Balloch O’Dee Campsite

Campfires are central to the character of Balloch O'Dee Campsite, a small but spacious site near Kirkcowan in Dumfries and Galloway. Its open camping area welcomes tents and campervans, with fire pits scattered across the grounds and glamping pods available for those travelling without their own accommodation. The atmosphere is laid-back, with a communal cooking and relaxing area offering a shared space away from individual pitches. Toilets and showers are available, dogs are welcome, and bookings can be made online.

Galloway Forest Park offers plenty of scope for days spent walking or cycling. At Kirroughtree, the waymarked Little Bruntis Trail makes a 2½-mile circuit past Big and Little Bruntis Lochs and through mixed woodland, with traces of historic tin workings along the way. Its gravel paths include fairly steep gradients and a short section on a quiet public road. Kirroughtree is also one of the 7stanes mountain-biking centres: the green-graded Bargaly Wood route offers an easier outing, while the red-graded Twister brings rock steps, drop-offs and more demanding riding. A separate skills area allows riders to practise trail techniques.

For a change from forest trails, Bladnoch Distillery offers guided tours exploring whisky production, alongside tastings and a café. Tours need to be booked in advance, making this an outing worth arranging before setting off rather than leaving to chance.