Souter's Hill

The walk up Souter's Hill from Castle Douglas takes about forty minutes, and you're rewarded with proper views across the Lowlands - the sort of panorama that makes you understand why people settle in this corner of Scotland. It's not a dramatic peak, mind you. Nothing dramatic about it at all, really. But that's rather the point.

You get a genuine sense of the land rolling away in every direction once you're up there. On a clear day you can see across to the Southern Uplands. The grass is manageable underfoot and the path is well-trodden enough that you won't lose your way, though it does get a bit boggy after rain - bring proper boots. Allow two hours there and back if you're taking your time, less if you're the pace-setting type.

It's the sort of walk that appeals to people who actually enjoy walking rather than those just after a photo opportunity. Families with decent legs will manage fine; young children might find it a slog. If you're staying at Loch Ken Holiday Park just up the road, this makes a cracking morning or afternoon outing. You could do it before heading into Castle Douglas for lunch without any bother.

Free, obviously. No facilities on the hill itself, so bring water. The real appeal is in the walking and the views - nothing fancy, just a proper Lowlands ramble.