This past Saturday, Clyde Valley enjoyed a fantastic ride out to Loch Doon, deep in the heart of the Galloway Hills. The weather held steady for us, with crisp autumn air and clear views making for ideal riding conditions. The route took us along some brilliant backroads with sweeping bends, quiet stretches, and just the right amount of twisties to keep things interesting. We stopped at the loch to take in the scenery, share a few laughs, and enjoy a well-earned coffee at the Roundhouse Café.
Loch Doon turned out to be more than just a scenic stop – it’s a place steeped in history and natural significance. Stretching over 9 km in length, the loch sits high in a remote glen and is home to the Arctic charr, a rare cold-water fish species that has survived here since the Ice Age. It’s one of the last places in southwest Scotland where these fish still breed, which is why the loch is designated a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI). While we didn’t get the chance to visit Loch Doon Castle, it’s worth noting that the 13th-century stronghold was once located on an island in the loch but was moved stone by stone to the shore in the 1930s to protect it from rising waters when the loch was dammed. It’s another layer in the rich history of the area, which also includes ancient artefacts and even a World War I aerial gunnery school nearby.
All in all, it was a brilliant day out – great roads, great company, and a destination well worth the ride. If you missed this one, be sure to catch the next.
Read more of what we have been up to in the items below
- Wemyss Bay Fly ByGreat turnout on Saturday for the Wemyss Bay Fly By – a circular ride out from West Coast Harley-Davidson! With plenty of bikes on the… Read more: Wemyss Bay Fly By
- Tri-Chapter Spring Event – EcclefechanWhat a day! Saturday 25th April saw a magnificent 50-strong Clyde Valley HOG contingent – riders and pillions alike – fire up their engines and… Read more: Tri-Chapter Spring Event – Ecclefechan
- Ask your Mum for money for Ice Cream…. we’re off to Porty!
On Sunday the sun finally shone. It was definitely on the cool side but not cold, and we assembled 27 bikes at the Showcase near… Read more: Ask your Mum for money for Ice Cream…. we’re off to Porty! - Moffat Rumble
On Saturday, we kicked off the riding season with an overnight trip to the Buccleuch Arms in Moffat, attracting nearly 40 Harleys and over 50 members. Despite changing weather, we arrived safely and enjoyed the hotel’s amenities. The night was filled with laughs and mischief, marking a successful start to the season. It was great too, to have both old and new members along for the fun. - Being Safe and Prepared on Ride Outs
With the introduction to the Committee last year, the position of Safety Officer, it is important as a chapter we take on board his recommendations… Read more: Being Safe and Prepared on Ride Outs - Bike Nights are Changing
For 2026 we are giving the weekly Bike Nights a shake-up. We would have liked to continue at Springfield Quay, as we finished up last… Read more: Bike Nights are Changing