The Smugglers' Trail, South Ayrshire
| Distance | Approximate Time | Height Gain | OS Map |
| 3.7 kms | 01:00 (hrs:mins) | 80 metres | Explorer 326: Ayr & Troon |
Description
The Smugglers' Trail leads from the Main Street of the village of Loans through Dundonald Glen and up Dundonald Hill to the castle and village of Dundonald. The trail crosses ancient woodland and provides stunning views over the Firth of Clyde. This historic route has been in regular use from early times and was a popular route used by smugglers, bringing their 'booty' back from the Ayrshire shores.
An easy to moderate woodland walk, the incline sharpens to 1:6 in places. The walk takes about 1 hour. For more information on The Smugglers' and the route please download The Smugglers' Trail Leaflet below.
Smugglers' Trail Leaflet Part 1
Smugglers' Trail Leaflet Part 2
Smugglers' Trail Leaflet Part 3
Access Info
The walk starts in the South Ayrshire village of Loans, which is located just east of Troon on the A759. There are public bus services operated by Stagecoach West which run between Ayr and Loans and further information about these can be found at www.stagecoachbus.com/western/ and a service timetable is available at www.stagecoachbus.com/timetables/troon[1].pdf.
Additional Info
There is a visitor centre at Dundonald Castle and facilities in the village of Dundonald.
More Info
The woods through this walk are home to a number of wildlife species including buzzard, roe deer and a rare species of beetle known as Coleopterra. Dundonald wood has been a Site of Special Scientific Interest since 1975 and is also designated an Ancient Woodland.
www.south-ayrshire.gov.uk/outdooraccess/
