Dumfries & Galloway named on National Geographic's Best of the World 2027 list
Dumfries & Galloway has been named as one of the Best of the World destinations for 2027, by travel authority National Geographic.
Welcoming the announcement, our Chair Russel Griggs said:
"It is a great accolade for Dumfries & Galloway to be the only UK destination to be included in National Geographic's Best of the World 2027 list, as a must-visit location for next year.
"The international profile this will bring creates a brilliant opportunity for our region to attract even more people to Dumfries & Galloway and strengthening further the South’s visitor economy.
"The South of Scotland’s amazing natural capital was a key factor in Dumfries & Galloway achieving this honour - fitting, with the South being Scotland’s Natural Capital Innovation Zone.
"But this recognition reflects something more.
"It highlights a destination that is evolving, investing and thinking ahead."
Innovation and resilience
Russel added:
"This is demonstrated by the innovation and resilience shown by the hundreds of organisations, businesses and communities we are working with across not just Dumfries & Galloway, but the South."
Examples include:
• New Scottish Dark Sky Observatory at Clatteringshaws Loch
• Rhins Coast Path
• Stranraer Watersports Hub
• Annan Harbour regeneration project
• Kirkpatrick C2C, Tour de France Grand Depart and world-class gravel racing
• Food and drink offerings such as Annandale, Galloway and Moffat distilleries
Russel said:
"National Geographic's decision reflects the strength of our visitor economy offering, which we have helped support since our formation in 2020, including through our investment in a wide range of projects and our strategic investment in the South of Scotland Destination Alliance (SSDA).
Partnership working
Russel explained:
"Importantly, this recognition highlights the value of how working together is key.
"Through strong collaboration between SOSE, SSDA, VisitScotland, both local authorities, and our businesses and communities, the South of Scotland has successfully raised its profile with a host of influential national and international audiences.
"That collective effort is helping position the region as a destination that combines our exceptional natural assets with a modern, ambitious and forward-looking tourism offer.
"Recognition from National Geographic is a significant milestone for 2027, but also testament to years of collaboration, ambition and forward thinking.
"Our newly earned National Geographic international accolade proves once more than Scotland really does Start Here."