Creetown - Balloch Wood - Cardoon Ponds

Distance	Approximate Time	Height Gain	OS Map
3.25 kms	01:30 (hrs:mins)	100 metres	Explorer 312: Kirkcudbright & Castle Douglas

Description

This easy walk from Creetown (formerly Ferrytown of Cree) takes an ascending lane to pass Kirkmabreck Church and enter Balloch Wood, to follow the Balloch Burn, continuing up to Cardoon Ponds by Balloch Bridge. The ponds make an ideal picnic spot and may also be reached by car from Creetown or Gatehouse of Fleet via the Corse o' Slakes Road; a small car park has been provided alongside. The area around the ponds is level and suitable for wheelchair users.

The route is part of a recent local community project initiative, in partnership with Forestry Commission Scotland and only completed in October 2004; it is yet to be mapped. The way is signposted however, the paths are good and there are occasional seats along the way. Return to Creetown is made downhill by way of a 'larch trail'.

No visit to Creetown is complete without a tour of the well-known Gem Rock Museum, which is included on the return route. Within the route is a shorter alternative of some two miles, which omits the woodland path section up to the Cardoon Ponds.

Access Info

Creetown is situated just off the main A75 road, some six miles east of Newton Stewart. The car park is adjacent to the clock tower in the main street, map ref NX 475589. Bus service 500 / X75 plies between Carlisle / Dumfries and Stranraer.