Gallovidian Gravel Route
Cycling UK
Launched on 26th June, 2026 by Cycling UK and named Gallovidian Gravel, the route traverses Dumfries and Galloway in the south of Scotland, offering a sense of adventure, history, heritage and nature.
Beginning in Dumfries, Scotland’s Queen of the south, the new circular multi-day route covers 330km of off-road riding in majestic and rugged landscapes. Taking in dark sky forest tracks, winding coastal back lanes, wild mountains and hidden lochs, it also introduces riders to charming towns, ancient abbeys and the area’s fascinating history.
Cycling UK’s multi-day routes are designed for long weekend trips, and they’re all accessible by train so riders can explore our countryside without the need for a car.
At 331km, the distance is the main challenge, but while it looks long and hilly – overall elevation of 4,002m – gradients are gentler to climb. It’s genuine gravel riding and best suited to gravel bikes or hybrid and tough-tyred touring bikes, with only a couple of optional kilometres where an MTB might make more sense. By adding an additional route to its roster of multi-day routes, the charity aims to bring more people to lesser-known areas of the UK to boost local economies and help more people experience the wellbeing benefits of cycling...
Full press release here:
This will be popular with new businesses - bike rental, cafes and accommodation - likely to soon develop
This will created demand for small, local businesses (accommodation, cafés, bike services, logistics, guided experiences) at the various access points, especially as it’s been designed in the shape of three smaller loops to provide shorter ‘taster routes’ options for people of all experience levels.
Bike tour operators will then become attracted when the route offers high‑quality, safe infrastructure, reliable services, and easy transport links.
How long do you think it will take for tour operators to start offering some or all of Gallovidian Gravel in their tours?
Gravel bike tours in Scotland:
