best bike tour scotland

THE 10 BEST Scotland Bike Tours

Bike tours in scotland.

• Golf Courses
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• Up to 1 hour
• 1 to 4 hours
• 4 hours to 1 day
• 5.0 of 5 bubbles
• 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 3.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 2.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• Portobello Beach
• Arthur's Seat
• Innocent Railway Tunnel
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• The ranking of tours, activities, and experiences available on Tripadvisor is determined by several factors including the revenue generated by Tripadvisor from these bookings, the frequency of user clicks, and the volume and quality of customer reviews. Occasionally, newly listed offerings may be prioritized and appear higher in the list. The specific placement of these new listings may vary.

1. Edinburgh Sky to Sea Bike Tour with Choice of Manual or E-Bike

2. Edinburgh City Small-Group Bike Tour - Choice of E-Bike or Manual

3. Scottish Highland Bike Tour by Manual or E-bike

4. Award-winning circular cycle tour of Edinburgh!

5. Stunning Edinburgh E-bike Tour

6. Fun Bike Tour in Glasgow

7. Cycle To Loch Ness - Self Guided

8. Electric Bike Tour of Glasgow with Distillery Visit

9. E-bike tour of Palace, Parliament and Edinburgh's hidden castle

10. Glasgow City and Clyde Bridges Bike Tour

11. Inverness Bike Tour a 2 hours guided bike tour around the Waterways of Inverness

12. Ricky's gateway to the Highlands Tour

13. Self-Guided Audio-Described Cycling Tour around Oban

14. Family friendly cycle tour to Edinburgh's coast

15. Half Day Loch Katrine Explorer Ebike Tour

16. Forth Bridges and Edinburgh Suburbs by Manual or E-bike

17. Ezee Riders Foodie Electric Bike Tour North Berwick

18. Castle and Coastline Electric Bike Tour North Berwick

19. 2 Days Private Guided Bikepacking in Cairngorm National Park

20. Private Exploration of Cairngorm Munros by Mountain Bike

21. Family Bike Rides - Bike Hire & Guide for Off-road Cycling

22. Glen and Moorland Explorer : Bike Hire & Guide for Off-road Cycling

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Stunning Outdoors

Best cycling routes in Scotland – our top 13 cycling trips!

Cycling · Scotland

Cycling is probably our second best outdoor activity after hiking/mountain walking. I know you wouldn’t know that browsing our blog but the reason for that is the fact that the blog was born only when we took a career break for travelling in a self-converted van. Before that we used to spend a lot of time on bikes and have done hundreds of kilometres across Scotland. We hope to cycle more again soon.

We are not crazy road cyclist and do not wear these super-sporty lycra outfits, we don’t pretend to be pros, but certainly we do love a good ride! We ride Specialized hybrid bikes, which are brilliant for our way of cycling, which could be described as “avoid busy roads and cycle on the unpaved, off-road tracks whenever possible”.

We strongly believe that everyone can enjoy cycling, that you do not need an expensive bike but what you do need is passion and love for an adventure.

Cycling allowed us to discover many lovely villages around Edinburgh and further away.  For us personally, cycling is not about the speed, it’s more about enjoying slower pace of travel and enjoying the surroundings, with many stops to take in beauty of places.

‘helmet hairstyle’

Ela developed a special hair style (see left) which is a result of using a helmet, after most rides she ends up with funky hair! I am sure most of you, keen cyclists are well familiar with the ‘helmet hair’ style!

Since cycling is a more and more popular way of spending free time, we thought it would  be a great idea to share with you some of our best cycling routes across Scotland,  what we loved about them and why they’re worth your attention!

Which one would be your pick? (let us know in comments!!)

For navigation we usually use either Google Maps or mobile app Mape.me (works offline, all trails and smallest paths marked!)

THE BEST CYCLING ROUTES IN SCOTLAND – OUR TOP 13 CYCLING TRIPS IN SCOTLAND!

1. Pitlochry to Loch Rannoch and back 2. Isle of Bute 3. Isle of Arran 4. Killin, Glen Lochay and Glen Lyon 5. Loch Leven Heritage Trail 6. Edinburgh to North Berwick and back 7. The Great East Lothian Loop 8. The Great Loop around Edinburgh incl Pentland Hills and Musselburgh 9. The Hebridean Way 10. Edinburgh to South Queensferry via Dalmeny estate 11. Edinburgh to Blackness Castle 12. Loch Katrine and Aberfoyle circular 13. Isle of Islay

Cycling from Pitlochry to Loch Rannoch

Pitlochry to Loch Rannoch (and back)

Length 68 km. Elevation gain 852 metres. Approximate time 5.5 hours Start/finish point Pitlochry

This route is ideal for cyclists who relay on public transport, as Pitlochry is on main north-south railway route  and therefore easily reachable without a car! Please keep in mind, thou, that bike spaces are very limited on Scottish trains and advance booking is essential !

What we loved about cycling from Pitlochry to Loch Rannoch : beautiful surroundings, very little traffic, famous Scottish landmarks along the way (Queen’s View, historic Tummel Bridge, sea-like Loch Rannoch), we also enjoyed the quiet villages along the way. We loved the sense of exploration, especially on our way back, when we used an alternative route to Pitlochry. The company of other friendly and smiling cyclists was a bonus!

Route description: Having arrived to the charming town of Pitlochry (either by train or by car) head north along road A924 (towards Killiecrankie). It’s a minor road with local traffic only. Initially a A924, it crosses under A9 and changes into B8019 as it passess Faskally Forest. Follow this road for a couple of kilometres, until a Garry Bridge (turn left there), the road is still marked as B8019. Cross the bridge and immediately you’ll face a very quiet road with a sequence of small ups and downs, with sharp turns. In no time you’ll pass ‘Queen’s view’ a viewpoint over Loch Tummel, a café and visitors centre. From this iconic point you’ll see the full length of Loch Tummel with triangular silhouette of Schiechallion mountain in the distance. Past Queen’s view the road becomes virtually traffic free, and runs west along loch’s northern shore. This section is one of the nicest, with a lot of downhill. The ride along the shores of Loch Tummel is mostly flat and in an open space, which could be a downside on a windy day! Cycle up to Tummel Bridge village and continue straight to Kinloch Rannoch a village at the eastern end of iconic Scottish Loch Rannoch. It’s a pleasant ride thru serene scenery with some woodlands. You can continue further along Loch Rannoch, however this adds another 23 miles to the route, which is a considerable distance! We decided to skip this additional circular section around the sea-like Loch Rannoch and having rested and refreshed ourselves in the village café we cycled back to Tummel Bridge. For those who like to explore more and don’t enjoy cycling ‘there and back’ the same way we have great news! There is an alternative return way to Pitlochry from Tummel Bridge! Cross the bridge at western end of Loch Tummel and follow small road B847. Initially you’ll face a big hill, we conquered it much easier than we anticipated! Almost at the top of the hill you’ll come to a small single track road signposted to Foss, turn left there and follow this local road along southern shores of Loch Tummel. Luckily, it’s mostly down the hill and runs thru very peaceful and quiet area. Past Loch Tummel follow the river, which unfortunately will cost a lot of sweat due to several uphill sections. As the road quality deteriorates you’ll end up negotiating muddy sections with potholes. Nearing Pitlochry cycle under main road A9 and follow trails along River Tummel, to the dam, where you’ll cross back to centre of Pitlochry.

Cycling from Pitlochry to Loch Rannoch, map. The above map is only to give you the general idea about the route. Please ensure to track our route on Google Maps (or your favourite navigation app) before heading out!

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explore Isle of Bute by bike

Isle of Bute 

Length : 55 km. Elevation gain 499 metres. Approximate tim e 5 hours. Start/finish point Rothesay

Bute is a peanut-shaped island located in proximity to Glasgow, conveniently it’s easily reachable by frequent ferry service from Wemyss Bay . Crossing time less than 1 hour. Getting to the ferry terminal is just as easy by car (large car park next to the harbour) as it is by public transport (train from Glasgow)

What we loved about exploring Bute by bike? We believe that Bute is a perfect cycling destination!! It’s a small island easily explored by bike, with very little traffic (mostly local and farm traffic), plenty of off-road trails and tracks, cycling trails are signposted. What is more, Isle of Bute is well off the main tourist routes in Scotland, hence tourist traffic is very limited but you’re likely to meet dozens of other cyclists! The island also offers several interesting outdoor locations to visit, the route we described below includes them all (such as Mount Stuart, Ettrick Bay, Kames castle, Dunagoil Bay and fort)

Having arrived to Rothesay you may be surprised by its architecture, with some fine Victorian villas, a memory of its past splendid – back in the day Bute was one of the most popular holiday destinations. Another interesting spot in Rothesay town is the Victorian public toilet block , just at the harbour. What a unique monument!

Route decription: We recommend discovering the southern end of the island first, hence follow the road A844 from Rothesay towards Ascog, and further to Kerrycroy. It’s a nice scenic ride along the sea shore, over a quiet minor road. Once you reach Kerrycroy look out for large iron gate (at the far end), your entrance to  Mount Stuart mansion grounds. Follow forest tracks to the mansion, why not explore its gardens and surroundings before continuing further. Once you’ve rested at Mount Stuart, follow the woodland tracks ahead to join the very small road (Bruchag Road); it’s D-shaped, follow the ‘D’ to Stravanan junction, then head south to charming Kilchattan Bay, with a quiet village at the end of the road. Return to Stravanan junction and set to explore the island’s western shores, follow road A844. Why not make a small detour to Dunagoil Bay to check out a unique basalt hill, the volcanic columns exposed to the world. Retrace your way to the main road A844. Pass Bute Golf Club and cycle on to Ambrismore. Turn left to continue along road A844, and you’ll face a longish climb over to the viewpoint, a perfect spot for a break, with benches. Overlooking  Scalpsie Bay, with a bit of luck you’ll be able to spot seals playing in the shallow waters beneath you. Further, pedal on along A844 to a T junction with road B878, turn left to reach Straad and Ettrick Bay with a beautiful sandy beach and a café. The last section of the ride before returning to Rothesay is a quiet road  to Port Bannatyne with  historical Kames Castle and cottages. Less than a mile further you’ll pass Ardbeg and only a couple of minutes later you’ll be back at Rothesay.

We omitted the northernmost part of Bute, as visiting Rhubodah involved cycling in and out the very same route, which we’re not very found of, also we wanted to make sure to catch the ferry back to  mainland.

To sum up, we believe that Isle of Bute offers one of the greates cycling experiences in Scotland; with many locations and spots along the way to keep the trip interesting and rewarding. It’s easily accessible and the day spent on Bute will be the one to remember! Therefore, it won’t come a surprise that the island is very popular amongst local cyclists and you’re likely to meet many other keen bike enthusiasts, most of them Glaswegian.

exploring Isle of Bute by bike. The above map is only to give you the general idea about the route. Please ensure to track our route on Google Maps (or your favourite navigation app) before heading out!

views and landmarks along the northern loop of Arran

Isle of Arran (especially the northern loop)

Length : 60 km. Elevation gain 570 metres. Approximate time 5-7 hours. Start/finish point Brodick or Shiskine

Another Scottish island perfect for a cycling trip is Arran. Situated only a short distance from Glasgow, the island is within easy reach by car as well as by public transport (regular train service to ferry harbour in Ardrossan ). Arran is very popular with Scottish cyclists who usually come for a day trip, most of them arrive to the island by first morning ferry and cross back to mainland by last ferry. If you consider doing the same, please keep in mind that Scottish trains offer very limited bike space and you must book the journey (especially a bike space) in advance.

Most cyclists opt for the full Arran circle, which is a very strenuous riding day with significant elevation gain (distance 110 km, elevation gain 1000 metres, approximate time 8-9 hours. Start and finish Brodick harbour).

Isle of Arran by bike. Full circle (red) and the northern loop (blue) The above map is only to give you the general idea about the routes. Please ensure to track our route on Google Maps (or your favourite navigation app) before heading out!

Arran is very likely to surprise you, despite the main roads and trails encircling it along the coast you’ll find that the island is quite hilly and many ascents will leave you literary breathless. Arran is often referred to as ‘ Scotland in miniature’ , therefore expect to discover some wild hills and deep long glens, spectacular coastal scenery, ancient landmarks… It’s a first class cycling destination, local traffic is adjusted to increasing number of visitors on bikes, with speed limit 30 mph on all roads . Locals are used to large number of bikes on their road and drive accordingly, at least this was our experience.

What we loved about cycling in Arran: We thoroughly enjoyed exploring northern half of Arran by bike hence we strongly encourage you to follow and get to know the island by bike, as well as spend more than just 1 day on Arran, maybe add a hike or two to your itinerary. But, let’s go back to the Arran cycling trip…

Route description: Having arrived to Brodick you’ll have to pick your route, if you’re for a ‘full circle’ follow road A841 south, to Lamlash, and further tick off the southern end of the island. If the ‘northern Arran’ sounds more up your street, follow the ‘string road’ B880 to Shiskine (sorry, you’ll face a long steep climb first). The route we’re describing below starts and finishes at the campsite near Shiskine, which we made our base for Arran adventure.

The ‘string road’ cuts Arran in half, and runs thru a glen between the northern and southern part of the island. Its western end is much gentler than eastern part (nearer Brodick), it was quite OK to cycle even for ‘average fitness guys’ like us.

Once you get to the western side of Arran join main road A847 at Torbeg (use shortcut) or Blackwaterfoot, We used the shortcut between Tarrnacraig and Machrie, this small road is pretty much unused and runs across fields and blooming meadows, we especially enjoyed the smell of wildflowers and newly grown bracken warmed by the sun. This section is almost flat.

Soon after joining A841 you’ll pass Marchie Moor (before Tormore) with ancient standing stones. This site is well worth a visit! Ensure to include the stones in your trip plan!

The road following north west shores of Arran is mostly flat, with only a couple of small ascents all the way to Lochranza. Lochranza itself is worth a mention, due to its amazing location at a small bay, and a wee distillery. Also, this village marks the end of easy riding for the timebeing, as directly past Lochranza Golf begins the most serious ascent of the trip. It’s a long ride up, a single hill with ascent of almost 200 metres, but the bright side is – once you top this hill it’s only a downhill ride to Brodick.

The next location worth your visit is Corrie sea shore. Perfect to have a break! Look out for Corrie’s unique rock features and formations along the coast!

Cycle down to Brodick, passing a small castle and gardens along the way.

Depending whereabout you started either finish the trip at Brodick harbour or continue further to your ‘base’. Based on our own experience, we’re sure you’ll be exhausted but also very happy to have cycled in Arran! For us, personally, Arran was the very place that inspired us to seek other stunning cycling routes in Scotland (some of them listed in this article)!

If, by any chance, you feel that the Arran cycling trip seems too much, you should definitely set your eyes on Isle of Bute which is a much easier ride, but still very rewarding with views and landmarks!

cycling from Killin to Glen Lochay and Glen Lyon

Killin, Glen Lochay and Glen Lyon

Length : 55 km. Elevation gain 780 metres. Approximate time 6-7 hours. Start/finish point Killin at Loch Tay

What we loved about cycling From Killin to Glen Lochay and Glen Lyon: One of the most scenic bike rides we discovered in Scotland was a circular route near Loch Tay! It was as strenuous as it was rewarding with views! Starting in a charming village Killin, which sadly is not along any train route, which makes reaching Killin with bike by public transport virtually impossible. Once you reach Killin, park your car at one of the visitors car parks.

Route description: From Killin follow the main road A827  north (signposted to Kenmore at the other end of Loch Tay). Pass Coach House Hotel, and a campsite. Just past the campsite you’ll see a brown signpost to Morlanich Longhouse, turn left there. It’s a narrow minor road, you’re very unlikely to encounter any traffic at all. Follow this road to the very end, it runs along River Lochay (in fact you’re just cycling along glen Lochay), very soon after a small bridge over the river, the road will pass a mini power station and join another minor road. Turn left there, and cycle along this single track road (being on a bike you can confidently ignore the ‘no thru road’ signs). It’s a pleasant section, partially shaded by old trees, still following River Lochay. Once you come to an open space you’ll finally see more of Glen Lochay itself. Having arrived to Kenknock the paved road ends (near  a gate) and continues as a rough track. Don’t follow it any further. There, at Kenknock you’ll leave the main road and begin the merciless climb over mountain ridge to Glen Lyon (Pubil). Just before the gate, there is a short stretch of paved track going uphill (to the right), this is the way forward! Cross the tall gate (yes, it’s ok, being a cyclist) and climb up the winding track. It’s a hard call, I ended up pushing the bike initially. Higher up the gradient decreaes, and cycling is easier once again. Soon you’ll reach the highest point with views to both glens, Lochay and Lyon. Be careful when cycling down to Loch Lyon and Pubil, some sections of the road are in rather bad condition. Next several kilometres, past Pubil, are a nice downhill ride along evergreen beautiful Glen Lyon, very picturesque indeed. Further down the glen you’ll come across brief and gentle uphill sections, but most probably no road traffic at all, apart from other cyclists and maybe walkers.

Some 8-10 km further you’ll arrive to Bridge of Balgrie. Look out for the bridge (on the right) and cross it, this road is the best return way over the mountain range to Loch Tay and Killin. Initially a gentle ascent becomes steeper as you climb up between the two most iconic mountains in the area Ben Lawers and Meall Nan Tarmachan . It is, by no means, as steep as the previous major ascent, between the glens. As you cycle past the lake Lochan na Lairige, the road levels and before you know it, you’ll be cycling downhill towards Loch Tay and main road. Having reached A827 turn right to Killin (be aware that the traffic along Loch Tay can be quite busy).

We strongly encourage you to enjoy refreshments in Killin as well as walking to see the local main attraction Falls of Dochart (along main road at the western end of Killin).

route Killin-Glen Lochay – Glen Lyon -Killin map (Strava). The above map is only to give you the general idea about the route. Please ensure to track our route on Google Maps (or your favourite navigation app) before heading out!

cycling along Loch Leven Heritage Trail in Fife

Loch Leven Heritage Trail

Length : 20 km. Elevation gain: 15 metres, almost perfectly flat. Approximate time 2 hours. Start/finish point Kinross Ferry Landing.

What we loved about cycling  Loch Leven Heritage Trail : This easy cycling route encircles Loch Leven, the largest lake in Fife, north of Edinburgh. The trail runs thru tranquil surroundings, we enjoyed the views as well as the cycling experience itself, the route is easy and very pleasant to pedal on. 80% of the route is in the open space, running among fields and along loch shore, we recommend picking a windless day for your trip, to improve the experience.

Sadly, it’s impossible to get to Loch Leven by train, so the best and easiest way of getting to the start point is to drive.

Route description : Park your car at the large car park near Loch Leven National Nature Reserve Office and get ready for a nice and easy ride around the loch! As the route follows the well known Heritage Trail, navigation is very straight forward, the trail is marked and signposted; also it’s maintained and in good condition, mostly forest paths or gravelled, however some sections may not be suitable for road bikes.

Along the way you’ll cycle thru woodland, marshland, at lakeside, thru fields. Loch Leven is a well-loved recreational spot for local communities, so it may get busy with walkers, kids and dogs during sunny weekend days. Be prepared to share the trail with the others! There are many picnic spots and benches along the trail, finding a beauty spot with a view to have a rest is very straightforward!

Loch Leven Heritage Trail. The above map is only to give you the general idea about the route. Please ensure to track our route on Google Maps (or your favourite navigation app) before heading out!

cycling in East Lothian, from Edinburgh to North Berwick

Edinburgh to North Berwick (and back)

Length : 90 km. Elevation gain : 390 metres. Approximate tim e 6-7 hours. Start/finish point: Portobello Beach Edinburgh

This lengthy route is one of my summer favourites and I cycled it numerous times starting from Cramond Beach at the other end of city, where I lived. I mentioned Portobello Beach in Edinburgh as a starting point because it’s easy to locate and the well signposted web of Edinburgh cycling trails will take you there in no time, but in fact you can start anywhere you like.

