Kirkpatrick C2C – Explorer Stage 1

This first stage of the Kirkpatrick C2C takes you from the coastal town of Stranraer through the landscapes of the Rhins and Machar peninsulas before reaching the small market town of Newton Stewart on the banks of the River Cree.

Travel along mostly flat and undulating roads, passing through small settlements with coastal views as you begin your journey.

Take time in Stranraer to explore the town – home to the Gateway of Galloway and the famous Oyster Festival – before setting off. Especially keen cyclists might want to take an extra half day and start their ride in the seaside town of Portpatrick using the Portpatrick Spur.
From Stranraer, the Kirkpatrick C2C takes you past colourful gardens with views to the Isle of Man, and to the Valley of Luce, home to the 12th-century Glenluce Abbey. The route then takes you across the Machars peninsula, onto Scotland’s southernmost distillery at Bladnoch and the country’s National Book Town Wigtown. Soak up the atmosphere before setting off to Newton Stewart. Spend the night in this small market town surrounded by the Galloway hills, now famous for its salmon and trout fishing.