Last Updated June3, 2024
The Gralloch 2025 is a one-day "classical style" gravel cycling event annually in May in the Galloway Forrest in Dumfries and Galloway. It is the UK's first and only UCI gravel race. The event is organized by RED:ON, a premier event management company in the United Kingdom specializing in organizing high-quality gravel cycling events. It is a qualifying event for the UCI Gravel World Series, culminating in the UCI Gravel World Championship in Italy in October.
The area is part of the Galloway Forest Park and the internationally recognized Galloway and Southern Ayrshire UNESCO Biosphere, which is a world-class environment for both people and nature. The Gralloch is committed to the Sustainable Event Charter of the Biosphere principles, aiming to be a sustainable event and promoting the unique natural surroundings that participants will explore on the bike. This is one of the reasons the team at Strambecco rates The Gralloch as one of the Best Gravel Cycling Race Events in the UK.
Note: The 2024 course maps have not yet been released and will differ from last year.
Below, you will find information on course details, lodging, dining, and other outdoor activities to do while in town for The Gralloch 2025.
Event & Course Info
The event starts and finishes in the picturesque town of Gatehouse of Fleet in Southwest Scotland. The Gralloch route is almost entirely in the Galloway Forrest, covering around 110km with approximately 2,000m of climbing, making it a tough day in the saddle for participants. The route is designed to showcase the natural beauty of Scotland while challenging participants with various cycling conditions, including challenging climbs, fast descents, and technical terrain. The event allows riders to experience some of Scotland's most breathtaking landscapes and test their skills and endurance in a truly memorable setting. Participants can expect to ride on a mix of dirt and gravel roads, with some sections of singletrack and technical terrain thrown in for good measure. For the nitty gritty race details, check out the official Race Guide.
Area Accommodations & Things to Do
Where to Stay in Gatehouse of Fleet
Dumfries and Galloway is the most southwestern part of Scotland, located 1.5h south of Glasgow and Edinburgh. The area is known for its historic buildings and castles and is perfect for outdoor activities, with plenty to do for mountain bikers and gravel riders who can explore the area. The start and finish of the event are located in Gatehouse of Fleet, a small town with 1000 inhabitants split in two by the Fleet River, which flows into the Irish Sea a mile further.
There are a variety of accommodation options for those taking part in The Gralloch, such as The Ship Inn and the Clachan Cottages. If you prefer a more home-like experience, there are many charming vacation rentals that suit a variety of needs, from a converted barn to woodland lofts.
This year, The Gralloch will be running their own campsite close to the start and finish on the edge of town, while other camping options is include Newton Campsite, within 3 miles of the event start at as well as Solway View Holidays which is located on a beef and sheep farm.
Dining in Gatehouse of Fleet
The culinary scene in Gatehouse of Fleet, Scotland, offers a charming and intimate dining experience, primarily showcasing traditional Scottish dishes and locally sourced ingredients. This small town features quaint cafes, cosy pubs, and a few restaurants that focus on celebrating the region's rich agricultural and coastal bounty. Local favourites include The Crafty Crow, No. 1 Fleetstreet @ The Ship Inn, and Gather.
Outdoor Activities around Gatehouse of Fleet
Nestled in the scenic heart of Dumfries and Galloway, Gatehouse of Fleet offers outdoor enthusiasts a perfect blend of adventure and tranquillity. With its lush landscapes and varied terrain, this picturesque town is an ideal destination for athletes looking to immerse themselves in nature this May. Just a short drive from Gatehouse of Fleet, the 7stanes Dalbeattie presents a thrilling mountain biking experience. Known for its technical trails and stunning forest settings, Dalbeattie offers routes for all levels, but the real draw for seasoned athletes is the challenging Hardrock Trail. This trail features the infamous Slab, a massive granite rock that promises an adrenaline-fueled ride through some of Scotland’s most beautiful forests.
The Galloway Hills beckon hikers with promising highland adventures and breathtaking views. One of the standout routes is the climb up Cairnsmore of Fleet, the highest peak in the area. This hike is physically rewarding and offers panoramic views of the surrounding countryside and coast. May's mild weather provides ideal conditions for hikers to enjoy the flourishing spring flora.
For those who prefer water sports, kayaking on Fleet Bay offers a serene yet challenging activity. Paddle along the coast, exploring secluded beaches and rugged cliffs. The bay's waters are rich with wildlife, including numerous bird species and occasional seals, making it a picturesque and engaging experience for any outdoor athlete. The bay's sheltered waters provide ideal conditions for novice and experienced kayakers, ensuring a safe yet exciting adventure.
Related Events
RED:ON is a premier event management company based in the United Kingdom, specializing in high-quality gravel cycling events. Their mission is to deliver an unparalleled experience to our participants by crafting well-organized and challenging events that meet and exceed their expectations, pushing them to achieve their personal best. The team at Strambecco considers their events to be some of the Best Gravel Cycling Race Events in the UK. RED:ON organizes three major gravel cycling events across the UK: Raiders Gravel, The Gralloch, and the King's Cup Gravel Festival, which includes the British Gravel Championships. These events highlight the stunning landscapes of the UK and accommodate cyclists of all skill levels, from novices participating in the 40km Gravel Fondo at King's Cup to seasoned competitors aiming for World Championship qualifications at The Gralloch.
The UCI Gravel World Series is a sister series of the UCI Gran Fondo Series, sanctioned by the Union Cycliste Internationale (UCI), which takes place across multiple countries and continents. These races typically involve long, unpaved routes with challenging terrain and attract professional and amateur riders worldwide. The events are known for their rugged and adventurous nature and are designed to test participants' endurance, skill, and determination. The series aims to promote and grow the sport of gravel cycling while providing a platform for top-level competition and showcasing the beauty of the natural landscapes in which the events are held.
For multi-sport athletes looking for more best-in-class races and events in Scotland and the broader UK, be sure to check out more of our Strambecco best-rated events:
