Walk 1.3 - BRUCE'S STONE TO DALRY
via THE SOUTHERN UPLAND WAY
Distance - 28km (17.5 miles) Walking Time 7.5 hours
Ascent - 734 metres (2374ft)
Difficulty Level - Moderate (but long)
Start - Multi Start Point (Saturday) NX415 804
Depart - 0930hrs
Return - 1730hrs

Shorter option - The shorter option breaks off at the 13km marker and returns by minibus. A stop off at Clatteringshaws Wildlife Visitor Centre allows time to watch the Galloway Red Kites on a video link and enjoy some lunch.
Distance - 13km
Depart - As above
Return - 1400hrs

The 212 mile Southern Upland Way starts at Portpatrick in the west and ends at Cockburnspath in the east. The Way was designed to be walked from west to east, so we don't argue with its designers as we walk our linear route following the Way through some varied and spectacular Galloway countryside.

As we set out on this walk, we overlook the site of the Battle of Glentrool, when in 1307, Robert the Bruce and his troops defeated the English in a battle which paved the way for Scottish Independence and the battle of Bannockburn in 1315. As we climb the forest track heading towards Loch Dee we can enjoy views of the Rig of the Jarkness and Craiglee to the north. Walkers on the Dungeon Hills and the Mighty Merrick walk will be heading along this ridge as we proceed east.

From Loch Dee we roughly follow the flow of the Black Water of Dee towards the western shores of Clatteringshaws Loch, now a holding dam for the Galloway Hydro Electric Scheme. After a short walk on a public road we break off into the wilderness of Benbrack and Drumbuie to the small croft of Clenrie. From here we follow the public road as we descend towards one of the power stations to Dalry. As we pass the power station take note of the salmon ladder, so constructed to ensure that spawning salmon can continue their journey to the upper waters of the Water of Ken.

Dalry is only a short distance hence, and it's from here you will be uplifted by bus and returned to the Multi Start Point at Bruce's Stone. You might even have time for a small refreshment at one of the local hostelries!

Linear walking is always difficult to plan and this is an ideal opportunity to enjoy a very popular section of the Southern Upland Way.

Book early as spaces on this walk will be limited.