community weekender
Gatehouse of Fleet · 18–19 April 2026
GRAVEL. COMMUNITY. WEEKEND.
The Gralloch Community Weekender is a new pre-event gathering designed to bring riders together ahead of event weekend. Taking place in the heart of Galloway one month before The Gralloch, it’s a chance to ride the routes, explore the landscape, and connect with the community that defines this event.
Whether you’re recceing for race day, sharing miles with friends or testing your legs on Fuffock Hill with the Gravel Hill Climb Champs, expect guided rides, a dose of friendly competition and a relaxed introduction to everything that makes The Gralloch special.
Join one or both days
Saturday – Route Recce Rides
Saturday is all about riding together and getting to know the terrain that defines The Gralloch.
Join one of our guided recce rides, led by experienced guides alongside elite riders and Gralloch Gravel Captains. With multiple pace groups, including a no-drop option, the day is designed to be inclusive, informative and relaxed.
Riders can choose between two routes. Competitive riders can preview the full UCI race and The Stag Sportive course, while others can opt for a shorter modified route that still captures the best of Galloway’s gravel. Along the way, refuel at the feed zone and energy station, share stories on the trail and pick up tips from those who know the course best.
Back at base, kick back and enjoy the time with friends and the social atmosphere that makes The Gralloch special.
Meet in Gatehouse of Fleet for a 10:30am roll-out on Saturday 18 April 2026. £15 entry.
Sunday – Hill Climb ChaMPS
Sunday turns the focus to a short, sharp challenge on one of The Gralloch’s most iconic climbs.
The Gravel Hill Climb Champs is a chance to test your legs, chase a time or simply take on Fuffock Hill for fun. Expect spot prizes and giveaways, great energy throughout the day and plenty of encouragement from fellow riders.
At the top, recover at the energy and recovery station, then roll back down to enjoy music, great vibes and a well-earned bike wash. After taking on Fuffock Hill, take your time to relax, connect and soak up the atmosphere before the weekend wraps up.
Competitive, social and unmistakably Gralloch, Sunday is the perfect way to finish the Community Weekender.
The Gravel Hill Climb Champs start at 10:30am, Sunday 19 April 2026, meeting point at the bottom of Fuffock Hill. Entry is £25. Individual start times will be confirmed closer to the event.
What's included
Everything you need for an unforgettable community weekend in April.
Guided rides
Ride with experienced guides, including a no-drop option, across carefully planned routes through the best of Galloway.
Feed Zone
Refuel at our on-route feed zone with drinks and nutrition to keep you riding strong.
Elite riders
Share the gravel with elite riders and Gralloch Gravel Captains, with the chance to learn from those who know the course best.
Bike wash
Clean up after the ride with access to a dedicated bike wash station.
Hill climb challenge
Take on the iconic Fuffock Hill in a short, competitive challenge designed to test your legs and spark some friendly rivalry.
Spot prizes
Enjoy spot prizes and giveaways across the weekend, with rewards for effort, attitude and a bit of luck.
Join the Gralloch Community Weekender
Ride the routes, meet the community and add a touch of competitive fun ahead of the main event weekend. Choose one day or both and experience Galloway the Gralloch way, on the gravel, together.