Season: autumn
The beach at Ardwell Bay sits halfway down the western side of the Rhins of Galloway. Also known as Back of Ardwell Bay, this is a sheltered, sandy cove, fine for swimming and an excellent location to watch out for seals and birdlife. There are rock pools and you can gaze across to Northern Ireland from here. If you’re historically inclined, there is evidence of a pre-Christian settlement at nearby Doon Castle.
A view from behind the beach…
…and from the beach itself.
Season: autumn
Located at the western end of Fleet Bay, Mossyard beach has the curious distinction of comprising two beaches that point in opposite directions. Each of them sits at an opposing right angle to the rocks that form the barrier to the bay from the land. Dinghy sailing is popular from here and the beach is helpfully flat and sandy to help with launching. Rockpooling is popular too and there’s an upmarket feel to the setting. A few miles away, Gatehouse of Fleet has restaurants and accommodation for the more well-heeled traveller.
What the beach means to Paul and Lynne.
An idyllic scene at Mossyard.
Season: autumn
Also known as Carrick Bay after the bay in which it’s located, Carrick Shore is a jewel in the Galloway coastal crown. The wider bay is Fleet Bay and the area behind the beach is Galloway Forest Park, making this an unspoilt neck of the woods. Out at sea are the Isles of Fleet. There is some parking by the beach and water sports are popular here, ranging from windsurfing to dinghy sailing and kayaking. This is also a good spot for a swim. The beach is cleaned regularly in the summer and the bathing water is of a good quality.
Pauline and Kerry at the beach.
A tranquil scene at Carrick Shore.
