08-05-2025
New guide highlights delights of south west Scotland to electric car drivers
The South West Coastal 300 reveals everything from untamed coastlines and timeless forests to storybook castles and quaint small towns.
A new guide aims to highlight the delights of south west Scotland to electric car drivers.
The South West Coastal 300 loops through Dumfries and Galloway and Ayrshire, showing off the area's natural beauty and heritage from untamed coastlines and timeless forests to storybook castles and quaint small towns
And VisitScotland has now created a new guide to the scenic drive with electric vehicle drivers in mind, covering everything from accessible charging points, eco-friendly stays and relaxed daily drivers.
The guide, which can be found here, offers the perfect way to enjoy the popular SWC300 route with a low-emission road trip covering three days.
Day one will take drivers from Dumfries to the Galloway Forest. Stopping off points include Caerlaverock Castle, Castle Douglas – including a trip to Threave Gardens and Kirroughtree in the Galloway Forest before stopping for the night in Wigtown, Scotland's National Book Town.
Day two journeys from the Machars to the Ayrshire coast. First up is a drive to the Mull of Galloway - the southernmost tip of Scotland which features a lighthouse and a nature reserve. The picturesque seaside village of Portpatrick is next, offering the perfect place to enjoy some stunning views.
Following that, drivers head north through Girvan – enjoying views of the Ailsa Craig – to Culzean Castle and Country Park, finishing for the night at Crosshill.
The final day sees a return to Dumfries via a trip to Scotland's highest village at Wanlockhead. Heading through the Ayrshire hills and skirting the edge of the Galloway Forest Park, drivers will arrive at Wanlockhead where they can enjoy a visit to the Museum of Lead Mining.
Next on the itinerary is a trip through the Mennock Pass to Drumlanrig Castle and then on to nearby Thornhill.
The final leg heads down the A76 to Ellisland Farm – former home of Robert Burns – before the return to Dumfries.
Anyone following the route is advised to book accomodation and activities in advance, especially during peak travel sessions, and check EV charger locations before travelling.
