(Image: Duncan Ireland)
Dumfries and Galloway has been named one of the world’s top travel destinations for 2027 by National Geographic, becoming the only location in the UK to feature on its annual list.
The Scottish region was included in the publication’s Best of the World 2027 selection, which praised its wild scenery, romantic landscapes and growing range of tourism attractions.
Merrick Loward Loch. (Image: Duncan Ireland)
National Geographic highlighted the region’s outdoor appeal, including the new Scottish Dark Sky Observatory, a coastal hiking trail and mountain biking routes, with the area preparing to host the opening leg of the 2027 Tour de France.
The recognition follows similar praise from Lonely Planet, which included the South of Scotland in its Best of Travel 2027 list.
An 83-mile coastal path around the Rhins of Galloway opened last year, offering views of lighthouses, wildlife and historic ruins.
The region is also a destination for dark-sky tourism. Galloway Forest Park became the UK’s first International Dark Sky Park in 2009 and holds Gold Tier status. A new Scottish Dark Sky Observatory is planned for Clatteringshaws.
Loch Trool. (Image: Duncan Ireland)
The observatory and wider regional attractions have helped build momentum following the first-ever South of Scotland Dark Sky Festival.
Dumfries and Galloway has received international recognition before. The wider South of Scotland featured in Lonely Planet’s Best in Travel 2023 list, while National Geographic Traveller’s Cool List 2024 included the Galloway and Southern Ayrshire UNESCO Biosphere, highlighting its natural heritage and sustainable tourism work.
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David Hope-Jones OBE, chief executive of the South of Scotland Destination Alliance, said: "This is wonderful recognition for Dumfries & Galloway and for the people who make it such a special place to visit.
"It reflects the energy, creativity and hard work of tourism businesses and communities across the region.
"With the Tour de France coming to the South of Scotland next year and the new Scottish Dark Sky Observatory on the horizon, there is a real sense of momentum.
"National Geographic’s recognition gives us an extraordinary opportunity to introduce Dumfries & Galloway to new audiences around the world.
"We want to turn that spotlight into lasting benefits for our communities, inspiring more people to visit throughout the year, stay longer and discover everything this remarkable part of Scotland has to offer."
7Stanes in 7 Days. (Image: Pete Scullion and DMBinS)
Councillor Stephen Thompson, leader of Dumfries and Galloway Council, said: "To be recognised by National Geographic as one of the world’s best destinations for 2027, and as the only destination in Scotland or the UK on the list, is a singular honour for Dumfries and Galloway.
"This recognition celebrates what makes our region so special: outstanding landscapes, dark skies, coastline, cycling and walking routes, and the warm welcome offered by our communities and tourism businesses.
"It is also a significant opportunity to raise Dumfries and Galloway’s international profile, strengthen our visitor economy and encourage more people to discover everything the region has to offer.
"I would like to congratulate everyone whose hard work has helped earn this well-deserved global recognition."