Gravel biking in Galloway, southwest Scotland, is an undiscovered gem in the UK's growing gravel bike scene. This wild and beautiful region offers hundreds of miles of trails winding through forests, hills, and along the stunning coastline. Unpacking just once, you’ll stay at a charming village hotel on this gravel cycling vacation. Each day, we’ll explore the best gravel riding the region has to offer—from fast riverside and lochside trails to challenging climbs and rolling coastal paths. Off the bike, enjoy the warmest of welcomes and the finest Scottish hospitality, including yoga, wild food foraging, and a spectacular BBQ in the heather-clad hills.
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Explore the endless gravel trails in the wild and beautiful Galloway Forest Park and challenge yourself on the route of the UCI Gravel World Series
Revel in the rich cultural and natural heritage of Scotland, dating back to pre-Roman times
Ride the rugged coastline from Gatehouse to the charming village of Kirkcudbright on scenic trails and deserted country lanes
Unwind in style at a historic hotel, indulging in the finest local cuisine and drinks the region has to offer
Experience wild food foraging, cocktails, and a memorable sunset BBQ in the heather-clad hills
Edible plants found in the woods, salt marshes, and beaches.
Learn about seasonal foraging
Explore the rich world of forestal and coastal foraging as your guide introduces you to a variety of midsummer wild foods—from flavorful herbs to nourishing seaweeds.
If you're looking to explore the wild side of Scotland, you will love the gravel riding in Galloway. This corner of the country is well off the beaten track but has a cultural and natural heritage as rich as you'll find anywhere. The variety of terrain is fantastic from rolling smooth gravel roads through the forest to more challenging climbs and swooping trails and country lanes which loop around the beautiful coastline. Off the bike, you'll be well looked after by the McConchie family at the historic Murray Arms Hotel and enjoy the best of produce from the hills and coast which dominate the local landscapes.
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Loving the exceptional and consistent TT experience. Top level guides, logistics, accommodations and equipment. Enjoy beautiful scenery, great rides, company, food and wine. Repeat. There is no better way to vacation!
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This is a challenging ride that was made perfect with excellent guides and marvelous scenery and spectacular views. Scotland really surprised me.
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Great Ride
Experience the wild landscapes of Galloway. Cycle the open gravel trails from Rosie's Waterfall and Stone Faces through to Loch Trool. This big-country ride offers the feeling of true remote wilderness, just you, your bike, and your fellow riders.
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Private
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Where to Arrive
Airport:
London (LHR), Manchester (MAN), or Edinburgh (EDI)
Pick-up location:
Carlisle Train Station, Carlisle, England
Pick-up time:
11:00 AM
Where to Depart
Airport:
London (LHR), Manchester (MAN), or Edinburgh (EDI)
Drop-off location:
Carlisle Train Station, Carlisle, England
Drop-off time:
1:00 PM
Additional Arrival Information
We suggest that you arrive at least one day prior to the start of your Scotland Gravel Bike Tour, which will enable you to adjust to the time zone and minimize the risk of missing the trip start due to flight-related delays. The meeting point is Carlisle Station which is located in the northwest corner of England (the address is Court Square, Carlisle, Cumbria CA1 1QZ). Carlisle Station is easily accessible by direct train from the major airports of London (LHR) in three and a half hours, Manchester (MAN) in two hours.
From Edinburgh Airport (EDI), take the Airlink Service 100 express bus to Edinburgh (Waverley) station, then book a direct train to Carlisle. The Airlink bus takes about 25 minutes and the train takes about one hour. Please consult www.trainline.com to book your tickets in advance. Tickets are typically available three months before the departure date.
Your Trek Travel guides will meet you at the Carlisle Station at 11:00 AM on the first day of your trip. After a transfer of approximately 45 minutes by private coach, your gravel bike tour in Scotland begins. Please come dressed ready to ride. Enjoy lunch as your guides explain how the trip will unfold, and expertly fit you to your Trek bike. Once everyone's bike is ready, you'll be off into the hills to enjoy your first gravel ride in Scotland.
