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Criffel

Hike to the summit of Criffel Hill for fantastic views of rolling farmland below and the sands of the Nith Estuary in the distance.

From Dumfries take the A710 Solway Coast road through New Abbey. Follow the road passing the road ends to Lochhill Farm and then Inglestonford Farm. Take the first signed minor road on the right towards Ardwall Farm. Continue to the roadside car park on the right hand side without blocking any entrances.

From the roadside car park, pass through the left hand field gate and take the next right turn. On reaching the forest continue uphill and you will soon be walking alongside Craigrockall Burn. At the edge of the forestry ground, cross the boundary fence using the stile and follow the path up the open hill to the summit.

Return by the same route. This is a strenuous walk, but if you choose a bright clear day, your efforts will be rewarded with great views across the Solway to the Lake District. The slopes of Criffel are well populated with skylarks and you may well hear their flight song as they hover high above the upland vegetation of heather, bog cotton and blueberry. The loch at the bottom is Loch Kindar; the larger island carries the remains of an old Kirk; the two smaller islands are Crannogs. These are man made islands, built as protected dwelling sites in pre-Roman and early Roman times.

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