What we love about cycling from Edinburgh to North Berwick: the route includes a lot of traffic free roads and trails, can be shortened or extended, depending on the mood. Amazingly, the route follows the beautiful coast of East Lothian region, and it’s really easy to alter it and visit a beach along the way. The web of rural roads in East Lothian provide almost endless opportunities of cycling on very quiet roads, undisturbed, and close to nature!

Route description :  First follow the signposts to Portobello Beach, cycle along the promenade (signposted to Musselburgh), once you reach Musselburgh harbour, follow the shore (cycle along a narrow sandy beach) till you reach river Esk. To cross the river, use one of the two bridges between New Street and Eskside East, once you cross the bridge turn left and follow the road until its end at the large grassy open space, locally called ‘the lagoons’. Follow the gravel track along the shore to pass the northern edge of the lagoons (it’s a part of John Muir Way) till you reach a small car park. Turn left at the car park to get to the main road. Unfortunately, you will have to cycle along the main road (B1348) all the way pass Prestonpans to Cockenzie. Just as you reach Cockenzie you can leave the main road and continue thru quiet neighbourhood (Cockenzie High Street, and further along the promenade over the beach). Finally you’ll have to rejoin the main road near the Holiday Village in Seton Sands. Follow this road to Longniddrie Bents beach, and further to Aberlady village. I haven’t yet figured out how to cycle this section on small traffic free roads or trails, and the part between the lagoons and Aberlady bay is the busiest of the day. Luckily, as Aberlady village is surrounded by fields and woodlands, you can leave the main road A198 and cycle along narrow local, rural roads between fields, which are virtually traffic free. I recommend following A198 to Aberlady Bay, and turning right at the nearest junction, past Luffness Castle. Then, take second left to West Fenton. The next location along the way is Kingston, where you’ll join another road B1347 directly to North Berwick.

How to return from North Berwick to Edinburgh: you’ve got a couple of options. There’s an hourly train service, or you can cycle back along the main road A198 all the way to Aberlady and further ahead to the lagoons and  Portobello, or alternatively you can retrace your route.

cycling from Edinburgh to North Berwick. The above map is only to give you the general idea about the route. Please ensure to track our route on Google Maps (or your favourite navigation app) before heading out!

exploring East Lothian region by bike

The Great East Lothian Loop, incl Haddington and North Berwick

Length : 100 km. Elevation gain : 456 metres. Approximate time 6-7 hours. Start/finish point: Portobello Beach Edinburgh

This ultimate East Lothian loop route can be started at any point in Edinburgh or along the way, I mentioned Portobello Beach simply because it’s easy to locate and get to from most of Edinburgh.

What we enjoyed the most along the Great East Lothian Loop: quiet and traffic free roads, the feeling of freedom to pick roads and trails whichever we felt suited us best, visiting historic villages along the way, refreshments at Haddington. The sense of exploration and achievement on completion!

The route follows minor roads, cycle paths and old railway trails.

Route description: Initial section follows the sea shore along Portobello, Musselburgh and Prestonpans (similarly to Edinburgh to North Berwick route, above). However, once you reach Longniddrie, keep along the railway tracks, pass the train station and soon you’ll see a passage on your right, the beginning of Longniddrie Railway Walk. Follow this unpaved track all the way to Haddington (slightly uphill ride). This charming small market town offers many cafes and restaurants, generally speaking we recommend having a wee wander. To continue further follow Market Street, pass Aldi, and continue further along Whittingehame Drive, a quiet minor road to Traprain. At Traprain turn left, pass Equestrian Sports Centre  and pedal under A1 to East Linton. How to get to North Berwick, the next destination along the way? We recommend cycling thru East Fortune and Kingston (as these roads are quieter than Whitekirk and Auldhame route). From North Berwick you can  either take a train back to Edinburgh (hourly service) or cycle back via Dirleton, Gullane, Aberlady to Longniddrie (and retrace your route back). Or alternarively cycling back to Kingston and finding your way in a web of rural roads between Kingston and Aberlady (nice and almost traffic free)

Another option is skipping North Berwick altogether and returning towards Edinburgh from Kingston, but you’ll probably find that North Berwick was well worth a visit, once you’re there.

East Lothian region offers great cycling routes, traffic free trails, the rural roads are quiet and with little car traffic. If you don’t like the way you’re on- there’s always a possibility to take another route, as the rural road web of East Lothian is very dense. Almost unlimited opportunities! We especially like discovering small villages along the way, some of them are unique or rich in history!

This route can be extended all the way to Dunbar (from East Linton), cycling along A199, however before adding extra miles to Dunbar I would double check whether the train service is running OK. Once, in the past, we cycled to Dunbar with a plan of taking a train back to Edinburgh, but the service was disrupted and we ended up pedalling additional miles to North Berwick just to catch a train back to Edinburgh…

exploring East Lothian by bike. The above map is only to give you the general idea about the route. Please ensure to track our route on Google Maps (or your favourite navigation app) before heading out!

completing the great loop around Edinburgh

The Great Loop around Edinburgh incl Pentland Hills and Musselburgh

Length : 70 km. Elevation gain : 723 metres. Approximate time 6-7 hours. Start/finish point: Cramond Beach/village Edinburgh

What we loved about cycling around Edinburgh: This is an ultimate circular cycling route around Edinburgh which will see you explore Edinburgh’s cycling paths, the two beaches (Portobello and Cramond), Pentland Hills as well as suburbs (Dalkeith, Musselburgh). This route is not straightforward and requires a lot of navigating, jumping between paths and roads, sometimes improvising. It’s essential to have some kind of navigation tool on you while completing this one! We greatly enjoyed the challenge of this route, its length and a significant elevation gain, what a fantastic training route indeed! Our favourite sections of this loop are crossing Pentland Hills (Harlaw to Flotterstone, oh a bit of excitement and a lot of work out! Best suitable for mountain bikes!) and relaxed Auchedinny to Dalkeith trail.

Route description: Starting at Cramond village follow Cramond Glebe Road and Whitehouse Road to Barnton junction where you can either cycle on the pavement along busy Maybury Road or be creative and explore Cammo Estate (Cammo Road and Cammo Walk) to come to Maybury Junction. Pass Grosvenor Casino and follow main road towards Gogar Roundabout (don’t join the carriageway, but stay on pavement/cycle path). Cycle down to Edinburgh Gateway station and use underpass to get to South Gyle, pass shopping centre and follow signposts to Heriot Watt University in Riccarton. Follow Riccarton Mains Road up the hill and join A70 to Balerno. Set your navigation to Harlaw, your starting point to cross Pentland Hills.

From Harlaw Car Park follow signposts to Glencorse, it’s a gentle uphill ride at first, over a well made path, however approximately half way the path becomes eroded and unsuitable for road bikes, great care is required on the downhill section to Glencorse Reservoir. Not only the path is rough, but also popular with walkers. Once at the reservoir turn left and follow the paved road to Flotterstone car park and inn. Soon you’ll come to busy A702; follow it right, uphill for about 1 km and take first left towards Auchendinny. Join the traffic free cycling trail to Rosewell, then a cycling path to Dalkeith. Some sections will require following local roads and navigation can be tricky. Most of cycling trails are signposted, try to stick to them as much as possible. In Dalkeith follow the trail towards Musselburgh and you’ll arrive to the seaside. It’s a long ride back to Cramond village, via Portobello and the dense web of Edinburgh’s old railway paths. Despite the cycling paths being well signposted, you’ll have to know where exactly you want to end up and which way to get there. Therefore we mentioned that this great Edinburgh loop required a lot of navigating and planning in advance, especially if you want to focus on traffic free sections as much as possible. This route may require you to improvise occasionally or use navigation (to combine directions as per Google Maps with signposts along cycling trails).

the ultimate Edinburgh loop map (Strava). The above map is only to give you the general idea about the route. Please ensure to track our route on Google Maps (or your favourite navigation app) before heading out!

cycling the Hebridean Way in Outer Hebrides islands

The Hebridean Way

Length : 300 km. Total Elevation gain : 723 metres. Approximate time 5 days. Start point: Vatersay Finish: Butt of Lewis

What we loved about cycling the Hebridean Way: The Hebridean Way is by far the most iconic cycling route in Scotland. Why should you consider completing it? Along the way you’ll explore some of the most spectacular scenery and remote Scottish locations. The Hebridean Way stretches along the unique Outer Hebrides archipelago in Northern Scotland, and visits 10 islands. Although it mostly follows local roads, the traffic is close to none (90% of the time). Scenic beaches, landmarks, moorlands and quiet villages you’ll visit along the way will make you want to return to the islands for further exploration. Most Hebridean islands are connected by causeways, with only 2 ferry crossings necessary between them. A  lot of the 300km way is flat or flat-ish, two most strenuous sections are vicinity of Clisham (archipelago’s highest mountain!) and northern Lewis island, towards the end of the route (rolling hills). Accommodation wise you can easily pick your favourite style, ranging from wild camping to hotels with spa. For some, exploring the Outer Hebrides by bike could be an adventure of a lifetime! The islands are beautiful and unspolit.

Cycling trip to Outer Hebrides requires some planning, especially if you consider getting there with your bike by public transport. It is essential to book the train journey to Oban (where you take a ferry to Barra at the southern end of the islands) and well plan ahead the return journey from Ullapool. Ferry connections between Scottish mainland and the islands are regular and cyclists are treated the same way as pedestrians (pretty much unlimited spaces).

To get to Vatersay, the beginning of the Hebridean Way take the Oban-Castlebay ferry, to return to the mainland sail Stornoway –Ullapool. Please keep in mind that Ullapool is way off railway route and the nearest station is Garve, so you may want to arrange private transfer between Ullapool and train stations in Garve or Inverness.

Follow this link to find details, help planning the trip and cycling map for each island.

Along the coastal cycling route from Edinburgh to South Queensferry via Dalmeny Estate

Edinburgh to South Queensferry via Dalmeny Estate

Length : 20 km (there and back) Elevation gain: 215 metres. Approximate time 1.5-2 hours (each way). Start point: Cramond Village or Cramond Brig

What we loved about cycling from Edinburgh to South Queensferry : The linear route from Cramond village to south Queensferry is very popular with leisure cyclists, we have enjoyed it countless times (as it was in our local area) and are happy to recommend it to others! Exploring the Dalmeny Estate by bike is a pleasure, Firstly it’s a beautiful park with old trees, wildlife and livestock, offering the fresh smell of meadows in bloom, and quiet sea shore tracks. Lovely, relaxing ride over well made tracks and paved access roads in peaceful surroundings!

Route description : The best starting point is Cramond Brig (and old stone bridge on river Almond, below the pub), but I guess that Edinburgers will be more familiar with Cramond village location, although the brig can be easily found on navigation too.  Starting at the village makes the route just a bit longer and means either following Whitehouse Road, or climbing hundreds of steps along river Almond if one wanted to avoid the road. Anyway, the first landmark along the way is an old Cramond Brig. Up to this point you can follow a signposted cycling route. Once at the bridge continue up the hill only to pass the pub’s car park and join a gravelled track to Dalmeny Estate and House (to the right at the cottage). The track is wide and gently rises at first, only to turn into a nice downhill past the farm. Follow the track towards the sea shore, mind walkers and dogs thou! We recommend taking the first left past the farms. It’s a steep paved uphill road. This hill fully deserves its nickname ‘hill of tears’, it’s a hard climb, I feel like a hero every time I manage to cycle up (time after time it is just as hard as the first attempt). It’s not a long ascent therefore pushing the bike up takes only a couple of minutes. At the top continue to the junction with another paved road and turn right to enjoy an incredibly long downhill ride. Follow the signs to Dalmeny House and South Queensferry. Very soon you’ll be passing a magnificent Dalmeny House and a park, with access to the sea shore. There’s a log bench at the far end, near the beach, a great spot to have a break and enjoy the panorama of Edinburgh in the distance. Return to the paved road and continue to the right, thru a woodland towards Queensferry. Ignore all turns and junctions, keep cycling ahead, pass Barnbougle Castle (private). Follow the sea shore till a small hill with viewpoint to sandy Peatdraught Bay, where the trail changes direction and runs directly to Forth Bridge and South Queensferry. Return to Edinburgh the same way (although there are numerous country tracks and roads in the area, retracing your way is the easiest).

Why this route made it to the list of our favourite cycling routes in Scotland? First of all it’s easily accessible from Edinburgh, it’s traffic free (or can be as much traffic free as you like), it offers peaceful experience and is partially sheltered from the wind, a lot of the route is flat or near-flat, ending up in Queensferry allows getting refreshments or visiting a café, going for lunch etc. Also, it’s very likely you’ll spot local wildlife along the way, which always is a bonus! We feel that cycling thru Dalmeny Estate to South Queensferry is much easier than walking (surely, the estate is just as nice to walk as it is for cycling, but going there and back is a considerate distance and could be too much to walk).

Keep in mind that the main Edinburgh to Queensferry cycling route follows busy A90 roadside (busy and noisy) but it’s much more pleasant to get there thru Dalmeny Estate (all trails and tracks of the Estate are marked on Google Maps, so it’s easy to navigate).

Cramond Brig to South Queensferry cycling route. The above map is only to give you the general idea about the route. Please ensure to track our route on Google Maps (or your favourite navigation app) before heading out!

best cycling routes in scotland

Edinburgh to Blackness Castle

Length : 60 km (there and back) Elevation gain: 450 metres. Approximate tim e 4-5 hours Start point: Cramond Village or Cramond Brig

What we loved about cycling from Edinburgh to Blackness Castle : scenic, quiet tracks in Dalmeny Estate, visiting the UNESCO site of Forth Bridge in South Queensferry along the way, exploration of Hopetoun House area, rural roads and forest tracks. Very peaceful scenery, with historic castle-like bouldings: Dalmeny House and Hopetoun House, as well as Blackness castle! We especially recommend having a wee wander in Abercorn, explore church grounds and the old graveyard.

Route description: The most convenient starting point for this lengthy route is Cramond Brig or village. The route to Blackness Castle passes South Queensferry, hence we recommend cycling to Queensferry as per route described above, as this is the safest, quietest and nicest trail, above all, it’s traffic free! Once you arrive to South Queensferry follow the seaside road, pass the bridges. Follow signposts to Port Edgar Marina and further to Hopetoun House. Having arrived to Hopetoun House you can explore its grounds or pass the estate and gardens by cycling from Society (along the sea) towards Abercorn. At Abercorn we recommend visiting the old church and graveyard before heading further to Blackness along the woodland trail. It’s a pleasant ride, sheltered from the wind and will take you to Blackness Castle within minutes!

To return to Edinburgh we recommend retracing your way back to South Queensferry and Dalmeny Estate, Cramond Brig. If you feel adventurous, like we did, you can continue to Linlithgow and return to Edinburgh along the track at the canal (changing to ‘roads’ at Winchburgh, Kirkliston, and return to traffic free tracks at Craigiehall and Cramond Brig), however this involved a lot of route finding!

Why should you cycle to Blackness Castle? First of all it’s a nice wee castle overlooking the Firth of Forth, the route is partially marked and traffic free most of the way. We can easily picture ourselves taking this one again, exploring Hopetoun House Estate as well as Dalmeny Estate by bike is such a pleasure!

Edinburgh to South Queensferry

South Queensferry to Blackness Castle via Hopetoun House and Abercorn. The above maps are only to give you the general idea about the route. Please ensure to track our route on Google Maps (or your favourite navigation app) before heading out!

along Aberfoyle -Loch Kartin loop

Loch Katrine and Aberfoyle circular route

Length : 54 km Elevation gain: 456 metres. Approximate time 6 hours. Start/finish point: Aberfoyle (Trossachs)

What we loved bout cycling in The Trossachs : This circular route is perfect if you’re keen to explore some of the most beautiful corners of The Trossachs region in Scotland. Conveniently, starting and finishing in Aberfoyle village where you can easily enjoy refreshments in its numerous cafes after you’ve completed the ride. The trail along Loch Katrine is especially scenic, we loved the view to still mirror-like waters and reflection of mountains! The sense of remoteness adds to the experience!

The route we’re recommending is straightforward and follows traffic free tracks and ‘local access only’ roads for most of the way. The initial section involves a steep climb to Duke Pass (but we’ll tell you how to pass this strenuous section on traffic free forest tracks rather than going along main road A821. Road or not, you still have to climb the same height, there’s no way around it, Duke Pass is the highest point of this cycling route.

Route description: From Aberfoyle village centre follow road A821 signposted to Callander, but only for approximately 300 metres, as very soon you’ll see a cycling trail to your right (watch out for ‘bike shaped’ blue barrier), take the trail. At first it rises gently thru the woodland, but soon becomes steeper. After about 500 metres it meets a forest track, follow it uphill, to the left. There is a dense web of forest tracks in the area, all suitable for cycling, so how not to get lost? You can set your navigation to Lochan Reoidhte which is where you’ll rejoin main road A821 (at Duke Pass). If not for the elevation gain, you’ll most likely find these forest tracks an incredibly enjoyable ride!

Since you rejoin A821 follow it downhill, pass Loch Achray and at its top turn left, to Loch Katrine. It’s a small road which soon arrives to a large car park and visitors centre at the southern end of Loch Katrine, at the foot of famous Ben A’an . Pedal on towards the loch and continue on a paved track along the shore. This road is local access only to a couple of farms located further over the loch, there won’t be any traffic apart from walkers and fellow cyclists. The trail runs along eastern and northern shores of Loch Katrine, pretty much up and down all the time. It’s a very enjoyable ride with stunning views over the loch and to nearest mountains, Ben A’an, and Ben Venue across the water, but it’s not particularly easy, due to elevation changes.

Despite really enjoying the ride along Loch Katrine, we felt it was never ending, and it took us ages  and a lot of effort to reach its other end (near Glengyle). We followed it round to the boat pier in Stronachlachar, and further we joined road B829, which took us all the way back to Aberfoyle (mostly downhill).

Along this circular route you’ll visit a couple of beautiful lochs and lochans, quiet rural locations,  maybe even spot wildlife, you’ll also be challenged a few times! The scenery along Loch Katrine is amazing, feels very remote and the roads and tracks are virtually traffic free. Don’t hesitate, plan your cycling trip in The Trossachs!

Aberfoyle and Loch Katrine cycling route.The above map is only to give you the general idea about the route. Please ensure to track our route on Google Maps (or your favourite navigation app) before heading out!

Exploring Islay by bike: The 3 Distilleries Route, and Machir Bay off Kilchoman

Isle of Islay

As you’ve probably figured out already, we are great fans of exploring Scottish islands by bike. Indeed, we are, therefore let us recommend another island for a cycling exploration, our latest discovery! Islay may not be the best known island and it is rather remote, however, the landscape and amount of traffic make it perfect for cycling trip! Not only the local roads are rather quiet (with exception of to/from ferry traffic), but the gentle rolling hills are relatively easy to conquer by bike! The island has very peaceful and relaxed atmosphere, locals are friendly and used to cyclists on the roads. Although Islay offers dozens of perfect tracks and quiet roads, we especially liked three routes and recommend them below.

Firstly, the ‘3 Distilleries Trail’, a linear 6 km pathway (dedicated off road cycling path, only approximately 100 metres ridden on the minor road). The route runs from Port Ellen and follows road A846 (signposted to Ardbeg); along the way you’ll visit the 3 most famous distilleries of Islay: Laphroaig, Lagavulin and Ardbeg. Although the trail is not flat, it’s an easy and very pleasant ride with only a couple of small hills. Apart from the distilleries, paved cycling path passes picturesque bays, livestock-filled fields and woodlands. This route can be extended by visiting a historic chapel and cross in Kildalton (additional 14km there and back).

The second route we recommend is a 27 km ‘Rinns of Islay loop’ (as we called it) starting from Port Charlotte. Follow the main road A847 to Portnahaven, as it keeps to the coast and offers incredible views to the most dramatic part of Islay, The Oa, across the bay. Take time to explore the white-housed villages of Portnahaven and Port Wemyss, before continuing further. Or, why not take a walk to explore the coastline, enjoy seal spotting (they’re in great numbers in the area and very vocal! You’ll hear them before seeing the colony. Their calls reminded me of ‘dragon roar’ or wolf’s howling, an amazing nature experience!). Jump back on the bike and pedal along the single track road (Church Street) that forks at Portnahaven village centre, just past the church. This small road will take you thru picturesque rural landscape and rolling hills to Kilchiaran Bay and beach, then finally back to Port Charlotte. Watch out for the cows casually resting on the road!