If you will be late for the pick up or are going to miss it altogether, please inform your guides. If you cannot reach them, please call the trip hotel, The Murray Arms (+44 1557 840 206) and leave a message with your expected arrival time. A taxi from Carlisle to the hotel in Gatehouse of Fleet will be approximately £300.
Additional Departure Information
You will say farewell to your guides at 11:00 AM at the Murray Arms Hotel. After saying goodbye, you will take a private coach back to Carlisle Station (approximately 90 minutes). Here you can take a train to your preferred destination. Please do not book a train before 1:30 PM.
Get your first taste of Scottish gravel as you pedal through the heart of Galloway Forest Park
Overview
Your guides will meet you at the train station in historic Carlisle and transfer by road (approximately 45 mins) to the start point of your gravel adventure in Scotland. After guide introductions, a welcome lunch and bike fitting, you will be all set for your first ride. The route begins with a short section of quiet road to warm up before heading into the heart of the Galloway Forest Park. The park covers an area of 300 square miles and offers endless gravel travels through mixed woodland and wild scenery. You'll follow The Raiders Road which offers a superb intro to the region's gravel; the road is so-named after the cattle rustlers who used this route for centuries. Pass the beautiful Otter Pools and a chance to refuel before climbing steadily, following an old railway line. From the high point, it’s a fast and sweeping descent back to base in Gatehouse of Fleet and the welcoming Murray Arms Hotel. This evening, we'll gather for a social hour where you guides will present an overview of the week ahead, followed by our first dinner together at the Gather restaurant, a nearby farm.
Hotel
The Murray Arms
Meals included
Lunch | Social Hour | Dinner
Highlight of the Day
Featured Meal | Gather Restaurant
Gather is set on a hillside above Wigtown Bay, offering views of the Lake District and the Isle of Man. Enjoy pre-dinner drinks, then dine on fresh delights like Galloway Crab, Kirkwood Farm Lamb, and West Coast Salmon. Don’t miss the local cheeses, paired with a glass of Uisge Beithe—Scottish Malt Whisky!
Ride Options
Ride Option1
TODAY'S RIDE:
New Galloway to Gatehouse - Approximately 22 mi I 35 km and 1,326 ft I 404 m
Pedal through a nature reserve and enjoy a Scottish barbeque
Overview
Today’s route takes us into the Cairnsmore of Fleet National Nature Reserve and via the Big Water of Fleet Viaduct. This striking piece of architecture is over 150 years old and appeared in the classic movie, The 39 Steps. The nature reserve itself is one of the wildest and remote regions in the South of Scotland and home to some of the country's most iconic birdlife - including red and black grouse, peregrine falcons, and even the occasional golden eagle. Your route continues through the forest and along the beautiful Stroan Loch - here on the shores of the loch enjoy a picnic lunch before tackling the remainder of the day. Look to the skies again for the majestic Red Kites of the region before a steady climb to Glengap takes you to the day's high point. From here a scenic, fast and flowing descent takes you right back to the hotel in Gatehouse. Before dinner, try your hand at wild food foraging along the shoreline as your foraging guide will introduce you to an array of herbs, seaweeds, and plants, including Sea Sandwort, Sea Arrowgrass Spears, Sugar Kelp, and Marsh Samphire. You'll then take a short transfer to a private cabin on the hillside where you'll soak in the views and the stars, all while enjoying a delicious BBQ dinner featuring local Scottish fare and whiskey tasting.
Hotel
The Murray Arms
Meals included
Breakfast | Lunch | Dinner
Highlight of the Day
Big Water of Fleet Viaduct
This striking viaduct features 20 granite arches, standing nearly 70 feet (21 m) high and 900 feet (274 m) long. Built by the Portpatrick Railway in 1861, it was used until 1965.
