The tourism potential of the Galloway and Southern Ayrshire UNESCO Biosphere has been highlighted by some of the country’s leading industry observers. It’s in the top 10 list of must-see places in 2020 compiled by a collective of travel writers and bloggers.
The Biosphere’s attractions were praised, in particular, by Kathi Kamleitner of the “Watch Me See” Scottish travel blog.
She said: “The south-western regions of Galloway and Ayrshire might not be the most famous places to visit in Scotland, but they are among my absolute highlights when it comes to scenery, outdoor activities and genuinely local experiences.” “The Biosphere covers a huge area that stretches from the coast to the heart of the Galloway Hills. There is a lot to do and see from stunning castles like Culzean or Drumlanrig and Scotland’s National Booktown, Wigtown, to quirky harbour villages and stunning mountain scenery.
“In the middle of the Biosphere lies the Galloway Forest Park – a great destination for outdoor lovers. The diverse nature reserves in the centre of the park are the reason why the area is designated as a Biosphere.
“The mountains, lochs and forest around them offer the perfect ground for all sorts of outdoor activities which are delivered in a sustainable way. You can go kayaking on Loch Trool, hike the peaks in the Range of the Awful Hand, go star-gazing with a knowledgeable Dark Sky Ranger, and much more.
“Along the way you will meet so many friendly locals who pass on their passion fort eco-tourism in Scotland.”
The list of the best places in Scotland to visit in 2020 was co-ordinated by fellow blogger, Gemma Armit (www.twoscotsabroad.com), who said they wanted to highlight places outside the usual tourist destinations of Edinburgh and the Highlands. “We are not saying don’t visit the capital and its castle, we are just suggesting that there is so much more to see, feel, hear, taste and do in our 32 regional areas.”
Other places on the list include Dunfermline, Shetland, Kintyre Peninsula and Moray Firth.
Galloway and Southern Ayrshire Biosphere Coordinator Ed Forrest welcomed its inclusion.
“The Biosphere team has been working closely with local accommodation and activity providers to develop bespoke UNESCO Biosphere experiences that embrace the fantastic diversity of wildlife, adventure, food and people that we have to offer. We are thrilled that this has been rewarded by recognition as one of the top ten places to visit in Scotland this year.”