Finally, the third Islay cycling route we encourage you to explore is The Oa, Islay’s most hilly and dramatic part. Indeed, the ride will involve a lot of ‘up-the-hillness’, however the views will reward your efforts handsomely. Leave Port Ellen and follow a minor road to The Oa (signposted) then ignore all forks and keep to the main track. Finally you’ll arrive to Mull of Oa car park, where we encourage you to leave the bike and got for a walk to visit the American Monument. Apart from the monument, other interesting sights along the route (or slightly off the route) are the unique Carraig Fhada lighthouse and the Singing Sands beach, Kilnaughton Bay, and islands near Lower Killeyan.

Obviously, contrary to other Scottish islands we recommend in this article, Islay isn’t suitable for only a day trip and you’ll have to stay at least a couple of nights on the island to truly appreciate its beauty and enjoy the cyclist’s dream!

WE HOPE THAT YOU FOUND THIS ARTICLE INSPIRING!!! 

Happy riding.

Sharing is caring!

25/10/2020 at 13:39

Sadly in common with many you assume Scotland begins at the Central Belt. Dumfries and Galloway has several cycling routes as good or better than many in your ‘list of the besr’

11/11/2020 at 23:58

Hi Andrew, we definitely do not make the assumption that Scotland begins at the Central Belt. We have hiked many trails in Borders and Dumfries and Galloway. However, sadly we have not cycled there yet. We plan to do it, so feel free to recommend us your best routes 🙂 We keep updating the list, so I am sure when we have a chance to cycle in Dumfries and Galloway, some routes will be added to it. Thanks for stopping by! E&B

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13 Best Cycling Routes in Scotland With Epic Views

March 9, 2023

For cycling Scotland is one of the best destinations on the planet.

I’ve spent lots of time exploring various parts of the nation, and I’ve spent lots of my life speeding around on bicycles. So it doesn’t take an absolute genius (like me) to work out that I’ve cycled through many parts of the place.

And in this guide, I’ve brought you some of my favorite rides, with a compilation of the 13 best cycling routes in Scotland .

I’ve covered multi-day jaunts, day rides, kid-friendly adventures, and everything in between. Whatever type of Scottish bike ride you’re looking for, it’s in here. Come join the fun!

1. North Coast 500

2. the caledonia way, 3. isle of arran circular, 4. hebridean way, 5. coast and castles, 6. edinburgh to glasgow, 7. the four abbeys, 8. lerwick to scalloway, 9. loch rannoch circular, 10. the helix path, 11. ballater to aboyne, 12. eyemouth to cockburnspath, 13. the tall ship to cambuslang (in and around central glasgow), pro tips for biking in scotland, before you go, best multi-day bike rides in scotland.

The most famous road trip in Scotland, this ridiculously-beautiful loop is also possible as a bike ride.

A circuit around the northern mainland of the nation, the North Coast 500 route cuts from Inverness to Applecross before hitting the western, northern, and eastern coasts. You’ll see better mountains and beaches than you’ve probably ever seen… and you’ll be surprised by how rural and remote this part of Scotland really is.

If you’re intending to do one long-distance bike ride in Scotland, make it this one—Scottish adventures really don’t get any better. I’ve done the North Coast 500 twice (both times by car, admittedly) , but I’ll definitely be doing it again.

It’s a difficult ride, but it’s totally worth the challenge.

When you’re cycling this one, be mindful and respectful of drivers , especially locals who are just trying to get on with their lives. Yeah, I love cycling, but some of the cyclists who tackle this one are obnoxiously selfish. Don’t take up the whole road, and don’t stop in the middle of a bend to catch a snap for your Instagram story.

• Difficulty : Very difficult
• Itinerary: Loop beginning and ending in Inverness (or Applecross)
• Distance: 500 miles/800km
• Time: 10-15 days
• Highlights: The beaches, the mountains, the fishing villages, and tackling Scotland’s very best road trip by bike

Shorter than the North Coast 500, but almost as difficult, The Caledonia Way takes you from southwest Scotland, and cuts a diagonal path across the nation all the way to Inverness.

If you want to squeeze lots of diversity into a tough and challenging bike ride, this is a great option. You hit lovely coastal towns and villages (including Oban) , you pass Ben Nevis and Fort William, you ride along Loch Ness, you cycle along the Caledonian Canal, and you finish in Scotland’s most underrated city.

And best of all, you make your way from the lowlands to the Highlands, and see Scotland transform and change as you ride through it.

For beauty, famous sights, and cramming in lots of action and adventure, this one is absolutely brilliant. But be warned—across the entirety of the 234 miles (376km), you tackle a total ascent of around 5,500 meters (18,000 feet).

• Difficulty : Difficult
• Itinerary: Linear route from Campbelltown to Inverness
• Distance: 234 miles/376km
• Time: 4-7 days
• Highlights: Loch Ness, Ben Nevis, Fort William, Oban, the Caledonian Canal, and plenty more

If you’re the type of person who likes feeling as if they’ve seen the entirety of a place, you’ll love this route. The ride runs around the whole perimeter of the Isle of Arran , off the west coast of Scotland.

Known as ‘Scotland in miniature,’ Arran is brimming with loads of brilliant stuff. You get mountains, beaches, fishing villages, charming settlements, excellent food, and lots of remote and rural stretches of alluring adventures. And the best way to see it all is by riding around the Isle of Arran Circular on the back of a bike.

On this route, there are very few Arran highlights you don’t see. But for most people, the best thing about the ride is all the under-the-radar stuff—you’ll ride past cliffs, coves, caves and shores that few tourists ever see. And on top of that, you’ll pass through every significant settlement!

Though you can of course start this loop from any part of the island, it makes sense to begin at Brodick, the biggest town on Arran (and home to the island’s main port) .

• Difficulty: Moderate
• Itinerary: Loop beginning and ending in Brodick
• Distance: 55 miles/89km
• Time: 1-4 days
• Highlights: Brodick, Lamlash, views of Goatfell, lots of hidden beaches, and some of Scotland’s best wildlife

For a hugely remote and rural cycling experience, the Hebridean Way is great.

By far the most adventurous route on our list, this 184-mile (296km) epic runs the entire length of the Outer Hebrides, a bunch of islands off the west coast of Scotland.

Along the ride, you’ll cycle through some of the most tucked-away places in the entire nation—and because you’re cycling the length of a whole archipelago, you’ll need to hop on and off ferries en-route.

On the Hebridean Way, you cycle past challenging hills, barren moors, standing stones, medieval sites, and many parts of Scotland that few other people ever explore.

If you want the most exciting and under-the-radar bike ride on our list, you’ve found it.

• Difficulty: Difficult
• Itinerary: Linear route from the bottom to the top of the Outer Hebrides
• Distance: 184 miles/296km
• Highlights: Remote beaches, tiny villages, the dark nights, the wildlife, seeing 10 different islands, and having a real adventure

Only the northern half of the Coast and Castles cycle route takes you through Scotland—the other part of the ride is situated in the very north of England.

But this is possibly my favorite bike ride on the planet , and I couldn’t put this guide together without recommending this route. You get quiet beaches, atmospheric cliffs, historic castles, and some of the most interesting, underrated and beautiful parts of this section of the world.

Taking riders from Newcastle to Edinburgh, the first half of this ride largely runs along the Northumberland coast from Newcastle to Berwick.

Once you’re in Berwick, the English border town, you’re almost in Scotland. And from here, you have a choice: you can either continue following the coast, or you can take the slightly-longer inland route beyond lots of abbeys and small hills.

No matter which way you ride, your finale takes you to Edinburgh, Scotland’s iconic capital.

• Itinerary: Linear route from Newcastle to Edinburgh
• Distance: 170 miles/274km or 200 miles/322km, depending on which route you choose
• Time: 3-5 days
• Highlights: The beaches, the castles, the fishing villages, riding in an underrated part of the world, and the beautiful Edinburgh finale

Best One-Day Bike Rides in Scotland

Edinburgh and Glasgow are closer to one another than most people realize.

And this day ride takes you between the two of them, through history, heritage, industry, and some surprisingly rural riding.

There are several ways to tackle the ride, but the best by far is following the National Cycle Network route 754 , which is entirely traffic-free. For the majority of your ride, you’ll be zooming along the towpath of the Union Canal. You’ll pass the lovely towns of Broxburn, Linlithgow and Falkirk, you’ll get industrial insights, and you’ll enjoy sneaky peeks at lots of the area’s wildlife.

To get back to where you started, it’s best to jump on a train. In the UK, you can take bikes onto trains, but some providers make you book in advance. So make sure you check before you set off!

If you live in either city (or you’re visiting either city), and you’re looking for an easy and accessible ride, you can simply cycle a short part of the route (before then turning back).

• Itinerary: Linear route from Edinburgh to Glasgow
• Distance: 56 miles/90km
• Time: 5-10 hours
• Highlights: Edinburgh, Glasgow, lots of birds, a small few otters (if you’re lucky), and the ridiculously-lovely Union Canal

A brilliant ride through the Scottish borders, the Four Abbeys route unsurprisingly takes you to four abbeys (Dryburgh, Kelso, Jedburgh and Melrose). Running through the most beautiful parts of Scottish border territory, this loop is a great route.

Along with the four abbeys, you get great views of fields, farmland, and undulating hills, along with some challenging but doable climbs. For ticking off the Scottish borders, you won’t find any better routes than this.

You can start anywhere, but Jedburgh and Kelso make the most sense (though there’s also a train station at Tweedbank, next to Melrose) .

Remember the inland section of the Coast and Castles, which we mentioned earlier? This route runs through a similar part of the nation—but because this is a loop, it’s a better option for seeing more of the area.

• Itinerary: Loop usually beginning and ending in Kelso or Jedburgh
• Time: 5-9 hours
• Highlights: The four abbeys, the pretty towns (especially Melrose), and seeing all the best bits of the Scottish borders

If you’re looking for short but adventurous (and really beautiful!) cycle route, this is a great choice.

A 6-mile (10km) journey between two coastlines on Shetland, you get views of hills, fields, farmland, and barren moors. And as you approach Scalloway, there are some great panoramas of the place.

I reckon this road gives you the best possible views of the village— from here, Scalloway is super photogenic .

You also get a museum at both ends of the route, perfect if you want to learn more about Shetland!

Because it’s short and relatively easy, this ride is a great option if you’re traveling with kids… or if you don’t want too much of a challenge.

• Difficulty: Easy
• Itinerary: Linear route from Lerwick to Scalloway
• Distance: 6 miles/10km
• Time: One hour or less
• Highlights: Two settlements, two museums, and a short but pretty ride

This ride takes you in a big loop around the shores of Loch Rannoch, one of the nation’s most underrated lochs .

Sitting between Glencoe and Pitlochry, this freshwater loch is a top spot for hikers, cyclists and fishers.

If you want to explore the loch and its surroundings in their entirety, head to Rannoch, on the far west of the B846 road (for some reason, the place even has its own train station, perfect if you don’t have access to a car) .

From here, head east along to the loch, then skirt the entire loch in a big loop, before returning back to where you started. At 34 miles (54km), it’s a relatively long jaunt, but it’s mostly flat and easy.

Though you’re largely following the shores of one loch, this route is surprisingly diverse. You hit woods, forests, beaches, and wildlife (including pine martens and squirrels, if you’re lucky) . And along the way, you get great views of mountains, hills, and Loch Rannoch itself. I massively recommend this one.

• Itinerary: Loop beginning and ending at Rannoch train station
• Distance: 34 miles/54km
• Time: 3-5 hours
• Highlights: Hidden beaches, pine forests, views of distant mountains, and all the varied panoramas of Loch Rannoch itself

Made for families and inexperienced cyclists, this lovely loop is a pretty but simple ride (although it can be very muddy after rain, so I wouldn’t recommend attempting it on a road bike) .

Also known as the HArTT route , this circular ride around Falkirk takes in many of the area’s most impressive sites, and across some surprisingly-lovely countryside. You’ll see Helix Park, the Falkirk Wheel, the mega-famous Kelpies (statues of some horses, in case you’re not familiar) , the Forth and Clyde canal, and much more.

You’ll also pass through some residential areas, and encounter lots of opportunities for snacking and slurping.

• Itinerary: Loop beginning and ending at the Kelpies
• Distance: 17.5 miles/28km
• Time: 2-3 hours
• Highlights: Helix Park, the Forth and Clyde Canal, the Falkirk Wheel, the Kelpies, and lots more famous (and not-famous!) Falkirk sights

The first part of the Deeside Way (a multi-use walking and cycling path which, in its entirety, runs from Ballater to Aberdeen) , this is another great choice for families… and people seeking a simple ride.

But although it’s simple, it’s still pretty beautiful, carrying you through an easterly section of the Cairngorms National Park (the biggest national park in the UK!) . You’ll ride past forests, picnic spots, Deeside Gliding Club airfield, Cambus O’ May Cheese Creamery, and lots of fields and farmland.

It measures in at 11 miles (18km), but there’s only 154 meters (505 feet) of total ascent—so it’s an easy ride, even for little legs.

Some of the ground is uneven and muddy, so don’t attempt this route on anything less than a hybrid.

• Itinerary: Linear route from Ballater to Aboyne
• Distance: 11 miles/18km
• Time: 1-2 hours
• Highlights: Gentle riding, lesser-known parts of the Cairngorms, cute forests, and Deeside Gliding Club airfield

Remember the Coast and Castles I mentioned earlier? This is the prettiest part of the whole ride (well, the prettiest part of the coastal version of the ride) .

Measuring in at only 13 miles (21km), it’s difficult to articulate how many beautiful panoramas can be squeezed into such a short ride (yes, I know that’s my job, but I’m terrible at my job) .

Along the way, you get some of the best coastal views I’ve ever seen, featuring cliffs, beaches, winding roads, wind farms, caravan parks, and some of the best descents I’ve ever enjoyed.

You’ll want to stop for photographs every three seconds.

And as a lovely bonus, you start in Eyemouth, one of the cutest and most endearing seaside towns in the whole of Scotland.

If you’re looking for a short but beautiful coastal bike ride in Scotland, you honestly won’t find much better than this. Rides this accessible aren’t usually this incredible.

Though it’s not a particularly long ride, it’s pretty challenging, with some steep ascents and descents. So if you’re doing this one with kids, make sure they’re experienced and confident (especially riding on roads) . If they’re not, this will be too much for them.

• Itinerary: Linear route from Eyemouth to Cockburnspath
• Distance: 13 miles/21km
• Time: 1-3 hours
• Highlights: Eyemouth, hidden beaches, winding roads, and some of the best coastal views you’ve ever seen

Part of the Clyde Walkway (a much-longer walking and cycling path measuring in at 40miles/65 km, between Partick and New Lanark) , this is a great route for families and beginners.

A nice combination of rural and urban, it crams a surprising number of sights into its canalside confines. You’ll see some hyper-modern architecture, Finnieston Crane, the People’s Palace, the Winter Gardens, several bridges, and loads of lovely riverside views. For the entirety of the ride, you’re cycling along the banks of the Clyde, so it’s crammed with lovely panoramas.

This is a lovely route. It’s pretty and easy to follow, and it’s a good option if you’re looking for a flat and accessible city center ride with few challenges and plenty of conveniences.

Lots of people (unsurprisingly) walk the Clyde Walkway. So cycle slowly, and look out for pedestrians.

• Itinerary: Linear route from The Tall Ship to Cambuslang
• Distance: 9 miles/14.5km
• Highlights: Glasgow, the Tall Ship, beautiful architecture, great riverside views, and a surprising amount of wildlife
• If you’re cycling in summer, make sure you carry a good midge spray like this one , and take as many midge-deterring precautions as you possibly can. Midges are horrendously annoying—and if you’ve ever before experienced them, you’ll know I’m not exaggerating. If you’re not convinced then you absolutely have to read my guide about midges in Scotland and what to do about them.
• Thanks to Scotland’s incredible ‘ Right to Roam ’ act, wild camping is completely legal in pretty much all of Scotland. So if you like combining cycling and camping, Scotland is genuinely one of the best locations on the planet. Just make sure to get a good tent suitable for Scotland weather .
• If you’re riding on single-track roads, don’t assume drivers will always be driving slowly. Some drivers (both locals and tourists) whizz around these roads at an unnecessarily-speedy pace… so be wary!
• If you’re on one of our remote routes, plan properly. Most people don’t realize just how remote the remote parts of Scotland are. But don’t be surprised if some days, on some of the rural routes, you see very few people. So take lots of supplies, food and water.
• For planning cycling routes in the UK, your best resource is the official Sustrans website . Sustrans planned and devised the UK-wide National Cycle Network, a massive number of cycling trails throughout the region. Here’s a helpful map of them all.

There they are—the 13 best cycling routes in Scotland!

If you want to know anything else about cycling in the UK, ride on over to our guides on the best cycling routes in Edinburgh , the best cycling routes in England , the best bike rides in Newcastle , cycling in Kielder , and the best bike rides in London .

And if you want to know anything else about outdoor adventures in Scotland, check out our articles on the Rob Roy Way , the West Highland Way , and the nation’s most beautiful coastal walks .

Thanks for reading, and we’ll see you next time!

About the author

Senior Travel Reporter

Paul is a handsome and hilarious travel writer and travel journalist from the UK. He's hiked, hitchhiked and laughed his way through more than fifty countries, and he's always looking for a new place to call home. Originally from Newcastle, he's lived all over the UK, spent more than three years in Asia, and most recently lived in Vietnam and then in Georgia.

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Scotland Cycling Tours: Best Bike Holidays

Explore scotland on an affordable cycling trip.

If you're a fan of active travel and want to explore Scotland on a cycling tour, you're in the right place. Scotland’s enviable blend of vibrant cities, heritage towns and soul-stirring scenery littered with historic treasures makes it an attractive destination for cyclists who want a rich mix of culture, nature and history.

Below we describe the most popular cycling holidays in Scotland.

Scottish Highlands Cycle Tour | Self Guided

Spot native wildlife as you cycle through the heart of the Scottish Highlands.

Lochs and Bens Bike Tour | Self Guided

Discover the diversity of Scotland’s ‘Big County’ on the Lochs and Bens tour . Enjoy majestic mountain peaks, shimmering lochs and pretty glens… Take Scotland’s backroads and country paths, explore peaceful villages and rural towns, take a forest walk and visit one of the many castles and ancient monuments found along the way. The trip focuses on Perthshire, known as Scotland’s ‘Big County’ because of the wide variety of landscapes that can be found here.

Scotland by Bike and Boat Tour | Guided

Go island hopping in the Inner Hebrides on the Scotland by Bike and Boat tour.

Scotland’s Inner Hebrides are known for their wild spectacular landscapes, still largely untouched by mass tourism. Following the Caledonian Canal, explore the Isle of Mull and the Morvern Peninsula, before making your way to the Isle of Jura, known for its red deer and whiskey distillery. Look out for dolphins and seals from the boat – and eagles and otters from your bike!

4. Great Glen Cycleway Tour | Self Guided

Explore the iconic Great Glen Cycle Way by bike . This iconic route is typically described as Scotland's version of England's famous Coast to Coast trail. This ride is approximately 80 miles / 129 km and starts at Ben Nevis, the highest peak in Britain. The ride finishes at Inverness, Scotland's north-most city and the capital of the Highlands.

>> Browse our full range of tours in Scotland.   

>>  View all of UTracks' cycling tours in Europe.

>>  Join UTracks' Active Travel Community.

Scotland Cycling Tours & Holidays

Scottish Highlands Cycle

Moderate to Challenging

Scotland by Bike and Boat

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We offer different levels of accommodation and comfort so that even the most budget conscious can treat themselves to active holidays on Europe's most celebrated tracks and trails. Our trips are great value for money because you only pay for what you want.  

