Dark Sky Park
STARS SHINE
ON SCOTLAND’S ‘FORGOTTEN
HOSTEL’
One of Scotland’s most ‘forgotten hostels’
Newton Stewart (formerly Minnigaff) has welcomed the naming of the
UK’s first Dark Sky Park at neighbouring Galloway Forest.
Dark Sky status makes Galloway Forest Park the first place in
UK that the skies are safeguarded for everyone to enjoy.
The achievement has been applauded by SYHA
Hostelling Scotland, which is currently exploring options to work
with Edinburgh Royal Observatory and Dark Sky Scotland to create
dedicated star gazing holidays.
Newton Stewart
hostel, a converted traditional Victorian school house, offers
affordable accommodation in a fantastic location for the Dark Sky
Park, making it ideal for specialist groups, as well as school or
college science trips.
Sales & Marketing Director Louise Nowell
said: “We are thrilled about the Dark Sky award for Galloway Forest
Park. This is a stunning, yet sometimes overlooked, area of
Scotland that deserves to be appreciated, and preserved”.
“With this accolade added to the wealth
of opportunities for outdoor adventure, wildlife watching and
action sports in the area, Newton Stewart is proving to be an
irresistible choice for travellers from all walks of life.”
It is expected that the proximity and
affordability of the hostel will appeal to astronomy enthusiasts
and school or college science trips.
The hostel is also ideal for families, groups
or individuals who simply want a relaxing beak in an unspoilt
location, with the added wonder of incredible starlit evening walks
on their doorstep.
Situated near the picturesque town of Newton
Stewart in the Scottish Borders, the hostel is quietly popular for
its superb walking, cycling and extensive wildlife.
Manager and long serving SYHA member Derrick
Clisham has already seen an upturn in bookings and notes that the
hostel is attracting many more families.
He said: “This part of Southern Scotland is
one of the really unspoiled areas of the country. It is like a
forgotten kingdom – people leave their busy lives and come here and
it is like they have entered another world. Visitors often come
here for one night en route elsewhere and end up staying for three
or four nights because there is so much to enjoy.
“The Dark Sky award is wonderful because it
recognises the value of ‘untouched’ nature. Astronomy enthusiasts
will undoubtedly be in for a treat, but everyone can be moved by
the dark sky experience.
“For families, it’s a wonderful way to enjoy
quality time together, strolling in the woods, spotting the
different constellations, letting children’s imaginations run
wild.”
Newton Stewart
(Minnigaff) offers 30 beds and is available for RentaHostel during
low season (October – end March) for £240 per night.
From April the hostel is open to the public
with accommodation starting at £15.25 per bed. Family and private
rooms can be provided.
Book on line or call the Reservations Team on
0845 293 73 73.
