This is a really lovely quiet and rural area. Turning left at the village of Beeswing, you will find yourself driving along the banks of Loch Arthur, where fishing permits are available.

You can go on to New Abbey, a picturesque village with the red sandstone remains of the 13th century Cistercian Sweetheart Abbey. Criffel Hill offers excellent walks and views over the Dumfriesshire countryside and across the Solway Coast.

Also nearby is Kirkbean, the birthplace of John Paul Jones, the ex-pirate who went on to become the founding father of the US Navy. The coast around the scenic cove at Rockcliffe and the sandy beaches of wide Sandyhills Bay should not be missed. The area is rich in wildlife, particularly birds and the 8 hectare NTS bird sanctuary at Rough Island can be accessed at low tide from Kippford, which is a popular sailing centre.

Dumfries and Galloway has become a favoured area for mountain bikers, with a huge selection of dedicated forest and hill trails for all grades of ability. The nearest are in the Mabie Forest just to the north east of the house, which boasts 'The Dark Side', a Double Black Trail! This can be accessed directly via a forestry road just two minutes walk from the house, ideal for accessing the trail or just for going for a walk. The Dalbeattie Forest trails too are only a few miles away, in fact there is easy access to all the 7 Stanes cycle trails here.

Those who like to get around and explore while on holiday will find plenty to do here. The A75 is a fast road which will quickly take you west to Castle Douglas, Gatehouse of Fleet, The Machars and Whithorn, Threave Castle, Loch Ken, the Rhinns of Galloway and attractive Portpatrick.

From Stranraer or Cairnryan you can even go 'abroad' for the day with a trip over to Northern Ireland. Dumfries (7 miles) is the nearest large town, with all facilities for shopping, leisure (including golf courses) and entertainment.