Off for a weekend of birthday celebrations at Knockbrex (on the coast between Kirkcudbright and Gatehouse of Fleet in Dumfries and Galloway)witha gand of bikers.

Am aware of Dalbeattie, Ae, Drumlanrig etc. but was wondering if there any any decent natural trails a little closer to where we are actually staying – maybe around Galloway Forest Park? Always nice to pedal straight from where you are staying if at all possible and not getting in the car.

Running the risk of insult I was also wondering about the road bike opportunities as it looks as if there are some very remote roads heading north from Gatehouse of Fleet.

Anyone out there know the area?

Thanks in advance for any advice.

Few years ago went road riding round those parts and it's fabulous road riding country. We did a tour that took in the Henry Moore Sculptures and Moniave back down to near Kirkudbright. Plenty of good opps for on and off-road.

Thanks teagirl. Anyone else got any riding suggestions they wish to divulge?

I notice you didn't mention Kirroughtree in the OP – it's fantastic and nearer (and better imo) than Ae, Dalbeattie etc if you are over that way.

Kirry is your best bet.

Not a lot of natural stuff in or around that area, bit boggy and tusocky.
If there was given the rain this week it will be even wetter than normal 😥

As above re road riding just get a map out and tour. There is the Sustrans route, 10 or 7?

nearest club
Kirry
Give Clair/Sam or Mark a call they may know a "local" who could show you some cheeky stuff

The Glentrool loop is pretty natural but is all forest road. If you enjoy taking in the scenery this is a good long loop. We start at Heartbreak Hill on the Kirry black loop, saves the long trip round to the start and means the cafe is mid ride. Climb Heartbreak Hill and turn right instead of left for Talnoutry

Some people hike a bike up onto Merrick and then bike back. Beware the weather tho 💡

Not done it for years but there is some riding around Clatteringshaws Dam area and Gatehouse of Fleet viaduct. Would need to get the map out tho, lots of forest road. All done years ago when I first started, just had to tick boxes and go on expeditions in them days.

biking in D&G

Have a look here you may find something that suits

This is is helpful – thank you very much all.