mull of galloway lighthouse & exhibition - awesome scenery - logan gardens - quaint villages - seabirds galore - great walks - scotland`s land`s end
The area from Portpatrick south is known as the South Rhins with the southernmost section being known as the Mull of Galloway. We have made a few suggestions for exploring this area.
Mull of Galloway Lighthouse - Scotlland`s Lands End
There is so much to see and do in the area that one day isn`t nearly enough to do it justice. Highlights include the Mull of Galloway itself which is Scotland`s own Lands End. It is at the end of a very narrow peninsula and the drive to "the Mull" is one of the best in the area, especially the last few miles as the views vary all the time. One minute, the hills of Cumbria then the Isle of Man, the Galloway Hills, the Mountains of Mourne etc.
A seal relaxing on the rocks near Sandhead
We have travelled much of Scotland and the Mull of Galloway has to be one of the most scenic. It has a similar atmosphere to some of the Western Isles but is a lot easier to get to and no ferry is involved!
The Mull of Galloway has a Lighthouse Exhibition, an RSPB reserve where puffins can sometimes be seen and a cafe/visitor centre which, with its grass roof, merges into the landscape.The cafe, called Gaiie Craig is right on the cliff edge and must have one of the best views in Scotland.
On the way, you can stop off at Logan Botanic Gardens (see our gardens section for full details) or visit the quaint village of Port Logan which was featured in 2000 Acres of Sky.
Port Logan at Twilight Port Logan Inn
There are also various options for walking on the peninsula (see walking section).
Other places to visit include Logan House Gardens, Ardwell House Gardens, Logan Fish Pond, Ardwell Bay, the Kirkmadrine Stones near Sandhead and Sandhead itself. Seals can sometimes be seen on the rocks where the road rejoins the sea-shore just south of Sandhead.
To get to the Mull of Galloway, follow the A77 out of Portpatrick to Lochans, turn right in the centre of the vilage and in a short while rt.again at the T junction. The rd.takes you through Stoneykirk, bypasses Sandhead, goes through Ardwell and on to Drummore from where the Mull of Galloway is signposted.
For walks in and around Portpatrick see our walks page
Guest House in Portpatrick - ideal base for the Mull of Galloway, South West Scotland and Galloway Forest Park