Stranraer

Three ferries a day still chug across to Belfast from this old port town, but these days Stranraer feels more like a gateway to Scotland's forgotten southwest than a bustling transport hub. The harbour that once welcomed thousands of Irish travellers now hosts fishing boats and the odd yacht, while the town centre quietly goes about its business with a proper Scottish reserve.

Castle Kennedy stands as the area's crown jewel - a romantic ruin surrounded by some of Scotland's finest gardens. The 75-acre grounds are magnificent in spring when the rhododendrons explode into colour. Just beyond town, Soulseat Loch offers peaceful walking, while the more adventurous can tackle Cairn Hill for views across the Rhinns peninsula.

Ringdoo Sands delivers proper seaside charm without the crowds. The wide sandy beach stretches for miles, backed by dunes and perfect for dog walking or simply watching the Irish Sea roll in. Logan Fish Pond, despite its modest name, houses an impressive collection of tropical fish - odd but fascinating.

Wigtownshire's rolling countryside unfolds in every direction from here. Hamilton Wood and the surrounding forests provide excellent walking, particularly in autumn when the colours are spectacular. Mount Sallie Hill and Barnshangan Hill offer more challenging hikes with rewarding views.

The A75 brings you straight into town from Dumfries, about an hour's drive through increasingly wild countryside. Newton Stewart, 25 miles northeast, is the nearest sizeable town. Staying at one of the local holiday parks puts you perfectly placed for exploring both the Galloway coast and the mysterious Machars peninsula - an area that feels genuinely remote despite being just a few hours from Glasgow.