Lezyne Dunoon Dirt Dash

Lezyne Dunoon Dirt Dash – Dunoon, United Kingdom

• Date: 26 – 27 September 2026
• Location: Dunoon, Scotland
• Distances: 138 km (approx. 69 km per day)
• Event Type: Two-day bikepacking ride

The Lezyne Dunoon Dirt Dash is a bikepacking event in Scotland set on the quiet landscapes of the Cowal Peninsula. Over two days, riders navigate a route of approximately 138 kilometres, designed to showcase the rugged beauty and sublime gravel trails of what is known as Scotland’s Adventure Coast. This is not a race, but a self-supported reliability trial, offering an inclusive and welcoming atmosphere for all participants looking to immerse themselves in the region’s natural splendour. The focus is on the journey, the camaraderie, and the simple rhythm of gravel under tyres.

The route begins and ends at the Argyll Hotel in Dunoon. On Saturday morning, after a mandatory rider briefing, the journey begins. The first day covers roughly 69 kilometres with around 950 metres of elevation gain, leading riders towards a prepared overnight campsite. The second day presents a similar distance, but with a greater challenge of approximately 1,200 metres of climbing, guiding the group back to the finish in Dunoon by Sunday afternoon. For those seeking a more relaxed pace on the final day, shortcuts are available.

This bikepacking event in Scotland is structured to be a complete weekend experience. The entry fee includes the GPX files for navigation, an electronic rider briefing, and the security of a support vehicle. At the halfway point, a chilled-out campsite awaits, where participants can pitch their tents and share stories from the day. A complimentary evening meal is provided, followed by a tasty breakfast the next morning, ensuring riders are fuelled for the road ahead. The event thoughtfully provides the essentials, allowing riders to focus on the experience itself.

The terrain is a quintessential mix of Scottish riding, featuring singletrack, forestry roads, gravel paths, and quiet public roads. The provisional route is designed to be fully rideable, balancing challenging sections with rewarding views of mountains and lochs. Organisers recommend a gravel or mountain bike with a minimum tyre width of 45mm to comfortably handle the varied surfaces. This careful route planning makes the Dunoon Dirt Dash one of the many celebrated other gravel events in United Kingdom that highlight the country's diverse riding opportunities.

The spirit of the event is one of community and self-reliance. Riders are expected to carry their own kit and be prepared for two full days in the saddle. The atmosphere is relaxed and friendly, a world away from the pressures of competitive racing. It’s an invitation to connect with fellow cyclists and the environment, to pedal through a continuous stream of stunning coastal and mountain scenery. The experience is about finding a pace that allows for appreciation of the journey through the heart of Argyll.

With its combination of fantastic trails, logistical support, and a welcoming atmosphere, the event offers a perfect introduction to multi-day riding or a satisfying weekend for the more seasoned bikepacker. The journey through the Cowal Peninsula is a memorable one, filled with the textures of the trail and the expansive quiet of the Scottish landscape. All further details for this bikepacking event in Scotland, including registration, can be found on the official event website.