Overview
Start out from Grey Mare’s Tail Waterfall heading by Loch Skeen and Dalveen Pass en route to Drumlanrig Castle and the ruins of Kenmure Castle. Then enjoy Loch Ken and Loch Trool for a paddle, hike or cycle ride.
Grey Mare's Tail Waterfall
The dramatic waterfall plunges 60m down into the Moffat Water Valley. Carved by glaciers it unfolds further up steep slopes past the waterfall to the picturesque Loch Skeen. Towering above the loch are peaks with breath-taking views extending to the south. As well as rare upland plants, you may see ospreys fishing in the loch.
Dalveen Pass
Dalveen Pass is the most southerly and the longest pass within the Lowther Hills. There is very limited traffic on the road so you can take your time to admire the stunning scenery. The twists and turns on the road make it hard to believe part of the journey is along a former Roman road.
Drumlanrig Castle
The castle is the impressive seat of the Duke and Duchess of Buccleuch and Queensberry complete with fine paintings by Rembrandt, Gainsborough and Reynolds, and furniture and silver collections. The House has a superb setting surrounded by gardens and a 90,000 acre estate.
Kenmure Castle
The commanding presence of the castle ruins dating back to the 16th century stand on a rock promontory. A square stair-tower rises at one corner of the castle and there is much fine decorative stonework including corbelled stone adorning the top storey. The walls are pierced by shot-holes.
Loch Ken
On the eastern end of the Galloway Forest Park, this unique area of the Glenkens covers the Ken Valley including the 9 mile long Loch Ken surrounded by a number of small scenic villages. The Loch is used recreationally for water skiing, fishing, and sailing, with Glenlaggan Lodges and Loch Ken Marina catering to visitors.
Loch Trool
The area offers some of the finest scenery in southern Scotland. Lying in the heart of the Galloway Forest Park it offers the visitor a great setting to explore the wonderful scenery as you circle the loch. On the hillside is Bruce's Stone, commemorating the minor engagement between the Robert the Bruce and supporters of the Comyn faction and its ally Edward I.