|
|
Loch Ken
Loch Ken
benefits from prevailing South-Westerly winds which provide Gulf Stream warmth
and steady, moderate strength - perfect for learning your sailing skills! On
the rare days of still air, Loch Ken enjoys a reliable sea-breeze which
usually arrives just after lunch.
Further
down Loch Ken from GSC is a sports-boat marina with a designated
water-ski zone, and fishing is popular both from boat & bank. The
Loch Ken Holiday Park offers a Scottish Tourist Board approved 4 Star Caravan
Site, nearby. With all these facilities, it is still a tranquil and relaxing
place - where you can do as little or as much as you want!
Loch Ken
is a long narrow ribbon of water 12km in length and as much as 1km wide. It is
part of the Galloway Hydro Electric Scheme which was completed in 1936.
Part of it is an Environmentally Sensitive Area (E.S.A). Home to some of Scotland's
most fascinating scenery and wildlife, the Loch makes for an ideal playground
for any outdoor enthusiast. From Red Kites to Red Squirrels,
Sailing to Windsurfing, Forest Walks to Fishing, there is
an abundance of activity to appeal to all the family.Loch Ken
lies on the edge of the Galloway Forest Park, the largest forest park in
Britain, covering 300 square miles of rolling hills blended with harsh rugged
scenery and various expanses of water. The park is home to an array of wildlife
such as Red deer and Falcons, many of which can be seen from the
Forest Wildlife Centre situated on the Raiders Road over looking Clatteringshaws
Loch. Whether it's a picnic on the banks ofthe Otter Pool, a climb to Bruces
Stone or even a trek along the Southern Upland Way, the park has
something to offer everybody.
Fishing
is popular off the banks of Loch Ken. Renowned as one of Scotland's most
prolific Pike fishing waters. Historically the largest Pike, caught in 1798,
was said to weigh a massive 72lb. Permits can be obtained from local pubs and
shops depending on the area you wish to fish.
A registration system for all motorised craft is in place on
Loch Ken. Boats can be registered for a small annual fee at the following:
Loch Ken Marina; Loch Ken Holiday Park Tel. 01644 470282
Crossmichael
Marina Tel. 07810 693002
Dumfries & Galloway Council Area Planning
Office, 4 Market Street, Castle Douglas 01556 505200
Galloway Sailing
Centre 01644 420626.
As part of the registration, owners must produce
evidence of third party insurance for £250,000 and agree to abide by
the zoning, speed limits and other rules for users. (Boats with engines
less than 6hp do not require insurance). A public launch facility is
available at the Boat O' Rhone.
|
|
