| 1. Take the A713 north from the Ken Bridge Hotel through the scenic Glenkens, pass through Dalry (two pubs but maybe a bit soon to stop!) then upto Carsphairn with its shop and tearoom, pub still shut saddle. Head north as the road rises you get great views of Loch Doon before heading down through Glen Muick, watch out for ice here in the winter. Head through Dalmellington and then East over the hills towards New Cummnock, Then south on the A76 to Thornhill where you can stop for food/drink. Next head west along the A702 through the small village of Penpont and then cut off to the right heading for Tynron if you don't mind a hill, for the easier option follow the main road through to Moniave where you can stop of provisions and there are two great pubs and an italian restaurant. Then either head straight back to Dalry along the A702 cutting of just after the Bogue for Balmaclellan or for a slightly longer route which is equally scenic head for Carphairn then cut off to the left either just after the first cattle grid to take you back via Lochinvar reservoir or keep going to the B7000 and take the "high road" south to Dalry. |