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Our wide range of self-guided itineraries embody the UTracks philosophy of exploring Europe your way. We handle the logistics so all that's left for you to do is enjoy exploring Europe at your own pace. Most depart daily with a minimum of two people, meaning maximum flexibility.

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With close to 400 trips in almost 50 countries, including the largest range of bike & boat holidays in Europe, we're confident that we can organise an Alps walk, Camino de Santiago or Via Francigena experience, Food Lovers' trip or a tour in a lesser-known pocket of Europe that you will love. 

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Islay E-Wheels

Your Ultimate Guide to Cycling in Scotland

There are many ways to explore but cycling in Scotland is one of the best as you take in the scenery all in a climate-friendly way. Your next cycling holiday could include our amazing long-distance routes, or the purpose-built trails at one of 25 world-class mountain biking centres.

Explore Scotland's National Cycle Routes

Scotland is home to railway paths, canal towpaths, forest roads, shared-use paths and cycle lanes which allow you to safely explore the country.

Melrose Abbey

The National Cycle Network is made up of signposted cycle and walking routes that connect towns, cities and the great outdoors. There is also a handy Sustrans map for you to see where routes start and end, what cities, towns and attractions are nearby, how difficult the route is and more.

Here are a few route suggestions to get you started:

• Hebridean Way Cycling Route - following part of NCN 780, this terrific, long-distance route spans the length of the enchanting Outer Hebrides island chain.
• Ayrshire Coast Cycle Way - this beautiful linear route takes in some of Ayrshire's most picturesque scenery, from the glittering coastline with views out to the Isle of Arran to the thriving marshland and woodland of two Scottish wildlife reserves.
• 4 Abbeys - tour the Scottish Borders' four famous abbeys on this scenic (but fairly demanding) route through the glorious Borders countryside.
• Lochs and Glens Way - connecting Glasgow and Inverness, this is a spectacular route through the very heart of Scotland taking in both of the country’s National Parks.

Read more about cycling routes and see our suggestions

See our map of Sustrans cycling routes and day trips

Our cycle route recommendations

Whatever you want - coastal views, long distance routes or beginner-friendly trails - check out our recommendations.

The Montrose Basin, Angus

• Montrose Basin route - cycle around this stunning tidal estuary and soak up beautiful views of this wildlife haven. Look out for summer highlights such as osprey and kingfishers.
• Edinburgh city centre to the Shore – explore the capital on two wheels as you soak in the cityscape and ride down to the Shore in Leith. The city boasts a range of continuous, traffic-free routes to follow.
• Lerwick to Scalloway – our islands are some of the best places to explore on two wheels. Soak in the jaw-dropping scenery, visit the ancient capital of Scalloway, and enjoy island life as you roam across Shetland.

Enjoy 11 of the best cycle routes in Scotland

Linlithgow Palace by Linlithgow Loch

• Strathkelvin Railway Path – an easy out-and-back route that takes you past delightful villages and through scenic countryside north of Glasgow, and all framed by the majestic Campsie Fells.
• Linlithgow to Blackness Loop – this characterful area of West Calder takes in the stunning sight of Linlithgow Palace, the pretty village of Blackness and boasts a great day out not far from the city.
• Logierait to Dunkeld Loop – explore Perthshire, often known as Big Tree Country, on this leafy route running alongside Scotland's longest river.

Explore more cycle routes for beginners

You can also get to grips with Scotland’s trails and pathways with day trips out on your bike. These short rides are ideal for beginners, days out with the family, or even for those just looking for a leisurely cycle, and you’ve got plenty to choose from.

Find a Sustrans day trip

Practical Information

Before you set off on your two wheels it’s important to make sure you’re organised and have all you need planned out.

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Bike Hire in Scotland

Get on your bike and find out all you need to know about cycle hire in Scotland.

Find cyclist-friendly accommodation in Scotland

Find your perfect stay during your next cycling adventure.

Cycling Tours in Scotland

Find guided trips and tours or get help to plan a self-led itinerary. Options can include luggage transfer and assistance vehicles.

Top Destinations for Cycling

Scotland is home to many regions that boast the ideal terrain, accommodation, biking centres and more that are perfect for cycling pros and beginners alike. Each season we'll be covering a new region for you to explore on two wheels, so stay tuned for more inspiration. 

Cyclists on the Deeside Way, Ballater

Aberdeenshire

Cycling in Aberdeenshire includes routes through impressive estates and ancient forests, past extraordinary Munros, rolling farmland and wide sandy beaches.

• Challenging ascents
• Cycling events

Cycle Routes

• Deeside Way – Aberdeen to Ballater for 41 miles
• Aberdour Bay Circular | PDF 3.9MB – New Aberdour for 13 miles (moderate)
• Insch to Oyne | PDF 4.4MB – for 19 miles (family-friendly)
• Inverbervie to Johnshaven loop | PDF 7MB – for 10 miles (family-friendly)

Find more long-distance cycle routes

Buy an Aberdeenshire cycle route map

Sandhaven, Aberdeenshire

© Discover Fraserburgh / Damian Shields

Tarland Trails – the original set of purpose-made trails at Drummy Woods are great for beginners up to intermediate, while the new set of trails sweep around Pittenderich and are ideal for taking your riding to the next level.

Aboyne Bike Park – a community project with two short downhill tracks, a jump park and pump track.

Accommodation

Many accommodation options are cyclist-friendly and will have lockable sheds or outbuildings where you can safely secure your bikes overnight. 

Find cycle-friendly accommodation in Aberdeenshire

Getting to Aberdeenshire

Travel to Aberdeen by bus or train easily with a variety of public transport options.

Find out more about Aberdeenshire including travel options and things to do

Find a cycling event in Scotland

From family events to long-distance races, Scotland has lots of cycling events to get involved in as a cyclist or just a fan.

Etape Caledonia

Take on either 40 or 85 miles of Scottish Highlands at Etape Caledonia, the UK’s original closed road cycling sportive.

Edinburgh Festival of Cycling

Celebrates all aspects of bicycle culture and the city of Edinburgh with a range of events from rides to family activities and cultural events.

Tweedlove Bike Festival

Enjoy a festival of events, bike riding and good times in the Tweed Valley.

Ride the North 2024

Cycle for a good cause with one of the partner charities of this summer cycling tour through the Angus countryside.

What's New in Cycling

Forth Bridge

© Sustrans/Tony Marsh

Scotland’s cycling scene always has new things to try out and add to your to-do list, from new trails, enticing events, family-friendly activities, and even a chance to meet big name cyclists and athletes too.

Parks, Trails and Centres to Explore

From urban jungles to the quiet countryside, take your pick from Scotland's range of bike parks and trail centres to suit all abilities.

Laggan Wolftrax Mountain Biking Trail

Laggan Wolftrax Mountain Biking Trail Centre, Laggan

Laggan Wolftrax trails range from an easy-going green route for a shorter and flatter ride, to white-knuckle red, black and orange routes which are more technical. Test yourself with the skills area at the trailhead so you know what to expect out in the forest. Pop into  The Bike Bothy Laggan  for all your cycling needs, including service and repairs, bike hire and essential accessories for your ride. There is also a  café , toilets and shower facilities too.

Find out more about Laggan Wolftrax

Cyclists at Comrie Croft

© Perth and Kinross Council / Fred Murray

Comrie Croft, Perthshire

At Comrie Croft you’ll find over 16 km of pump, berms and rollers along its graded blue, red and black trails. Each grade has a series of interlinking loops which you can do all at once or pick your favourite. Comrie Croft Bikes  are on hand to help with any trail questions, bike repairs and have a range of bikes available to hire. Facilities include hot showers (small fee required), a bike cleaning station and toilets. There is also a small skate park just on the outskirts.

Find out more about Comrie Croft

Cathkin Braes pump track

Cathkin Braes Pump Track, Glasgow

Situated in the south-east of Glasgow, Cathkin Braes is home to 9 km of trails. Take on its Red Circuit route with lots of tables, doubles and gaps in store to hone your skills. There are also plenty of blue and green trails aimed at beginner and intermediate riders. The park’s star attraction is the Vesolutions pump track – one of the largest in the UK. Suitable for riders of all wheel types, it’s part of the wider mountain bike trail centre, that includes competition MTB cross country trails, skills trails and a jump track. Cathkin Braes is free to use and open all-year round.

Find out more about Cathkin Braes

Highland Wildcat Trails

© @cairn_hill_agriculture

Highland Wildcat Trails, Golspie

Highland Wildcat Trails are designed for everyone. Intermediate riders can reach the summit of ‘the Ben’ from the blue trail, while experienced riders can seek more of a thrill along the red and black single-track routes. The riding is generally fast-paced and undulating to keep you on your toes but make sure not to go too fast as hikers and runners regularly use these trails. Families who wish to take it easy and enjoy a cycle along the lush forests can follow Pict’s Path.

Find out more about Highland Wildcat Trails

Spotlight on Gravel Biking

Gravel biking on Rum

© @catwebster

What is it?

A gravel bike bridges the gap between smooth tarmac road cycling and all but the gnarliest mountain biking trails. It has drop handlebars, disc brakes, chunky tyres and a robust frame. Electric or e-gravel bikes are also available for those that want to go further or make things a bit easier.

Gravel biking routes

A route might typically start from a railway station or directly from your holiday lodgings and take you along quiet country roads, before heading off-road for hinterland adventures. Bikepacking Scotland offers a great selection of gravel biking and bike-packing routes if you’re looking for more inspiration.

Make sure you follow the  Scottish Outdoor Access Code  and read Developing Mountain Biking in Scotland’s  ‘Do The Ride Thing’  guide before heading out.

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Seven must-ride routes in Scotland with epic views

With jaw-dropping scenery and world-class mountain biking, gravel and road cycling, Scotland has some of the very best riding in the UK

VisitScotland

Stuart Kenny

Scotland is a land where glistening lochs meet mighty Munros; where the deep, dramatic glens of the Highlands fade into the leafy forests and rolling hills of the Lowlands, and where a rugged coastal view is never far away.

With such a variety of landscapes and a cycling culture that runs deep, it’s no surprise that Scotland is home to some of the most scenic rides in the UK – no matter your discipline of riding.

In fact, Scotland will host the 2023 UCI World Championships , putting the country’s riding in the spotlight.

Still, many of the most beautiful routes remain under the radar. Mountain bikers will be familiar with the iconic Scottish trail centres of Fort William and Glentress, but less so with the other world-class trails around the country.

Road cyclists might know the North Coast 500, but not the countless miles of remarkable roads through the rest of the country, and the boom in gravel riding , bikepacking and electric bikes means there’s never been a better time to be seeking out new routes.

Travel restrictions remain in place for now, but that just means it’s the perfect time to do some online scouting of your own and plan your next ride.

After all, Scotland has more to it than just thistles and whisky, so we’ve picked out seven of our favourite cycling routes to get you dreaming of epic Scottish views. Once it is time to plan your trip, check local government restrictions before you go.

1. The UK’s longest descent at Highland Wildcat

Golspie is a village in Sutherland on the shores of the Moray Firth, 50 miles north of the Highland capital of Inverness. It also sits in the shadow of the 397m Ben Bhraggie, and on that hill you’ll find the Highland Wildcat trails – including the longest singletrack descent in the UK.

The flagship trail runs for more than four miles from the monument on the summit of Ben Bhraggie, where there are far-reaching views out to the beaches below, down to sea level.

The climb to the start isn’t easy, zig-zagging up the mountain, but the reward is one of the most fun trails in Scotland, mixing flowy berms and exposed hillside singletrack with jumps, rocks and tough, technical forest lines.

The trails were designed and built by Peter Laing, the man behind the first trails at Glentress, so they've got real pedigree. They combine with nearby trails at the stunning Kyle of Sutherland, as well as Learnie Red Rock and Abriachan, to form a fantastic northern hub for riding.

• More information: Highland Wildcat

2. The Big Country Route at 7stanes Glentrool

The 7stanes are the golden standard of Scottish Lowlands mountain biking – trail centres that span the south and offer riding to excite mountain bikers of all abilities.

Glentrool is perhaps the most scenic – home to numerous lochs and Bruce’s Stone, an engraved hill-top boulder commemorating Robert the Bruce's victory in 1307.

The 36-mile Big Country Route from Glentrool takes you on a day’s ride through the Galloway Forest Park, the UK’s largest forest. There are beautiful views over Loch Trool, Loch Dee and a few smaller bodies of water, and some tasty climbs to boot.

This route is mostly on fire roads (rare for the 7stanes), but that does mean it’s accessible to all and a gravel bike will manage just fine. It will also take you out to some areas that really do feel remote – ideal for getting away from it all.

If you’re able to spend the weekend, Glentrool is a short ride from another of the 7stanes, Kirroughtree (which also links to the Big Country Route). The Twister Red and demanding Black Craigs run at Kirroughtree are both fantastic.

• More information: 7stanes

3. The Commonwealth Trail at Cathkin Braes

The mountain bike trails on Cathkin Braes were custom-built to host cycling events at the 2014 Commonwealth Games in Glasgow. This gives you a certain guarantee of the trail quality and, sure enough, there’s some serious infrastructure up there.

The trail centre has bloomed since 2014, when it was really just a cross-country loop and a few other natural trails. More than £1m has been spent on the development and there’s now an array of fantastic jump trails, a forest climb, and fun bermy, blue routes that accommodate riders of every level.

Perhaps it’s the location that makes the mountain biking on Cathkin Braes particularly special, though. The hill is less than an hour’s ride from the centre of Glasgow and offers sweeping views of Scotland’s biggest city, backdropped by Ben Lomond, Dumgoyne and the Campsie Fells.

If you’ve got more time, combine a trip to Cathkin Braes with some of the other riding in the Central Belt. Head to Beecraigs in Linlithgow, the Callendar Estate via Falkirk High, or explore the beautiful Pentland Hills on the outskirts of Edinburgh, all easily accessible by train.

• More information: Cathkin Braes Country Park

4. The Black Run at Laggan Wolftrax

Tucked away in Badenoch in the Cairngorms National Park, between the outdoor hubs of Aviemore and Fort William, are the acclaimed trails of Laggan Wolftrax.

The Wolftrax trail centre opened in 2005, and in 2015 welcomed a new cafe and bike hire shop. The trail centre is well known in the Scottish cycling scene for having trails with some bite, but the reason it’s won the hearts of so many is also down to the stunning Cairngorm panoramas that open up as you begin to reach some altitude.

Mind you, Wolftrax isn’t a centre for the faint-hearted. If you’re thinking ‘trail centre’ means smooth berms all over, think again. Laggan is a rocky and fairly demanding place to ride.

The Upper Red is a beautiful run and showcases the best of the landscape, passing through the dramatic Wolf's Lair Viewpoint, and linking up with the infamous black run, which includes features such as the ‘Two Ton Drop’, ‘Doc Rick's Rock Slabs’ and the ‘Stiletto Staircase’.

A must-ride day out for anyone touring the Scottish Highlands with a full-suspension bike .

• More information: Laggan Wolftrax

5. The Highland Perthshire Drovers Trail (Perthshire Gravel)

The Highland Perthshire Drovers Trail is just one route that proves if you miss out on Perthshire, you’re missing out on some of the best of Scotland.

A bikepacking trail spanning more than 200 miles and split up into four stages, this route is ideal for gravel bikes. The trail starts and ends in Pitlochry, and really encourages you to embrace slow travel and split days in different towns across Perthshire.

The Drovers Trail is not just about the scenery, but the dense forests, rolling hills, deep glens and winding routes do make for dramatic viewing. There’s a whole lot of history along the way, too.

The route takes in everything from Glen Fearnach and Glen Tilt to the Cairngorms, the River Tay (Scotland’s longest river) and even passes the last surviving oak tree from the wood that inspired Shakespeare’s Macbeth.

The route is inspired by an old Drovers trail – the Drovers being men who would bargain for cattle, then form a herd to take south to towns like Falkirk or Crieff to sell as summer arrived. It’s a particularly unusual inspiration for a route, and a ride that follows historic footsteps through lesser seen parts of Scotland.

• More information: Drovers Trail

6. Ride the gravel of Aberfoyle (Gravelfoyle)

Loch Lomond & The Trossachs National Park is at the heart of Scotland. Thanks partly to the popular annual cycling event, The Duke’s Weekender , the small town of Aberfoyle is quickly growing into one of the UK’s top gravel riding destinations.

For a great taster of what Aberfoyle has to offer, ride a 17-mile loop from the town that takes in three lochs.

First, take on a short climb and descent to the impeccably-named Loch Drunkie, then work north to Loch Venachar and west to Loch Achray, before returning to Aberfoyle with views of Ben Venue.

With more than 125 miles of forest roads and trails within a seven-mile radius of Aberfoyle, and the launch of ‘Gravelfoyle’, a local-led project coming in spring 2021, this is a gravel riding destination that’s only going to grow in popularity.

More information: Gravelfoyle

7. The Caledonia Way

We’re really finishing on a classic here. The 234-mile, long-distance Caledonia Way starts on the west coast in Campbeltown (the nearest city is actually Belfast) and finishes in Inverness.

The route roughly follows the Great Glen Fault (a geological feature), sticking to the coast from Campbeltown before passing through Oban and Fort William, and running past both Loch Linnhe and Loch Ness.

The Caledonia Way makes up Sustrans Cycle Route 78, and is a cyclist’s dream of lesser-visited asphalt and the far-reaching, rolling green and blue views typical of Scotland. The length of the route makes it the ideal challenge for a multi-day ebike ride, too.

The beaches of Campbeltown and views to Northern Ireland are beautiful from the start, and that rarely lets up on the route.

Highlights include the loch views from Kentallen, the first sight of Ben Nevis and the picturesque Loch Lochy, which may sound like it was named by a child but is beyond stunning. A sense of far-flung wilderness rarely lets up.

• More information: The Caledonia Way

Feeling inspired? Head to VisitScotland’s cycling hub for more information on routes, tours and events.

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A different world

Scotland bike tours.

Scotland is a magical place and often feels like a different world. The vibrant greenery and deep valleys are exquisite. Scotland’s lakes, known as “lochs” are popular sites, particularly the famous Loch Ness and its alleged sea monster.

The rolling hills and dramatic moors of the countryside that make this country a top destination for cycling tours. Scotland’s small villages and rural landscapes are best seen by the seat of a bicycle.

For experienced cyclists, rugged wilderness creates natural, challenging mountain biking tracks. For families, Scotland lends itself to themed tours that include guided rides through its castles, pagan monuments, churches and memorials.

“There’s a great range of paths and trails to suit all ages and abilities, perfect for weaving your way through Scotland’s countryside, cities, towns and villages on two wheels.”

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Loch Lomond to Edinburgh: Lakes & Valleys of Scotland

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Self guided from GBP £ 1935

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Description: From the shores of Loch Lomond, through to the dramatic lochs and glens of the Trossachs National Park, to Pitlochry in the Highlands and onto Edinburgh, this is a stunning vacation. The Trossach hills provide a fabulous backdrop to your route, which…

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Description: Cycle from the splendid city center of Edinburgh to the sublime Shore of Leith on a captivating, calming, and blissfully scenic guided bike tour. Your delightful day tour will take you along the Union Canal, the Water of Leith or Innocent Railway Path…

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Description: Glide around glorious Glasgow on a guided bike tour of the city and Clyde Bridges – your comprehensive sightseeing experience on two wheels! Pushing off towards the People’s Palace and Winter Gardens, soak up the stunning architecture of the red brick…

Private Glentress Forest Edinburgh MTB Tour

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Description: Get ready to experience the atmospheric beauty of the stunning Scottish Borders, Tweed Valley, Peebles and Glentress on a magnificent mountain bike tour with transport from Edinburgh. With mountain bike rental included, this trip to the renowned…

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Edinburgh · from £90 GBP

Description: Admire the awe-inspiring beauty of the remarkable Loch Leven Nature Reserve on a delightful private day tour from Edinburgh, made even more enjoyable by the efficiency of included transportation and bike rental. This picturesque private bicycle tour…

Scottish Highlands Edinburgh Bike Tour

Edinburgh · from £115 GBP

Description: Cycle into the sensationally beautiful Scottish Highlands on a guided bike tour with round-trip transportation from Edinburgh and your choice of bike, electric bike, or your own bicycle. There is a reason the stunning Scottish Highlands are…

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Scotland Bike Tours

Scotland cycling tours offer an unparalleled journey through breathtaking landscapes, from the rugged Highlands to the tranquil lochsides. Planning a cycling trip in Scotland unveils a tapestry of cultural heritage and outdoor escapades, crafting an unforgettable adventure in Europe. Explore historic sites, soak in panoramic vistas, and immerse yourself in authentic Scottish charm on these exhilarating Scotland cycling tours.

