This short walk heads along the shores of Clatteringshaws Loch - an extensive reservoir to visit the Bruce's Stone before climbing through forestry to a viewpoint high above the loch with views to Merrick and the surrounding hills.
Bog Factor
Easy shore paths, landrover track to top of hill.
Clatteringshaws car park (charge).
None to start.
NX551762
Start at the car park (charge) at Clatteringshaws Loch. Begin by walking to the left of the building and heading through a gate. Continue along the path, signed for the Bruce's Stone.
Follow the clear path which eventually reaches the Bruce's Stone. The site is where King Robert the Bruce is said to have rested following his victory over the English near here in 1307. The actual site of the battle at Craignell is now submerged by the reservoir which was completed in 1935 and provides water via a long tunnel to Glenlee power station as part of the Galloway Hydro Electric Scheme. Return to the visitor centre car park at the start.
The second part of the walk is a climb on a landrover track to reach the masts visible on the top of Benniguinea. Cross the main road from the car park and take the track opposite to head across the open field. Pass through a gate; there's already a good view back over the loch.
At the next junction continue straight ahead; the route on the right was once a waymarked alternative but has become disused and very boggy. Instead keep along the track until another junction is reached. This time do turn right, continuing uphill on another forestry track. Glimpses of the loch and surrounding countryside can be seen through the trees.
The route continues to climb Benniguinea, eventually swinging left and leaving the forest behind. Near the top the track swings right to reach the masts. The hill offers superb views over the loch; the return walk is back the same way.
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