Coran of Portmark [Corran of Portmark]

Standing as the northernmost anchor of the Rhinns of Kells, this grassy Donald offers a steady climb from Garryhorn. While its rounded profile is unassuming, it serves as a gateway to a magnificent high ridge, overlooking the remote Water of Ken and the wild, rolling heart of the Galloway Forest Park.

• •The name is derived from the Gaelic 'corran', meaning a sickle or hook, which likely refers to the curved nature of the surrounding slopes or the nearby bend in the Water of Ken.
• •As the northern terminus of the Rhinns of Kells, it is the traditional starting point for a classic north-to-south ridge traverse that takes in Meaul, Carlin's Cairn, and Corserine.
• •The summit provides a focused view of the deep Deugh valley to the north, framed by the bulky silhouette of Cairnsmore of Carsphairn.
• •The common approach from the east passes through Garryhorn, a farm with a history of lead mining that once supported a small industrial community in this now quiet corner of the hills.
• •The terrain on the lower slopes is a fine example of Galloway 'moss'—a local term for ground that looks perfectly walkable until it swallows your boot to the ankle.