Solway Coast 200

From maol in gaelic, a rounded hill, summit or mountain bare of trees. The Mull of Galloway is all of these but also beautiful and remote too. 

For 2020 we have changed the route a little and it now crosses the Galloway peninsula on day one to visit Portpatrick. You still begin your ride at the very southern tip of Scotland - The Mull of Galloway and ride to the border with England. If you don’t have enough time, then do a section of the route or turn inland at Kirkcudbright. Day one now visits the site of the Kirkmadrine Stones, three of which are amongst the oldest Christian memorials in Scotland. 

Visiting Portpatrick gives you the chance to enjoy a range of traditional bars and some fine places to eat. The village was once Scotland’s gateway to Ireland which is just over 20 miles away. Fishing has always been at the heart of the village and the graveyard of the ruined St. Patrick church (1629) has many memorials to shipwreck victims. A great place for an evening stretch of the legs, Dunskey Castle is just a half mile walk along the cliffs.
Further along, the Solway Coast Route visits ancient standing stones, castles, abbeys and quiet fishing ports. There are just enough pubs, tea rooms and cafes in the 30 or more small towns and villages that lie ahead to break up the ride into enjoyable sections.

The SC200 passes through varied terrain, from rugged and remote coast to moorland and pastoral landscapes. There is always going to be something new around the next corner. Open views to Ireland and the Isles of Man and further along, the mountains of the Lake District. Take your time and explore golden beaches and the bays where history was written by Viking raiders, pirates, smugglers and the first Christians.

The route can be done in a week riding 30 miles a day, but can be done slower or quicker. We have picked quiet roads with stretches where you will ride for miles with the roads to yourself. If you are new to cycling or this is your first taste of touring then this is a great way to start. If you are looking for a charity challenge the Solway Coast 200 could be just what you are looking for.

Enjoy the ride, let us take care of things - bike hire, bag transfer and as much or as little help as you need.