The Heart of Galloway Tour

The pedal cycle was invented in 1839 by Kirkpatrick Macmillan in a blacksmiths at Keir Mill near Dumfries. Visit the old Smithy and the grave of Macmillan on your ride out along the River Nith valley from Dumfries. There is also the 12 Apostles Stone Circle to visit and you cycle by and Ellisland Farm the home of Robert Burns our national poet.

After your first night in Thornhill you visit our favorite castle in the area, the stunning Morton Castle. You pick up the old Edinburgh road through the hills before returning to ride through the grounds of Drumlanrig Castle. Known as 'The Pink Palace', it is one of Britain's grandest castles and features in the Outlander program.

Moniaive, "This buzzing little musically gifted community is probably home to more festivals per capita than any other place in Britain" - The Guardian, is your next destination, before you climb up over the hills and down to New Galloway. For a small village it has two of the finest cafes in the area. You can stay two days to explore Clatteringshaws Loch and the beautiful off-road route, the Raiders Road.

A stunning ride along the banks of Loch Ken brings you to Lauriston and the start of what we think is the finest stretch of road in Galloway. First climbing through forest and beech tree lined avenues to moorland where the views open - you can see Ireland on a clear day. The descent into Gatehouse of Fleet is rather exciting. The ride now joins the Magical Stewartry tour.

Gatehouse of Fleet is where you begin with a ride along the coast. Vikings, smugglers and pirates sailed the hidden harbours of this beautiful stretch of coast. Whenever possible the route takes off-road tracks and stays by the side of the sea. You will probably have golden beaches to yourselves here all the way around to Kirkcudbright.

A two day stay here would be a good plan. This is The Artist Town, with pastel coloured houses, cafes and enough shops and galleries to pass the time. Day two can be a ride to Threave Castle or ancient rock art.

The ruined Abbey of Dundrennan and then the usual quiet roads through to 'The Scottish Riviera' and the quaint sailing harbour of Kippford for the night. A final coast ride to Dumfries, visiting Sweetheart Abbey, the most photogenic lighthouse and quiet bays. The standard tour takes you along some of the most beautiful roads in Scotland, and covers 143 miles - too short! ask for longer rides each day to custom fit your ride.