the most scenic countryside and making use of off the road tracks and waterside paths wherever possible.

Clyde Muirshiel Regional Park
The Clyde Muirshiel Regional Park crosses the border of Ayrshire into Renfrewshire. An area of exceptional natural beauty, it offers a variety of outdoor activities in stunning surroundings including cycling, sailing, archery, fishing and more. The various visitor centres around the park provide activities for children and information about the natural history of the area. 01505 614791
Forest Enterprise, Arran Check with Forest Enterprise if you're planning to walk or cycle in the woods of Arran - they can provide up to date information about conditions before you set out.
01770 302218
Forest Enterprise, Ayrshire Enjoy a great day out in the Galloway Forest Park with stunning scenery and wildlife, waymarked trails, cycle routes and 3 visitor centres offering information, shops and tea rooms. Kirroughtree Visitor Centre also has a state of the art play area. Guided walks and special events are also available.
01671 402420

Additional Information
For more information on walks and trails in Ayrshire and Arran please visit the following links:
www.ayrshirepaths.org.uk
www.walkingwild.com
www.coastalway.co.uk