Loch Ken Eco Bothies, Galloway Activity Centre near Castle Douglas

Reviewed by Norah Ridley and Amy from Peebles

For anyone who has a bucket list a visit to this ecofriendly, solar-powered Yurt near Castle Douglas is surely a must. First impressions are important and on this our hosts came up trumps. On arrival, we were given slippers, along with cake and chocolates to go with our cuppa and the woodfired hot tub was ready and waiting.

Internally, the wood-framed Yurt is compact with cooking facilities, a wood-burning stove, bathroom with a beautiful Moroccan style ceramic bowl, a sleeping area with a double bed, and a sitting area by the huge window overlooking the site with a massive pond in the foreground. Outside there is decking with table, chairs, a BBQ and the hot tub, dressing gowns are provided for going to and fro from the tub.

Activities on offer included archery, cycling, country walks and a special focus on watersports such as sailing, windsurfing, kayaking. Indeed we had access to a kayak for our own use at any time. Beyond the site there are many places of interest well worth a visit. We were especially taken with the Kite Trail four miles up the road. On our visit we saw over 100 red kites swoop down to be fed.

We certainly enjoyed our stay in the Yurt at the Galloway Activity Centre. We found the staff very friendly and helpful. There is a very good butcher at Castle Douglas but there is also a nice Café on site. The Yurt is very attractive and comfortable, the environment is superb and the activities on offer were good fun. Prices from £395 for a short break