Miles

342

Kms

551

Days

7

If you are looking for a trip that will help you escape back to nature, then the South West Coastal 300 is the trip for you. Home to the UNESCO Galloway and South Ayrshire Biosphere, the area has been internationally recognised as a world class environment for people and culture.

Engage with wildlife, enjoy our hills, forests and beaches, take in spectacular vistas from our coastline and our hillsides. And if you enjoy visiting botanical gardens, you are in for a treat with a wide variety to choose from!

Opening dates and times vary across attractions. Please ensure to check opening times and availability directly with each attraction before you visit.

Day 1

Day 1 - Annan to New Abbey

Kick off your trip by trying your hand at coarse fishing at Broom Fisheries near Annan. Here you will also find an abundance of wildlife and a photography hide.

Then head to the beautiful Mabie Forest just outside Dumfries to enjoy a walk or a bike ride. And if you’re still feeling energetic, head south to take the newly redeveloped path up Criffel Hill and you’ll be rewarded with some gorgeous views over the surrounding countryside and the Solway Firth.

Miles

29

Kms

46

Stops

3

Travel Time

59min

A Red Deer Stag at the Wildlife Park, Kincraig, by Kingussie,

Stop 1 - Broom Fisheries

Broom Fisheries, home to Scotland’s leading coarse fishing lakes and waters, nestled away in a quiet, picturesque corner of South West Scotland. You’ll find us at Newbie, two miles from the nearby market town of Annan in beautiful Dumfries & Galloway, and less than 25 miles from Carlisle.

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Stop 2 - Mabie Forest Park

Mabie Forest Park is a beautiful forest park just to the south of Dumfries offering spectacular views across the Dumfries and Galloway countryside and over to the Solway Firth. It is home to one of the 7Stanes Biking centres and offers walking and biking trails for all abilities.

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Stop 3 - Climb Criffel Hill

Criffel may be less than 2000 feet high, but as this is the highest hill for some distance it is prominent in views of the Solway Coast, from the Lake District. Due to its relatively low height, most people used to hill walking would be able to get to the summit and back within about 3 hours so that it makes Criffel an ideal half day walk. On a clear day, there are great views from the summit of the Solway Coast and the Lake District fells beyond including Skiddaw and Blencathra.

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Abbey Cottage Tearoom
location_on Dumfries

Enjoy coffees, homemade soups, local produce and afternoon teas in this cottage tearoom right next to the beautiful ruins of Sweetheart Abbey.

Easterbrook Bistro, Bar and Spa is located within the 85 acre parkland estate at The Crichton in Dumfries.

Criffel View Caravan Site
location_on Dumfries

Criffel View is an exclusive five van touring site with generous fully serviced hard standing pitches and a bespoke built shower block.

Home to Scotland’s leading coarse fishing lakes and waters, nestled away in a quiet, picturesque corner of South West Scotland.

Day 2

Day 2 - Southerness to Rockcliffe

Day two takes you to the breathtaking Solway Coast. Go for a walk on one of our lovely beaches, enjoy a spot of birdwatching at Mersehead, one of our RSPB Wildlife Reserves.

Or take a stroll along the beautiful Rockcliffe coastline, part of a National Trust Scenic Area.

Miles

12

Kms

19

Stops

3

Travel Time

1h

RSPB Mereshead, Dumfries and Galloway, South West 300

Stop 1 - Southerness Beach and Lighthouse

Southerness beach is a vast expanse of sand and rocks offering breathtaking views across the Solway Firth towards the Lake District. At low tide mud flats and rock pools are revealed and at the western end of the beach stands Southerness lighthouse which was built in 1749. Unusually it is square in shape.

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Stop 2 - RSPB Mersehead Nature Reserve

Situated on the scenic north shore of the Solway coast, Mersehead is an extensive wetland and saltmarsh area, a haven for breeding waders, wintering waterfowl and year-round bird and wildlife-watching. Enjoy the birdsong of lapwings and skylarks in spring. See the young birds emerge in summer. Welcome the arrival of the Svalbard barnacle geese and pintails in autumn. And in winter, if you’re lucky, witness the unforgettable display of the starling murmurations.

