WATER OF TROOL

This is an ideal walk for all the family. The route is essentially one of the waymarked trails from Stroan Bridge Visitor Centre and one of many interesting trails established by Forestry Commission Scotland in the Galloway Forest Park. Either enjoy lunch before you depart or recuperate with a coffee and snack when you return - the visitor centre will serve until 1645hrs.

There is an interpretation quiz for the children included for the duration of this walk. From the car park we head immediately into the forest and gradually wind our way along well trodden paths and forest tracks behind Stroan House to a view point which provides fine views eastwards towards Bruce's Stone, the Minnigaff Hills and the Fell of Eschoncan. There are some pleasant waterfalls along this section and you can immerse yourself in the history attached to this remote valley whilst the children seek out the clues along the way.

We then descend to the public road which takes you to the famous Bruce's Stone and head towards the former Caldons Campsite. As we head west along the path which passes parallel to the Water of Trool we are following a newly upgraded section of the Southern Upland Way, the 212 mile Long Distrance Path which traverses the south of Scotland from Portpatrick in the west to Cockburnspath in the east.

This is a particularly pleasant and peaceful walk. The views are quite stunning with wildlife in abundance. The path meanders along the river bank whilst the adjacent water seems almost stationery it flows so slowly.

In the final section of the walk we follow the Water of Minnoch opening up to fine waterfalls as we pass through mixed woodlands and approach the end of the route.

The quiz for the children has been arranged by the Forest Recreational Ranger and there will be a proze for the winning entries in a variety of age groups.

Why not come along as a family and enjoy a wonderful afternoon in the company of others - this is sure to be a popular walk so please book early to avoid dissappointment.