Miles

99

Kms

160

Days

3

If you’re a lover of nature, then exploring the natural beauty and experiencing the spectacular dark skies of the South of Scotland should definitely be on your bucket list!

This three day itinerary takes you to Britain’s largest forest park, Scotland’s most southerly point and Scotland’s home to heritage gardening. It also includes lots of opportunities (weather permitting of course!) to enjoy and learn about the Dark Skies in one of the regions with the lowest light pollution in the UK.

Opening dates and times vary across attractions. Please ensure to check opening times and availability directly with each attraction before you visit.

Day 1

Getting Back to Nature

Kick off Day One by meeting some of our loveliest locals at Galloway Alpacas. Set in the gorgeous Galloway countryside, this place and these lovely animals will bring a smile to your face!

Next stop, head over to Crook of Baldoon Nature Reserve. This coastal reserve at Wigtown Bay is the ideal place to see lapwing and curlews as well as lots of other wildlife.

Then head over to, the Galloway Forest Park, Britain’s largest forest park and first Dark Sky Park. The extremely low levels of light pollution within the park mean that on a clear night you can see up to 7,000 stars and planets with the naked eye.  There is so much to explore, whether you want a gentle stroll with gorgeous views, a long hike through the forest or a challenging biking trail, it has it all. Kirroughtree also has a lovely cafe where you can grab lunch.

Miles

43

Kms

69

Stops

3

Travel Time

2h 30min

Stop 1 - Galloway Alpacas

Nestled in the beautiful surroundings near to Gatehouse of Fleet, Galloway Alpacas offers trekking, alpaca experiences, weddings and events.

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Stop 2 - RSPB Crook of Baldoon Nature Reserve

A breath-taking panorama of salt-marsh, mudflats and hills. The site is home to many birds including geese, golden plover and whooper swans in the winter.

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Stop 3 - Galloway Forest Park

The Galloway Forest Park has everything you need for a great day out, whatever the time of year. Meet red deer and wild goats, choose from two scenic Forest Drives, follow in the footsteps of Robert the Bruce or picnic beside a peaceful loch. This is also Scotland’s first Dark Sky Park – one of the best places to stargaze in Europe!

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Browse our selection of Books, then partake in some refreshments.

Day 2

Explore the Rhins of Galloway

Day Two begins at the beautiful Glenwhan Gardens. These family run gardens hewn from moorland are home to large collections of rare trees and shrubs.

Next, head over to Sandhead Beach, this beautiful sandy beach stretches for more than a mile and is a lovely spot for a leisurely stroll or a picnic.

The Mull of Galloway is a must visit when in the Rhins, the lighthouse at Scotland’s most southerly point is surrounded by dramatic views. There is accommodation at the Mull of Galloway too, so if you stay until after dark you might get to enjoy some of the spectacular dark sky views.

Miles

22

Kms

36

Stops

3

Travel Time

51min

Stop 1 - Glenwhan Gardens, Arboretum and Tea Room

Glenwhan Gardens has been described as one of the most beautiful man-made gardens in Scotland with unique & stunning sea views across the Mull of Galloway.

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Stop 2 - Sandhead Beach (Luce Sands)

Sandhead is situated on the Luce Bay coast of the Rhins of Galloway. It has a beautiful sandy beach that stretches for more than a mile and boasts unlimited sand when the tide is out. Luce Bay is designated a Special Area for Conservation for its dune, seashore and seabed habitats and the fantastic marine wildlife it supports. With ample car parking and picnic tables by the beach, the area is a great place for a picnic before walking on the beach.

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Stop 3 - RSPB Mull of Galloway

The Mull of Galloway is Scotland’s most Southerly Point. At the end of a narrow peninsula with stunning views in every direction, the Mull of Galloway Lighthouse and the RSPB Visitor Centre and Reserve. This outstanding coastal reserve of grassland and heath is surrounded by steep cliffs and home to locally important colonies of seabirds.

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Henrys Bay House offers locally sourced dishes, prepared and cooked freshly to order by local Chef John Henry and his team.

The Ship Inn at Drummore
location_on Stranraer

A family run traditional pub by the sea.

Day 3

Kirkcudbright to Dumfries

The final day of your visit begins at the Dark Space Planetarium in Kirkcudbright. Recently opened it is a must see for anyone who wants to learn more about our Dark Skies.

Your second stop is the beautiful Threave Garden and Estate. Home to the School of Heritage Gardening, if you are a fan of gardening, you will love this inspirational place.

Finally, go and explore the beautiful Mabie Forest, with trails for all fitness levels, this is the perfect place to enjoy the tranquility of the forest.

Miles

34

Kms

55

Stops

3

Travel Time

58min

Stop 1 - Dark Space Planetarium

The Dark Space Planetarium is a state-of-the-art interactive experience for everyone. The exhibition space contains hands-on science and space themed exhibits designed to enthuse and educate people of all ages.

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Stop 2 - Threave Garden & Estate

A garden for all seasons and a haven for wildlife, with an osprey platform and bat reserve. Threave’s wonderful garden has been created over the years by students of the Trust’s School of Heritage Gardening – and is a fine example of landscaped beauty. The garden is divided into a series of smaller gardens to showcase different styles, including a rose garden, rockery and walled garden.

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Stop 3 - Mabie Forest Park

Mabie Forest Park is a beautiful forest park just to the south of Dumfries offering spectacular views across the Dumfries and Galloway countryside and over to the Solway Firth. It is home to one of the 7Stanes Biking centres and offers walking and biking trails for all abilities.

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The Selkirk Arms Hotel
location_on Kirkcudbright

Quality 4* Hotel & Restaurant in the heart of Kirkcudbright

Masonic Arms
location_on Kirkcudbright

A great meeting place, whether you're enjoying a quiet drink or enjoying banter and atmosphere with the locals.

Where to Stay

Tigh Na Mara Hotel
location_on Stranraer

Picturesque traditional Inn, central location with amazing views of Luce Bay. New outdoor heated pods , free wifi and the best local produce available.

Comfortable holiday properties in the heart of Kirkcudbright

Barnharrow Holiday Pods
location_on Newton Stewart

Glamping pods in the heart of Galloway South West Scotland with scenic views overlooking the Galloway Hills.

Corsewall Lighthouse Hotel
location_on Kirkholm, Stranraer

The Restaurant and Hotel are based in the Historic Lighthouse Keepers accomodation build in 1815 by the famous Sevenson Family.