Ride Options
Ride Option1
TODAY'S RIDE:
Gatehouse to Mossdale Loop - Approximately 36 mi I 58 km and 2,657 ft I 810 m
Ride Option2
SHORT OPTION:
Gatehouse to Laurieston with Shuttle - Approximately 25 mi I 40 km and 1,590 ft I 483 m
Ride Option3
AVID OPTION:
Gatehouse to Mossdale Loop with Glenlochar Extension - Approximately 41 mi I 67 km and 2,928 ft I 893 m
Activities
Activity 1
TODAY'S ACTIVITY:
Learn the art of coastal foraging
Enjoy gravel trails along the Galloway Coast and explore historic Kirkcudbright
Overview
Today serves up a wonderful change of scenery and landscapes as you head for the coast and a scenic route which combines gravel with quiet country lanes. Hit the trail right from the hotel riding through the Fleet Forest to reach the coast. Enjoy the rolling terrain with fantastic views across the Murray Isles to the distant mountains of the Lake District and the Isle of Man. Following a series of virtually traffic-free roads and more off-road trails you'll reach the charming town of Kirkcudbright for lunch. Explore the historic center and the quaint independent stores before rejoining the bikes and riding back inland. Some steady climbing leads back into the forest and across the hills before a fast and long descent back to Gatehouse of Fleet. Recover with an optional early evening yoga session before enjoying dinner on your own at the hotel or from one of the local options in the village.
Hotel
The Murray Arms
Meals included
Breakfast | Lunch
Highlight of the Day
Visit Kirkcudbright
Established as a Royal Burgh in 1455, Kirkcudbright thrives on fishing and a vibrant arts scene. Known as "The Artists’ Town," it houses generations of painters and craftworkers.
Ride Options
Ride Option1
TODAY'S RIDE:
Gatehouse to Kirkcudbright Loop - Approximately 30 mi | 50 km and 2,012 ft | 613 m
Ride Option2
SHORT OPTION:
Gatehouse to Kirkcudbright Loop with Shuttle - Approximately 22 mi I 35 km and 1,124 ft I 343 m
Ride Option3
AVID OPTION:
Gatehouse to Kirkcudbright Loop with Lennox Plunton Extension - Approximately 39 mi I 63 km and 2,370 ft I 723 m
Tackle ancient military trails through wild landscapes and celebration dinner
Overview
Your longest ride of the trip follows an epic loop through the wild landscapes of Galloway. The day starts with some steady miles on quiet tarmac before the climbing begins, elevated above the shores of Loch Grannoch. Look out for wild deer and wild goats as you follow The Queens Way, where the trail then heads north through remote countryside to reach Glen Trool. Glen Trool has a rich and ancient history including the Battle of Glen Trool during the first war of Scottish Independence. King Robert the Bruce led the Scots to victory against the English here and there remains a large granite boulder in the Glen which commemorates the victory. Reunited with our support crew, and continue through the hills for a long descent to the town of Newton Stewart. Recharge here with lunch or enjoy afternoon tea and scones before the final push back to Gatehouse of Fleet via an ancient military road. Celebrate your day’s big adventure in style with drinks and a gourmet dinner at your hotel, featuring the best of the region's local food and drink.
Hotel
The Murray Arms
Meals included
Breakfast | Lunch | Social Hour | Dinner
Highlight of the Day
The Battle of Glen Trool
The Battle of Glen Trool, fought in April 1307, was one of the earliest guerrilla-style victories for Robert the Bruce during the Wars of Scottish Independence. At this stage, Bruce’s campaign was still fragile, as he had been crowned king only the year before, and was facing strong English opposition after suffering earlier defeats. Today, the legacy of the battle lives on at Bruce’s Stone, a memorial overlooking Loch Trool.
