Steading

Rolling hills stretch endlessly in every direction here, making this corner of southern Scotland feel wonderfully remote despite being just a dozen miles from Dumfries. The landscape around Steading is defined by its peaks - Great Hill, Blackcraig hill, and Shaw's Hill create a backdrop that changes with the weather and light throughout the day.

Walkers will find themselves spoilt for choice. The climb up Whitespots Hill or Wardlaw offers proper views across Dumfries and Galloway, while Glenbrae Wood provides gentler terrain for those wanting a woodland ramble. Loch Ettrick and Townhead Loch add a different dimension to the scenery - both are lovely spots for a picnic on a clear day.

History buffs should seek out Benthead Motte, an ancient fortified site that speaks to the area's turbulent past. It's a bit of a trek to find, but well worth it for the sense of stepping back centuries.

Getting here means heading north from Dumfries on the A76, then branching off onto quieter roads that wind through farmland and forestry. The nearest proper facilities are back in Dumfries, so come prepared. Several holiday parks dot the surrounding area, including Dumfries Riverside Holiday Park, which gets decent reviews and provides a comfortable base for exploring these hills. Having a park nearby makes perfect sense - you'll want somewhere to return to after a day tramping across the fells, and the freedom to explore at your own pace without worrying about driving back to distant accommodation.