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Displaying 4 of 4 tours

Great Glen Way by Bike

The Great Glen Cycle Way is a Scottish Coast to Coast route largely following the walking route of the Great Glen Way National Trail but has a different route around Loch Oich to the walkers. The ride is approximately 80 miles / 129km starting at Fort William, near the foot of Ben Nevis (Britain’s highest peak), follows the shores of the famous Loch Ness and finishes at Inverness, Scotland’s north‑most city and the “capital of the Highlands”. A lot of the cycling is straightforward, along canal towpaths and forest tracks, but there are some more challenging sections on gravel fire roads and on single‑track. Some hills are pretty steep and it maybe just as well to get off, walk and admire the view on these sections.

Cycling the Scottish Highlands

The Scottish Highlands is a wonderful area for cyclists and walkers keen to experience the mountain peaks, shimmering lochs, and pretty glens.

Road Cycling Grand Tour

Explore the best of Scotland on this guided cycling tour. Hold on to your helmet, because this tour will take your breath away.

Arran, Islay, & Jura Road Cycling Tour

Come ye lads and lasses! Discover the beauty and magic of the incredible Scottish Isles in a special way on this Arran, Islay, and Jura Road Cycling Tour. Ride through picturesque villages and around the coast, experiencing the best of the region’s natural beauty, wildlife, and culture.

1-4 of 4 tours

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Scotland General Information

Where to go cycling in scotland.

There are abundant options for cycling in Scotland, from traversing the scenic Highlands to pedaling along the serene shores of Loch Ness. Whether embarking on a bike tour in the Cairngorms or exploring the coastal routes of the Isles , Scotland's cycling tours cater to diverse preferences and skill levels.

What Makes Cycling in Scotland Special?

Cycling in Scotland offers a unique fusion of history, nature, and adrenaline-inducing experiences. Scotland's cycling tours unveil a tapestry of landscapes, including the rugged coastline of the North Coast 500, the enchanting forests of the Trossachs, and the majestic beauty of the Scottish Borders.

When to go cycling in Scotland

The ideal time for cycling in Scotland hinges on weather conditions and tourist traffic. Optimal cycling seasons are typically late spring (May-June) and early fall (Sept-Oct), offering mild temperatures and fewer crowds. Summer presents pleasant cycling conditions, albeit with increased tourist activity, while winter cycling is feasible in regions with milder climates. The rain is common in Scotland all year round.

Top 3 Cycling Tours in Scotland:

• Great Glen Way by Bike : Cycle through the majestic Great Glen, tracing the Caledonian Canal from Fort William to Inverness, with stunning views of Loch Ness and the surrounding Highlands.
• North Coast 500 Bike Route : Embark on an epic journey along Scotland's North Coast 500, winding through rugged coastal landscapes, ancient castles, and quaint villages, starting and ending in Inverness.
• Scottish Isles Cycling Adventure : Explore the enchanting Scottish Isles by bike, pedaling through picturesque landscapes, visiting historic sites, and experiencing the unique culture of islands like Arran, Islay, and Jura.

Travel tips for Scotland Biking Tours

What to pack when cycling in scotland.

When cycling in Scotland, it's essential to pack weather-appropriate clothing, including layers for unpredictable conditions, waterproof gear, sturdy cycling shoes, a helmet, sunscreen, and a map or GPS device for navigation.

Are luggage transfers available on cycling tours in Scotland?

Yes, many cycling tour operators in Scotland offer luggage transfer services, allowing cyclists to enjoy their ride without the burden of carrying heavy bags. This service ensures that your belongings are transported safely to your next accommodation along the route.

How long do I need for a cycling tour in Scotland?

The duration of a cycling tour in Scotland varies depending on the route and your preferences. Popular routes like the North Coast 500 or the Great Glen Way can take anywhere from a few days to a couple of weeks to complete, allowing ample time to explore the stunning landscapes and attractions along the way.

Are there family-friendly cycling tours in Scotland?

Yes, Scotland offers several family-friendly cycling tours suitable for riders of all ages and abilities. Routes like the Lochs and Glens Way or the Speyside Way provide gentle terrain and scenic paths ideal for family adventures, with options for shorter day trips or multi-day journeys.

What are the accommodations when cycling in Scotland?

Accommodations when cycling in Scotland range from cozy bed and breakfasts to charming guesthouses, hotels, and campsites along popular cycling routes. Cyclists can choose accommodation options that suit their preferences and budget, ensuring a comfortable stay during their journey.

Can I do a self-guided bike tour in Scotland?

Yes, self-guided bike tours are popular in Scotland, allowing cyclists to explore at their own pace and customize their itinerary to suit their interests. With detailed route maps, GPS navigation, and pre-booked accommodations, self-guided tours offer flexibility and independence for an unforgettable cycling experience.

Can I do a guided bike tour in Scotland?

Yes, guided bike tours are available in Scotland for those who prefer expert guidance and support during their cycling adventure. Professional guides lead cyclists along scenic routes, providing insights into the local history, culture, and landmarks while ensuring a safe and enjoyable journey.

Can I rent an e-bike for a cycling tour in Scotland?

Yes, many bike rental companies in Scotland offer e-bikes as an option for cyclists looking to explore the countryside with ease. E-bikes provide assistance on uphill climbs and longer distances, making them suitable for riders of varying fitness levels to enjoy the beauty of Scotland's landscapes.

What are the best routes for scenic cycling in Scotland?

Scenic cycling routes in Scotland abound, offering breathtaking landscapes and memorable experiences. Some of the best routes include the Isle of Skye Circuit, the North Coast 500, the Speyside Way, the Lochs and Glens Cycle Route, and the Great Glen Way. These routes showcase Scotland's diverse scenery, from rugged coastlines and majestic mountains to tranquil lochs and charming villages, providing cyclists with unforgettable adventures.

Are there bike repair shops along popular cycling routes in Scotland?

Yes, along popular cycling routes in Scotland, you can find bike repair shops and facilities to assist with any mechanical issues or maintenance needs during your journey. From puncture repairs to bike adjustments, these shops offer essential services to keep cyclists on the road and ensure a smooth and enjoyable cycling experience.

Bike Tours in Europe by Country

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Cycling Scotland: an overview

Have you ever considered cycling in Scotland but aren’t sure what to expect or where to ride? Never fear, we’re a welcoming bunch with a vast and wild country filled with snow capped mountains, sandy beaches and quiet, picturesque single track roads.

In many parts of Scotland you’ll feel a million miles from civilisation, so if you’re after quiet cycling solitude not far from some of the most vibrant cities in the UK, start packing your cycling kit and head up north.

To help you choose where to go and what to expect, we’ve put together this guide to get you started on your next cycling holiday to Scotland.

We hope you have a fantastic trip – let us know how it goes in the comments section at the end of the article!

Looking for the best cycling in the UK? Head to this article.

This article includes details of services that we have used ourselves or which we would consider using. Some are paid adverts. Please read our disclosure policy for further information.

1. Why you should try cycling Scotland

You may have already heard of some of the famous Scottish cycling routes. The North Coast 500 has been tipped as Scotland’s Route 66 and if you ride the UK end to end from Land’s End to John O’Groats , you’ll be finishing at a very rugged coastline on our north coast.

But did you know that Scotland has five of the ten highest paved roads in the UK and some of the toughest and longest climbs you’ll find on the British Isles?

Scotland is a country of extremes; yes we have the mountains and the steep climbs, but we also have quiet islands with small passenger ferries to let you meander between places at your leisure at a far more family-friendly pace. Or if you fancy a distillery tour after a heavy day of riding then, of course, we have plenty of those too.

Scotland is bigger than the BBC weather maps will have you believe, and the weather can be changeable (so remember those arm warmers and rain jacket) – but the good news is that it’ll almost certainly break into sunshine at some point in the day.

You’ll never be bored of the views here either. Even if they’re shrouded in mist, there might just be a snow-covered mountain, abandoned castle or herd of highland cattle around the next corner.

Cycling around Scotland is an adventure not far from home but you won’t be alone if you find yourself coming back year after year.

2. The best regions for cycling in Scotland

Below you’ll find our pick of the six best areas in Scotland for your next Scottish cycling holiday. Or pick a few and build your very own cycling tour of Scotland!

We’ve listed our pick (roughly) starting from the most southerly and moving north.

Moffat  Independent Hostel is a friendly, family-run, luxury hostel that has been set up with the cyclist in mind.  Moffat  is a quaint town in the heart of the Southern Uplands and makes for a great stop off on the LEJOG/JOGLE or the Southern Upland Way. However, why not stay with us a little longer and explore more of the Southern Uplands where you will find secluded lochs, towering waterfalls, stunning countryside, and miles and miles of quiet, scenic roads and trails!

Seven en-suite rooms including beds in traditional dorms,  private quad rooms, doubles and twins

Secure storage for your bike in a lock-up garage with CCTV

A selection of bike tools, a maintenance stand and bike washing areas

A laundry service and a large drying room

Fully equipped self catering kitchen and dining room.

Games room with 7-foot pool table, board games, and a vinyl record player!

Route guidance and local information for our guests

The Borders

Great for: Quiet lanes, untroubled by traffic

Where to stay: Peebles

As the area’s name suggests, the Scottish borders lie on the border between England and Scotland, to the south and east of Edinburgh.

The borders include a variety of scenery, from scenic coastline to arable farmland and moors. Despite being close to Edinburgh, the roads (away from the main roads) tend to be quiet and it feels like you’ve steps back in time a few decades.

The most obvious place to base yourself is Peebles, an eminently cycling-friendly kind of a place. It has been the starting point for the Tour of Britain a number of times and the Tweedlove Bike Festival is a popular event. For those into that kind of thing (!), there’s also an extremely popular mountain bike centre at Glentress, just outside the town.

If you want to check out some routes on the coast, somewhere just inland, like Gifford, in the Lammermuir Hills and not too far from the coast, would make a sensible base.

Further south, there’s great riding on the wild and deserted roads around Newcastleton, a village just north of the border between England and Scotland. The area is covered by forest, farmland and impressive historic sites such as Hadrian’s Wall.

The Central Belt

Great for: Flatter landscapes with rolling hills and plentiful café stops

Where to stay: Glasgow, Edinburgh, Falkirk or Stirling

Looking on a map and you instantly spot the line of conurbation that reaches from Glasgow in the west to Edinburgh in the east. You’d be forgiven for thinking cycling in the Glasgow/Edinburgh/Stirling region is an area to miss out on two wheels.

However, there are so many quiet back roads connecting smaller towns and villages that it actually makes for some incredible cycling but with less remoteness you’ll get elsewhere in Scotland.

Staying in or near some of the larger cities means you can have a cycling holiday with a big mix of activities and you’ll never be short of something to do.

For those feeling stronger, there’s the classic Glasgow to Edinburgh cycle ride (and return if you’re keen for a 100 miler), or a gentle pootle along the Union Canal for those wanting a more sedate day.

More information

If you fancy a trip to Edinburgh, don’t miss our guide to cycling in and around Edinburgh and Falkirk . If you’re staying in/around Glasgow, you might also like to check out the cycling on the Isle of Arran .

The Trossachs

Great for:  Loch routes, ferry rides, great climbs and other outdoor adventures

Where to stay: Callandar or Aberfoyle

Loch Lomond and the Trossachs National Park are located just north of Glasgow and west of Stirling.

Often referred to as “the Highlands in minature”, cycling in the Trossachs can vary from gentle hills around Loch Venachar to impressive climbs such as the Duke’s Pass, which hits 11% and leads straight north out of Aberfoyle itself.

This region also incorporates the Loch Lomond cycle path, which runs from Arrochar to Tarbert and is suitable for all bike types. Note that this isn’t a circular path, but makes for a scenic and family-friendly day out.

The Trossachs is a varied region for those who want to do more than just ride, as you can tick some munros off your hill walking list, take ferries across lochs and spy rare wildlife such as the red squirrel and golden eagle.

Another big plus for Loch Lomond and the Trossachs National Park is that they are really close to Glasgow; it’s less than an hour’s drive from the city centre to Callandar or Aberfoyle – two great bases to explore from. If you’re short on time, this area could be a winner for your next bike tour in Scotland.

It’s without doubt one of the most underrated areas for biking in Scotland and a holiday you’ll not forget.

Check out our route suggestions for this region within the Trossachs section of our best routes in Scotland article.

Great for: building climber’s legs, incredible quiet roads, mixing flatter routes with challenging climbs

Where to stay: Aberfeldy or Dunkeld

Perthshire is known as the gateway to the Highlands as it sits at the transition point between the central lowlands and the foothills of the larger mountains.

This means you can get a taste of the tougher cycling climbs on one day and then spin the legs out on an easy route with the family the next.

Perthshire is packed with glens, lochs and mountains for adventurous days out. If you base yourself in Perth, you have the best access to the historic Scone palace (the former Royal seat of Scotland) plus some of the more undulating hills, which characterize the central lowlands.

Alternatively, hit the big cycling climbs of Glen Quaich or Schiehallion road with a base in Aberfeldy or Dunkeld.

Perthshire has some of the best road cycling in Scotland with a huge number of extremely quiet roads which criss-cross the county and don’t take half a day to get to. You’ll never be short of a new route, but take those climbing legs with you for the extra challenge.

Check out our route suggestions for this region within the  Perthshire section of our best routes in Scotland article.

Aberdeenshire

Great for: Rolling countryside, farmland with the occasional taste of the bigger peaks.

Where to stay: Aberdeen or Stonehaven

The east coast of Scotland generally has less rain and more wind than the west coast (making the east v west decision a difficult one as a cyclist!).

However Aberdeenshire gives you the best of both worlds when it comes to terrain. You can choose either a gentle, rolling farmland route or head further inland to tackle some of the beasty climbs as you border the Cairngorms.

Either Aberdeen or Stonehaven give you easy access to the famous Cairn O’Mount climb which is a devilishly short challenge to tick off your list of must-do cycling climbs in Scotland.

Check out our route suggestions for this region within the  Aberdeenshire section of our best routes in Scotland article.

Speyside and Cairngorms

Great for: Some of the toughest cycling climbs of Scotland, high roads, abundant whisky

Where to stay: Aviemore or Dufftown

You’ve probably heard of ‘Speyside’ from the wide array of whiskies available from this north-east area of Scotland. There are around 50 distilleries to visit if that’s your thing!

The defined region extends west to Inverness, east towards Aberdeen and stops south at the boundary of the Cairngorms, so for the purposes of this guide, we’ll include the Cairngorms so we can add in some extra special road climbs to ride before you head for a dram.

Whisky aside, the roads in this rugged region of Scotland are tough going and during winter are usually snowy and icy because they’re so high.

You’ll find three of the top ten highest roads in the UK in this region, so make sure to bring your climbing legs with you.

Because it is a mountainous region, the roads aren’t very family-friendly. Base yourself in Dufftown or Aviemore for the best cycling on offer including the Lecht, Cairngorm Road, and Cairn O’Mount, plus excellent access to the distilleries and hill walking in the area.

Check out our route suggestions for this region within the  Speyside section of our best routes in Scotland article.

The Scottish Highlands

Great for: Rugged remoteness, unrelenting climbing

Where to stay: Inverness, Ullapool or Portree

Scotland was traditionally split into the Highlands and Lowlands along the Highland Boundary fault line, but along this delineation was also a difference in culture and language. The Highlands and Islands spoke Gaelic whereas the Lowlands spoke Scots.

In modern times, ‘the Highlands’ is loosely defined, but for the purposes of this guide we’re considering it everywhere west of a line travelling from Oban to Pitlochry to Inverness.

After the Jacobite rebellion in 1715, roads were very quickly built across the Highlands to move the English military around to quell further unrest. A steep hill wasn’t seen as a barrier to road building, and nowadays this means cycling the Scottish Highlands is a pretty challenging experience. It’s these kind of roads that’ll allow you to visit some wild and remote places before circling back to your hotel for a wee dram before dinner.

If you’re wondering where to stay for your Highland cycling adventure, you could consider basing yourself in the bigger towns of Fort William or Inverness, which are connected to Edinburgh and Glasgow by train. Alternatively, you could go a little more remote to Ullapool or Portree on the Isle of Skye, which are best reached by car.

Wherever you choose to stay, there’s bound to be a famous Scottish cycling climb nearby – from the old drover’s road of Bealach Na Ba to the Quiraing pass on Skye, which is possibly one of the most photographed views of the Scottish Highlands. The cycling around Loch Ness is also a popular option.

If you do stay at Fort William, it’s worth knowing Fort William’s cycling is more mountain biking focused than road cycling. The Nevis range is home to the UCI MTB World Cup and the roads can be quite narrow and fast and there’s rarely much space to escape to if needed.

Check out our route suggestions for this region within the  Highlands section of our best routes in Scotland article.

3. Cycling routes in Scotland

Scotland benefits from a vast network of small single-track roads, that makes road cycling here a joy.

We’re currently preparing an article that shares our favourite Scotland cycling routes in the regions we mention above – sign up to our email list so you don’t miss it when it’s published!

Sustrans Scotland

Check out the Sustrans Scotland National Cycle Network, which is excellent, often utilising paved railway paths which are suitable for all bike types and old-main roads which parallel the new busy ones. Some of the classic NCN routes include:

• NCN1 Coasts and Castles route from Newcastle to Edinburgh
• NCN75 from Glasgow to Edinburgh cycle route
• NCN7 from the England/Scotland border to Inverness

Long distance cycling routes in Scotland

There are a number of famous long-distance cycling routes in Scotland including:

The Five Ferries route

This cycling route let’s you visit the islands of Arran, Kintyre and Bute in a circular loop around the Firth of Clyde.

You can start and end this route in Glasgow and make it an epic day ride, or split it up into a longer cycling holiday.

CalMac ferries sell a specific ticket for this cycling adventure and we’ve plotted the route for you so you’re ready to go, here .

Hebridean Way

This self-guided route takes in the Outer Hebrides, which sit way out west of Scotland and still have 50 uninhabited islands.

The Hebridean Way was launched as a cycling route by the Scottish world record holder, Mark Beaumont, in 2016 and covers 185 miles and 10 islands.

You start this route via a ferry from Oban, which can be reached by train from Glasgow.

We’ve plotted the route here .

Coast to Coast Scotland cycle route

This signed route starts in Annan near the border with England and travels north and east to finish at the Forth Bridge in Edinburgh.

Suitable for all bikes, this is a challenge easy enough to do on a long weekend.

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Check out some more longer point-to-point route suggestions in our  best routes in Scotland article.

Family friendly cycling in Scotland

There are also some famous routes outwith the National Cycle Network but are well established, family friendly and mostly off-road (but suitable for all bike types). These include:

• The Killin railway cycling path and Glen Ogul viaduct
• Glasgow to Tarbet route including the Loch Lomond cycle path
• The NCN754, which is an alternative route between Glasgow and Edinburgh taking in the canal towpaths.

There are further family friendly routes in our ‘Best Cycle Routes in Scotland’ article which is coming soon.

A note of warning when picking cycling routes in Scotland

It’s worth bearing in mind that some of the roads in the north-west of Scotland are becoming popular with camper vans since the NC500 has been advertised as a driving route.

This isn’t to say it’s not still idyllic on two wheels, but going slightly out of season (if you can brave the cooler weather) would mean the roads would be less congested.

Once you move onto the B roads, you’re still likely to get a very enjoyable ride with excellent surface conditions, and it’s all round advised to avoid the A roads as much as possible as they are still narrow and very fast moving.

