Explore self-guided walking holidays through open countryside, ancient heritage, and landscapes that invite reflection.
South West Scotland is a region of space and stillness — soft hills, slow coastlines, and deep-rooted stories. From the glens of Galloway to the edge of the Mull, this is walking country made for presence over pace. The land leans gently into the sea, and the sense of time feels different here — older, quieter, and more reflective.
This is not a place of towering peaks or crowds. It’s a landscape shaped by saints and stargazers, by pilgrims, poets, and farmers. Walking here means following forest tracks, ridge paths, and clifftop routes where you can see for miles — and feel far away from it all.
A historic pilgrimage trail from Glasgow to Whithorn, once a centre of early Christian worship. Today, the route offers a long-distance walk through farmland, coast, and peaceful villages, ending near the ruins of St Ninian’s Priory.
One of Europe’s first Dark Sky Parks, Galloway is rich in remote trails, wildlife, and natural beauty. Walkers can explore forest loops, lochside paths, and open ridgelines — perfect for solitude, stargazing, and slow adventure.
Scotland’s southernmost point offers dramatic sea cliffs, lighthouse views, and trails where you can see across to Ireland. A place of wind, water, and raw elemental beauty — ideal for short walks with big horizons.
You can follow long-distance pilgrimage routes, explore forest and lochside trails, walk clifftop coastal paths, visit lighthouses, and discover ancient abbeys and kirks.
Top choices include the Whithorn Way, Galloway Forest Park trails, and the Mull of Galloway Coastal Paths.
Yes. As well as walking, the region offers cycling, kayaking, wildlife watching, and stargazing in the Dark Sky Park.
Late spring to early autumn offers the best walking conditions, with long days in May and June and rich colours in autumn.
Yes. There are self-guided and guided walking holiday options, from short breaks to longer routes linking the region’s highlights.
