Dumfries and Galloway Cottages by the Sea

Dumfries and Galloway Cottages by the Sea

The Solway coast has a mixture of beaches, estuaries and small villages. Rockcliffe sits on a particularly attractive section of the Solway Firth, with coastal trails through woodland, meadows and along the shoreline. At low tide, it is possible to walk across to Rough Island, although access is restricted during the bird breeding season.

Nearby Kippford is a small sailing village on the Urr Estuary, while the coastline continues west through places such as Sandyhills and Southerness. This part of Dumfries and Galloway works particularly well if you want beaches and coastal walks without staying in a large seaside resort.

Portpatrick and the Rhins of Galloway

On the opposite side of the region, Portpatrick is a harbour village facing the Irish Sea. Its waterfront has pubs and places to eat, while walking routes climb quickly from the village onto the surrounding cliffs.

Portpatrick is also the western starting point of the Southern Upland Way. The full trail runs for around 214 miles across southern Scotland to Cockburnspath, but shorter sections can be followed directly from the village.

Continue south through the Rhins of Galloway and the coastline becomes increasingly remote. The Mull of Galloway Trail follows the eastern side of the peninsula through places including Drummore and Sandhead before reaching the Mull of Galloway.

Beaches, Coastal Walks and Places to Visit

There is plenty to explore between the two ends of the region. Around the Solway Firth you can combine beach visits with walks at Rockcliffe, while further west the Rhins has clifftop paths, sandy bays and views across the Irish Sea.

The Mull of Galloway is the southernmost point of Scotland and has a lighthouse and RSPB nature reserve. Several shorter walking routes explore the surrounding headland, while the longer coastal trail connects the area with Stranraer.

Inland, Dumfries and Galloway has forests, lochs and historic towns, giving you plenty to do away from the coast as well. For more coastal accommodation around the country, browse our Scotland holiday cottages by the sea.