Ride Options
Ride Option1
TODAY'S RIDE:
Gatehouse to Newton Stewart with Shuttle - Approximately 46 mi I 73.5 km and 3,630 ft I 1106 m
Ride Option2
SHORT OPTION:
Viaduct to Newton Stewart with Shuttles - Approximately 27 mi I 43.4 km and 2,057 ft | 627 m
Ride Option3
AVID OPTION:
Gatehouse to Glen Trool and the Big Country Loop - Approximately 65 mi I 103 km and 4,778 ft | 1456 m
Ride part of the Gralloch race course and bid farewell to Galloway
Overview
For your final day in Scotland, take on the challenge of riding part of the course for The Gralloch - a world-class race in the Trek UCI Gravel Worlds Series. The route starts right outside our hotel with a gentle and winding trail before a testing climb, albeit a lot more agreeable when not done at race pace! From the summit, the route rises and falls through the forest on fast gravel before descending to some welcome tarmac. Enjoy the amazing views on this final section of quiet road before a fun blast back to the village. We will return to the hotel before saying farewell to your guides at 11:00 AM at the Murray Arms Hotel. After saying goodbye, you'll take a private coach back to Carlisle Train Station (approximately 90 minutes). Here you can take a train to your preferred destination. Please do not book any train before 1:30 PM.
Meals included
Breakfast
Highlight of the Day
The Gralloch
Ride a challenging section of the Trek UCI Gravel World's Course.
Ride Options
Ride Option1
TODAY'S RIDE:
Gralloch Loop - Approximately 22 mi | 35 km and 1,900 ft | 590 m
This destination is best suited to guests who want to cycle every day. Because of the terrain and/or remoteness of the hotels and riding routes, there are few, if any, non-riding options available. If a non-rider wants to accompany a rider guest on this trip, they would need to spend many hours in the van and/or at the hotels on the trip. Due to this, we strongly discourage non-riders from this destination. As an alternative, call a Trek Travel Trip Consultant at 866-464-8735 for trip suggestions where more non-rider activities are available, such as:
Looking for a break from traffic and the usual routes? Our gravel rides are the perfect escape! While the amount of pavement varies from destination to destination, you can count on minimal traffic once you hit the dirt. And since you'll be off the beaten path, you may encounter fewer services - that's where our guides come in handy. They'll make sure you have everything you need, whether it's a flat tire fix or a local recommendation for the best post-ride treat. And with support from our team available on and off the bike, you'll have everything you need for a smooth and enjoyable ride - even through some of the bumps on the trail.
The Murray Arms is a restored 18th-century hotel offering a blend of historic character and updated interiors. The property features 14 individually designed rooms, each with its own layout and detailing. Public spaces retain original architectural elements, including the Burns Reading Room, where Robert Burns wrote the former national anthem, “Scots Wha Hae,” in 1793. The hotel’s intimate scale and thoughtful restoration give it a distinctive sense of place.
The Trek Checkpoint ALR 5 is a lightweight aluminum gravel bike built for adventure, with 40mm tires, disc brakes, and reliable mechanical shifting. The SRAM Apex 1×12 drivetrain, is the perfect setup for tackling everything from chunky gravel to smooth pavement. Ride confidently and comfortably as you explore the most scenic unpaved routes.
Trek Travel Guides
From the moment you meet our guides, you'll understand the difference. You'll feel the genuine care they take to make your vacation perfect. From their expert support to sharing their favorite hidden spots, they tailor every moment to you.
Certified Guides
Know Before You Go!
We want you to be fully prepared for your cycling vacation of a lifetime. This involves making sure that you choose the appropriate trip for you and that every aspect of your experience is flawless. Each Trek Travel trip is unique to ensure maximum enjoyment every time.
