The area is ideal for walking and cycling. New sections of footpaths are gradually being opened up and cyclists have said they enjoy the quiet roads. There are various routes available locally, ask your host for more details or visit the following websites.
You can find out more about your access rights and responsibilities - and also on rights of way and customary access - by picking up the Scottish Outdoor Access Code or visiting www.outdooraccess-scotland.com.
We offer secure storage for bicycles and can offer a range of tools. There are cycle shops in Stranraer and Newton Stewart.
If it is the hills you want, then Galloway Forest Park is only 25-30 miles (40-48 kms) to the north where you can find Merrick, the highest hill in the Southern Uplands. The Southern Upland Way also passes through this area.
Mountain Biking is available at Glentrool and Kirroughtree. This is part of the
7 Stanes.The area has good bird watching opportunities. Probably the best known is our pair of Ospreys which can be watched by CCTV in the Viewing Room at the top of the County Buildings in Wigtown. Also there is Wigtown Bay Local Nature Reserve - the largest in the UK. At the bird hide you can see both freshwater and seabirds. These obviously vary according to time of year and include pink-footed geese, mute swans, many varieties of duck as well as peregrine falcons, herons, kingfishers and warblers. For complete lists visit the Viewing Room.
In addition, there are various Bird Reserves in the area. Some RSPB Reserves are Wood of Cree, Mersehead and Mull of Galloway.
However, just travelling around the area you will see many species including buzzards and around the coast are a multitude seabirds.
There are various golf courses in the area, the following are but a few.
There is river, loch and sea-fishing available. Useful websites are:-
Local shops that have fishing interests where further details can be sought are:-
The area is ideal for sailing and boats can be launched from many places. Wigtown Bay Sailing Club is located at the Isle of Whithorn, there are Harbour Masters at Garlieston, Isle of Whithorn and Port William. You may get further details by sending an e mail to enquiries at the Port William website. For further information and tide details seek advice locally.