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Stop 3 - NTS Rockcliffe Coastline to Sandyhills

A coast walk over cliffs and hill fort (Castlehill) to the next village of Sandyhills. Part of a National Scenic Area, the National Trust for Scotland nature reserve at Rockcliffe is fringed with wildflowers and dotted with sailing villages. Further inland the shells and shingle give way to patches of ancient broadleaved woodland and meadows, rich with flowers, butterflies and birds. Sandyhills is a large sandy beach and at low tide has a vast expanse of sand, backed by gentle sand dunes.

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Mr Pook's Kitchen
location_on Castle Douglas

Dumfries & Galloway on a plate

Southerness Golf Club
location_on DUMFRIES

Experience our classic championship links nestled on the Solway coast. Treat yourself to a memorable golfing challenge in naturally beautiful surroundings.

Beachcomber Lodge
location_on Southerness

A lovely front line cosy lodge to sit and watch the watch the world go by

Short break self catering a short walk from the beach. Two luxury cottages on the Colvend Coast.

Day 3

Castle Douglas to Newton Stewart

Head inland on day three and visit Threave Estate, home to the School of Heritage Gardening, landscaped beauty at its finest and a feast of ideas for any keen gardener. Then try your hand at fly fishing at Glenquicken Troutmasters Fishery.

Explore the Galloway Forest, the largest forest park and the first designated Dark Sky Park in the UK. And, if you were feeling inspired by your trip to Threave in the morning, why not stop off at Elmlea Plants where you can pick up some plants to remind you of your trip when you get home.

Miles

44

Kms

70

Stops

4

Travel Time

2h

Stop 1 - Threave Garden and Estate

Threave Estate is a garden for all seasons and a haven for wildlife, with an osprey platform and bat reserve. It has been home to the School of Heritage Gardening since 1960 and its beautiful ‘garden rooms’ offer inspiration to any keen gardeners.

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Stop 2 - Glenquicken Farm Trout Fishery

Glenquicken Troutmasters Fishery, a 4.5 acre fly fishing lochan situated amongst magnificent scenery in the shadow of Cairnsmore of Fleet, Newton Stewart, Dumfries and Galloway.

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Stop 3 - Galloway Forest Park

The Galloway Forest Park has everything you need for a great day out, whatever the time of year. Meet red deer and wild goats, choose from two scenic Forest Drives, follow in the footsteps of Robert the Bruce or picnic beside a peaceful loch. This is also Scotland’s first Dark Sky Park – one of the best places to stargaze in Europe!

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Stop 4 - Elmlea Plants

Elmlea is a small, family run nursery located in Old Minnigaff, specialising in herbaceous perennials and grasses.

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Ernespie House Hotel
location_on Castle Douglas

The Ernespie house house hotel is a family run hotel with comfortable rooms in lovely surroundings.

The Riverbank Cafe
location_on Newton Stewart

Welcome to The Riverbank Cafe, a popular venue for visitors and locals alike who just love the fresh baking and excellent coffee

Barstobrick Holiday Lodges
location_on Castle Douglas

Barstobrick holiday lodges are located on a dairy farm run by the Austin family. Onsite there is a horse riding centre and walking trails.

Nether Barr Steading
location_on Newton Stewart

6 self catering cottages offering accommodation from 2 -6. Situated in attractive open farmland near Newton Stewart.

Day 4

Wigtown to Port Logan

Day four kicks off with a visit to Britain’s largest Local Nature Reserve at Wigtown Bay. Then stretch your legs on one of the loveliest expanses of sandy beach in the South West, the Sands of Luce.

Gardening enthusiasts are in for a treat at Glenwhan Gardens, one of the best new gardens of recent times, it has been cultivated over two decades from bog, rushes and gorse. The last stop of the day is to spectacular Logan Botanic Gardens, this garden may surprise you with its collection of exotic plants that you may not expect to see in Scotland!

Miles

47

Kms

76

Stops

4

Travel Time

1h 30min

Stop 1 - Wigtown Bay Local Nature Reserve

Wigtown Bay Local Nature Reserve is the largest LNR in Britain. The estuary, with large areas of salt marsh and mudflats is vitally important for many of the species that live there, especially for salt tolerant plants and wintering wildfowl. The reserve is a popular venue for a range of recreational activities including angling and bird watching.

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Stop 2 - Sandhead Beach (Luce Sands)

This beautiful sandy beach in Sandhead village near Stranraer stretches for more than a mile and boasts unlimited sand when the tide is out. Luce bay is designated a Special Area for Conservation for its dune, seashore and seabed habitats and the fantastic marine wildlife it supports. With ample car parking and picnic tables by the beach, the area is a great place for a picnic before walking on the beach.