Your Trip Need to Knows:
Edinburgh, Scotland
Reasons to stay in Scotland's capital abound. Since the 15th century, this city has served as the hub for Parliament, government, royalty, and judicial courts. Both the Old Town and New Town together have been maintained as an UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1999. See for yourself the majestic stone castles, bell towers, and universities. Full days can be dedicated to meandering the many neighborhoods, visiting art museums or galleries, and partaking in the classic Scottish sport of golf. We recommend the following accommodations for your pre- and post-trip hotel in Edinburgh:
Where to Stay
The Balmoral Hotel
Situated near the Old Town with views of Edinburgh Castle, this elegant and classic hotel embodies the best of Scottish heritage. Thoughtful design, vaulted rooms and suites, and a shockingly large whisky collection beckon you to live in the lap of Scottish luxury - even if only for a night. www.roccofortehotels.com
The Roseate Edinburgh
Uncover urban chic where authentic Scottish charm meets upscale vibes in two beautifully restored 1867 Victorian townhouses. Each room reflects heritage with warm tweeds, rich velvets, and unique prints. Delight in freestanding baths and artisanal treats for a touch of luxury. The bar and lounge exude elegance, featuring a vintage whisky cabinet. Enjoy concierge service and complimentary WiFi in this sophisticated city retreat. www.roseatehotels.com
Bruntsfield Hotel
Set in a trio of Victorian townhouses built in 1861, this boutique hotel looks out over Bruntsfield Links, where golf has been played since 1456. Its own Neighbourhood Kitchen, Bar, and Garden gives guests a relaxed spot for a meal or a drink, and the Meadows' green stretch sits just beyond, within walking distance of the Old Town and a 10-minute taxi ride to the train station. www.thebruntsfield.co.uk/
Summer and early fall temperatures range from the 50s to 70s Fahrenheit (12-22ºC). Always remember that rain is possible at any time of the year–daily Scottish weather is very unpredictable! It’s a good idea to bring a light rain jacket, as well as layers.
View our Packing List
To reserve your space on a trip, you can either call us at 866-464-8735 to speak with an expert Trip Consultant or book online any time by clicking the “BOOK THIS TRIP” icon near the upper right of each destination’s overview page.* Once you have submitted your reservation online, a Trip Consultant will contact you within one business day to answer any questions you may have and to confirm space, bike, and room availability on your desired trip. Your booking will be finalized once your no-risk deposit is paid. If you make a reservation more than 90 days prior to the trip, a $750 no risk deposit is due at the time of booking.** If you reserve your trip less than 90 days prior to the departure, the full balance is due at the time of booking. Once your booking is complete you will receive an email confirmation with important information pertaining to your trip.
*Please note that select trips cannot be booked online at this time. For those trips, please call a trip consultant at 866-464-8735.
**Deposit amounts vary for all Race, Cross Country, Special Edition, Ride Camp, and Self-Guided tours. Please confirm deposit amounts for all trips with your Trip Consultant at time of booking.
When a trip is booked, a guest confirmation email is immediately sent out. One week prior to the trip start, you’ll receive an email containing your trip start meeting location reminder and any last-minute information that you’ll need to know. You will also receive instructions to download the Ride with GPS app before your trip to provide you the day to day plan and daily route guides.
Our trips are guaranteed to run once we have one confirmed booking on the trip.
Click here to view our full guaranteed policy.
Trek Travel reserves the right to cancel trips with zero guests, therefore you must book with Trek Travel before making travel arrangements for the trip. We are not responsible for travel arrangements made prior to confirming your Trek Travel Trip. Select trips are not guaranteed.
We understand things happen in life and sometimes you have to cancel or change your tour.
Read our Cancellation Policy
Our Trip Consultants are available to assist and can answer your questions. Please call us at 866-464-8735.
Trek Travel recommends that you purchase a travel protection plan to help safeguard you and your travel investment against the unexpected. We offer a travel protection plan through Arch RoamRight that provides coverage for unforeseen events that could affect your ability to travel with us. Learn more about our Travel Protection
We've collaborated with a specialized travel agency committed to delivering tailored vacation planning, ensuring your entire Trek Travel journey is nothing short of unforgettable. Learn more about our Travel Services
Sharing the joy that comes with wow moments
Trek Travel guides are dedicated to making moments that last a lifetime, and we invite you to thank them with a trip gratuity. These are customary and at your own discretion, to recognize service, hospitality, and the little extras that surprise and delight. For this Gravel trip, we recommend between $200-$250 per guest and, of course, you may choose to give more if your guides made your trip an unforgettable experience.
