Southern Upland Way 26 Main Street , St Johns Town of Dalry , Castle Douglas , Scotland, DG7 3UW, United Kingdom
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THE SOUTHERN UPLAND WAY CYCLE TREK

cyclist_trek_1.jpgSummary
This is an epic trip across one of the widest and wildest parts of Scotland, following every type of trail imaginable. We link up some of southern Scotland’s finest trail centres with an unsurpassed wild route. The scenery is more akin to what you would find in the Highlands and the riding is superb on this classic journey.

Route Details at a glance:
  • Portpatrick to Berwick upon Tweed
  • Distance - 247 miles or 400km
  • Average daily Mileage = 35 miles or 57km
  • Over 6000 metres of climbing and descending
  • 7 Days riding
  • Group size 2 - 10 people
  • Over 80% off road!
Duration - 8 Nights accommodation
7 Days adventurous cycling: Average Daily Distance 35 miles or 55 km

Price
Price: Guided - £575 / Self Guided - £490

Includes

  • 8 nights’ accommodation
  • Baggage transfers
  • Trail Snacks
  • Guiding
  • Vehicle back up
Available on request:
  • Pick up and drop off from: Dumfries train/bus station / Prestwick Airport
  • Bike and Kit Hire
Grade - This trip is suitable for those with an intermediate level of technical ability and good fitness.

Dates 2008
Guided: July 5th to 12th
Self Guided: Trips are available any time for groups of 2 or more.

Contact us with the dates you have in mind.

Highlights
Twisty singletrack in Ae forest
Stunning scenery through the Moffat Hills
The wild and exposed Lammermuir Hills
Hidden Castles and quality accommodation
The pies in Melrose!

Accommodation and food

We have researched the best bike friendly accommodation providers who we know give a good quality service. They provide everything you need after a long day in the saddle including secure bike storage, drying room, hot showers, and hearty food. On this trip the accommodation provides a fantastic chance to relax and reflect on the beautiful wilderness we are travelling through.

Climate and weather
The west coast of Scotland is generally mild in the summer months but can sometimes be wet. The conditions tend to get drier as we head east. On the higher ground however, conditions can and do change quickly so light waterproofs are advisable. The prevailing wind is usually from the west or south west so will generally be behind us all the way.

The trails
There is almost every type of trail imaginable on this trip from purpose-built cycle tracks to old drove roads, forestry and farm trails to superb single-track. The surfaces are all generally hard packed or rocky trails. Some parts are technically challenging so some off-road experience will be required. There may also be some sections where pushing is required.

Guided trips

Our guided trips are designed to give you a hassle free way to enjoy amazing biking on well planned routes. We include a qualified SMBLA guide who can help with aspects of your riding and take you on the best trails including hidden trail sections. As well as navigating for you, our guides also carry sufficient spares and tools to help you keep rolling in the event of a mechanical problem. First aid trained, they will also make sure you are well looked after on the trails.

Vehicle support
Whether you go guided or self guided there will be a back up vehicle available to carry your baggage. Plus if you have any mechanical problems you can get assistance or if you just need to take it easy for a section, the vehicle will be there to help.

Self guided trips
Experience the same great trails and accommodation as on the guided trips but without the support and knowledge of a guide. We will still do all of the organising for you and you’ll be provided with comprehensive trail maps, advice, transport, baggage transfers and a full itinerary. There will always be someone on the end of the phone in case of emergencies too.

Bike hire
We work with local bike shops to provide you the latest bikes for hire. There is a full range of bikes from standard hard-tails to flashy full-sussers! If you need to hire a bike please let us know at the time of booking and we can make sure to get the right bike for you. If bringing your own bike it is a good idea to check how you will get it to the start point, especially if travelling by public transport.

Transport and baggage transfers

We transport your bags between each night’s accommodation leaving you free to carry a small day-pack with some spare clothes, food and drink. We can also help as much as possible with transfers to and from the airport/train/bus station at the start and the end of the journey, especially if you have your own bike. Again just give us as much notice as possible.

Clothing and kit
Dress for the weather in Scotland! You can check out the kit list on the website or contact us for more detailed advice if you are not sure what to bring. There can literally be 4 seasons in a day so come prepared for all conditions.
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