Dumfries and Galloway the Mull of Galloway, Wood of Cree (Galloway Forest Park), Ken Dee Marshes (near Loch Ken) and Mereshead (near Dalbeattie on the Solway Firth) There are five of the world class 7Stanes mountain biking centres in Dumfries and Galloway at Dalbeattie, Mabie, Ae, Glentrool and Kirroughtree. The Sustrans Route 7 long distance cycle route also runs through the region. There is excellent hill walking in the Moffat Hills, Lowther Hills Dumfries and Galloway is well known for its arts and cultural activities as well as its natural environment. The major festivals including the region-wide Dumfries & Galloway Arts Festival and
Dumfries and Galloway for HM Coastguard who are the control centre and overseeing authority responsible for call outs. NHS Dumfries and Galloway provide healthcare services across the region. The two main hospitals are the Dumfries and Galloway Royal Infirmary in Dumfries and Galloway Community Hospital in Stranraer. Dumfries & Galloway Council provides nursery, primary and secondary education across the region. For a list of nurseries and primary schools see this page. The region is known as a stronghold for several rare and protected species of amphibian, such as the Natterjack toad and the Great crested newt. There are also RSPB Nature Reserves at