THE RESTLESS Gravel XTRI
Sat 22 Aug 2026 Cairndow, Argyll and Bute, UK

THE RESTLESS Gravel XTRI

Take on a wild Scottish adventure combining a cold-water loch swim, epic gravel ride and tough mountain run through the breathtaking landscape of the Arrochar Alps.

Enter now
  • Sat 22 Aug 2026
Carrick Castle, Cairndow > Lochgoilhead, Cairndow
THE RESTLESS Gravel XTRI

07:00

Age 18-100 on 31 Dec 2026

£250

  • 1.8 km lake swimming
  • 50 km gravel riding + 2000 m ascent
  • 25 km fell running + 1200 m ascent

Event overview

Follow the ancient drovers’ roads once used to herd Highland cattle and escape enemies — paths steeped in legend and mystery. Tales tell of headless beasts and dark spirits haunting these rugged routes, where drovers once paused near the summit to honour those lost to the elements or robbers. On misty nights, locals still whisper of ghostly footsteps and the lowing of phantom cattle echoing through the glens.

Gravel racing has exploded in recent years, and this is its most extreme evolution. Set in Scotland’s magnificent Arrochar Alps, this XTRI adventure is tougher, higher and more technical than anything before it. Dive into a loch so deep it’s used for submarine testing, ride 50km of challenging gravel terrain climbing nearly 2,000m — including the legendary Rest and Be Thankful — then take on a mountain run to the summit of Ben Donich for views that make every step worthwhile.

It's going to be horrible!

Highlights

  • Swim in a deep Scottish loch surrounded by wild scenery
  • Tackle a 50km gravel ride with 2,000m of ascent
  • Conquer the climb over the iconic Rest and Be Thankful
  • Summit Ben Donich on a demanding mountain trail run
  • Experience the raw beauty and legends of the Arrochar Alps
  • A truly Xtreme triathlon blending history, challenge and wilderness

  • Average fitness
  • Event expo
  • Event village
  • Gravel bike
  • Spectators
  • Swim hat provided
  • Wetsuit required

Timetable

Friday

  • 14:00-19:00 | Registration - Lochgoilhead Village Hall
  • 14:00-19:00 | Bikes must be racked - Carrick Castle
  • 19:00-20:00 | Race briefing - Lochgoilhead Village Hall

Saturday

  • 05:30 | First shuttle to boat club
  • 06:10 | Second shuttle to boat club
  • 06:00-06:45 | GPS collection - Carrick Castle Village Green
  • 12:30 | Buffet at the finish - Lochgoilhead Village Hall
  • 15:00 | Winners & T-shirt ceremony - Lochgoilhead Village Hall

Mandatory kit list

A mandatory kit list is provided.

Equipment

  • Full wetsuits are mandatory for the swim.
  • Non-webbed gloves and swim socks are permitted.
  • Neoprene hats and vests are recommended.
  • Race timing chip is to be worn for the duration of the entire race.
  • GPS Tracker & start number are to be always worn from T1 onwards (not during the Swim).
  • Start number belt must be always worn (and visible) on the back during bike segment and on the front during the run.
  • Bikes must be in good working order and UK road legal. This event is for gravel bikes only, mountain bikes are strictly forbidden.
  • Your bike must be fitted with drop bars and suitable tyres.
  • Helmets are compulsory whilst riding your bike.
  • There is mandatory equipment that must be carried by the athlete during the run section from T2 to the finish line.
  • There will be a compulsory check at registration.

  • Check points
  • Cut off time
  • First aid
  • Food stations
  • Headtorch required
  • Hilly
  • Marshals
  • Mass start
  • Mountainous
  • Outbound transport
  • Point to point
  • Traffic free
  • Water stations
  • Way markers

Cut offs

Cut off area + time from race start:

  • Swim Exit | 1 hour 10 minutes
  • Exit T2 to Run | 8 hours 15 minutes
  • Entry to Mountain CP | 10 hours 15 minutes
  • Exit from Mountain CP | 12 hours 45 minutes
  • Finish line | no cut off

  • Free parking
  • Mountains
  • Rural
  • Toilets

Event HQ

Lochgoilhead Village Hall
8 Hall Road
Lochgoilhead
Cairndow
Argyll and Bute
PA24 8AQ
UK

Camping

The nearest Camping and Caravan site is approximately 12 miles away: Glenloin House Caravan and Camping Site, Arrochar, Loch Long, Argyll G83 7AJ. If you intend to bring and stay in a Motorhome or Campervan, please ensure it is booked into an official campsite and respect local rules on parking.

Parking

Parking on race day morning will be available at the boat club (reserved for the event), and there are several places to park near the finish in the village of Lochgoilhead, with many car parks and plenty of on-street parking. Please be mindful of local parking restrictions and do not block any driveways or streets.

What's included

  • Chip timing
  • GPS tracking
  • Post-race meal
  • T-shirt

Sustainability

  • Bring your own cup

  • Age 18-100 on 31 Dec 2026
  • 250 places
  • Entries open
  • Enter online

Entry fees

Entry fee

£250.00

Enter now

Other Scotland events

Other UK events

4 steps to wellbeing
Sleep well

A good night's sleep is an essential foundation for a healthy lifestyle, effective training and weight control.

Train slow

Low-intensity training is easier for you, reduces the risk of injury and helps builds an efficient aerobic system.

Eat natural

Cut out sugar & junk food, reduce carbs, eat natural foods and train your body to burn fat for fuel.

Get outdoors

Fresh air, natural light and reconnecting with nature all help to improve mental and physical wellbeing.