The south of Scotland has been named as one of the Lonely Planet guide’s best travel destinations for 2023.
The publication revealed that the region, which covers Dumfries and Galloway and the Scottish Borders, is one of only two UK destinations and 30 worldwide to make the annual list.
The area has been named in the Learn category, alongside Manchester, New Mexico, Dresden, El Salvador and Marseille.
Lonely Planet said the region’s history and culture make it the ideal place for delving into the past to learn more about iconic figures such as Robert Burns and Sir Walter Scott.
It also encourages people to visit attractions including Crawick Multiverse near Sanquhar, Caerlaverock Castle, Threave Castle, Sweetheart Abbey in New Abbey and Ruthwell Cross.
Council co-leader Stephen Thompson described the area’s inclusion as “very good news for the region”.
And council colleague Linda Dorward, said: “To be on a holiday award destination list with the likes of Lima and Marseille is fabulous. The south of Scotland really is a destination that we should be proud of.”
Melanie Allen, interim chief executive of the South of Scotland Destination Alliance, said: “To be included in Lonely Planet’s Best in Travel 2023 guide is a momentous accolade, particularly as the region is the perfect place to immerse yourself amongst the history and culture of our stunning places, landscapes and wide open spaces.”
Malcolm Roughead, VisitScotland’s chief executive added: “There are a wealth of fantastic experiences, stunning scenery and natural assets to discover in the south of Scotland, from its dark skies that make it the ideal location for star gazing to its breath-taking coastline and world-renowned walking and cycling routes.
“This is a fantastic accolade and will help provide a welcome boost to the recovery of our valuable tourism industry by connecting with visitors from across the world and encourage them to explore the region more widely.
