Cunninghame Ramblers . Lanfine Estate by Darvel. March 2012

Gathering at the start.

Today's leader.

She had brought the wild boars their snacks.

Which were very much appreciated.

Passing the walled garden

She definitely has a way with animals.

"Pinzgauer all terrain vehicle"(see text)

The breakaway group

Plus me. (Thanks to passing walker for taking this snap)

Today Wednesday 28th March I joined up with Cunninghame Ramblers on their mid week walk in Lanfine Estate near Darvel . 23 of us left the town and made our way into Lanfine Estate stopping firstly to feed the wild boars before a pleasant stroll through the grounds. After a wee stop for coffee we walked to the village of Priestland. Due the warm weather today  the leader decided that it might be better just to have a short walk  and return to the cars by way of the paths we had just walked. 7 of us asked if we could venture further on our own and leave the group . Permission granted and off we went along the Irvine Valley trails to Loudonhill (316M) . On our way we met a householder who owned a Pinzgauer off road vehicle which he used to service bothies in the border hills a very interesting chat ensued about the benefits of this type of truck. Once on the summit of Loudonhill we had a lunch stop before making our way back to Darvel on one of the old disused railway lines.Thanks to the small breakaway group, we all agreed it was too good a day to miss the  opportunity of a local climb in the glorious sunshine.