2 Best Sights in The Borders and the Southwest, Scotland

The lovely Castle Kennedy Gardens surround the shell of the original Castle Kennedy, which burned down in 1716. Parks scattered around the property were built by the second Earl of Stair in 1733. The earl was a field marshal and used his soldiers to help with the heavy work of constructing banks, ponds, and other major landscape features. When the rhododendrons are in bloom (April through July, depending on the variety), the effect is kaleidoscopic. There's also a pleasant tearoom.

Like its neighbor Castle Kennedy, this wonderful garden, created some 40 years ago, benefits from the warm gulf stream that flows along the area's coasts, allowing tropical plants to grow. Rare trees and shrubs grow here beside ferns, wild grasses, and a variety of wildflowers. It is also an arboretum with a tree trail. Paths and walks crisscross the garden, leading out into the surrounding moorland, where you can enjoy the views across to the Mull of Galloway.