Barnharrow Holiday Pods

Explore Dumfries and Galloway by Bike

If you enjoy cycling, you’ll love everything about cycling in Dumfries and Galloway. There is something for everyone – from high adrenaline off-road rides to family-friendly pedalling.

For road cyclists, the first thing you’ll notice is the lack of traffic, which will immediately turn up the enjoyment dial several notches. With such quiet roads, and therefore less to worry about, you’ll be able to really appreciate the environment in which you’re cycling and the stunning views wherever you care to look. This has to be road cycling at its best! Naturally, there are plenty of hills to be had – work hard on the climbs, glory in the thrill of the descents. Plan your route well and you’ll be well rewarded with decent coffee stops.

If cycle touring is more your thing, you can of course plan a route that takes in local attractions, such as a castle, ancient cairn, a distillery tour (careful!) or simply seek out a spot where you can drink in the scenery over lunch.

Head for the hills and trails

Mountain bikers won’t be surprised to learn that there is some great off-roading within easy reach of Barnharrow Holiday Pods. Kirroughtree Visitor Centre which is just 30 minutes by car, gives access to Galloway Forest Park, one of Scotland’s award-winning 7stanes mountain biking centres. Here you’ll find a great variety of trails, including a skills area where experts can warm up and beginners can try different obstacles. For those who want the thrill of technically demanding trails, The Twister and Black Craigs will really test your nerve, your ability and your legs.

Glentrool another 7stanes centre, is also well worth a visit and is a similar distance to travel. There are no black routes here, but there is a fabulous 36-mile route that offers its own challenges with a number of climbs and descents to tackle.

Plan your cycling adventure

Cycling UK  is a great resource for cycling in Dumfries and Galloway, with links to popular routes, cycling events and local cycling clubs – who knows, you might even be able to hook up with local cyclists who will happily act as guides to show off this beautiful part of Scotland.

The nearest bike shop to Barnharrow Holiday Pods is Kirkcowan Cycles. It’s a great shop for repairs, bike bits and bobs and, should you be in an N + 1 mood, new bikes! Bike hire is also available. Do pop in, you’ll find a warm and friendly welcome and the local knowledge and tips for good routes is invaluable.

No bike? Don’t worry, you can still explore the area on two wheels

As well as Kirkcowan Cycles, there are several other hire shops within easy reach, so you don’t have to miss out on some healthy exercise and inspiring views!

The Break Pad Bike Shop & Hire  is based at Kirroughtree and have a range of hardtail, full suspension and electric mountain bikes available. Youngsters are well catered for and, if you have a dog, you can even hire an ebike with dog trailer! Make sure you book ahead to avoid disappointment.

Head west and you can hire an electric bike from Westby’s Electric Bike Hire in Leswalt, Stranraer – you could then explore the local coast line.

And after a day in the saddle…

Relax and unwind in the comfort of your pod, of course – enjoy the evening and watch the sun go down over a glass of wine. Eat, sleep, repeat as you see fit, it’s your perfect holiday.