Arrive between 12- 3 for check-in at the hotel. Once we have all landed, we will hop on our bikes for a short warm-up cycle of 12 miles to Alloway and back. Heading along the coastal cycle path with incredible views of the beautiful Isle of Arran often referred to as 'A miniature Scotland'. And stopping at the world-famous Robert Burns Cottage to delve into some local history about the iconic Scottish Poet. Then it's back along the outskirts of the town to the hotel to freshen up and meet in reception for our briefing of the following day—option to join us for dinner or do your own thing.

20 km

Starting our journey from coast to coast we begin with some undulating hills away from Ayr towards the old market town of Maybole. Here we can stop to refuel and grab a coffee. There are some lovely cafes and beautiful architecture, so it's the perfect morning stop before we continue toward the Galloway Forest Park.

Covering over 774 square kilometers, this area is home to wild deer, otters, and ospreys!

It's an incredibly wild place where we as humans will be in the minority! Fortunately, there is a fantastic cycle path that runs through it, providing the perfect platform to enjoy this majestic landscape. We even pass alongside the largest mountain in Southern Scotland - the Merrick, standing at 843m above sea level.

As we climb up over Haggis Hill, we are gifted with our first glimpses into the heart of the Forest Park and we can lowly meander down towards our accommodation for the night – the Dark Sky retreat, a beautiful riverside location, set in 10 acres of tranquil garden, woodland and pasture. It offers 3 accommodation options, each well equipped, with super comfy beds, lovely views and a very warm welcome.

Here we will cook up a hearty dinner and make sure to take a dip in the hot tub or rest up in the Sauna. Then it's time to get ready for our evening activity – Dark Skygazing! Often referred to as the 'Dark Sky Park' Galloway is special due to its remoteness. On a clear night, over 7000 stars and planets are visible with the naked eye, and the bright band of the Milky Way is usually easy to see arching across the sky.

67 Km , 1100m climbing

(easier option – 60km , 970 climbing)

After waking up with the morning birdsong we will have a hearty breakfast with some fresh farm eggs. So fresh you will likely see one of the hens running around the farm as you munch down your breaky! Then, we will give the brief for the day and begin following the national cycle route 7 along the winding gravel paths through the woods and past Loch Dee and over the Minigaff Hills – Lamachan and Curlywee. This section of the route is simply breathtaking but unfortunately nicknamed 'The range of the awful hand' due to its resemblance to an enormous right hand. See if you can see it as we join the Southern Uplands Way.

Next, we visit the famous Otter Pools where we can stop for lunch and take in the surroundings and look out for the family of Otters! They are notoriously elusive, but we will give ourselves the best possible chance as we approach quietly on two wheels. Then as we exit the Forest Park we rejoin civilisation and head to our accommodation for the night – the Clachan Inn in St Johns town of Dalry. Here, we can enjoy a well-earned pint in a cozy pub after a wild couple of days in nature. They are featured regularly in the CAMRA good beer guide, so there's a great selection of beers on offer and an extensive menu with all locally sourced produce.

55km , 770m climbing

Starting our day slowly, we can wonder down to breakfast and enjoy a luxurious spread of breakfast options. Then we will give our brief for the day and hop back on the bikes for another day of adventure!

On this day we pass through some lovely villages. Firstly, we arrive in Moniaive, a village bustling with life and community spirit. Many artists and musicians are said to visit and then never leave, so we will do our best to drag ourselves away! Then it's a short ride to our lunch stop in the village of Ae (the shortest named village in the UK) where we can rest and refuel at the Café with some delicious home-baked goods. Make sure to taste the sickly-sweet Scottish Tablet!

Following a short rest, we will continue our journey through the epic forest of Ae. Home to a plethora of wildlife, but most importantly a large portion of Scotland's Red Squirrel population. So be sure to keep your eyes peeled for any furry friends!

Then we descend into Moffat where finish our days riding and celebrate our halfway point of the trip with a tour and tasting experience at the Moffat Distillery! The only wood-fired distillery in the world, creating uniquely flavored liquors and whiskeys. Along with some tasty wood-fired pizzas.

83km , 970m climbing

Departing Moffat, we cycle towards the small town of Eskdalemuir where we stop for a short break and refuel before heading into the heart of the Southern Uplands. This section of the route boasts some of the most stunning views of the entire trip so we will take our time and stop to appreciate the beauty around us.

In Ettrick, we will have the chance to explore the historic Ettrick Marshes, home to one of the largest wetland restoration projects in Scotland. A huge area restored wetland, paths, ancient woodland, and some 4ha of commercial timber community-run project which has transformed the area into a haven for wildlife and biodiversity.

Then we drop down to St Mary's loch for a quick pause at the Glen café and dip in the loch if you're feeling brave! After continuing onwards towards the Innerleithen where we will be staying for the night.

Nestled in the Tweed Valley, the town is home to some world-famous mountain biking. Having recently hosted the world championships, we will be part of a huge cycling community for the evening!

79km , 1030m climbing

Our final day starts with a beautiful climb over Peatrig Hill, where we will be treated to our first glimpse of Edinburgh and the East Coast!

Then we begin a long descent and link up with an awesome cycleway that takes us all the way to the sea, passing through the beautiful villages of East and West Saltoun. The two villages lie one mile apart in the foothills of the Lammermuirs. We will stop here for a short break before heading on towards the sea.

Then standing on the cliffs of Dunbar, breathing in the fresh sea air and gazing out across the expansive North Sea, we officially finish our journey!

Choose between a refreshing dip or simply basking in the feeling of completing your incredible journey from coast to coast.

We finish our holiday with a group meal in the evening and say our goodbyes in the morning for your onward travel.

77km , 300m climbing