A most attractive, popular walk of 8.5km round the scenic Loch Trool. The trail passes the spot where, in 1307, Robert the Bruce secured victory over the English troops by rolling stones down the slopes of Mulldonnoch. Bruce's Stone at the Multi Start commemorates the battle and overlooks the loch at a particularly scenic and much photographed beauty spot favoured by locals and visitors alike.

We introduced this route in our first festival and it was extremely popular - it's suitable for any walker of average fitness as it follows well defined, good quality paths. Why not walk this route as a family! Your guide is a local historian and teacher and the local high school.

From the Multi Start at Bruces Stone we initially follow a short section of tarmac road before commencing picking up the trail we will follow for the duration of the trek. On the north shores of Loch Trool we traverse a section of recently felled woodland; note the newly planted hardwoods which will, in many years time, provide a more pleasant barrier to the rough ground left by newly felled coniferous trees.

We will continue through the now closed Caldons Campsite picking up a section of the Southern Upland Way, a 212 mile Long Distance Route which starts at Portpatrick and winds its way across the south of Scotland to Cocksburnpath near Eyemouth. This section is particularly attractive with vistas reminiscent of Nordic fiords. The distant views towards Buchan, The Merrick and Bennan hills are most rewarding. We will take time to absorb the history of the battle of 1307 as we take a break at the interpretation panel. This date paved the way for Scottish Independence and the area is often referred to as the 'Cradle of Independence'.

We continue to follow the Southern Upland Way until we reach Glenhead. This remote farmstead was a popular retreat for famous writers such as SR Crocket and more recently Andrew Mccormick.

The last section meanders through ancient woodlands with waterfalls and pleasant views over Loch Trool providing ample excuse to pause and enjoy the splendour of this wonderfully remote corner of Galloway.