Forestry Commission - News - autumn colours hit dumfries and galloway

Autumn is about to hit its peak in many forests and woodlands in Dumfries and Galloway.

Forestry Commission Scotland has been monitoring the colour changes at a number of their popular forests in the region as part of their yearly Autumn Colours campaign.

Mabie and Dalbeattie forests in Dumfriesshire and Glentrool, Cally Wood and Kirroughtree forests in Galloway are all taking part in the campaign. When the season reaches its peak, visitors to the woodlands are in for a treat as a stunning display of reds, golds and yellows are on show.

To help the public plan an autumnal trip to the woods, all the latest information on colour changes and things to do at each forest has been put on a special website - www.forestry.gov.uk/autumn.

Robin Fuller of Forestry Commission Scotland said:

"Autumn has been later than ever this year - we must be weeks behind compared to last year. With the colder weather now triggering the leaves to change colour we are starting to see some quite spectacular and attractive sights in the forest. If the weather holds up, we can all enjoy a spectacular scenic forest walk or bike ride.

"Autumn is a favourite season for many people, simply because local woodlands are totally transformed. I'd urge everyone to make the most of it and go out and stretch the legs, breathe in some fresh air and recharge the batteries."

The woodlands around Dumfries and Galloway are well known for attracting tourists and are well used by locals. The forests offer a wealth of things to do including walking, biking, horseriding and sightseeing.

Mabie forest, just outside Dumfries, is very popular due to its scenic and enjoyable walks in very attractive settings and with views of the Solway Firth. Dalbeattie forest is also a great place to go as the peaceful views over the lochan in autumn can be breathtaking. Both Mabie and Dalbeattie are also known for great mountain biking through the 7stanes trails.

Robin added: "The more rugged landscapes of Galloway Forest Park are also a fine setting for an autumnal walk or bike ride. If you are really wanting to take a few hours out then why not try the new 7stanes touring route at Glentrool as it's a real wilderness day out."

The autumn hotspots being monitored in Dumfries and Galloway are:

Mabie Forest - just outside Dumfries. Scenic mixed woodland walks, 7stanes mountain biking and bike hire on site and children's playpark.
Dalbeattie forest - a network of walking trails and a scenic lochan, 7stanes biking at the Hardrock Trail.
Kirroughtree forest - near Newton Stewart. Fantastic 7stanes biking trails, woodland walks and visitor centre open at weekends.
Glentrool - woodland walks in conifer and mixed woodlands, 7stanes touring route.
Cally Woods - near Gatehouse of Fleet. Historic grounds of mixed woodland in the old Cally estate.

More information on all the walks, cycle rides and view points is available on the Autumn Colours website www.forestry.gov.uk/autumn, or alternatively call the public enquiry line 0845 367 3787 (0845 FORESTS).

Media enquiries to: Robin Fuller, Ae Forest District 0791 90 44 382 or Steve Williams, Forestry Commission Scotland press office 0131 314 6508.