Gatehouse of Fleet, Scotland – Britain’s leading gravel cycling event, The Gralloch, is set to push boundaries in 2026 with the launch of a bold new addition: The Gralloch Ultra. Scheduled for Saturday, 16 May 2026, this ultra-distance gravel adventure promises to redefine endurance cycling in the UK.
A 330km Gravel Odyssey Through Scotland’s Wild Heart
The Gralloch Ultra isn’t just another long ride, it’s a 330km journey through the rugged beauty of the Galloway Forest Park and the Galloway and Southern Ayrshire UNESCO Biosphere. Riders will tackle over 5,000 metres of climbing, traversing remote forests, sweeping ridgelines, and the iconic Ayrshire Alps before returning to the historic town of Gatehouse of Fleet.
This is gravel riding at its purest: self-sufficiency, resilience, and a deep connection with nature. The route promises a mix of technical gravel, fast forest tracks, and challenging climbs, offering an experience that’s as much about mental strength as physical stamina.
“Not About Racing, It’s About Endurance”
“The Gralloch Ultra represents the next evolution of The Gralloch,” says Malcolm Smith, Co-Founder of Red On Sports, the team behind the event. “It’s not about racing, it’s about endurance, mindset, and the willingness to keep going when the terrain, the distance, and the night all test you. It’s a pure expression of what gravel riding can be.”
Unlike traditional races, the Ultra is designed as a semi-supported challenge. Riders will rely on their own power and planning, but with the reassurance of feed zones stocked with nutrition and hydration, on-course emergency and medical assistance, and event control oversight. This balance makes the Ultra accessible for first-time ultra-distance riders while still demanding enough to satisfy seasoned endurance athletes.
A Festival of Gravel Cycling
The Gralloch Ultra will headline a weekend-long celebration of gravel cycling from 15–17 May 2026. Alongside the Ultra, the festival includes the UCI Gravel World Series race, the Gralloch Sportive, live music, local food and drink, and a vibrant expo village. This unique blend of competition and community has made The Gralloch a must-attend event for elite riders, amateurs, and cycling fans alike.
“The Ultra is a natural extension of what The Gralloch stands for,” adds Maximilian Wussler, Co-Founder of Red On Sports. “It’s a chance for riders to push their limits, ride self-supported, and experience Galloway in its rawest, most beautiful form.”
Why The Gralloch Ultra Matters
Gravel cycling has exploded in popularity over the past decade, and events like The Gralloch have been at the forefront of this movement in the UK. As the first British event included in the UCI Gravel World Series, The Gralloch has already cemented its reputation as a world-class race. The addition of the Ultra distance challenge signals a new era, one that embraces adventure, endurance, and the growing appetite for epic off-road experiences.
For riders, the Ultra offers:
- Unmatched scenery: From dense forests to open moorland and dramatic ridgelines.
- True adventure: A test of planning, resilience, and grit.
- Community spirit: A festival atmosphere that celebrates all things gravel.
Event Details at a Glance
- Date: Saturday, 16 May 2026
- Distance: 330km
- Elevation: 5,000m+
- Location: Gatehouse of Fleet, Scotland
- Format: Semi-supported ultra-distance gravel challenge
- Festival Dates: 15–17 May 2026
- Other Events: UCI Gravel World Series race, Gralloch Sportive, live music, food, and expo village
Entries Now Open
Early-bird entries for The Gralloch Ultra are now live, with limited places available. The full route will be revealed soon, but anticipation is already building among endurance enthusiasts and gravel adventurers.
For more information and registration, visit grallochgravel.com/ultra.
