Attractions and Places To See in Carrick Forest - Top 7
Best attractions and places to see in Carrick Forest are found within the larger Galloway Forest Park in South Ayrshire, Scotland. This region is characterized by its natural beauty, significant historical sites, and opportunities for outdoor activities. It features large lochs, scenic drives, and numerous trails for exploration. Carrick Forest offers a diverse range of experiences, from historical ruins to unique wildlife viewing opportunities.
Best attractions and places to see in Carrick Forest
- The most popular attractions is Viewpoint at Loch Riecawr, a lake that offers views over Loch Riecawr. This viewpoint is located along the Carrick Forest Drive.
- Another must-see spot is White Laggan Bothy, a hut in remote countryside. This 18th-century cottage serves as a stopover for those on the Southern Upland Way.
- Visitors also love Hydro Road Past Clatteringshaws Loch and Loch Dee, a trail that features a mixture of road and gravel surfaces. This route includes a section of the Southern Upland Way.
- Carrick Forest is known for its historical sites, large lochs, and extensive trail networks. The region offers a variety of attractions to see and explore, including viewpoints and cycle routes.
- The attractions in Carrick Forest are appreciated by the komoot community. There are 9 upvotes and 9 photos shared by visitors for the highlights in this guide.
Last updated: July 2, 2026
White Laggan Bothy
Highlight • Mountain Hut
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Viewpoint at Loch Riecawr
Highlight • Lake
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Off-Road Section of National Cycle Route 7 Near Glentrool
Highlight (Segment) • Trail
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Glen Trool to Clatteringshaws Route
Highlight (Segment) • Cycleway
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Hydro Road Past Clatteringshaws Loch and Loch Dee
Highlight (Segment) • Trail
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Other adventures in Carrick Forest
Tips from the Community
I’ve seen this bothy on YouTube via:#thehappyhippie & a few others & although I won’t be lucky enough to visit myself my adventurous seester just might so would like some more info. I’ve seen some, what one hiker called, “poltergeist” activity caught on video. Strange activity has been reported ranging from: anxious feelings overnight caused by noises that make the visitor feel like someone else might be arriving all the way up to furniture actually moving on its own but it seems like the level of activity you get depends on the weather &/or your beliefs since the people hearing noises didn’t really claim to be “believers” but the ones who saw furniture moving most definitely were + there was a furious storm raging outside making it an even harder choice for leaving & getting soaked or staying & getting scared, lol. Not trying to poke fun or anything but should me seester decide to explore that area again I’m pretty sure it’s something she’d be interested in so would like some more info about the shepherd who built it or if perhaps there’s any “local” type of story that might give a potential reason for the things people have actually caught on camera?!? Regardless I’d like to thank everyone for sharing whatever you can since this is how we, as siblings, tend to spend time together… I do the research and she enjoys the travel & if you knew us growing up you’d have thought it be the other way around but life doesn’t always go as you’d hoped but I will say this much, as both of us are avid believers in the idea that just because it’s unexplainable doesn’t make it impossible & paranormal is possible because in this life we’ve learned one thing for certain & that is that at the end of the day… “stranger things have happened!” Thanks again for sharing & remember: Bsmart+Bsafe=Bhappy!! TTFN ✌🏼
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chunky gravel
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Great little bothy. Two rooms for sleeping plus a small kitchen room
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A bench with a lovely view over Loch Riecawr in Galloway. We were here in the early morning and watched the geese taking off and landing on the still loch.
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Beautiful road, car free but beware it is very lonely.
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Cycle route 7 becomes an off road route after Glentrool Visitors Centre! Stunning, beautiful scenery and highly recommend. Watch out is that it is gravelly and remote - not really a usual cycle 'path' - needs MTB/gravel tyres. The visitors centre is last chance to stop and stock up for supplies before Clatteringshaw Visitors Centre
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This viewpoint is on the Carrick Forest Drive which is closed to motor vehicles for 2021, but open for walkers and cyclists. Bliss on a bike 🚴♂️😎
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Glen Trool to Clatteringshaws, tarmac then gravel, lots to see along the way, fabulous route even in the pouring rain, would definitely cycle it again
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Frequently Asked Questions
What historical sites can I explore in Carrick Forest?
