Gralloch Ultra promises to test riders to their limits over 330km route through Scottish woodland and mountain passes
One of gravel cycling’s most prestigious UK race events will be expanded next spring with the introduction of a gruelling new endurance trek across the wild heart of southern Scotland.
For the last three years, the Gralloch – a 111km ride through the stunning Galloway Forest Park – has attracted leading elite riders from around the world, serving as part of the UCI Gravel World Series and a qualifier for the Gravel World Championships.
This year saw the introduction of its new sportive event, designed to give amateur riders the opportunity to challenge themselves in a non-competitive ride around the course, and now the weekend festival of cycling has been extended even further with the launch of Gralloch Ultra.
Gravel endurance adventure
A true gravel endurance adventure, the ride will take cyclists on a 330km route through the Forest Park and Galloway and Southern Ayrshire UNESCO Biosphere, testing the strength and versatility of competitors as they journey through woodland, moors and mountain passes.
Malcolm Smith, co-founder of organisers Red On Sports, says the Ultra will now complete the trilogy of events due to be held over the weekend of May 15-17 in 2026.
The Gralloch Ultra isn’t about racing – it’s about adventure, discovery and the journey itself,” he said. “If you’re looking for high-speed competition, the UCI Gravel Race is where to test yourself. The Ultra is your chance to explore and experience the wild beauty of the Galloway Forest Park.
“The course is 330km and riders will have 25 hours to complete it, riding from Gatehouse of Fleet, across remote areas of Scottish wilderness, winding through local villages and then heading back to the event village.
“From the pine trails of Laurieston Forest to the ridgelines of the Ayrshire Alps and the shores of Loch Doon, every turn reveals another layer of Scotland’s raw beauty and history. And as part of the Gralloch Festival weekend, riders will be able to take advantage of expert rider support, the event village, live music, camping and much more.”
Last year’s UCI races were real thrillers, with just four seconds separating the top four men as Czech rider Petr Vakoč (Canyon Isadore) won by just three hundredths of a second ahead of British rider Matthew Holmes (OGT Factor Racing), who was left agonisingly close to back-to-back Gralloch wins, and with Canada’s Benjamin Perry rounding out the podium.
The Elite Women’s race also culminated in a four-way sprint to the line, with Dutch rider Tessa Neefjes (Liv Racing) surging ahead to secure a narrow win ahead of British pair Ffion Gilbert (Wold Top Pactimo) and Sophie Wright (Ribble Outliers).
For more information on the Gralloch Gravel Festival, click HERE.
