The most beautiful natural sites to discover Southwest

The Mull of Galloway is located at the end of the Rhine of Galloway Peninsula. This jagged strip of land extends south of Stranraer and Portpatrick. Its coastline is dotted with small harbours, beautiful beaches and several hiking trails, including the Mull of Galloway Trail, which connects the headland to Stranraer. All around the lighthouse, the RPBS has a bird sanctuary where birdwatchers can observe thousands of birds along the specially maintained paths. There is an information centre and a small café.

The Merrick is the best known and most popular peak in the Galloway Hills. It is a Corbett (a mountain between 2,500 and 2,999 feet above sea level) 843 m high. The hike to its summit is relatively well marked and easy to follow. It starts at Bruce's Stone, at the head of Loch Trool. It offers splendid panoramic views of the Galloway Forest and crosses the Ben Yellary. As with all mountain climbs and hikes, a few minimum precautions are required: good physical condition, suitable equipment, good weather.

A natural reserve where wild geese, swans and other birds are resting from October to April. Safari organized at 11 h and 14 h each day.

This visitor centre provides valuable information about the valley's nature reserve and its history. Several species such as badgers, bats and hawks live here and can be observed depending on the season and time of day. His stunts inspired painters Turner and Wordsworth in their art. Dundaff Linn, Corra Linn and Bonnington Linn are some of the places that are accessible. It is reached via several footpaths that criss-cross the area.

This short, easy and accessible walk offers superb views. Bruce's Stone stands on a magnificent vantage point overlooking the waters of Loch Trool (north shore). It is named in memory of Robert The Bruce, King of Scotland, and the Battle of Trool, fought in 1307. English soldiers were ambushed as they marched along the shores of the loch. Robert The Bruce's men attacked them by surprise, with stones. The victory was quick and bloody. Bruce's Stone is also the starting point for the Merrick ascent.