Carrick Forest is rich in history. You can visit Loch Doon Castle, a 13th-century fortress that was meticulously relocated stone by stone in the 1930s. Although the ruins might be fenced off for safety, its historical significance and views are notable. Another historical site is Polmaddy, where you can explore the 200-year-old ruins of a traditional Galloway farming village. Nearby, Bruce's Stone offers a connection to Robert the Bruce.
Are there any scenic drives or viewpoints in Carrick Forest?
Yes, the Carrick Forest Drive is a scenic six-mile route connecting Loch Doon and Stinchar Bridge, offering mountain views. Please note that while it was noted as closed to motorized vehicles in May 2025, it remains open for walkers and cyclists. Along this drive, you'll find the Viewpoint at Loch Riecawr, which offers lovely views over the loch. Climbing Cornish Hill also provides rugged views across Ayrshire to the peaks of Arran and Merrick.
What natural features are prominent in Carrick Forest?
Carrick Forest boasts several significant natural features. Loch Doon is the largest loch in southern Scotland, known for its unique Arctic Charr. Other picturesque lochs include Loch Riecawr and Loch Braden. You can also explore Ness Glen, a narrow, moss-covered gorge, and the Water of Girvan Waterfalls, particularly as you descend from Cornish Hill.
What outdoor activities are available near the attractions in Carrick Forest?
The area around Carrick Forest's attractions offers diverse outdoor activities. You can find numerous hiking trails, such as the easy Loch Doon Castle Ruins loop or the moderate West Side of Loch Bradan loop. For cyclists, there are routes like the Loch Doon Castle Ruins to Viewpoint at Loch Riecawr loop, and the Glentrool area is known for mountain biking opportunities.
Are there family-friendly attractions in Carrick Forest?
Yes, Carrick Forest offers options for families. The Viewpoint at Loch Riecawr is considered family-friendly and features an adventure playground and picnic area. The Robert the Bruce Trail, launched in 2024, includes fun sculptures with augmented reality elements accessible via a mobile app, which can be engaging for children.
Where can I go stargazing in Carrick Forest?
Carrick Forest is part of Galloway Forest Park, which is recognized as the UK's first Dark Sky Park. This makes it an excellent location for stargazing due to its exceptionally dark skies. Viewing points are available at the car parks at Loch Doon and Loch Braden.
What is the Carrick Forest Drive and how can I use it?
The Carrick Forest Drive is a six-mile scenic route that connects Loch Doon and Stinchar Bridge. It offers an accessible way to experience the region's mountain scenery, with quiet car parks and picnic areas. While it was noted as closed to motorized vehicles in May 2025, it remains open for walkers and cyclists, providing a tranquil path through the forest.
Can I see wildlife in Carrick Forest?
Yes, Carrick Forest provides opportunities for wildlife viewing. Near Loch Riecawr, there is a Black Grouse Viewing Platform where you can learn about and potentially observe black grouse, especially early in the morning. Loch Doon is also home to Arctic Charr, a genetically unique fish.
What is White Laggan Bothy?
The White Laggan Bothy is an 18th-century cottage located in remote countryside south of Loch Dee. It serves as a useful stopover for those undertaking the Southern Upland Way, providing a break during a long journey. It features a wood-burning stove, but users should remember to take all rubbish away with them as there is no collection.
Are there any cycling routes that combine road and gravel surfaces?
Yes, the Hydro Road Past Clatteringshaws Loch and Loch Dee is a popular trail that features a mixture of road and gravel surfaces. This route also includes a section of the Southern Upland Way, offering varied terrain for cyclists.
What do visitors enjoy most about Carrick Forest?
Visitors appreciate the stunning natural beauty and tranquility of Carrick Forest. Many enjoy the scenic views from spots like the Viewpoint at Loch Riecawr, especially in the early morning watching geese on the loch. The remote and peaceful atmosphere, particularly along routes like the Carrick Forest Drive when open to non-motorized traffic, is also highly valued.
What is the Robert the Bruce Trail?
The Robert the Bruce Trail, also known as Bruce's Web, is an outdoor trail and app launched in 2024 to commemorate the 750th anniversary of King Robert the Bruce's birth. It features nine pieces of outdoor art across North Carrick, including fun sculptures with augmented reality elements that can be accessed via a mobile app.
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