Balloch Wood, Creetown
| Distance | Approximate Time | Height Gain | OS Map |
| 3 kms | 01:30 (hrs:mins) | 0 metres | Explorer 311: Wigtown, Whithorn & The Machars |
Description
Starting from the car park, turn right onto the main street then left at the signpost for Kirkmabreck. Follow the road uphill, past the church to the start of the path through Balloch Wood. Follow the waymarkers along the Burnside Trail.
The path initially follows the edge of the wood. The trees here are a mixture of conifers and broadleaves, including a stand of elegant Italian alders. On your left enjoy the excellent views over Creetown and the Cree estuary, with Kirkmabreck church in the foreground. This church, built between 1831 and 1834 replaces two earlier churches in the area. As you round the corner, Balloch Burn rushes through the gorge below. The path continues through mixed woodland, high above the burn until it descends into a spectacular, steep-sided gorge. Once the path leaves the burn it returns through mainly coniferous woodland. Here, away from the noise of the burn, the contrasting quiet is occasionally interrupted by the calls of birds such as great tits and coal tits. Continue to follow the waymarkers back to the start, then retrace your steps to the car park.
Access Info
Creetown is just off the A75 between Gatehouse and Newtown Stewart. Parking is available in the centre of Creetown by the Clock Tower.
Additional Info
Check out the 'Walking in and around Newton Stewart and Creetown' booklet for more information, available from any Tourist Information Centre in Dumfries and Galloway.