4. Scotland bike tours and cycling holidays

If you’re looking for a full-on cycling holiday in Scotland, you’ve got the option of organising your own or making use of one of the companies offering guided tours of Scotland.

There are numerous cycling holiday companies who offer varying degrees of autonomy from bespoke tours all the way through to luggage transfer.

We haven’t used any tour companies ourselves but would love to know your experiences – let us know in the comments below!

5. Cycling events in Scotland

Given the incredible scenery and quiet roads, it’s no wonder there are so many organised cycling sportives in Scotland.

Every year there are opportunities to do sign-posted sportives which guarantee an unparalled view of Scotland, including:

• Etape Caledonia – a closed road 40 or 85 mile sportive in Highland-Perthshire.
• Etape Loch Ness – a closed road sportive that allows you to cycle the circumference of Loch Ness.
• Tour of the Borders – a closed road sportive taking in the best roads of the Scottish Borders starting in Peebles.

Etape Caledonia and Etape Loch Ness made it to our list of the best sportives in the UK – check out that article here .

We are also lucky to host the Women’s Tour of Scotland, which had its inaugural year in 2019 and will hopefully be back in 2021. This is one for the pros, but you can cheer on from the roadside, then hop on your bike and ride the route yourself.

6. Tips for cycling in Scotland

When to visit (and midges).

Undoubtedly, the best months to visit Scotland are May and September when the weather is less unsettled.

Although the midge season stretches from late May to September, if you’re lucky you’ll just get the tail end of the season if you come in May/September.

You can encounter midges anywhere in Scotland but they swarm in areas outside of cities, particularly around damp soil. They’re found in their greatest numbers in the Highlands but can be blown away by a good breeze over 7mph.

Scotland’s climate is moderate, not usually getting hotter than mid-20s in summer. The average Scottish summer’s day reaches about 15 – 18 degrees, with a noticeable breeze and average cloud cover. The chances of rain are higher than in England, so always have a rain jacket handy.

Cycling clubs, bike rental and bike shops in Scotland

Cycling clubs in Scotland are mainly clustered in city hubs, but you’ll always be welcome to ride with them if you let them know you’re coming. It’s best to check out their individual websites for details of when and where they ride.

Road bike rental in Scotland is possible in the cities, but not common outside of that. Make sure you do your research before you arrive and if in doubt, bring your own bike.

As for bike shops in Scotland, while there’s usually one or two in the bigger towns, it’s unlikely you’ll find them in the more remote parts of Scotland. Given this and the fact phone signals can be patchy, make sure to take enough spares and repair kit with you when you ride to be self-sufficient enough to make it to the next town.

Other things

Village shops usually take card payments though wifi can be unreliable, so always carry some cash on you (and take it out of the ATM in a big town so you can enjoy our Scottish bank notes). The opening hours of most shops include opening in Sundays, though hours can be reduced.

If you are venturing to some of our wonderful islands, our ferries do take bikes, sometimes at a small charge and it’s best to book in advance in summer months. You’ll be asked to wheel your bike on and lock it securely, so make sure you take a lock.

To fuel those legs over those climbs or against the wind (of which there’s a lot of in Scotland and predominantly from the south-west), make sure you try our black pudding and haggis, followed by desert with ‘tablet’. As for what those delicacies are, we’ll leave it all as a pleasant surprise!

Do you fancy cycling in Scotland?

Share your experiences of cycling in Scotland in the comments below – we’d love to hear your tips!

Don’t miss our other articles on cycling in Scotland and the UK. All our UK content can be found on our cycling UK page , including our guide to cycling Edinburgh .

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10 Responses to “Cycling Scotland: an overview”

Although you have featured classic cycling areas in Scotland, a little bit of research would have led you to many gems in Fife, Angus and Perthshire. Hundreds of miles of brilliant cycling, north, south, east and west of Dundee. (better weather and no midges!)

The real problem is (as always) one of there being too many amazing places to cycle and not enough word count to do it! Are these areas you know particularly well? If so and you’d like to tell us more about them, we’d love to run an interview with you so you can share your knowledge. Just reply to this comment and let me know. Best wishes, Clare

Visited Scotland this year for the first time with the family. My son and I are keen cyclists, but promised the rest of the family we’d just have one day out on the bike. We were there for a week and we could’ve broken that promise every single day. We were based in The Trossachs in a town called Dunoon it’s only about 23 miles from Glasgow if you take the little ferry. The ride we did do was awesome, the quality of the road surface, even on single track roads in the middle of nowhere were just ribbons of smooth black tarmac. We did a hill from the 100 best hill climbs book (our little Bible). The Rest and be Thankful. The climb is not too difficult, a couple of 16% hairpins and some stretches of around 10%, but on the whole a nice test without killing you. What made it so memorable though was that to get to the foot of the climb we had to go up and down something called Hells Glen. Which it’s name is quite misleading because it was bloody amazing, the scenery coming down the descent was just eye boggling and the road surface once again was just so smooth it was incredible the whole ride 64 miles was just brilliant I think we were smiling all the way back from Rest and be Thankful, despite the rain (yes it rains in Scotland, who knew) we were well prepared though and had rain jackets. But rain or shine our experience was incredible, so much so that we’re back up there again next year to tackle Bealach na baa. AND WE CANNOT WAIT.

Wow, so glad to hear you had such an amazing trip! Maybe needs a return with just you and your son (+ bikes)?!?! If you’ve got the GPX for the route you did, do share it here – am sure it would be useful for people! Thanks for your insights, Clare

Can’t believe you have missed out the South West of Scotland. Vast mileage of very quiet rural roads, lovely coastal routes and challenging climbs (Ayrshire Alps etc). Give it a try

Sounds like you know it well – are you based here? Any tips for the best towns in SW Scotland to base yourself in? Thanks for your insights!

My friend and I want to have a wee cycling holiday in Scotland next year, we are based in Cornwall (just!) Where would be the best base? Last year I stayed in Pitlochry for a week, it was amazing. This year I stayed in Lochearnhead, (no BIKE!!) I want to introduce my friend to great cycling at home( I am Scottish) Hubbys are not coming!

Tricky one! Guess it will depend on what kind of riding you’re after, how far you want to drive into Scotland and if there are other touristy things you want to do while there. This article might help? https://www.epicroadrides.com/cycling-blog/best-cycling-routes-in-scotland/

I’m cycling Scotland in 2023 and would like to find out accommodation where I can put my bike safely over night

Best to call ahead and check arrangements before booking. I’m sure our friends at Moffat Independent Hostel (a luxury hostel set up for cyclists) would also be glad to have you to stay 😀

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Top 20 Bike Rides and Cycling Routes in Scotland

Cycling in scotland.

With an unbelievably vast coastline, towering peaks, rolling lowlands and staggering lochs, cycling in Scotland’s tremendous landscape is inspiring to say the least. Famous for its extraordinary views, when you pedal around this majestic country you’re never far from a photo opportunity whether you’re in the Cairngorms or the wild hills of the south. 

There are so many cycle routes in Scotland that you could spend a lifetime riding here, stopping only for meals. With thousands of miles of designated cycle paths as well as hundreds of miles of traffic-free trails, Scotland is a cyclist’s paradise.

You’re in for a true adventure if you’re interested in long-distance rides as Scotland is the perfect place for a week or more of exploration. Day rides are just as wonderful though, with plenty of stunning routes both hilly and flat. And we haven’t even got started with the Scottish islands yet.

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Loch Leven Heritage Trail loop from Kinross

Loch katrine & loch ard gravel loop from aberfoyle – loch lomond & the trossachs national park.

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Applecross to shieldaig loop – bealach na ba, dalmeny estate loop from leith – the john muir way, great cumbrae island loop from largs, glenmore forest and boat of garten loop from aviemore – cairngorms national park, aberfoyle, loch katrine aqueduct & loch ard loop — loch lomond and the trossachs national park, st mary's loch & megget water loop from peebles, aviemore & strathspey loop from carrbridge — cairngorms national park, lennoxtown & mugdock reservoir loop from glasgow – campsie fells, more information, scottish scenery is seriously splendid.

Bike rides in Scotland benefit from a huge variety of landscapes and you can stay low or climb heady trails whenever you like. While not official designations, you can broadly split Scotland into two, the Lowlands and the Highlands. Don’t be fooled by these terms either, for the Lowlands have plenty of thigh-burning routes and the Highlands have lots of flat trails in valleys, along coastlines and circling lochs. 

The Highlands are a sparsely populated yet vast region with incredible mountain ranges and a frankly unbelievable amount of rugged coast. Cycling in Scotland’s isolated Highlands is as breathtaking as riding gets and you can spend days or weeks adventuring out here. Ride through sweeping valleys, dense woods and along towering cliffs. 

The Lowlands are just as beautiful but with markedly different scenery. They include the Central Plain and the mountainous Southern Uplands. Here you can enjoy trail after trail through pastoral countryside, up and over rolling hills and past ancient castles. 

Cycle routes in Scotland aren’t limited to the wonderful mainland, some of the best trails will take you around islands and past exquisite, remote beaches. Often mountainous and always magnificent, exploring the Scottish islands takes you headfirst into the elements. 

Sharing the landscape with wildlife

One of the most fantastic parts of cycling in Scotland is the unrivalled access to incredible wildlife. Birds and animals thrive in this enchanting country, with its sprawling wildernesses and dedicated conservation efforts. 

The birds in Scotland are an ornithologist’s dream, with faces like the ptarmigan, Arctic skua, corncrake, common skota and golden eagle showing up here. Hen harriers, honey buzzards and kestrels are other birds of prey that light up Scottish skies. 

Scotland has a huge population of red deer and these large animals can be seen in the wild throughout the year. The majority of the UK’s red squirrel population resides in Scotland too, so keep an eye out in coniferous forests. 

Seals, dolphins, basking sharks and eider ducks all make Scotland’s coastline a magical place to visit and you’ll find many cycle routes with sea views. 

Two words of warning though. Firstly, Scotland’s most infamous animal, the midge, can be a serious problem. Prevalent between May and September, these tiny biting flies love the Western Highlands and the keen cyclists who ride through them. Secondly, ticks are common and taking precautions is wise. Long socks, tights and carrying a tick remover are all recommended. 

Our Tour recommendations are based on thousands of activities completed by other people on komoot.

Popular around Scotland

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Explore the most popular tours in scotland, discover the most popular attractions in scotland.

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• Outer Hebrides
• Orkney islands
• East Caithness Cliffs Marine Protected Area
• North Knapdale
• North Ayrshire
• Wester Loch Ewe
• North East Scotland
• Loch Na Keal
• Seil And Easdale
• Clackmannanshire
• Loch Goil Marine Protected Area
• Eilean Siar
• Hoy And West Mainland
• Perth and Kinross
• Morar, Moidart And Ardnamurchan
• Grampian Mountains
• South Scotland
• Isle Ristol
• Shetland Islands
• Central Scotland
• West Scotland
• Argyll and Bute
• Lynn Of Lorn

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Scottish Highlands Bike Tour

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Couples, Friends & Solos Adults 18+ Women's Adventures Women 18+ Families with Young Adults 20s & Beyond Best for ages 20+ (min. age 18) Families with Older Teens & 20s Best for ages 17-23 (min. age 14) Families with Teens & Kids Best for ages 9-17 (min. age 4)

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Activity Levels 2-4

We categorize our trips based on a range of activity levels from leisurely (1) to avid (5) with plenty of options in between.

Premiere Hotels

Premiere Hotels - From lavish luxury to on-trend boutique, offering experiences as unique as the regions we explore.

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2024 : May-Sep 2025 : May-Sep

Edinburgh, St Andrews & Medieval Castles

Beyond Scotland's provincial charm of stone cottages and country lanes, discover a place where the land still feels wild. Where relentless waves pound a craggy coastline and mist-shrouded mountains plunge into deep valleys harboring secluded lochs and magical woodlands. Where ruined castles and stone villages hint at the centuries of human history here, but you still have the sense you're the first to experience it on a Scotland bike tour.

• Soak in the bucolic beauty and rich maritime history as you pedal across the ancient Kingdom of Fife
• Stay in elegant castles and country estates where five-star R&R includes high tea, fine dining and Scotch tasting 
• Cycle through picturesque villages and rolling farmlands of the Scottish Lowlands to the misty bens and heather moors of the Scottish Highlands 
• Extend your trip to discover World Heritage-designated Edinburgh, Scotland's enchanting capital since the 1500s

Start/End Edinburgh

Do not book flights until your trip details are confirmed.

We recommend flying into and out of Edinburgh Airport (EDI).

Please note that trip start and end locations are subject to change and can vary by departure. A Travel Planner, complete with trip details specific to your chosen date, will be sent to you at time of booking or soon after and will be viewable in your Backroads account.

* Start/End locations may vary. Do not book flights until your trip details are confirmed.

Discover the East Neuk region of the Fife Peninsula, where maritime history runs deep in quaint fishing villages and harbors • Sample local fare at a country estate that has been in the Erskine family since the 17th century • Savor views of the wild coastline and world-famous St Andrews Old Course while enjoying an award-winning meal at our elegant hotel.

One of Scotland's leading hotels, the refined and elegant Old Course overlooks West Sands Beach and St Andrews's world-famous golf course. (pool, spa)

Bike through the pastoral Angus countryside, passing the world's largest hedge • Cycle across rolling heathered moors and past wooded glens, admiring the soaring bens of Perthshire • Stop in historic Dunkeld and explore the summer home of Beatrix Potter • Take in the quintessential lochs, valleys and mountains of the Scottish Highlands • Fans of the show Outlander may recognize some of the dramatic places we pass in the shadow of Schiehallion, an isolated 3,500-foot mountain known as a Munro after the notable mountaineer, Sir Hugh Munro • Award-winning fine dining and a spa await at our loch-side hotel in beautiful Pitlochry • Perhaps savor a dram of single-malt Scotch before retiring to your well-appointed room.

A loch-side Highland castle tucked into the Tummel Valley, offering award-winning fine dining and a luxurious spa. (pool, spa)

If you’re in the mood for hills, the highlands offer up a challenging but thrilling ride—or opt for an easygoing spin along the River Tay • Pedal along remote country roads • Embark on a two-wheeled journey through Glen Devon and the Ochil Hills, keeping an eye out for a hilltop monument honoring 13th-century Scottish hero, William Wallace • Experience once again why the stunning Perthshire countryside is the setting for some of the finest cycling tours in Scotland • Edinburgh is a great place to extend your vacation.

An intimate boutique hotel housed in a traditional country estate owned by Scottish tennis phenom Andy Murray.

Our trips range in activity levels from leisurely (1) to avid (5) with plenty of options in between. Several routes are offered each day so you can choose your perfect amount of activity. Learn more

*Includes shuttle

• Activity Level

What's Included

• All breakfasts, 4 lunches, 5 dinners
• Expertise and services of our experienced Trip Leaders
• Snacks and beverages between meals
• Additional guides and experts from the region on many trips
• Van shuttles to support a variety of route options
• Comprehensive Travel Planner with detailed pre-trip information
• Private guided tours at museums, historic sites, wineries and other select attractions as noted in the Travel Planner
• All gratuities at hotels and restaurants
• Special events, including wine tastings and other select attractions as mentioned in the Travel Planner
• On biking and multi-adventure trips, use of fully equipped Backroads titanium bike plus helmet and accessories
• Trailercycles, carriers, and kid-sized helmets for Family Trips
• Equipment and experienced guides for kayaking, rafting, snorkeling, sailing and canoeing as described
• Park and other entry fees
• Fares for trains, ferries and other modes of travel as listed in the Travel Planner
• Select coach transfers
• Baggage transfers and porterage

Not Included: Leader gratuities, transportation to and from your Backroads trip start & end locations, and on-your-own meals & activities.

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World-Class Hotels

Our hand-selected Premiere hotels offer exceptional hospitality and experiences as special as the regions we explore.

Hotels may vary based on departure. Any variations will be displayed when selecting a departure under Dates & Prices.

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Our bikes are designed and built with specific cyclists and riding styles in mind, so we can always offer you a perfect ride. Please note that bike requests are subject to availability and prioritized based on the date they're submitted.

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• Lower top tubes for easier mounting and dismounting

Min. age to ride e-bike: 16+

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Biking Tours in Scotland

• Complete the Great Glen Way, a classic long-distance route, by bike
• Pedal the charming lochs and glens of the Trossachs National Park 
• Take on a coast to coast mountain biking journey from Fort William to the east coast
• Cycle the quintessential Perthshire landscape visiting castles along the way

Experience all that Scotland has to offer on a Macs Adventure biking tour. Our biking tours in Scotland travel along quiet roads and traffic-free bike paths past awe-inspiring scenery. As you bike through the wild Scottish landscape you'll have time to meet the locals, discover their history and even enjoy the delightful, local, food and drink. For inspiration and information check out our  online cycling holiday guide .

Our range of biking tours in Scotland, includes touring trips and mountain biking routes along with the possibility of e-bike and road bike hire on a select number of our trips. We use largely quiet country roads and traffic-free cycle routes allowing you to explore treasures like the   Great Glen Cycleway  from Fort William to Inverness tracing the Caledonian Canal and Loch Ness.  Whichever you choose, you can be sure of leaving Scotland with memories of a lifetime.

Biking in Scotland

Featured Tours - Scotland

Cycle Scotland's Lochs & Glens

Great Glen Cycleway

Discover scotland.

The seasons in Scotland vary greatly, which can be one of the many reasons to visit again and again, as they all provide their own beauty and spectacle. Although Scotland isn’t blessed with year-round sunshine its climate is (surprisingly) moderate. At Macs Adventure, we offer biking tours from March through to October when the weather is most kind.

SPRING IN SCOTLAND

Known as the most predictable time weather-wise, as rainfall is generally at it's lowest. You can expect average maximum temperatures to range from approximately 7°C (45°F) to 13 °C (55°F) during the months of March, April and May. This is the most popular time for active vacations in Scotland, so early booking is recommended.

SUMMER IN SCOTLAND

June, July and August are normally the warmest months in Scotland, with average maximum temperatures ranging from approximately 15°C (59°F) to 17°C (63 °F). This time of year is great for biking the Scottish islands as you will have plenty hours of daylight allowing you to make the most of your days in the saddle.

AUTUMN IN SCOTLAND

September and October are up there with our favorite times to explore Scotland, the scenery is a delight with warm gold and bronze hues, as the leaves and grass change color. The autumn light is warmer, perfect for those interested in photography. Not to mention the crisp fresh air – dreamy! Our cycling trips on the Castle Trail or in the Lochs & Glens of the Trossachs National Park   are wonderful at this time of year. 

Fancy a biking tour in Scotland, but not sure if your legs are up to tackling some of the larger hills or steeper ascents? Or simply fancy taking it a little easier - you are on vacation after-all! Then opting for e-bike hire is for you.

We offer a range of biking tours in Scotland where e-bike hire is possible. By no means "cheating" the e-bike is a great tool for helping you feel confident on some longer or hillier days you may otherwise not feel sure about. You'll still be pedaling the entire time but the electric rechargeable battery is there to give you a boost when you need it, you can switch between assist levels as you go. So why not relax, and enjoy the view as you embark on a Macs Adventure biking tour. Make sure to get your request in quickly as there limited e-bikes available, and they are only becoming more and more popular.  

On your Scottish cycling holiday make sure not to miss these amazing experiences along the way. 

Ride through Rob Roy's stomping grounds

Discover the Trossachs National Park and Perthshire on our  Scotland's Lochs & Glens cycling trip. Begin at Loch Katrine, near the birthplace of Scottish folklore legend Rob Roy MacGregor and make your way north east into Perthshire, stopping to visit Dunkeld cathedral, the Falls of Dochart in Killin and perhaps a visit to Scotland's smallest distillery of Edradour in Pitlochry. 

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Scotland Self-Guided Bike Tour

The alluring charm of the Scottish Highlands

Tour Duration

Self-Guided

Activity level.

Hotel Level

Trek Domane AL 5 Disc Trek Electric-Assist Allant+ 6

Starting from

$ 1,999.00 per person

Have a question?

Discover the mystical beauty and legends of the Scottish Highlands on a self-guided bike tour that promises an unforgettable adventure.