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Stop 3 - Glenwhan Gardens, Arboretum & Tearoom

The Gardens are a labour of love, hewn from rough moorland 40 years ago. With the warming influence of the Gulf Stream, Glenwhan grows many tender plants from around the Southern Hemisphere, together with large collections of rare trees and shrubs.

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Stop 4 - Logan Botanic Garden

The Garden’s avenues and borders feature a spectacular and colourful array of half-hardy perennials. Logan Botanic Garden is warmed by the Gulf Stream which enables plants from Australia, New Zealand, South and Central America and Southern Africa to thrive.

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Browse our selection of Books, then partake in some refreshments.

The Ship Inn at Drummore
location_on Stranraer

A family run traditional pub by the sea.

Craigmount Bed and Breakfast
location_on Wigtown

Craigmount Bed & Breakfast. Beautiful Georgian former manse in Scotlands National Book Town.

Tigh Na Mara Hotel
location_on Stranraer

Picturesque traditional Inn, central location with amazing views of Luce Bay. New outdoor heated pods , free wifi and the best local produce available.

Day 5

Mull of Galloway to Stranraer

Day five includes some stunning walks in the Rhins of Galloway. From Scotland’s most southerly point at the Mull of Galloway, where on a clear day you can see Galloway in Scotland, Cumbria in England, Northern Ireland and the Isle of Man! The cliff path walks at Portpatrick also offer spectacular views including Dunskey Castle and Killantringan Bay.

Finish the day at the breathtaking Castle Kennedy Gardens, one of Scotland’s most important historical landscaped gardens with its collection of Rhododendrons, Championship Trees and rare species.

Miles

39

Kms

62

Stops

3

Travel Time

1h 30min

Duskey Castle, Dumfries and Galloway, South West 300

Stop 1 - Mull of Galloway Trail

This is probably the most scenic trail in South West Scotland. After the initial section from Stranraer to Luce Bay,the trail follows the coastline of the Southern Rhins of Galloway to end at the Mull of Galloway where there is a visitor centre with an excellent cafe with stunning views.

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Stop 2 - Portpatrick to Lighthouse Walk

A circular walk from the scenic village of Portpatrick to Killantringan Lighthouse. The coastal scenery on the first part of this walk is breathtaking, with towering cliffs and secluded, sandy bays. Soon, you cross open moorland and Killantringan Lighthouse lies up ahead. Continue on past the lighthouse, enjoying views of hills, forests and woodland as you make your way back to Portpatrick.

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Stop 3 - Castle Kennedy Gardens

Castle Kennedy Gardens, one of Scotland’s finest gardens, set in 75 acres and offering something for everyone to enjoy. From stunning fauna, to beautiful scenery, sculptured landforms, magnificent walks and popular bird hides, the Gardens are a hidden treasure in South West Scotland and a perfect haven for relaxing and exploring.

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Central Cafe
location_on Stranraer

Cafe and Take-Away

Henrys Bay House offers locally sourced dishes, prepared and cooked freshly to order by local Chef John Henry and his team.

Fernhill Hotel
location_on Portpatrick

Situated overlooking the village and harbour of Portpatrick with breathtaking views.

Knockinaam House
location_on Stranraer

Stylish 4 bedroom house in a secluded location with no near neighbours overlooking open countryside, only 5 mins drive from Portpatrick and many local beaches

Day 6

Stranraer to Dalmellington

Everyone knows a visit to Scotland wouldn’t be complete without seeing some real life Coos, so start your day with a visit to Kitchen Coos & Ewes!! Or if horses are more your thing, take a visit to Blackstone Farm to meet their magnificent Clydesdale horses.

Culzean Castle Estate, is an absolute must see, with its spectacular clifftop castle, its gardens, beaches, woods, trails and playgrounds, there is something for everyone!

Miles

70

Kms

113

Stops

3

Travel Time

2h

Culzean Castle | Maybole | South Ayrshire | SWC300

Stop 1 - Kitchen Coos and Ewes

Learn about the interesting variety of different breeds that were carefully selected to utilise the different habitats on the farm before enjoying a traditional farmhouse spread of food and drink. Grab your camera or your sketchbook and charcoals, because there are so many highlights on one of these tours, you’ll want to capture them all.

