Galloway Gravel Escape

This often-overlooked wilderness in southern Scotland is a gravel riding haven with expansive views, peaceful forest trails and beautiful coastlines galore.

In recent years it's also earned its place on the global gravel map as home to the UCI qualifier, The Gralloch, which draws gravel riders from around the world to experience some of the same terrain you'll explore on this adventure. Working closely with Cycling UK, we’ve created a multi-day tour that allows you to fully enjoy this exceptional route with all logistics taken care of and support from Skedaddle’s expert guides. What’s more, when you join our tour, we’ll donate 10p for every mile you ride to support the great work of Cycling UK.

Over five riding days, you’ll take in the very best gravel bike trails in Dumfries and Galloway Forest Park. Highlights include weaving along the forest tracks of Mabie, Dalbeattie and Kirroughtree; riding deep into the remote Galloway Hills to trace the historic battles of Robert the Bruce in Glen Trool; earning magnificent views across the Solway Firth; and toasting your achievements in the picturesque Gatehouse of Fleet and cultural Kirkcudbright.

This tour is designed for gravel riders looking to discover a new region as well as confident road cyclists with off-road experience or mountain bikers who want to test their skills on drop bars. The riding is not overly technical, but there’s still plenty to keep you on your toes and keep you grinning.

If you love the idea of a gravel riding holiday in Scotland far from the beaten track, and the opportunity to explore some of the best cycling routes in Dumfries and Galloway, we think this tour should be on your wish list!

Highlights

• Miles and miles of pristine Galloway gravel trails, deserted forest roads, old railway lines and ancient drovers roads
• Challenging climbs rewarded by great views and exhilarating descents around the secluded Loch Trool and Loch Dee
• Cycling through the arches of the dramatic Big Water of Fleet Viaduct
• A chance to see Scottish wildlife, including red kites, ospreys, wild goats, and the unmistakable Belted Galloway cows
• Staying in the charming towns of Kirkcudbright and Gatehouse of Fleet
• Exploring the maze of gravel trails through Kirroughtree, Dalbeattie and Mabie Forests
• Pedalling through the region that captivated Scottish heroes Rabbie Burns and Robert the Bruce
• Riding through the heart of the Galloway and Southern Ayrshire UNESCO Biosphere with stunning views over the dramatic Solway Coast

Most of the route follows quiet back roads, non-technical forestry fire roads, scenic drives, railway trails, sandy coastal “smuggler” routes, and old military or mining tracks that ride well in most conditions. Some sections include unpaved singletrack and grassy bridleways, which can become soggy after prolonged rain and require skill to ride them. There are also some short sections where you may occasionally be required to dismount and walk your bike.