Event
Welcome to the The Gralloch Sportive, an unforgettable addition to The Gralloch weekend!
Designed as a fun, non-competitive ride, the Sportive lets cyclists of all levels experience the thrill of Scotland’s stunning gravel trails without the race-day pressure. Set against the backdrop of Galloway Forest Park, this ride brings you face-to-face with breathtaking landscapes, scenic lochs, and wide-open trails.
Whether you're here to explore at your own pace or share the journey with friends, the Sportive promises adventure, camaraderie, and memories that will last a lifetime.
Join us for the ultimate celebration of gravel cycling!
The Routes
Both event routes guide you along the UK's finest gravel tracks, weaving past stunning lochs and deep into the heart of Galloway Forest Park. Discover the wild beauty and panoramic vistas that make this part of Scotland so unforgettable.
The 111km route follows the official UCI Gravel World Series course, taken by racers the day before. With over 1,700m of climbing, including iconic ascents like Fuffock Hill and Slaughter Hill, this route offers a true gravel challenge. Over 80% gravel, it showcases every breathtaking corner of Galloway Forest Park, all on wide, firm, traffic-free forestry access tracks.
The 53km route is perfect for those wanting to enjoy Scotland’s landscapes without tackling the toughest climbs. With 800m of elevation gain, you'll pass tranquil spots like Loch Skerrow and Loch Grannoch. Featuring 65% gravel, this route also offers wide, traffic-free forestry paths for an accessible yet scenic ride.
Each route includes some sections on public roads. While these roads have minimal traffic, please stay mindful of other users and follow the Highway Code at all times.
Full route maps will be released in Spring 2025.
What's included in your enrty
MORE THAN JUST A Ride
Gravel is about much more than racing. Enjoy up to three days
of celebration with the gravel and adventure community.
rest stops
Each rest stop is located at a stunning location along the route with seating and an opportunity to rest, relax and enjoy your surroundings whilst offering water, energy drink, food and mechanical support.
off-bike experience
Prepare for a stellar line-up of panel talks, shake out rides, live music, entertainment and much more throughout the weekend.
FUlly signposted routes
Our incredible routes are fully signposted so you can focus
on your adventure and not worry about going the wrong way. GPX files for each route will also be available.
mechanical support
Gravel riding can be tough on your bike so we’ve got a
team of experienced mechanics on hand in the Event Village to help make sure your bike is ready for the challenge.
Event Village ACCESS
Enjoy the amazing event village in the heart of Gatehouse of Fleet. Packed with food vendors, expo stalls and off-bike activities.
BIKE WASH
Ensure your bike is squeaky clean after your gravel adventure by using the complimentary professional bike wash facilities.
stunning routes
Choose from two stunning routes in an absolutely breathtaking natural environment.
Start times
You will have the flexibility to choose your own start time, allowing you to kick off your ride at a time that suits you best. Whether you're an early bird eager to hit the trails or prefer a relaxed start later in the morning, this option lets you make the most of your day.
Simply select your preferred start wave during registration. You can choose from 8:30am*, 9am*, 9:30am*, 10am, 10:30am or 11am.
*These start waves are exclusively for "The Stag" (Long Route) participants.
Rest stops
The Rest Stops are designed to be the perfect refreshment points along your journey, stocked with water, bananas, sports nutrition, tray bakes, energy drinks, and mechanical support to keep you fuelled and ready.
Each stop is thoughtfully placed in a stunning location along the route, inviting you to pause, take in the views, and soak up the natural beauty of the Galloway region. With seating provided, we encourage riders to relax, recharge, and enjoy a well-deserved break before heading back out on the trails.
The Long Route will feature Rest Stops at KM 38, KM 64 & KM 87. The Short Route features Rest Stops at KM 16 & KM 30.
Optional bag drop
Take advantage of our convenient bag drop service to make your ride hassle-free!
Simply leave a bag with us at the start, and we’ll keep it safe while you’re out enjoying the trails. Whether you need a change of clothes, extra gear, or some post-ride essentials, your bag will be ready and waiting when you return.
timing & cut-offs
While this event is non-competitive, we’ll be offering professional timing for all riders, complete with intermediate split points so you can track your progress and to help us to keep you safe.
For the safety of everyone involved, a cut-off will be set at KM 41 on the long route. Riders who have not reached this point by a designated time will be directed to join the shorter route, ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience for both participants and our on-course support teams.
Cut-off time: 1400hrs* at 41km (for Long Route riders) after this all riders will be on the Short Route.
*Cut-off times may be subject to change (extended or reduced) in extraordinary circumstances (such as severe weather).
Where to stay
Discover the perfect place to stay in the South of Scotland, where a wide variety of accommodation options await.
For the best-value option, don’t miss out on our official event campsite on the outskirts of Gatehouse of Fleet—just a short walk from the Event Village. Immerse yourself in The Gralloch experience with convenient access to all the weekend’s activities and stunning surroundings.
There are also plenty of family-run country inns, cosy B&Bs, unique boutique hotels, remote eco-lodges, scenic campsites, and even luxurious castle hotels.
Provisional Programme
Get ready for an action-packed weekend! Our provisional event program is filled with exciting activities, including inspiring panel talks, scenic shake-out rides, live music, entertainment, and much more.
Whether you’re here to ride, connect, or just soak up the atmosphere, there’s something for everyone to enjoy throughout The Gralloch weekend.
