Take on The Stag, our 111km route following the same course as the UCI Gravel World Series race. With over 1,700 metres of climbing and 80% gravel, this is the ultimate test of endurance, determination and spirit.

From the steep slopes of Fuffock Hill to the sweeping trails above Loch Grannoch, The Stag delivers a day of unforgettable riding through the wild beauty of Galloway Forest Park.

The Gralloch Sportive begins in the heart of Gatehouse of Fleet, rolling out from Garries Park and straight into the hills that define Galloway’s gravel. There’s no gentle warm-up here — the climbing starts almost immediately.

After 600 metres of tarmac, the route tilts skyward and turns left onto gravel for the long ascent of Fuffock Hill. The surface is firm and fast-rolling, making it easy to find a rhythm as you climb steadily to 281 metres, the highest point of the entire route. From here, the views begin to open up — and so does the descent.

Dropping through the trees, you’ll encounter a few short, punchy ramps that keep the legs alert before a brief tarmac section and a left turn over a small bridge bring you back onto gravel. A right-hand turn marks the start of Kenick Hill, a 3km climb averaging around 3%. It’s steady rather than steep, but the rougher, chunkier gravel keeps things interesting. Once you crest the top, the descent rewards your effort with fast, flowing turns.

At the base, a smooth 5km section of tarmac offers the perfect opportunity to spin the legs, enjoy the scenery and prepare for the first Rest Stop.

Back on the gravel, the next section begins with a fast, flowing descent on firm, predictable surfaces — pure joy to ride. But don’t be fooled: a one-kilometre kicker reaching gradients of 8% soon reminds you this is still Galloway gravel.

A right-hand turn brings you onto a gently rolling section, forest to your left and the shimmering edge of Loch Skerrow to your right. This is the time to settle into a comfortable rhythm. There are a few short climbs to keep you honest, but this stretch rewards steady pacing and offers plenty of chances to take in the views.

Passing Lochs Stroan and Ken, you’ll soon arrive at the next big challenge — Slaughter Hill. It’s a tough but rewarding climb: steep early on, easing briefly in the middle before kicking again near the top. Take your time and enjoy the sense of achievement when you crest it.

The descent that follows is fast and loose, so stay focused and keep control before joining the scenic Raiders Road. This classic stretch of Scottish gravel runs parallel to the River Dee, with stunning views and a mix of short rises and smooth flats. The Rest Stop here is perfectly placed for a breather, a refill and a moment to appreciate the beauty around you.

After a short stretch of tarmac, the route turns south, retracing your wheel tracks along the opposite bank of the River Dee. You’ve passed halfway, but the riding still keeps you on your toes — this is where The Gralloch reveals its depth and character.

Every small descent leads straight into another short climb, and the gravel grows rougher as the landscape opens out. Keep your pace steady and your focus sharp — this is the kind of terrain that rewards patience and persistence.

At the top of a long drag, you’ll find the final Rest Stop, a welcome sight before the last stretch back to Gatehouse. Take a few moments here — the views across Loch Grannoch are some of the finest of the day, the perfect reminder of why you came to ride in this incredible part of Scotland.

With Loch Grannoch now behind you, the forest thins and the horizon opens up. The hardest work is done, and it’s time to enjoy the final kilometres of this stunning route.

A rolling plateau carries you across firm, rugged gravel before you reach the day’s most challenging descent — a 4km drop losing 150 metres of elevation. Take your time and pick your line carefully through the looser sections.

At the bottom, a right turn over a narrow bridge leads you toward the impressive Big Water of Fleet Viaduct. Beyond it, the gravel finally gives way to smooth tarmac and the road carries you gently home.

The first stretch of road is fast and flowing, with sweeping bends and beautiful views. A sharp left-hander signals the final descent into the river valley, where a gently undulating road brings you back into Gatehouse of Fleet and across the finish line.

You’ve conquered The Gralloch Sportive — 111 kilometres of unforgettable gravel, breathtaking scenery and pure Scottish adventure.