Like everything else about your vacation, the Trek Travel team is here to make this experience easier for you. While local currency is preferred, you may also tip through the following options:
Via PayPal (please have this account set up in advance when possible) or with your guest services representative on the phone before or after the trip.
Gratuities will be divided among the guide team, so feel free to leave your gratuity with whomever you choose at the end of your trip.
You cannot put a price on a wow. But you can show your thanks for an exceptional experience.
Didn't find what you were looking for? Check out our General FAQs section. You will find answers to the most common questions that don't necessarily pertain to a specific trip. See Gravel FAQs
Want to learn more about our trips? Watch our recorded Guide-Led Virtual Events—just visit our Trek Travel Youtube Channel and search for your trip.
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Our trips are guaranteed to run once we have one confirmed booking on the trip. Click here to view our full guarantee policy.
Trek Travel reserves the right to cancel trips with zero guests, therefore you must book with Trek Travel before making travel arrangements for the trip. We are not responsible for travel arrangements made prior to confirming your Trek Travel Trip. Select trips are not guaranteed.
This trip is currently sold out, but you may be added to the waitlist in the case of availability.
If a date is marked with Limited Availability, there are few spots left to book. We will secure additional rooms from our hotels before confirming your reservation.
Looking to travel with a small group? Ask our trip consultants about private trips and learn more.
If a date is marked as Private, it is reserved for a private group.
Don’t see exactly what you are looking for or looking for a custom date?
Call our trip consultants at 866-464-8735
Trek Travel offers three hotel levels to match your style. Luxury hotels provide elegant, thoughtful touches with exceptional hospitality. Explorer hotels blend modern amenities with local charm in unique settings. Comfort hotels are casual and conveniently located near Trek Travel activities.
Road: 1-3 hours of riding. Up to 25 mi (40 km). Up to 1,000 ft (300 m).
Gravel: 1-3 hours of riding. Up to 20 mi (35 km). Up to 1,000 ft (300 m).
Hiking: 1-3 hours of hiking. Up to 5 mi (8 km). Up to 1,000 ft (300 m).
Road: 2-4 hours of riding. 20-35 mi (35-60 km). Up to 2,500 ft (750 m).
Gravel: 2-4 hours of riding. 15-30 mi (25-45 km). Up to 2,000 ft (600 m).
Hiking: 2-4 hours of hiking. 4-8 mi (6-12 km). Up to 1,500 ft (450 m).
Road: 3-5 hours of riding. 25-55 mi (40-85 km). Up to 4,500 ft (1,500 m).
Gravel: 3-5 hours of riding. 20-40 mi (35-60 km). Up to 3,000 ft (900 m).
Hiking: 3-5 hours of hiking. 6-10 mi (9-16 km). Up to 2,000 ft (600 m).
Road: 4+ hours of riding. 40-70 mi (60-110 km). Up to 8,000 ft (2,400 m).
Gravel: 4+ hours of riding. 30-50 mi (45-80 km). Up to 4,000 ft (1,200 m).
Hiking: 4+ hours of hiking. 7-15 mi (11-24 km). Up to 4,000 ft (1,200 m).
Explore beautiful destinations with a curated blend of guided activities, local cuisine, handpicked accommodations, and itineraries to suit every traveler, from laid-back adventures to luxurious escapes.
Venture off the beaten path to unforgettable places, with fully-supported routes that combine gravel and paved roads in classic Trek Travel style.
Tackle an epic adventure that takes you point-to-point across mountains, countryside, and more.
See the pros in action at the biggest cycling events of the year.
Step into adventure with carefully designed routes, unparalleled hospitality, and deep-routed local connections.
Train like the pros in some of their favorite riding destinations.
Enjoy a bike tour on your schedule with just your chosen travel companions.
Sometimes it’s more convenient and comfortable to have your own room while on vacation. We understand and that’s why we offer a Single Occupancy option. The additional price guarantees a private room all to yourself
