Kirkpatrick C2C – Explorer Stage 2

The second stage of the Kirkpatrick C2C takes riders from the market town of Newton Stewart to the colourful harbour town of Kirkcudbright, also known as the Artists’ Town.

Enjoy coastal views on this mostly flat paved section of the route but also watch out for two short sections of loose unbound stone south of Gatehouse of Fleet and south of Cally Woods.

From Newton Stewart, set off to the seaside town of Creetown and perhaps pay a visit to its award-winning Gem Rock Museum. From here, the route takes you to one of the wildest places in southwest Scotland, Cairnsmore. A paradise for walkers, a stop here will allow you to take in views towards the Lake District. Those with suitable bikes might even choose a detour into Cairnsmore of Fleet National Nature Reserve to see the Big Water of Fleet Viaduct. En route, watch out for peregrine falcon, red and black grouse, red deer and feral goats. Further along, the village of Gatehouse of Fleet was previously a thriving industrial centre with cotton mills, shipbuilding and a brewery. It now attracts keen cyclists and walkers and offers a great variety of restaurants and cafes. Spend the night in Kirkcudbright on the banks of the River Dee. A favourite town for Scottish artists since the 19th century, it is home to many unmissable galleries and studios.