Forest bathing at Ness Glen

Ness Glen is a narrow wooded gorge below the Loch Doon dam, south of Dalmellington, where the River Doon runs out of Loch Doon, the largest inland loch in southern Scotland. It was once a well-known showplace. The path follows the river through mossy, rocky woodland at the bottom of the gorge, and a return path climbs up through woodland at a higher level back to the start.

Park just beyond the Roundhouse café at Loch Doon, which opens seasonally and streams live pictures from the resident osprey nest. The paths are rough underfoot in places and can be very boggy, so wear boots and plan to go slowly; the riverside section deep in the gorge is the place to stop and listen. There is no public transport to the start, though tracks lead up from Dalmellington if you are walking. Check conditions after heavy rain before you go.