Cyclists can now reach a remote forest trail in Dumfries and Galloway by water taxi, a journey one visitor has called “the most unique bike hire in Scotland”.
Chris Lawlor took the experience at the Galloway Activity Centre, where he was fitted with a bike and helmet before loading the bike onto a powerboat. The boat crossed Loch Ken to reach forest tracks including Raiders Road, which he explored for around an hour before circling back to a pick-up point to be collected.
What the tour involves
In a TikTok post, Lawlor explained: “Did you know that in Scotland there's a water taxi for bikes that takes you to a forest? But first you're given a bike, loading it onto the boat then heading across the loch before reaching the forest and exploring Raiders Road for around an hour.”
He added that riders come across a viaduct, at which point they need to circle back and call the boat to be picked up. “It makes for a pretty unique day out at Galloway Activity Centre in South West Scotland,” he said.
Costs and other activities
Mountain bike hire costs about £27.50 for half a day or £32.50 for a full day. A ferry crossing for your own bike, or a walk, costs £10. Availability and options should be checked directly through the Galloway Activity Centre website.
The centre also offers instructor-led land and water sports, equipment rentals and courses, including climbing, a zip wire and leap of faith challenges. Outdoor laser tag is available too, with combat games played in the surrounding woodland.
