Galloway International Dark Sky Park, Dumfries and Galloway

National GeographicOct 20

Ramblers, cyclists, stargazers, and history buffs will all find lots to love in the southwestern corner of Scotland.

stargaze among trees of ancient spruce forest beside loch

12 things in this story

Scottish Dark Sky ObservatorySightnew location overlooking Clatteringshaws Loch in Galloway Forest Park
Rhins of Galloway Coast PathTrail83-mile path makes dramatic cliffs and beaches more accessible
Gallovidian Gravel RouteTrail206-mile route unites world-class mountain biking trails
South of Scotland Dark Sky FestivalFestivalheralds the unofficial beginning of stargazing season in October
Galloway International Dark Sky ParkSightstargaze among trees of ancient spruce forest beside loch
Caerlaverock CastleSighttriangular pink sandstone fortress with its own moat
Robert Burns Ellisland Museum & FarmMuseumfarmstead on River Nith where poet wrote "Auld Lang Syne"
WigtownNeighborhoodofficially designated Scotland's National Book Town
Wigtown Book FestivalFestivalruns late September to early October
The BookshopSightlargest secondhand bookshop in Scotland with 100,000 titles
The Open BookHotelcountry's first bookstore residency where travelers run the shop
Kirkpatrick C2CTrail250-mile coast-to-coast cycling route across South of Scotland

Galloway International Dark Sky Park