Girvan Cottages with Hot Tubs

Get More From Your Girvan Hot Tub Cottage Break

Sightseeing

Girvan sits in a prime spot for exploring southwest Scotland. The town itself has a lovely harbour and beach with spectacular views of Ailsa Craig, the volcanic plug nicknamed "Paddy's milestone" that sits 10 miles offshore.

Culzean Castle (KA19 8LE) is just 8 miles north and ranks as the area's top attraction (TripAdvisor 4.5/5). This clifftop fortress has 40 buildings and secret follies across its grounds. Open daily 10am-5pm March-October, the castle was designed by Robert Adam and has connections to President Eisenhower.

The Electric Brae (KA19 8JR) is a natural optical illusion where cars appear to roll uphill when in neutral. It's free to visit and scores 4/5 on TripAdvisor. I've seen grown adults utterly baffled by this phenomenon!

Turnberry Lighthouse (KA26 9LT) offers dramatic coastal views and sits on the edge of Trump Turnberry golf course. The lighthouse dates from 1873 and marks the spot of 13th-century Turnberry Castle, birthplace of Robert the Bruce.

Pet Friendly

Dogs love Girvan! The main beach allows dogs year-round, unlike many UK beaches with summer restrictions. The wide sandy stretch gives plenty of space for energetic pets to run off steam.

Woodland Gardens (KA26 9NJ) welcomes dogs on leads and offers lovely walking paths through well-maintained gardens. There's a small tea room with outdoor seating where dogs can join you.

The Girvan to Maidens coastal path is perfect for a longer walk with your four-legged friend. The 6-mile route follows the shoreline with stunning views and several spots to stop for a rest.

For eating out, The Harbour Bar (KA26 9AJ) allows dogs in the bar area and even offers water bowls and treats. McKays (KA26 9HE) also welcomes dogs in their outdoor seating area where you can enjoy fish and chips while your pet relaxes.

Remember to pack towels specifically for your dog - after beach walks, you'll want to clean them before letting them back into your cottage and hot tub area!

Top 3 attractions you have to see in Girvan

Ailsa Craig boat trips (KA26 9AJ) are unmissable. This granite island rises dramatically from the sea and is home to thousands of gannets and puffins. The 2-hour trip costs around £25 per person and runs from Girvan harbour. One visitor wrote: "Seeing puffins up close was magical - they're much smaller than I expected!"

Girvan Golf Course (KA26 9HW) offers an affordable round with spectacular views. This traditional links course has challenging holes and warm Scottish hospitality in the clubhouse. Green fees are reasonable at around £35 per round. A recent player noted: "The 7th hole with Ailsa Craig in the background is worth the green fee alone."

Adventure Centre for Education (KA26 9AQ) provides kayaking, paddleboarding and coasteering for all ages. They offer family sessions starting from £25pp with all equipment provided. Their instructors know the coastline intimately and will show you hidden caves and wildlife spots most visitors miss. A TripAdvisor reviewer said: "Our kids rated this higher than Disney - serious praise from teenagers!"

When is the best time to visit Girvan?

May to September offers the best weather, with July and August being warmest (average 18°C). The Girvan Traditional Folk Festival in early May brings music and dancing to the streets. Winter visits have their charm too - fewer tourists and the hot tub experience is even more magical with a nip in the air!

Can I see Northern Lights from Girvan?

Yes! The Ayrshire coast occasionally gets displays of the Northern Lights (Aurora Borealis), particularly during winter months. The dark skies and northerly aspect make it possible. Download an aurora alert app and keep your eyes on the forecast during your stay.

Is Ailsa Craig worth visiting?

Absolutely. This uninhabited island is a wildlife sanctuary and the source of curling stones used in the Winter Olympics. Boat trips run daily in summer (weather permitting) and give you a chance to see seabirds and seals. The granite scenery is spectacular.

Where can I get the best fish and chips?

Girvan Fish and Chip Shop (KA26 9HE) consistently wins local awards. They use locally caught haddock and proper beef dripping for authentic flavour. For something different, try their battered haggis - surprisingly delicious!

Are there any good pubs with local beer?

The Harbour Bar (KA26 9AJ) serves excellent local ales including beers from the Ayr Brewing Company. They often have live music at weekends. The Queens Hotel (KA26 9DN) has a good selection of Scottish whiskies if you fancy a dram after your hot tub session.

What should I pack for a Girvan cottage holiday?

Bring layers as Scottish weather is changeable even in summer. Walking shoes are essential for coastal paths. Swimming costumes for your hot tub, obviously! And binoculars for spotting wildlife on Ailsa Craig or watching the sunset from your hot tub.

Some helpful links:

1. Girvan Swimming Pool - for rainy days
2. VisitScotland's Girvan Guide
3. Walking routes around Girvan