Embrace the freedom of a self-guided bike tour across Scotland's dramatic landscapes, from heather-clad moors to ancient forests and shimmering lochs. This adventure lets you set your own pace through the Cairngorms National Park's breathtaking scenery, steeped in history and home to unique wildlife. Choose your challenges from rugged climbs to thrilling descents, all while enjoying local hospitality. Delight in quiet roads, explore historic castles, and indulge in Scotland's hearty cuisine and distinctive whisky. Immerse yourself in the Highlands' raw beauty and let the enchanting spirit of Scotland captivate you, crafting your own unique journey through this spellbinding region. Learn more about Self-Guided trips and if they're right for you »

Ride past heather-clad moors and the River Spey, whose waters are used to create more than half of all malt whisky!

Relax and enjoy your evenings in a welcoming and comfortable lodge in the Highlands

Ride through the Cairngorms National Park, the largest in the UK, known for its stunning scenery and wildlife

Give your taste buds a workout as you enjoy single malt whisky from the local region, Speyside—the heart of Scotland’s whisky country

Whisky distillery tour in Scotland

Visit Speyside Distillery in the magnificent Cairngorm Mountains

The 18th-century boutique distillery is dedicated to crafting the highest quality whisky and is widely considered the prettiest of all Scotland's distilleries.

What Guests are Saying

A very well-conceived trip with fun routes, excellent food, and interesting side tours. We felt Trek was fully behind us whilst enjoying the freedom of self-guidance. And the Trek bikes inspired confidence!

John, Trek Travel Guest

It was a "once-in-a lifetime experience" that we intend to make a "once-a-year" experience. Thanks!

John V., Trek Travel Guest

We couldn’t have loved it more! We were referred by friends for this trip and it exceeded our expectations. Thanks Trek Travel!

Linda S., Trek Travel Guest

Cairngorm Mountain

With an elevation gain of 980 feet (300 m) in just three miles (five km), avid riders can prove themselves on the local's favorite test-piece climb!

Dates & Pricing

Book early for the best price

Join Waitlist

Limited Availability

May 20-24, 2024 limited availability.

Hotels you`ll stay at on this date:

Ravenscraig Guest House

Available bikes:

Trek Domane AL 5 Disc

$ 1999.00 per person.

Double Occupancy

Single Occupancy from: + 599.00

June 10-14, 2024 Limited Availability

Trek electric-assist allant+ 6, july 8-12, 2024 limited availability, july 15-19, 2024 join waitlist, august 5-9, 2024 join waitlist, august 19-23, 2024 limited availability, september 2-6, 2024 join waitlist, september 16-20, 2024 join waitlist, may 12-16, 2025, may 19-23, 2025, june 9-13, 2025, june 16-20, 2025, july 7-11, 2025, july 14-18, 2025, august 18-22, 2025, september 1-5, 2025, september 15-19, 2025.

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Arrival / Departure

Where to Arrive

Inverness Airport (INV)

Pick-up location :

Ravenscraig Guest House in Aviemore

Pick-up time :

Where to Depart

Drop-off location :

Drop-off time :

Additional Arrival Information

We suggest that you arrive at least one day prior to the trip start, which will enable you to adjust to the time zone and minimize the risk of missing the trip start due to flight-related delays. We recommend that you fly into Inverness airport (INV). Flying into Edinburgh (EDI) or Glasgow (GLA) is also possible. From these locations you can take a train to Aviemore enjoying a very scenic ride.

The picturesque railway station in Aviemore is easily accessed by train from Inverness, Edinburgh, Glasgow, or even London and it’s a 10-minute walk (or quick taxi ride) to your accommodation. There are regular trains from the three cities, also with First Class ticket options. A train ride from Inverness to Aviemore takes approximately 45 minutes and a one-way ticket costs about $18. A train ride from Edinburgh to Aviemore takes approximately three hours and a one-way ticket costs about $58. A train ride from Glasgow to Aviemore takes approximately two and a half hours and a one-way ticket costs about $55. Train tickets can be found at Scotrail or at TrainLine . Once you arrive at the train station in Aviemore, you can choose to walk or take a taxi. A taxi ride takes five minutes and costs approximately $10; there are always taxis waiting at the railway station.

Your Trek Travel host will meet you at the Ravenscraig Guest House (141 Grampian Road, Aviemore, PH22 1RP) in Aviemore at 11:00 AM on the first day of the trip. Depending on the number of guests booked for your departure date, it is possible we will ask you to shift your meeting time by approximately 30 minutes. Please have your riding gear readily accessible to avoid having to unpack your luggage. This includes personal pedals, saddles, GPS units, etc., which will be installed on your bike. After a trip overview, you may change into your cycling gear where you will then be fitted to your Trek bike ensuring you will be comfortable for the week. Following a safety talk and a review of the details of the route, saddle up to begin the day's ride.

If you will be late for the meeting or are going to miss it altogether, please inform your host. If you cannot reach them, please call our hotel, the Ravenscraig Guest House (+44 1479 810278), and leave a message with your expected arrival time and contact details. A taxi from Inverness to the Guest House will cost approximately $90.

Additional Departure Information

Your Trek Travel host will meet you at 11:00 AM at the Ravenscraig Guest House (141 Grampian Road, Aviemore, PH22 1RP) to take your bike and equipment before your departure.

Day 1 Welcome to the Scottish Highlands!

Welcome to the Scottish Highlands!

Meet your Trek Travel host at 11:00 AM at the Ravenscraig Guest House in the bustling town of Aviemore, surrounded by lush highland scenery, in the northwest corner of the majestic Cairngorms National Park. At the lodge, your host will familiarize you with the itinerary for the week and will spend some time fitting you to your Trek bike, ensuring the best fit and comfort for the week. Afterwards, you are free to spend the day as you like: take a walk through town or... Meet your Trek Travel host at 11:00 AM at the Ravenscraig Guest House in the bustling town of Aviemore, surrounded by lush highland scenery, in the northwest corner of the majestic Cairngorms National Park. At the lodge, your host will familiarize you with the itinerary for the week and will spend some time fitting you to your Trek bike, ensuring the best fit and comfort for the week. Afterwards, you are free to spend the day as you like: take a walk through town or venture out on a warm-up ride. Today is a linear route which makes for an excellent opening day ride. Keen riders may want to take on the local test climb to challenge themselves on the ascent to the Cairngorm Mountain Ski Center, which rises over 1,000 feet (300 m) and three miles (5 km). Alternatively, relax and enjoy views at the lake, which boasts a large sandy beach that is popular with swimmers. Back at your guest house, relax and unwind perhaps with a cup of tea served in the cozy lounge. Tonight, take a recommendation provided by your host as you decide which local restaurant to try first. Read More

Meals included

Highlight of the Day

Explore Loch Morlich

Climb above the Loch Morlich for epic views or opt for a dip at the lochs large sandy beach.

Ride Options

Ride Option 1

TODAY'S RIDE:

Aviemore to Loch Morlich - Approximately 15 mi | 24 km and 603 ft | 184 m

Ride Option 2

AVID OPTION:

Aviemore to Loch Morlich (with Cairngorm Mountain) - Approximately 23 mi | 37 km and 1,580 ft | 482 m

Day 2 A stunning ride through Dalwhinnie, Newtonmore, and Feshiebridge

A stunning ride through Dalwhinnie, Newtonmore, and Feshiebridge

Today, you'll take a private transfer (approximately 30 minutes) southward to our starting point of the village of Dalwhinnie, renowned for it's iconic whiskey distillery. The vast heather moors sprawl before us, creating a rugged yet captivating scene and starkly different from the lush pine forests nearby. Passing through Newtonmore, don't miss the Highland Folk Museum, an open-air experience worth exploring. A leisurely cycling path guides us towards Kingussie, o... Today, you'll take a private transfer (approximately 30 minutes) southward to our starting point of the village of Dalwhinnie, renowned for it's iconic whiskey distillery. The vast heather moors sprawl before us, creating a rugged yet captivating scene and starkly different from the lush pine forests nearby. Passing through Newtonmore, don't miss the Highland Folk Museum, an open-air experience worth exploring. A leisurely cycling path guides us towards Kingussie, offering a perfect spot for lunch or simply coffee with a well earned slice of cake! Energized, a brief ascent awaits with a treat of sweeping views of the valley, with the historic Ruthven Barracks standing prominently in the foreground. Take a moment to wander through the ruins, built in the early 1700s by George II's government after the unsuccessful Jacobite uprising of 1715. As we navigate the road lined by dry stone walls and towering trees towards Aviemore, keep watch for red squirrels and listen for the sound of woodpeckers that are abundant along this route. Read More

Discover the historic Ruthven Barracks

Take time to explore the ruins which were built by George II's government in the early 1700s after the failed Jacobite uprising of 1715.

Dalwhinnie to Aviemore - Approximately 32 mi | 51 km and 1,453 ft | 443 m

SHORT OPTION:

Newtonmore to Aviemore - Approximately 19 mi | 31 km and 898 ft | 274 m

Ride Option 3

Dalwhinnie to Aviemore with Newtonmore climb and Loch An Eilein - Approximately 38 mi | 61 km and 1,788 ft | 545 m

OPTIONAL ACTIVITY:

Visit the local microbrewery for a tasting session— Cairngorm Brewery

Tour the Highland Folk Museum

Day 3 Experience Loch Garten and Nethy Bridge

Experience Loch Garten and Nethy Bridge

Riding from the guest house, you will follow a quiet country road northeast to Loch Garten; a picturesque freshwater loch famous for its wildlife. The Royal Society for the Protection of Birds runs a reserve where Ospreys return annually to breed, providing a unique opportunity for birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts to observe these magnificent birds. From Loch Garten, it is a short ride to the "forest village" of Nethy Bridge. The village itself is nestled in Aber... Riding from the guest house, you will follow a quiet country road northeast to Loch Garten; a picturesque freshwater loch famous for its wildlife. The Royal Society for the Protection of Birds runs a reserve where Ospreys return annually to breed, providing a unique opportunity for birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts to observe these magnificent birds. From Loch Garten, it is a short ride to the "forest village" of Nethy Bridge. The village itself is nestled in Abernethy Forest, one of the largest areas of native Caledonian pine forests in the country. There is also an excellent cafe for coffee or lunch. Returning to Aviemore on a more direct route, leaving the wildlife rich surroundings of the pine tress, the Cairngorm mountains are in full view on the horizon. This completes a "lollipop" shaped circuit. In your downtime, a tour of the local microbrewery in Aviemore is recommended. Read More

Observe Osprey at the Loch Garten bird reserve

The Royal Society for the Protection of Birds reserve in Loch Garten is a highlight for bird watching and nature enthusiasts; especially dur... The Royal Society for the Protection of Birds reserve in Loch Garten is a highlight for bird watching and nature enthusiasts; especially during annual breeding of the magnificent Osprey. The breeding season for ospreys are late March/April and July/August. Read More

Aviemore to Loch Garten and Nethy Bridge - Approximately 28 mi | 45 km and 1,023 ft | 312 m

Aviemore to village of Boat of Garten - Approximately 19 mi | 31 km and 750 ft | 229 m

Aviemore to Loch Garten and Nethy Bridge (with extra climb) - Approximately 41 mi | 66 km and 1,856 ft | 566 m

Tour the local Aviemore microbrewery

Day 4 Traverse the bewitchingly wild Dava Moor

Traverse the bewitchingly wild Dava Moor

This morning you will be collected from your accommodation for a short transfer (approximately 20 minutes) to a tiny settlement called Duthil, where you’ll begin an exciting traverse of the Dava Moor, passing through a wonderful mix of farmland, woodland, and moorland. The ride starts with a long but gentle climb up onto the wild scenery of the moor. Take a turn along a tiny road which hugs the shoreline of Lochindorb, complete with its island-castle with a dark h... This morning you will be collected from your accommodation for a short transfer (approximately 20 minutes) to a tiny settlement called Duthil, where you’ll begin an exciting traverse of the Dava Moor, passing through a wonderful mix of farmland, woodland, and moorland. The ride starts with a long but gentle climb up onto the wild scenery of the moor. Take a turn along a tiny road which hugs the shoreline of Lochindorb, complete with its island-castle with a dark history linked to Alexander Stewart - better known as the Wolf of Badenoch. After a short climb away from the loch, enjoy a fast descent to the stately town of Grantown on Spey—a good spot for lunch or a coffee. To return to Aviemore, travel back via Nethy Bridge. If your legs are tiring by the time you reach Nethy Bridge, your host will be available to boost you back to Aviemore! Tonight celebrate with one last dinner choosing from our list of hand-selected recommendations and toast to a week of wonders in this captivating country. Read More

Traverse the spectacular Dava Moor

Ride by the abandoned settlements on the Dava Moor where families once braved the exposed conditions. On a clear day, you can see Sutherland... Ride by the abandoned settlements on the Dava Moor where families once braved the exposed conditions. On a clear day, you can see Sutherland to the north, while southern view is dominated by the Cromdale Hills and the Cairngorm Mountains. Read More

Dava Moor to Aviemore - Approximately 38 mi | 61 km and 1,516 ft | 462 m

Dava Moor to Nethy Bridge with Shuttle - Approximately 25 mi | 40 km and 1,196 ft | 365 m

Dava Moor to Aviemore (with extra climb) - Approximately 47 mi | 76 km and 2,433 ft | 742 m

Day 5 Kincraig Loop Ride

Kincraig Loop Ride

On your final morning in this picturesque setting, the Kincraig loop (the local's favorite) beckons for one last cycling adventure. While a small section of this route may look familiar, riding it in reverse promises a brand new perspective. The road, flanked by magnificent oak trees, creates an overarching tunnel, allowing streaks of sunlight to filter through, often casting beautiful dappled shadows on the road ahead. The views down the valley on a clear day stret... On your final morning in this picturesque setting, the Kincraig loop (the local's favorite) beckons for one last cycling adventure. While a small section of this route may look familiar, riding it in reverse promises a brand new perspective. The road, flanked by magnificent oak trees, creates an overarching tunnel, allowing streaks of sunlight to filter through, often casting beautiful dappled shadows on the road ahead. The views down the valley on a clear day stretches for miles. A sharp right, hair-pinned steep descent takes you down to Feshiebridge, where the falls cascade into a crystal clear opening. The inviting waters offer a perfect opportunity for a wild swim - an unexpected delight where the decaying trees themselves are the captivating exhibits. As you pedal into Kincraig, there is a charming cafe stop, which by chance, is almost exactly the midpoint of the circular loop. A sharp climb out of Kincraig sets you on your return to Aviemore, which should be accompanied by a tailwind! Return to the guest house in time to check out at 11:00 AM. Read More

Wander the trails of Feshiebridge

Explore the one-mile trail to view the 12 sculptures by renowned local artist on the Frank Bruce Sculpture Trail. These wooden sculptures ar... Explore the one-mile trail to view the 12 sculptures by renowned local artist on the Frank Bruce Sculpture Trail. These wooden sculptures are mostly carved from reclaimed wood with themes of relationships to others and Scottish culture. Read More

Kincraig Loop - Approximately 17 mi | 26 km and 799 ft | 244 M

Aviemore to Loch an Eilen Return - Approximately 7 mi | 11 km and 318 ft | 97 m

Aviemore to Insh, Kingussie, and Lynchat - Approximately 32 mi | 51 km and 1,524 ft | 465 m

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Rider Information

Rider Level: 3

Terrain: Undulating

The terrain on our Scotland self-guided bike trip includes quiet secondary roads or cycle networks. The terrain tends to be gently rolling with wonderful views of the Highland mountains and glens. Scotland self-guided is best suited for our Type 2 Riders. Type 3 Riders will enjoy the extra mileage the avid route options offer, with more testing climbs.

Daily Average

25 miles | 40 kilometers

122 miles | 196 kilometers

1,029 feet | 314 meters

5,145 feet | 1,568 meters

There are a variety of non-riding options on this trip for riders who want to take the afternoon off or travel companions who want to spend little or no time in the saddle. Non-riders are welcome on a Self-Guided trip if they are staying in the same room with a riding guest. Non-riders will be offered a $500 discount from the trip price. Please contact a trip consultant for details and to book a non-riding companion. Some of these options may need to be scheduled before your trip—please contact one of our Trip Consultants for more information. Except as specified in the itinerary, expenses and transportation to these activities are not included in the trip price. Some non-riding options on this trip are:

• Tour of whisky distillery with tasting
• Swimming, Stand Up Paddleboarding or Canoeing at Loch Morlich
• Steam train ride
• Microbrewery tour
• Highland Folk Museum visit
• Easy rafting and canyoning trips
• View wildlife on a "hide" excursion

On a self-guided tour you need to feel comfortable changing a flat, as this is a common event when cycling. All self-guided trips include Ride With GPS, which is like having a personal guide in your pocket! You'll get turn-by-turn directions and recommendations from Ride With GPS, plus the you'll have the added navigation support of a Garmin GPS. In the rare case of a bicycle breakdown or mechanical issue beyond a simple repair, your Ride With GPS app will have detailed contact information with emergency phone numbers to call for assistance. Learn more about our Self-Guided Bike Tours .

• Up to three daily route options
• Ride With GPS app loaded with emergency phone numbers and local suggestions
• Pre-loaded routes on a Garmin GPS

Located in the heart of the Cairngorm National Park, this exceptionally welcoming 4-star guest house is set in a traditional Victorian villa in the village of Aviemore. The location is the perfect base for discovering Scotland’s great outdoors, with superb riding right outside the door, as well as many other activities to enjoy locally. The owners’ warm hospitality and the proximity to local restaurants and bars will make your stay an unforgettable experience.

Bikes & Gear

Trek’s latest innovation has led to the best aluminium bike on the road—lightweight, stable, and technologically advanced to make every road seem smooth and easy while the disc brakes make stopping safe and secure. Ride confidently and comfortably for as long as you like, in the most beautiful British cycling destinations.

The Trek Allant+ 6, featuring the Bosch mid-drive motor, stable 45mm tires, and a lightweight aluminum frame, is the perfect choice to enjoy the scenery with comfort and a smooth boost of power. The suspension seat post takes the edge off any bumps in the road and the Shimano disc brakes will stop you perfectly in any weather conditions. Head for the hills on UK bike tours with the Trek Allant+ 6!

Additional Gear

• Trek Travel water bottles to keep
• Bontrager saddle
• Bontrager helmet
• Bontrager front and rear Flare R lights
• Garmin Edge 830 or 1030 GPS computer with pre-loaded routes
• Shimano SPD-SL road style pedals, Shimano SPD mountain style pedals, caged, or flat pedals
• A flat pack containing a tube, levers, and a CO2 cartridge with inflator
• For the most comfortable ride, we recommend you bring your own saddle. If you prefer, you can bring your own pedals and helmet on the trip and your host will install your gear on the first day during your bike fit.

Trip Inclusions

• Four nights of accommodation at one handpicked guest house
• Daily breakfast
• Daily lunch and dinner recommendations
• Up to three daily route options on riding days
• A bike lock, all necessary chargers and a floor pump
• Bike fit on the first day to help you find your optimal riding position
• Ride With GPS Experience on your phone to get all the information you need on your self-guided adventure

• Airfare and transportation to and from the trip meeting/departing locations
• Lodging before and after the trip
• Personal items purchased during the trip
• Optional activities not scheduled by Trek Travel
• While we provide daily breakfast, the other meals are not included. On self-guided trips, Trek Travel provides restaurant recommendations and invites you to explore the local cuisine at your leisure.
• Trek Travel jersey's are not included on our Self-Guided bike tours but they are available for purchase. Visit our Trek Travel Online Shop to see your options.

Guide Gratuities

For self-guided bike tours you are welcome to thank your host (preferably in the local currency) with a gratuity based on their level of professionalism and service.

Additional Details

Your Day. You Decide.

Our self-guided vacations are designed to fit all types of travel styles. Whether you like to spend your time relaxing or on a non-stop adventure, you get to decide what your day looks like. Choose your mileage, itinerary, and experience level and leave the rest to us!

