30/05/2020
Cycling in Dumfries and Galloway 2020.
In March, we left Hong Kong and travelled to Kirkcudbright (KBT) Scotland to prepare for our 19 day - 1600km/1000 mile cycle from Lands’ End to John o’ Groats (LEJOG), on 1 May 2020.
Unfortunately, it was postponed after we had been here a couple of weeks due to the coronavirus.
We were very disappointed but decided to cycle 2-3 times per week for 10 weeks to cover the 1600km in the vicinity of KBT. We were on lockdown and could only cycle from our home. As we cycled, we watched spring unfold before our eyes, seeing daffodils, bluebells, cherry blossom, wild garlic and rhododendrons bursting into bloom. The woodlands, hills, mountains, rivers and coastlines looked stunningly beautiful and the sounds of wildlife filled the air. Many grazing animals such as lambs, foals and calves could be seen in the green
pastures.
We finished cycling 1600km last week and now are looking forward to the real event in September 2021. Hopefully, we will get a repeat of the wonderful sunny weather and seeing the beautiful changes of the autumn landscapes.
Dumfries and Galloway (D & G) is one of the most beautiful places in the world and has dozens of quiet cycle roads including some of the National Cycle Route 7. We would encourage you to spend several days or weeks, exploring the diverse beautiful scenery and experiences that South West Scotland has to offer.
Since staying in Kirkcudbright we have been reviewing the cycle routes in the area.
Initially, we wondered whether it was good idea to cycle the South West Coast 300 miles (SWC300). This is a circular route, which can be started at any point along the way and travelled in any direction.
After reviewing the route, we were not keen on some sections, which are on the A75 and A77, because, as main roads they can be very busy with articulated lorries.
Later in the year, we will tell you about our 300mile / 483km circular cycle route and places to stop for coffee, meals and accommodation.
Also, there are many 20, 30, 40 mile (and longer) cycles loops from KBT which we will be sharing with you. These routes will appeal to a wide variety of interests and fitness levels.
I am sure we are all missing our regular routines, but we need to remain positive and make sure we have a list of all the events / tours we can look forward to after life gets back to normal.
