Episode 87: ‘Frozen in Time’ – Galloway & Southern Ayrshire Biosphere (May)
Let’s explore the bluebell woodlands of the Galloway and Southern Ayrshire Biosphere in southwest Scotland.
‘Frozen in Time’ is part of the series A Year in Scotland. This is the May episode.
In this story, we travel to the southwest of Scotland and spend a few days exploring the Galloway and Southern Ayrshire Biosphere at the height of Spring.
We wander through one of Scotland’s most picturesque bluebell forests and listen to the birds of the woodland. We’re staying at a tranquil shepherd’s hut on the edge of the Galloway Forest Park, go wild swimming in a loch and a river, and we wander through the bustling town of Gatehouse of Fleet.
After the story, I share my top tips for a trip to the Galloway and Southern Ayrshire Biosphere.
Disclaimer: All information provided in this podcast is based on personal travel experiences. Companies mentioned in the story or tips were active at the time of release. If you listen to episodes at a later point, note that this information may have changed in the meantime.
Resources
Book a few nights at Creeside Escape Shepherd’s Hut
Visit Carstramon Wood near Gatehouse of Fleet
5 Travel Tips for the Galloway & Southern Ayrshire Biosphere
Tip number 1) Use my Southwest Scotland Resources
I have written lots of stuff about the southwest of Scotland and if you’re serious about planning a trip to Galloway, you should consider using my resources for the region.
I have a Galloway Travel Guide on my Scotland blog, a travel video about my first trip to the Biosphere and there are even two podcast episodes about Galloway, “Rhins of Galloway” and “In Tune”.
Tip number 2) Book a guided experience with a local
As mentioned, the Biosphere is not just about nature conservation, it’s about how people can live in harmony with nature and still build affordable housing, create sustainable businesses and form thriving communities.
And there’s no better way to engage with these communities, than by booking a guided experience with a local.
Go swimming with Sarah from Swim the Lochs, sea kayaking or coasteering with Chris from Adventure Carrick, stargazing with dark sky ranger Elizabeth Tindal or foraging with Christy from Way of the Wild.
No matter what activity you choose, you’ll learn more about the local area and hear local stories.
Tip number 3) Download the Merlin App
Now, this tip is not specifically for Galloway, but places like the Biosphere are the perfect place to test out apps like the Merlin App. I found out about the Merlin App a few days before travelling to Galloway. I spent so much time on my woodland walks, recording birds and learning about their different songs and calls, it’s a great resources if you like listening to birds & learning more about them. Oh, and it’s free to use
Tip number 4) Hike at the Wood of Cree
Carstramon Wood is by far not the only bluebell woodland in Galloway. In fact, I also went for a walk at the Wood of Cree, just half an hour away from the Shepherd’s Hut.
There were maybe not quite as many bluebells there, but they still carpeted large sections of the forest. In addition, the Wood of Cree has a series of waterfalls and pools where you can spot all kinds of birds as well. It’s a place not to miss on your trip.
Tip number 5) Use the Biosphere website
The Galloway and Southern Ayrshire Biosphere has a great website explaining it’s mission and projects. If you’re planning a trip, make sure to also check the Biosphere Experiences page – I’ll link to it in the show notes. On this page, you can find listings for local guides and outdoor activities, as well as suggestions for days out or self-guided adventures around the Biosphere.
Pictures from my Trip to the Galloway & Southern Ayrshire Biosphere
