Activities
You are spoilt for choice at Cairnsmore Cottages with a wide range of activities that include world famous mountain bike routes and cycling, hill walking and mountain climbing in the breathtaking Galloway Hills, sightseeing and exploring in the Galloway Forest Park which is also Europe's first Dark Sky Park. We are more than happy to advise you on activities during your stay or feel free to explore some of the links and information on our website.
The Southern Upland Way
Walk the western sections of the Southern Upland Way, Southern Scotland's 'Coast to Coast', the 212 mile walk between Portpatrick in the west and Cocksburnpath in the east.
Beaches in Galloway
Enjoy the quiet beaches of Galloway, including Mossyard and Cardoness which lie within 20 minutes drive of Cairnsmore.
Cairnsmore National Nature Reserve
Lying to the east of Cairnsmore of Fleet Hill, the nature reserve is open all year and is one of the most remote areas in southwest Scotland. Enjoy trails around Dromore Visitors Centre or climb up to the escarpment and the Clints of Dromore. Wild goats and red deer may be glimpsed, not to mention 5 sculptures placed around the reserve.
Mountain Biking & Cycling
7stanes - Scotland's Mountain Biking Heaven
The 7stanes are seven world class mountain bike centres in Forestry Commission Scotland forests in the Borders and Dumfries & Galloway: two of the trails, at Glentrool and Kirroughtree, are within 15 miles of Cairnsmore Cottages.
They're known as the 7stanes because each centre features a 'stane' (Scots for stone) somewhere in the forest. It might be at the start of the trails or it might be at the highest point - you'll have to get on your bike and find out for yourself!
© 7stanes information & photographs are copyright of Forestry Commission Scotland.
Outdoors
The Sustrans National Cycle Network runs alongside the entrance to the Cairnsmore Estate and for those enthusiasts who enjoy a challenge, the 47 mile Newton Stewart Circular route offers a rewarding ride in beautiful surroundings. For mountain bikers, the world renowned 7stanes routes at Kirroughtree are only two miles away from the cottages, a short trip along the glen.
Laggan Outdoors
Situated in the hills overlooking the Solway Coast, Laggan Outdoor Activity Centre offers fun activities from a zip wire to mountain balling, archery to Segway tours and all sorts in between to meet all levels of adventure.
Laggan Outdoor Activity Centre Website
Galloway Activity Centre
Offering activities on Loch Ken, near Castle Douglas, try your hand at a range of water sports including kayaking and wind-surfing or if you prefer to stay dry, have fun taking on the challenge of the climbing wall, blo karting and combat laser games to name but a few....