Monday

We left Mull at lunchtime, restocked the fridge, and set off towards Loch Earn. The drive took us through wet and wild weather, but, as if on cue, the rain stopped and blue skies broke through the moment we arrived at our campsite.

Without wasting time, we unloaded the bikes and found a nearby disused railway trail. This linked to the Rob Roy Way along the old Callander railway, climbing into the hills above the A82. The views were spectacular, with the highlight being the beautiful Glen Ogle viaduct. We clocked up 13 miles on the bikes, and had time allowed, we could have ridden on to Killin in one direction or Callander in the other.

The campsite was a gem — right on the edge of Loch Earn, a C&MC CL site with electric hook-up, shower, and toilet (£30 per night). It’s also based at a boat hire and trout farm. We had the entire place to ourselves, and the evening was spent outdoors by the fire, marvelling at how different the weather was compared to the journey in.

Tuesday – Into Ayrshire

We continued south, crossing into Ayrshire and stopping in Ayr to visit the Robert Burns Birthplace Museum and his actual birthplace. Both were fascinating, as was the picturesque Brig o’ Doon, immortalised in his poem Tam o’ Shanter.

The bikes came out again for a loop along the Ayr Coastal Path, following another disused railway and passing through the Alloway railway tunnel — an unexpected highlight with its walls covered in colourful murals.

From there, we headed to our campsite for the next two nights: Thomason Farm, opposite Culzean Castle. This C&CC CS site offered lovely views towards Arran, walking access to the castle, EHU, basic but functional facilities, and waste disposal (£20 per night).

Dinner was venison burgers on the Cadac and a relaxed evening accompanied by a stunning sunset.

Wednesday – Sunshine & Castles

The weather was perfect for our activities lined up for today – After a morning doing laundry – hand washing- we made our way down the track from the campsite for a visit to Culzean Castle. It’s perched dramatically on the Ayrshire cliffs overlooking the Firth of Clyde and a sight to behold. We spent several hours exploring the castle and the grounds- making very good use of our National Trust Membership. It’s also been used as a filming location for both The Wicker Man and The Queen. Well worth a trip.

The afternoon was spent sunbathing back at the van before enjoying steak night, accompanied by a bottle of Pape — a thoughtful gift from some of my students — and fresh potatoes from the very farm we were staying on.

It’s been a wonderful few days, and next we’re looking forward to following the coastline further to explore Dumfries and Galloway.