Tropre one

Verified Slow Way

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Review of Slow Ways route Tropre one (Troon to Prestwick)
I reviewed this route on a blustery day in late summer 2023. The route has already received its “snail” but I am adding this review to highlight the diversion which was available when I visited. The route leaves Troon along the wide promenade and then would normally head along the dunes all the way to the holiday park at Pow Burn. However a sign had been erected (see third and fourth photographs) warning against taking this route at high tide due to dune erosion. I followed the diversion which took me through the Royal Troon Golf Course on an excellent, tarmacked track. Eventually it met the mapped route near Pow Burn (eighth and ninth photographs). On reflection, I suspect the dune path may have been perfectly passable (I saw several walkers use it) but it is good to know that there is a safe and practical alternative if needed. The remainder of the route is via tracks through Prestwick Golf Course (I followed the adjacent dune path here to enjoy the views) with a final section along pavements to the town centre. I have no hesitation in recommending the route for walkers with a reasonable level of fitness. The dune path would not be accessible to cyclists or those with impaired mobility. However the diversion is well surfaced and would suit these groups (with only the short section past the holiday camp on narrower paths). Views are tremendous, facilities at either end excellent.

I'm joining the other two reviewers to recommend this as a fantastic Slow Ways route. Portions of it follow dune paths that might not be suitable for all users. Overall this route is scenic, direct, accessible by transit and features many amenities. I would definitely walk it again.

Tropre One has it all.

A train station at the start and end.
The UK's finest ice cream parlour with Mancini's.
An amazing sandy beach that stretches as far as the eye can see.
An abundance of sea birds.
A host of independent shops, fishmongers and cafés at Troon.

The majority of this route is fully accessible by all forms of wheeling and walking although it does get a bit tricky around Dow's Burn.

This route is mainly on the cycle lane and pavement along the coast and doesn't take you on to the sand, and it pays to follow the recommended path.

If you get too distracted by the beauty of this stretch of coast you'll end up at the mouth of the very wide burn that cuts through the beach which is impassable (unless you fancy swimming).

Fortunately there was a man conveniently positioned to guide wayward walkers back to the path and bridge over the burn. Future SlowWayers may not be so lucky.

In fact, going the wrong way here added a further 2 km to the walk so if you are in rush be careful to cross the burn at the caravan park.

A lovely coastal walk partly on the beach and partly over the sand dunes. Great views of Ailsa Craig and Arran. Lots of wildlife.

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