North Ayrshire runs along the Firth of Clyde, with a mainland coast that looks across to Cumbrae and Arran, and the island of Arran itself, often called Scotland in miniature for the range of landscapes it holds.

Isle of Arran. Goat Fell, at 874 metres, is the island’s highest peak and rises above Brodick, the main ferry port. The Arran Coastal Way circles the island for around 65 miles, and Lamlash looks across to Holy Isle, with shorter routes along the shore and into the glens.

Largs and the mainland. Largs is a seaside town with a promenade and a ferry to Cumbrae, and the hills behind it lead into Clyde Muirshiel Regional Park, with moorland and reservoir paths.

Weather on Arran changes quickly, and ferry crossings can be disrupted by wind, so check sailings and carry waterproofs.