Have you ever wanted to just escape to somewhere that all you can heard is bird song, with not another property in sight? Get back to the basics of life and enjoy the sights and sounds of nature.
You might have sheep grazing around the hut or cows mooing over the stone wall in front of the hut but they will be your nearest neighbour.
One of the most magnificent sights in all of nature is the night sky peppered with stars. Luckily for us, Scotland has some of the largest expanses of dark sky in Europe making it a perfect destination for eager stargazers. We are situated within Europe's second Dark Sky Park, the first of its kind in the UK. A place which experiences low or practically non-existent levels of light pollution, revealing ink-black skies filled with dazzling stars.
We are in the heart of the Galloway and Southern Ayrshire UNESCO Biosphere which has been recognised internationally as a world class environment for people and nature. The UNESCO Biosphere designation is recognition of the fantastic array of landscapes, wildlife, cultural heritage and learning opportunities that SW Scotland offers for communities, businesses and visitors to experience and celebrate in a sustainable way.
Maybe you like to explore on 2 wheels? Why not come and experience the thrills of the 7 Stanes at Glentrool, or try the trails at Kirroughtree, there is something for ages and abilities.
If you are wanting a gentle stroll through ancient woodland then The Wood of Cree is the place for you. It's the largest ancient wood in southern Scotland and in spring, it comes alive, with bluebells on the ground and the sound of pied flycatchers and warblers in the air. It is also the perfect place to see willow tits, as well as barn and tawny owls.
If you prefer a more energetic walk then at nearby Glentrool we have many options from 1 - 6 miles taking in rivers, lochs etc. Or maybe you want to try and tackle The Merrick, the highest summit in Southern Scotland and lies at the heart of the Galloway ranges. This popular ascent from Loch Trool provides the easiest route up to gain a panorama that includes much of the Galloway Forest as well as across to Northern Ireland and the Isle of Man.
Walking is cheaper than therapy!
If you prefer to be beside the sea then Girvan is the place for you. A long sandy beach (often deserted!) and the town offers traditional seaside activities such as amusements, boating lake, and busy harbour. Sit on the shore and admire the wonderful views towards Ailsa Craig, the Isle of Arran and the Mull of Kintyre.
About 5 miles away from us is the award winning House 'o' Hill Hotel offering morning coffee, lunch, afternoon tea and hearty meals.
Our deceptively spacious 'tardis' of a hut is 18' x 8' and sleeps 2 in a comfy double bed and there is space for a travel cot or single blow up bed, or you you may wish to pitch a tent outside for additional guests(£5 per extra guest)!
There is an en-suite compost WC, but no shower facility. All bed linen and towels are provided, along with blankets for colder days.
There is NO Wi-Fi, and very patchy mobile phone signal and NO hot tub but what you do have is books, cards, board games and a radio to keep you entertained.
We have a wood burner with a rocking chair, and a basket full of logs (additional can be purchased).
There is a small gas stove with kettle and complimentary tea and coffee. Basic cooking utensils are also provided. Bottled water is provided for drinking. There is a socket if you do need to charge your phone but no mains electric. Power is supplied via a solar panel on the shepherd's hut roof.
We do provide a continental breakfast, delieverd to the hut, @£7.50 per person
Sorry no pets as we are a working farm and sheep may be grazing around the hut at certain times of the year.
Off road parking is available but there is a short walk (approximately 200 metres) to the shepherd's hut across a field with no hard path so wear sensible shoes.
We are open 10 months of the year, closed for lambing during March and April.
MIDGES can be a problem at certain times of the year so we do provide midge repellent!