Miles

66

Kms

106

Days

2

If you love adventure holidays and are looking for a short break, here’s a great option. Not only are there lots of adventure activities for you to try out, but you also get the chance to experience the spectacular Dark Skies of the South of Scotland.

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

Day 1

Galloway Forest Park and Dark Skies

Explore the amazing Galloway Forest Park. There are trails galore for walking or biking. The forest park is a particular favourite for mountain bikers with its 7stanes trails.

For horse riding enthusiasts, your next stop is Barstobrick, where you can explore their beautiful 650 acre estate on horseback!

Ask an expert to guide you on your Dark Skies adventure, the Dark Sky Ranger will share both the science and legends as you watch the sun go down and the stars come out.

Miles

47

Kms

75

Stops

3

Travel Time

1h

Stop 1 - 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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Stop 2 - Barstobrick Visitor Centre and Cafe

Just 2 miles from the A75 at Ringford nestled in the heart of Red Kite country you’ll find Barstobrick boasting an equestrian centre, coffee shop and several way marked walking trails. Explore this beautiful Galloway countryside by foot, bike or on horseback.

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Stop 3 - Dark Sky Ranger

Take a tour in Galloway Forest Dark Sky Park and across Dumfries & Galloway with an experienced Dark Sky Ranger. Learn about space and star gazing with the option to receive high quality photos of your experience!

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Café at Clatteringshaws
location_on New Galloway

Offering freshly prepared café fayre and daily specials. Come and try the  homemade soup, cakes, tray bakes and freshly prepared scones. Dog friendly.

The Riverbank Cafe
location_on Newton Stewart

Welcome to The Riverbank Cafe, a popular venue for visitors and locals alike who just love the fresh baking and excellent coffee

Day 2

Adventure Activities and Space Exploration!

If you love adventure sports, Galloway Activity Centre is the place to visit. They have a huge range of activities from windsurfing to wobbly waterpark and archery to a giant swing! They even have night activities like night mountain biking and laser tag.

After your star gazing on Day 1, head over to the Dark Space Planetarium in Kirkcudbright to learn even more about the dark sky.

And while your there, don’t forget to stop by the Dark Art Distillery for a real taste of the South of Scotland!

Miles

19

Kms

30

Stops

3

Travel Time

28min

Stop 1 - Galloway Activity Centre

This Outdoor Activity Centre offers a range of exciting activities including sailing, stand up paddle boarding (SUP), windsurfing, kayaking, combat laser tag games, archery, mountain biking, climbing and much, much more…Fun for all the family! There are also some great accommodation and glamping options. From Mongolian Yurts and cabins to luxury Eco Retreats, situated in a stunning location on the banks of Loch Ken.

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Stop 2 - Dark Space Planetarium

Are you fascinated by outer space? Do you love gazing at the stars in the night sky? Have you always wondered what it’s like to be in space? Do you dream of being an astronaut, or visiting the ISS, even just for a day? Now is your chance! In the Dark Space Planetarium, you can enjoy state-of-the-art custom-made interactive exhibits. You can learn about space exploration, our solar system, and space technology while you play.

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Stop 3 - Dark Art Distillery

Dark Art Distillery, is a new premium gin distillery based in the picturesque town of Kirkcudbright. The Distillery opened in June and is Scotland’s most southerly distillery!

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Mr Pook's Kitchen
location_on Castle Douglas

Dumfries & Galloway on a plate

The Selkirk Arms Hotel
location_on Kirkcudbright

Quality 4* Hotel & Restaurant in the heart of Kirkcudbright

Where to Stay

Galloway Activity Centre
location_on castle Douglas

We are an Outdoor Activity Centre and Eco retreat providing wonderful self catering holidays and activities on the banks of Loch Ken.

The Longhouse at Threave
location_on Castle Douglas

We offer self catering accommodation in a Hebridean Homes designed house in the heart of the Galloway countryside.

Barstobrick Holiday Lodges
location_on Castle Douglas

Barstobrick holiday lodges are located on a dairy farm run by the Austin family. Onsite there is a horse riding centre and walking trails.

Brighouse Bay Holiday Cottages
location_on Kirkcudbright

We have three delightful self-catering cottages, a terrace of former farm workers cottages, overlooking the unspoilt bay of Brighouse on the north Solway shore.