If you’ve ever wondered where to begin your gravel biking journey in Scotland, forget the tourist-choked roads of the Highlands or the slick tracks of the Central Belt. Instead, head southwest — to Galloway.
Tucked between the Solway Firth and the Southern Uplands, this underrated region of Dumfries and Galloway offers wide-open landscapes, little traffic, and an ever-growing network of mixed-surface trails. Long bypassed by travellers on their rush north to Loch Lomond, the Cairngorms, or Skye, Galloway is now finding new fame — one gravel track at a time.
Scotland, Undiluted
The charm of Galloway lies in its contrasts. The land feels unmistakably Scottish — think castles rising from hills, heather-covered moors, and sudden vistas that stir something ancient in the blood — but without the busloads of visitors that crowd more famous sites. It was here that Robert the Bruce once rallied fighters in forest clearings, and where William Wallace left his mark during the Wars of Independence.
Today, though, the hum of tires has replaced the clash of swords. Gravel bikers — part adventurer, part cyclist — are discovering a region that feels purpose-built for their hybrid machines.
Gravel bikes combine the stability of mountain bikes with the speed and versatility of road bikes. They’re capable on everything from old railway lines to forest logging tracks and even rough tarmac. And in Galloway, that means nearly every path is yours to explore.
The Gateway to the Forest
Base yourself in the market town of Gatehouse of Fleet, a quietly thriving hub with stone cottages, good pubs, and access to everything gravel bikers could want. Just north lies Galloway Forest Park — at over 300 square miles, it’s the largest forest park in Britain, and an ideal starting point for beginners who want wildness without extreme terrain.
Since 2023, Galloway has even hosted The Gralloch, the UK’s first UCI-sanctioned gravel race, attracting some 2,000 cyclists to tackle a punishing 70-mile loop through the hills. But you don’t need to race to enjoy these landscapes.
Three Beginner-Friendly Gravel Routes
Whether you’ve got a half-day or a full one, Galloway has a ride that’s just right.
1. Big Water of Fleet Trail
Distance: 18 miles (round trip)
Start: Gatehouse of Fleet
This gentle ride follows National Cycle Route 7 to the Cairnsmore of Fleet National Nature Reserve, a quietly beautiful blend of moorland and low hills. The trail leads to the striking Big Water of Fleet Viaduct, a 20th-century stone marvel that once carried steam trains across the glen. It’s ideal for those easing into gravel biking — mostly flat, with big rewards.
2. Raiders Road Forest Drive Loop
Distance: 28 miles
Start: Clatteringshaws Loch
This classic loop follows the Raiders Road, a forest drive open seasonally to vehicles but far better appreciated from a bike saddle. Descending through towering pinewoods, the trail crosses a viaduct and skirts Loch Grannoch, with the hills rising steeply on either side. It’s a slightly longer route, but well-suited to first-time adventurers with a few miles under their belt.
3. Dee Valley to Glentrool
Distance: 35 miles
Start: Clatteringshaws Loch
For sheer scenic drama, this might be the best beginner-friendly route in southern Scotland. The ride climbs gently along the River Dee, then opens into high country before dropping into Glentrool, a charming village near the edge of the hills. Expect steel-grey lochs, moody peaks, and far-reaching views. Pack snacks, and take your time.
What to Know Before You Ride
-
Best time to visit: Late spring through early autumn offers the best trail conditions. Summer sees longer days, but midges may make their presence known in forested areas.
-
Gear tip: Gravel tires with moderate tread are perfect. Standard road tires will struggle on the rougher sections.
-
Bike rental: A few local shops around Newton Stewart and Castle Douglas offer gravel or mountain bike hire — be sure to call ahead.
-
Navigation: Mobile signal can be patchy, so download GPX routes or use an offline GPS app.
-
Local tip: Many of Galloway’s best rides begin from lay-bys or forest car parks — you won’t need to go far off the beaten track to find solitude.
A Region on the Rise
The growing popularity of gravel biking is breathing fresh life into Galloway. Local cafés and guesthouses now cater to two-wheeled travellers. Forestry and Land Scotland is working on expanding and improving access routes. And with events like The Gralloch gaining momentum, it seems this part of Scotland is finally ready to step out of the shadows.
If you’re just getting into gravel biking — or simply looking for that first unforgettable ride — Galloway offers all the right ingredients: untamed beauty, empty tracks, and the kind of slow, immersive adventure that makes Scotland so enduringly special.