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Stop 2 - Culzean Castle and Country Park

With a dramatic clifftop setting, Robert Adam architecture, fascinating history & beautiful surrounds, Culzean Castle and Country Park is one of Scotland’s best days out. This glorious 260 ha estate was once the playground of David Kennedy, 10th Earl of Cassillis. The park is planted with conifers and beech, sculpted around miles of sandy coastline dotted with caves, and finished off with a Swan Pond, an ice house, flamboyant formal gardens and fruit-filled glasshouses.

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Stop 3 - Blackstone Clydesdales

Experience the magic of Clydesdale Horses at Blackstone Farm. While on your visit at Blackstone Farm use your time to groom, muck out, tack up, feed, ride or drive our Clydesdale Horses. Interact with our Clydesdales and meet all the farm animals, giving you an insight into their daily routine and lives.

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Central Cafe
location_on Stranraer

Cafe and Take-Away

The Coo Shed
location_on Ayr

Unique family run coffee shop. All food prepared and baked in-house, locally sourced if possible. Set in the rural Ayrshire countryside on South Corton Farm.

Few Hotels in Ayrshire offer the same combination of coastal setting, superb restaurant and modern accommodation.

Craigengillan Estate
location_on Dalmellington

We're sure that you will find the perfect accommodation that meets your needs. Nestled deep within the grounds of the Estate sit two restored cottages.

Day 7

Loch Doon to Grey Mare's Tail

There is so much to choose from on the last day of your visit. Try to spot some ospreys at Loch Doon Roundhouse. Or explore Crawick Multiverse where art meets nature. This amazing land art installation, where art meets nature, was created by the world renowned Charles Jencks.

Drumlanrig Castle and Country Estate has so much to offer, its stunning castle, beautiful formal gardens, its parkland trails and an adventure playground. The Grey Mare’s Tail Waterfall near Moffat is the perfect way to round off your trip, whether you choose to view it from the bottom or climb to the top to enjoy the stunning views of Loch Skeen.

Miles

102

Kms

164

Stops

4

Travel Time

2h 30min

Stop 1 - Roundhouse at Loch Doon

The Roundhouse Cafe and Osprey Lounge can be found on the shores of Loch Doon the largest inland loch in Southern Scotland with spectacular scenery. It is approximately 5 miles in length and 1 mile at it’s widest point. It nestles in the Galloway hills with stunning views of the Rhinns Of Kells.

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Stop 2 - Crawick Multiverse

Crawick Multiverse, a spectacular Artland. Transformed by globally-renowned landscape artist Charles Jencks. The site which opened in summer 2015 links the themes of space, astronomy and cosmology, creating a truly inspiring landmark that will appeal to everyone from art enthusiasts and scientists to walkers and the wider community.

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Stop 3 - Drumlanrig Castle and Country Estate

If you like delving deep into history, soaking up the finest culture, exploring beautiful countryside – or adrenaline-fuelled mountain biking – you’ll love a day at Drumlanrig Castle and Country Estate. From activities for kids to salmon fishing, you’ll find a raft of activity awaiting you. The Castle has 120 rooms, 17 turrets and four towers and from your very first glance you’ll know you’re entering a special place. Special enough, in fact, that the producers of Outlander recently used the Castle for filming their second series! Please check opening times ahead of your visit, for much of the year, castle visits must be booked in advance.

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Stop 4 - Grey Mare's Tail Waterfall and Loch Skeen

The Grey Mare’s Tail is a spectacular 60 metre waterfall plunging into the Moffat Valley from the breathtaking Loch Skeen at the top of the falls. You can follow the path alongside the waterfall up to the top of the hill, where you will find spectacular views of Loch Skeen and the peaks of Lochcraig Head, Mid Craig and the summit of White Coomb beyond.

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Community Hub and Cafe

The Buccleuch Arms Hotel is a 14 bedroom hotel providing a comfortable base to enjoy the quaint town of Moffat and explore the stunning local area.

Hopetoun Arms
location_on Leadhills

The Hopetoun Arms hotel is a grade two listed building and is the highest residential hotel in Scotland

Nithbank Country Estate
location_on Thornhill

Award Winning 5* Gold Country House, secluded in 11 acres. Warm scones on arrival. Elegant Suites with breathtaking views

Where to Stay