THE STAG
Riders tackling The Stag will take on 111km of classic Scottish gravel, blending technical trails, open moorland, and rewarding climbs that define the spirit of adventure riding.
This route, shared with the UCI Gravel World Series race the day before, serves up a mix of punchy ascents, flowing descents, and stunning landscapes—from dense woodlands to vast, rolling terrain. Every section brings a new challenge, testing both skill and stamina, but with plenty of moments to soak in the surroundings and share the journey with fellow riders.
Expect an unforgettable day of epic gravel, hard-earned views, and the camaraderie that makes this ride truly special.
111km
1,761m
We rOde it so you know what’s in store!
It’s all uphill from HERE! KM 0 - 29
The route begins in the heart of Gatehouse of Fleet, rolling out from Garries Park with a gentle start before the challenge truly begins.
The first 29km set the tone, with a steady climb right from the start. It begins on tarmac, but after 600m, the road kicks up as you turn onto gravel to tackle Fuffock Hill. The surface is firm, making for a steady effort all the way to the top at 281 metres, the highest point of the ride. From there, it's a flowing descent through the trees, with a few short climbs to keep the legs engaged before hitting a brief tarmac section.
A left turn over a bridge leads back onto gravel, followed by another climb up Kenick Hill. While the 3% gradient over 3km isn’t too steep, the rougher surface adds to the challenge—especially on the descent, where choosing the right line is key.
At the bottom, a fast and smooth 5km tarmac stretch offers a chance to recover and enjoy the ride before reaching the first feed station, a well-earned stop to refuel for the adventure ahead.
Settle in now KM 30 - 67
Back on gravel, the descent ahead is fast and fun, with a solid, predictable surface. But don’t get too comfortable—there’s a short, punchy 1km climb with a steep kick of around 8% to keep things interesting before the gradient eases again.
From here, the route sweeps along with the forest on your left and the marshy shoreline of Loch Skerrow on your right, offering a stunning backdrop as you make steady progress. There are a few steep ramps to keep you on your toes, but this stretch rewards a smooth rhythm, especially as you pass Lochs Stroan and Ken before reaching Slaughter Hill.
This climb is a real challenge—managing your effort is key. While it levels out in the middle, the chunky gravel adds to the grind, and the descent is just as technical, finishing with a tight right-hand turn at the bottom.
From here, the route flows onto the Raiders Road, a classic Scottish gravel stretch running parallel to the River Dee. Though some tough drags will slow you down, this is a section to take in the scenery, refuel at the feed zone, and enjoy the camaraderie of the ride—because the real adventure isn’t over yet.
On the way home? KM 68 - 87
After a short 80m stretch of tarmac, the route turns south, retracing your wheel tracks along the opposite bank of the river. While you’re now past the halfway mark and at the ride’s furthest point, don’t be fooled—there’s still plenty of work to do. This section is anything but flat; each descent is quickly followed by a punchy climb, keeping the legs engaged as the route gradually pulls away from the river.
As you press on, the terrain shifts—the climbs become longer, the gravel a little rougher, and the effort starts to build. It’s a section that demands focus, but the challenge is all part of the adventure. At the top of one of these steady drags, you’ll find the final feed station, a perfect chance to regroup and refuel before pushing on.
From here, you’re rewarded with one of the finest views of the day, as the gravel trail winds high above Loch Grannoch, offering a breathtaking moment before the final stretch of the ride.n the views are spectacular and very Scottish, as is the road surface to start, but this is a fabulous bit of road. It’s never too steep, but it’s often exposed and if the wind blows this could be very tough. That open countryside gives you a good view of who’s ahead though, and committed rouleurs working together will have plenty to get back to the front and contest the win, though there are a couple of decent uphill digs.
After the super-fast descent into Blairgowrie - another good spectator spot - it’s wide roads all the way home, but positioning will be key in the last kilometre.
You’ve Made It! Km 88-111
As you round the bend, Loch Grannoch stretches out to your right, a stunning reminder of the remote beauty of this ride. Beyond it, the rugged mountains rise—but luckily, your path stays this side of the water. With the final kilometres ahead, it’s time to gauge your energy and settle into a steady rhythm for the home stretch.
Now riding across a plateau, the gravel remains rough, with subtle undulations that keep the legs working. At 91km, the most demanding descent of the day begins—a 4km drop losing 150m on loose, chunky gravel. Staying in control is key here; watch for larger stones that could throw you off your line. Once at the bottom, a right turn leads over a narrow bridge, and soon you’ll spot the impressive Big Water of Fleet Viaduct—a sign that the toughest gravel is behind you.
From here, the final push begins. The gravel gives way to tarmac, offering a smoother ride but still with a few climbs left before reaching Gatehouse of Fleet. The first road section is fast and flowing, with enough space to ride your own pace, though the sweeping bends call for careful line choices. A sharp left-hand turn leads into a steep drop toward the river valley, followed by a gently rolling road back to town. The last kilometre is one to enjoy, take in the atmosphere and complete an unforgettable ride.
fuffock hill
raiders road