Your Trip Need to Knows:

• We do our best to avoid busy roadways as much as possible, however, urban riding and sections of busy roads are unavoidable for some segments of your rides.
• Look right and keep left ! In Scotland, you cycle on the left side of the road along with traffic. Extra attention and caution are required as you ride, cross intersections, and enter traffic circles if this is the opposite side of the road that you are accustomed to.
• Please note that the bikes you will ride on this trip are aluminium frames with mechanical shifting, which differs from our standard fleet. See the Bikes & Guides section for more information.

Before and After Your Trip

Edinburgh, UK

Reasons to stay in Scotland's capital abound. Since the 15th century, this city has served as the hub for Parliament, government, royalty, and judicial courts. Both the Old Town and New Town together have been maintained as a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1999. See for yourself the majestic stone castles, bell towers, and universities. Full days can be dedicated to meandering the many neighborhoods, visiting art museums or galleries, and partaking in the classic Scottish sport of golf. (We can also provide recommendations for Perth, if you choose to stay there instead of Edinburgh. Please contact one of our Trip Consultants for details.) We recommend the following accommodations for your pre-trip hotel in Edinburgh:

Where to Stay

The Balmoral Hotel

Situated near the Old Town with views of Edinburgh Castle, this elegant and classic hotel embodies the best of Scottish heritage. Thoughtful design, vaulted rooms and suites, and a shockingly large whisky collection beckon you to live in the lap of Scottish luxury - even if only for a night. www.roccofortehotels.com

The Roseate Edinburgh

Uncover urban chic where authentic Scottish charm meets upscale vibes in two beautifully restored 1867 Victorian townhouses. Each room reflects heritage with warm tweeds, rich velvets, and unique prints. Delight in freestanding baths and artisanal treats for a touch of luxury. The bar and lounge exude elegance, featuring a vintage whisky cabinet. Enjoy concierge service and complimentary WiFi in this sophisticated city retreat. www.roseatehotels.com

Bruntsfield Hotel

This 4-star townhouse hotel has all the comforts you'd expect and then some. Located just a short walk from the Edinburgh city center, and a 10-min taxi ride from the Edinburgh train station. www.thebruntsfield.com

Inverness, UK

As one of the smallest cities in Scotland with some 55,000 people, Inverness is ideally located as a hub in the north of Scotland. Known as the "Highland Capital," Inverness offers outdoor activities as well as many cultural attractions. Enjoy dolphin watching on Chanonry Point, arguably the best place to watch Bottlenose Dolphins in Scotland. Walk along the Caledonian Canal, a scheduled ancient monument that runs the length of the Great Glen. Explore some local castles and fortresses and learn about highland clan history, or savor a pint with some live music at the Hootananny Ceilidh Bar. If you like to play golf, there are several links for courses nearby: Royal Dornach , Castle Stuart , and Nairn Dunbar . We recommend the following accommodations for your post-trip hotel:

Kingsmill Hotel

The Kingsmills Hotel is a 4-star hotel offering spa services, a restaurant serving locally sourced delicacies, and good old-fashioned Scottish hospitality. www.kingsmillshotel.com

Heathmount Hotel

Heathmount Hotel is a small family-owned boutique hotel featuring stylish rooms and its own bar and restaurant, all close to the center of town. www.heathmounthotel.com

Loch Ness Country House Hotel

A comfortable and tranquil getaway, this country house features a Georgian exterior complemented by an elegant modern interior. www.lochnesscountryhouse.com

Average monthly temperature and precipitation

Packing and Weather

Summer temperatures range from the 50s to 70s ºF (13-24ºC). Rain is possible at any time of the year and daily Scottish weather is very unpredictable! It’s a good idea to bring rain gear, as well as layers. View our Packing List

Ready to book?

To reserve your space on a trip, you can either call us at 866-464-8735 to speak with an expert Trip Consultant or book online any time by clicking the “BOOK THIS TRIP” icon near the upper right of each destination’s overview page.* Once you have submitted your reservation online, a Trip Consultant will contact you within one business day to answer any questions you may have and to confirm space, bike, and room availability on your desired trip. Your booking will be finalized once your no-risk deposit is paid. If you make a reservation more than 90 days prior to the trip, a $750 no risk deposit is due at the time of booking.** If you reserve your trip less than 90 days prior to the departure, the full balance is due at the time of booking. Once your booking is complete you will receive an email confirmation with important information pertaining to your trip.

*Please note that select trips cannot be booked online at this time. For those trips, please call a trip consultant at 866-464-8735.

**Deposit amounts vary for all Race, Cross Country, Special Edition, Ride Camp, Discover, and Self-Guided tours. Please confirm deposit amounts for all trips with your Trip Consultant at time of booking.

What happens once I book?

When a trip is booked, a guest confirmation letter is immediately sent out. One week prior to the trip start, you’ll receive an email containing your trip start meeting location reminder and any last-minute information that you’ll need to know before you go. Once you arrive at your destination, your Trek Travel host will brief you on the day-to-day plan for the trip and give you an overview on the daily route information and detailed maps within the Ride with GPS app. Your host will also review with you the preloaded Garmin GPS computer that allows you to ride with complete confidence and independence.

What if I have to cancel my trip?

We understand things happen in life and sometimes you have to cancel or change your tour.

Read our Cancellation Policy

Our Trip Consultants are available to assist and can answer your questions. Please call us at 866-464-8735.

Travel Protection

Trek Travel recommends that you purchase a travel protection plan to help safeguard you and your travel investment against the unexpected. We offer a travel protection plan through Arch RoamRight that provides coverage for unforeseen events that could affect your ability to travel with us. Learn more about our Travel Protection

Travel Services

We've collaborated with a specialized travel agency committed to delivering tailored vacation planning, ensuring your entire Trek Travel journey is nothing short of unforgettable. Learn more about our Travel Services

Single Supplement

Your Self-Guided trip price is per person based on two guests sharing a room. If you are a solo traveler or if you want to stay in your own private room while traveling with other people, you will have a Single Supplement Fee added to your trip price at the time of booking.

General Self-Guided FAQs

Didn't find what you were looking for? Check out our General FAQs section. You will find answers to the most common questions that don't necessarily pertain to a specific trip. See Self-Guided FAQs

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Guaranteed trips.

Our trips are guaranteed to run once we have one confirmed booking on the trip.  Click here to view our full guarantee policy .

Trek Travel reserves the right to cancel trips with zero guests, therefore you must book with Trek Travel before making travel arrangements for the trip. We are not responsible for travel arrangements made prior to confirming your Trek Travel Trip. Select trips are not guaranteed.

Sold Out/Waitlist

This trip is currently sold out, but you may be added to the waitlist in the case of availability.

If a date is marked with Limited Availability, there are few spots left to book. We will secure additional rooms from our hotels before confirming your reservation.

Looking to travel with a small group? Ask our trip consultants about private trips and learn more .

What are your trip styles?

Classic - reserve:.

Savor the finer things as you relax in luxurious 5-star accommodations and wine, dine, and ride in some of the most unforgettable destinations around the world.

Classic - Signature:

Explore beautiful destinations by bike, enjoy extra inclusions, savor delicious local cuisine, and enjoy the perfect mix of accommodations.

Classic - Discovor:

Enjoy a casual cycling vacation with fantastic routes and comfortable accommodations.

Train like the pros in some of their favorite riding destinations.

See the pros in action at the biggest cycling events of the year.

Cross Country:

Tackle an epic adventure that takes you point-to-point across mountains, countryside, and more.

Enjoy a bike tour on your schedule with just your chosen travel companions.

If a date is marked as Private, it is reserved for a private group.

Looking to travel with a small group or looking for a custom date? Call our trip consultants at 866-464-8735

What is the Difference?

Ultimate luxury:.

Savor some of the most spectacular, 5-star properties in the world. Exuding luxury and elegance, these one-of-a-kind accommodations offer the chance to rejuvenate at award-winning spas, dine at Michelin-starred restaurants, and more.

Enjoy luxurious accommodations handpicked for a refined experience. From signature spa treatments to delicious local cuisine, you’ll be more than provided for; you’ll be pampered.

These handpicked hotels provide relaxation and fun in a casual and comfortable environment. Delicious cuisine and great service mix perfectly for a memorable stay.

On select cycling vacations, you’ll stay at a mix of hotel levels, from Explorer to Luxury to Ultimate Luxury. Rest assured, no matter which level of hotel you’re at, our trip designers carefully select every accommodation.

Road : 1-3 hours of riding. Up to 25 mi (40 km). Up to 1,000 ft (300 m).

Gravel: 1-3 hours of riding. Up to 20 mi (35 km). Up to 1,000 ft (300 m).

Hiking: 1-3 hours of hiking. Up to 5 mi (8 km). Up to 1,000 ft (300 m).

Road : 2-4 hours of riding. 20-35 mi (35-60 km). Up to 2,500 ft (750 m).

Gravel: 2-4 hours of riding. 15-30 mi (25-45 km). Up to 2,000 ft (300 m).

Hiking: 2-4 hours of hiking. 4-8 mi (6-12 km). Up to 1,500 ft (450 m).

Road : 3-5 hours of riding. 25-55 mi (40-85 km). Up to 4,500 ft (1,500 m).

Gravel: 3-5 hours of riding. 20-40 mi (35-60 km). Up to 3,000 ft (900 m).

Hiking: 3-5 hours of hiking. 6-10 mi (9-16 km). Up to 2,000 ft (600 m).

Road : 4+ hours of riding. 40-70 mi (60-110 km). Up to 8,000 ft (2,400 m).

Gravel:  4+ hours of riding. 30-50 mi (45-80 km). Up to 4,000 ft (1,200 m).

Hiking: 4+ hours of hiking. 7-15 mi (11-24 km). Up to 4,000 ft (1,200 m).

Classic - Discover:

Single occupancy.

Sometimes it’s more convenient and comfortable to have your own room while on vacation. We understand and that’s why we offer a Single Occupancy option. The additional price guarantees a private room all to yourself

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Cycling Tours in Scotland

Scotland boasts arguably the best scenery the UK has to offer and what better way to see it than on a Scottish cycling tour! Scotland has so much to offer for cyclists, from remote roads and trails, to towering mountains, endless lochs, and even Caribbean-like islands...

We offer road bike tours, gravel riding, mountain bike tours, and more leisurely rides so there is something for everyone here! However you want to explore Scotland, we can cater for it with fully supported tours and self-guided options, your next cycling trip will be one of your best.

Find Your Ride

We found 12 Holidays in your search for:

• In Scotland
• Leisure Cycling (All Grades), Mountain Biking (All Grades), Road Cycling (All Grades), Family Cycling (All Grades), Cycling Adventures (All Grades) or Gravel Riding (All Grades)
• All Cycling Holidays
• UK Cycling Holidays
• Scotland Cycling Holidays

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Scotland - Tour d'Ecosse

Guided road bike tour, prices from.

• Quiet single-track roads for miles on end
• Bealach Na Ba – the greatest road ascent in the UK
• Feasting on fresh seafood after a day in the saddle
• Stunning views out over the Isle of Skye
• Cycling the peaceful lochside roads
• The swooping coastal road from Ullapool to Kinlochewe

Scotland - Hebridean Way

Guided leisure bike tour.

This tour is well-suited to both normal bikes and pedal assist e-bikes and you can choose to hire either when you book your tour with us. Confident cyclists will enjoy the boost from a battery for those cheeky climbs, and with less effort required on the bike, you’ll have more energy at the end of the day for off-the-bike activities. You may choose to hire an e-bike on a group or supported tour but bear in mind that the pace will be set to riders without an e-bike.

E-BIKE HIRE AVAILABLE

• Riding along the Golden Road
• Miles and miles of picture-perfect white sand beaches
• Enjoying a wee dram at the Gin Distillery at Tarbert
• Seeing the traditional weaving of Harris Tweed
• Views of Luskentyre Beach over a delicious picnic lunch
• Visiting Dun Carloway Broch
• The awe inspiring Callanish Standing Stones

Scotland - Wild About Argyll

Guided gravel riding tour.

• Scenic shorelines on Loch Goil, Loch Long and Loch Eck
• Lush forest with a variety of trails and textbook gravel riding
• Pairing Scotland’s finest seafood with local whisky and craft beer
• Deep glens beneath towering mountains in Loch Lomond & the Trossachs National Park
• Sunsets across Loch Fyne at Portavadie
• Chance to spot otters, red squirrels and white-tailed eagles

Scotland - The Caledonia Way

• Marvelling at the beauty of Kilmartin Glen and its ancient monuments
• Enjoying traffic-free cycleways and lovely canal side routes
• Checking out Ben Nevis and The Grampians from Loch Linhe
• Fort Augustus and taking on the legendary ascent of Glendoe
• Exploring Knapdale – One of Scotland’s National Scenic Areas
• Cycling to Scotland’s best-loved towns including Fort William and Fort Augustus

Scotland - Lochs and Glens

• Watching the sun rise over Loch Lomond
• The beautiful lochs of Venachar, Lubnaig and Tay
• Cycling through the dramatic Cairngorms National Park
• Scottish wildlife at its best including deer, red squirrels, eagles and osprey
• Castles and distilleries galore
• Rural Scottish cycling at its very best

Scotland - Highlands Coast to Coast

Guided mountain bike tour.

We offer this tour with an e-MTB only departure as well as regular trips where you can choose a normal bike or a pedal assist e-MTB hire. Boost your riding off the beaten track! Our e-MTB only departures offer experienced riders the chance to enjoy a phenomenal e-mountain biking adventure with Skedaddle. Hire one of our quality e-mountain bikes and experience the buzz of a pedal-assisted ride. You may choose to hire an e-MTB on a regular tour date for this trip but bear in mind that the pace will be set to riders without an e-bike.

OPTIONAL E-MTB DEPARTURES

• True wilderness mountain biking in awesome scenery
• Mix of great biking trails across the Highlands
• The views from the top of the Corrieyairack Pass
• Rolling into Fort Augustus along the Caledonian Canal
• Choosing your daily Highland single malt
• Blasting down Mount Keen to Glen Esk

Scotland - Hebridean Explorer

This holiday is great fun on a regular mountain bike or an e-mountain bike and you can choose to hire either when you book your tour with us! If you’re an experienced rider, you can choose one of our quality e-mountain hire bikes and experience the buzz of a pedal-assisted ride. Select your e-MTB hire when you book a tour with us.

Bear in mind that the pace will be set to riders with a regular mountain bike.

E-MTB HIRE AVAILABLE

• A fantastic journey by bike through the Outer Hebrides
• Seven unspoilt islands
• Great trails and exciting boat rides
• Awesome scenery, wild hills and clean white beaches
• Great food, hospitality and malt whisky!
• History, culture and wildlife

Land's End to John O'Groats Explorer

Guided bike tour.

This tour is well-suited to both normal bikes and pedal assist e-bikes and you can choose to hire either when you book your tour with us. Confident cyclists will enjoy the boost from a battery for those cheeky climbs, and with less effort required on the bike, you’ll have more energy at the end of the day for off-the-bike activities.  You may choose to hire an e-bike on a group or supported tour but bear in mind that the pace will be set to riders without an e-bike.

• Ride the length of Britain from toe to tip and declare yourself an ‘End to Ender’
• Experience the regional changes in tradition, culture and accents as you progress from county to county
• Enjoy spectacular scenery from Cheddar Gorge to the Cairngorms
• 3 countries in 19 days of riding
• 1,000 miles of Britain at its best
• Cornish pasties to haggis and everything in between

Land's End to John O'Groats Classic

• 3 countries in 14 days of riding

7 Best Edinburgh Bike Tours in 2024 (worth your time!)

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Ready to book the best Edinburgh bike tours?

Edinburgh should definitely be on your UK bucketlist, and if you’re feeling a bit more adventurous than a regular walking tour, think about seeing Edinburgh on a cycling tour!

It’s a gorgeous city to see by bike and isn’t as busy as London, so you won’t have as many safety concerns and can enjoy yourself as you follow your guide on a bike through the city.

How would I know the best bike tours in Edinburgh?

I’ve lived in the UK for the past 10 years and have been on cycling tours in all the major cities, and I can say for sure that Edinburgh is one of the best ones for this type of tour.

You’ll get to get off and on – of course, making stops where you need to, and you can cover more ground on a cycling tour of Edinburgh than you can by walking.

I’ve vetted all of these top Edinburgh cycling tours for you so you don’t have to!

Now let’s jump into the most popular bike tours in Edinburgh!

PS – I always recommend booking in advance as spaces do tend to fill up.

⏳ Don’t have time to read the whole list?

The best tour of Edinburgh by bike is this Edinburgh Sky to Sea bike tour.

Click here to check prices and availability.

Easy Guide: Best Bicycle Tours in Edinburgh

1. edinburgh sky to sea bike tour by manual or e-bike.

⭐️  RATING:  5 out of 5 Stars, 310+ reviews | ⏳  TOUR LENGTH:  4 hours 45 minutes | ✔️  BOOK NOW

Got a few hours in Edinburgh?

This Edinburgh cycle tour allows you to see more with a bike than you could by foot, and if you opt for an electric bike, you won’t even feel like you have to push too hard!

This is a wonderful tour that takes you from Arthur’s Seat to the beaches, enjoying the natural landscapes around Edinburgh, and you’ll also pass by some picture-perfect Edinburgh locations within the town center including the Georgian streets in the New Town.

If you’ve got a bit of adventure in you, this is my top pick for the best bike tour of Edinburgh.

2. Award-winning circular cycle tour of Edinburgh!

⭐️  RATING:  5 out of 5 Stars, 70+ reviews | ⏳  TOUR LENGTH: 4 hours 30 minutes | ✔️  BOOK NOW

Embark on a unique 20-mile cycling tour on traffic-free paths, with an optional £20 E-bike upgrade.

Starting along The Union Canal, pass canal boats and historic sites.

Explore The Water of Leith, Murrayfield, Dean Village, and Leith’s iconic harbor.

Enjoy Portobello Beach views before concluding with the ‘Innocent Tunnel’ path.

The pace is steady, with breaks for exploration. Confident cyclists can savor this adventure, rain or shine.

3. Ricky’s Ultimate City Manual and E-Bike Tour

⭐️  RATING:  5 out of 5 Stars, 127+ reviews | ⏳  TOUR LENGTH:  3 hours 30 minutes | ✔️  BOOK NOW

This is one of the absolute best tours of Edinburgh by bike .

Get ready for some secret spots in Edinburgh that you get to see on two wheels, skipping the stress of the city center and going off-the-beaten-path.

You’ll get to experience the beautiful natural area around Arthur’s Seat, as well as coastal paths and parts that tour buses can’t reach, all with a small group and on either a traditional bike or electric bike (e-bikes for riders of 14+ years old).

There aren’t too many hills, anyway, and the guide is so animated and knowledgeable that you’ll learn something as well as get some exercise.  

4. Best Ever Edinburgh e-Bike Tour

⭐️  RATING:  5 out of 5 Stars | ⏳  TOUR LENGTH:  2 hours 30 minutes | ✔️  BOOK NOW

Join your professional mountain bike guides on this E-Bike tour around Edinburgh, including the use of the E-Book and a bike jacket and gloves for safety.

You’ll get taken around to some seriously charming areas, including local hidden gems that you couldn’t reach with a vehicle.

The bikes are some of the smoothest in the business, with mountain bike tires and an ease and comfort that you won’t find with some other tour operators.

You’ll finish in Dean Village, a stunning Edinburgh neighborhood area that has leafy cycleways and a sense of seclusion within the city.

5. Edinburgh: 20-Mile Cycling Loop Tour

⭐️  RATING:  5 out of 5 Stars, 9+ reviews | ⏳  TOUR LENGTH:  4.5 hours | ✔️  BOOK NOW

Here’s what to expect on this tour !

Meet at the Bridgend Farmhouse, a 15-minute drive from The Royal Mile. Start your ride to the Union Canal.

Go down to the Water of Leith, passing through Dean Village. Continue to the Port of Leith for a break. Portobello Beach has a long, uninterrupted cycle path.

Complete the circle by going through the Innocent Tunnel and back to the Meadows. It’s a 20-mile round-trip. Take it slow to have time for photos and observation.

6. