Heart of Granite

Heart of Granite

Heart of Granite is a circular mountain race held on 3 April 2027 from Caldons old campsite in Glen Trool, Newton Stewart, DG8 6SU. The route covers 32 km (20 miles) with 1850 m of ascent and runs through the central Galloway hills.

The course heads up the valley to Lamachan, follows the ridge to Curleywee, then drops to the Axe Head stone checkpoint on the Southern Upland Way. Runners continue to Craiglee, cross the plateau and descend along the Rig of Jarkness, pass the Murder Hole and reach the base of the Old Grey Man of Merrick before climbing to the summit of Merrick. The final section descends to Bruce's Stone and returns along the valley to Caldons for the finish where hot vegetable soup and cakes are provided.

The event is marshalled and supported by Galloway Mountain Rescue, who staff checkpoints, record numbers and provide first aid cover. The race has a permit from Scottish Hill Runners and is run under SHR rules. Entry is restricted to people aged 18 or older. Entry fee is £25. Mandatory kit includes a map, compass, whistle, waterproof top with integral hood and taped seams, waterproof bottoms with taped seams, head torch, hat and gloves. All profits go to Galloway Mountain Rescue Team. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.