This walk takes you around the perimeter of Glenafton Reservoir just outside New Cumnock. On a still day the water creates stunning reflections of the surrounding hills and forests so remember to take your camera! … More Walk 207 – Afton Dam Circular – 5 miles
Bargany Gardens are location approximately 4.5 miles inland from Girvan. The owners of this private estate open the gardens up to the public each May which is the perfect time of year to witness them in full springtime glory. The gardens comprise 50 acres of mature woodland, known for its colourful rhododendrons and huge fir trees. Within the gardens you will also find a picture-perfect boating pond, a walled garden with cherry tree orchard, a rock garden, various pagodas and a hidden formal lawn. … More Walk 204 – Bargany Gardens, near Girvan
There are 11 cairns to discover within the Balmoral Estate. The cairns were commissioned by Queen Victoria to commemorate the marriages of her children and the largest was erected in memory of her husband Price Albert following his death. This short walk takes in two of the cairns – Princess Beatrice’s Cairn and Prince Albert’s Cairn (aka “the pyramid”!) A beautiful forestry trail awaits, and after a fairly steady walk uphill you will reach the summit of Creag an Lurachain (442 m /1450 ft) where the pyramid sits. A steeper but shorter descent follows, and a very lovely suspension bridge crossing. Optional de-tour to Crathie Kirk – regular place of worship of the British Royal Family. … More Walk 200 – Prince Albert’s Pyramid, Balmoral – 4 miles
The Blue Bonnet Trails are made up of the 3 mile Tam’s Trail and the 1.5 mile Alloway Trail. They follow the journey taken from Ayr Town Centre to Alloway by Tam o’ Shanter as recounted in one of the most famous poems ever written by Rabbie Burns. As you walk the trails look out for the blue bonnet way markers. The route described in the post below is 7.5 miles in total and takes in both trails with the addition of a loop back into Ayr via the beautiful promenade. … More Walk 199 – Blue Bonnet Trails, Ayr & Alloway
A circular route to the 18th century arches of the Fyrish Monument. After a short distance my route leaves the busy Jubilee Path to make a gradual ascent up the shoulder of Cnoc Fyrish. From here you can enjoy spectacular views south across the Cromarty Firth to the oil riggs at Nigg and over to the mountains of the Northwest Highlands. The monument itself is a true work of art and forms a significant part of local history. It can be seen from miles around but nothing can prepare you for the scale of it once you are up close! My return route takes you through an area of mature forestry teeming with wildlife. … More Walk 195 – Fyrish Monument, Ross-shire – 4.4 miles
Discover the many trails of the beautiful Brockle Wood with its pretty burn that leads you to the mighty River Ayr. This short circular route has a lot to offer and is especially recommended in Autumn! … More Walk 192 – Brockle Wood from Annbank – 1.6 miles
This short circular walk around the Caaf Water is packed with unexpected ‘fairy’ surprises hidden within a tranquil wooded glen. The gorge is designated as a Site of Special Scientific Interest because of the unique and interesting rocks it contains. Perfect for families and for anyone who likes waterfalls! The paths can be muddy at times and there are several sets of stairs. … More Walk 190 – Lynn Glen, Dalry – 1.3 miles
Take a look at my top picks for woodland walks across Scotland! … More Top Picks – Woodland Walks
A brilliant and fairly easy circular walk from the Stinchar Bridge to the top of Cornish Hill, returning via the secluded and peaceful Cornish Loch. A good path the whole way, boggy in places. Fantastic views on a clear day! Parking at Stinchar Bridge car park, Straiton to Bargrennan Road. No public transport to start … More Walk 185 – Cornish Hill & its Loch – 3.4 miles
A short “there and back” walk through the aptly named Fairy Glen, near Rosemarkie. Follow the Markie Burn to not one, but two pretty waterfalls hidden away in the most tranquil of settings. Fairly rough underfoot in places, with some steep climbs and several sets of steps. … More Walk 183 – Fairy Glen Falls, Rosemarkie – 1.6 miles
Gillian's Walks 