The Fawn offers a more relaxed yet equally rewarding taste of The Gralloch’s world-class gravel. Covering 53km with 800 metres of climbing, it’s the perfect adventure for riders looking to soak up the scenery, enjoy the camaraderie, and take on an achievable challenge at their own pace. From the open views of the Solway Firth to the forest trails above Loch Grannoch, The Fawn captures the true spirit of gravel riding in Galloway Forest Park — wild, beautiful and unforgettable.

The Fawn begins in the heart of Gatehouse of Fleet, rolling gently out of Garries Park for a relaxed start. A flat 2km stretch of tarmac provides the perfect warm-up, leading riders northeast out of town and into the rolling Galloway countryside.

But don’t get too comfortable — at the 2km mark, the climbing begins. A steady 4.8km ascent gains 165 metres of elevation on smooth tarmac, an enjoyable climb that lets you find your rhythm and take in the expanding views. Look back as you rise — the Solway Firth opens up behind you, and on clear days, you might even spot the Isle of Man shimmering on the horizon.

At the summit, you’ll reach the first rest stop — a well-earned chance to refuel before the day’s first gravel stretch. A flowing descent welcomes you onto the dirt, followed by a short but punchy 1km climb that keeps the legs awake. From here, the route finds its rhythm: forest to your left, the marshy edge of Loch Skerrow to your right, and that wonderful feeling of rolling through quiet, open landscape. This is where The Fawn’s adventure truly begins — flowing gravel, beautiful scenery and a sense of freedom that defines the ride.

Turning west, the route joins The Stag (111km route) for the final 33km, taking you deep into the heart of Galloway Forest Park. The landscape becomes wilder and the gravel more varied, offering a true taste of Scotland’s rugged beauty.

The climbs are steady rather than sharp, and the pace becomes about enjoyment and flow. Each rise brings fresh views — distant hills, quiet lochs and wide horizons that make every effort worthwhile. At the top of one of these longer drags, you’ll find the final rest stop, perfectly placed to regroup, refuel and take in your surroundings before the final push home.

From here, the trail climbs high above Loch Grannoch, offering one of the most spectacular panoramas of the day — a sweeping view of still water framed by pine and sky. It’s the kind of moment that makes you pause, breathe, and remember why you came to ride here.

Rounding the bend, Loch Grannoch stretches out to your right, a breathtaking reminder of the wild, remote beauty of this corner of Scotland. The rugged hills rise beyond, but your path traces the gentler side of the landscape — a ribbon of gravel that leads you gradually toward home.

The plateau that follows rolls across rougher surfaces and subtle undulations that keep the legs working. At around 35km, you’ll reach the most technical section of the day — a 4km descent losing 150 metres of elevation on loose, chunky gravel. Take your time, pick your line, and enjoy the ride down.

At the bottom, a right turn over a narrow bridge leads towards the striking Big Water of Fleet Viaduct, an unmistakable landmark and a sure sign that the toughest gravel is behind you. From here, the trail smooths out as you return to tarmac, though a few gentle climbs remain before you roll back into Gatehouse of Fleet.

The final stretch of road is fast and flowing, with sweeping bends and wide views over the valley. A sharp left-hand turn signals the final descent, followed by a gently undulating run back into town. As you cross the finish, take a moment to reflect — you’ve completed The Fawn, a ride filled with adventure, challenge, and the quiet joy of Scotland’s finest gravel.