Galloway and Southern Ayrshire UNESCO Biosphere – Forest Parks, Moorland Hills, and Atlantic Coast

Woodland, upland ridges, and coastal routes across south-west Scotland

The Galloway and Southern Ayrshire Biosphere covers a broad landscape of forest, moorland, farmland, and coastline in south-west Scotland, forming one of the United Kingdom’s UNESCO-designated Biosphere Reserves. Walking routes move through Galloway Forest Park, across granite hills such as Merrick, and along coastal sections near Ballantrae and the Solway Firth, linking settlements including Newton Stewart, Gatehouse of Fleet, Girvan, and Stranraer.

The terrain varies significantly across the Biosphere boundary. Central upland areas are defined by rounded granite summits, peat moorland, forest tracks, and lochside paths. Lower ground opens into agricultural valleys shaped by the Rivers Cree, Dee, and Doon, while western and southern edges meet rocky coastline and sandy inlets along the North Channel and Solway Firth.

Walking here ranges from exposed hill routes to quieter woodland trails and long river corridors. Forestry roads provide access deep into the Galloway Hills, while smaller paths cross open moorland and link lochs, glens, and remote upland ground. Coastal stretches introduce cliffs and tidal flats, adding maritime contrast to the inland hills.

About the UNESCO Biosphere

Galloway and Southern Ayrshire was designated as a UNESCO Biosphere in 2012. Unlike World Heritage Sites, Biosphere Reserves recognise living landscapes where conservation, local communities, and sustainable land use coexist. The designation reflects the ecological diversity of the region, including ancient woodland, upland habitats, river systems, and coastal environments.

The Biosphere includes:

• The Galloway Hills and Merrick range
• Galloway Forest Park
• River valleys including the Cree, Dee, and Doon
• Agricultural lowlands and coastal sections
• Small towns and rural settlements within the managed landscape

Where to Walk

Galloway Hills & Merrick Routes

‍Upland paths leading to the highest ground in southern Scotland, with expansive views across forest and coast.

Galloway Forest Park Trails

‍Waymarked woodland routes, loch circuits, and long forestry tracks linking remote interior landscapes.

Southern Upland Way (Galloway Section)

‍Long-distance route crossing upland ground and forest between Portpatrick and Sanquhar.

Ayrshire Coastal Paths

‍Sections of shoreline walking near Girvan and Ballantrae overlooking the Firth of Clyde and Ailsa Craig.

Highlights

• Granite upland summits and remote moorland
• Extensive forest park landscapes
• River valleys and freshwater lochs
• Atlantic and Solway coastline
• Dark Sky Park designation within Galloway Forest Park
• A large, inhabited UNESCO-designated landscape