Wigtownshire is the southwest corner of Scotland and the Mull of Galloway (wonderful scenery - well worth a visit) is the southernmost point of Scotland.

The surrounding sea is warmed by the Gulf Stream so the water is warm for swimmers. The fish in the warm sea attract seals, otters and a great variety of sea birds (RSBP reserve with puffins, gannets, etc.), and the warm, almost frost-free air allows spectacular gardens to flourish - Glenwhan, Castle Kennedy, and the Logan Botanic Garden with spectacular plants normally found in the sub tropics.

These gardens are in the west part of the County, known as The Rhinns. The northern part is called - sensibly - The Moors. Its wide open spaces are ideal for walking and its quiet roads for cycling.

The south western area is know as The Machars, and consists mostly of unspoilt farm land, enlivened by outcrops of rock and little woods. In the sea cliffs near Whithorn is St Ninian's cave, Here he first brought Christianity to Britain, In Whithorn is an archaeological exhibition detailing the history of the Abbey, where there has been worship for 16 centuries.

Not far away, is the old County Town of Wigtown which has been reinvigorated as Scotland's "Book Town". In a whole week's holiday you still would not be able to scan all the fascinating variety of books and other published material there.

For eating out, try Newton Stewart, Stranraer or Portpatrick, where the seafood comes straight from the sea.

For golf, there are several courses, mostly around the coast, and just over the border into Ayrshire is the real test - Turnberry.

Most of all Wigtownshire is a place to relax, to listen to the silence and to watch the grass grow.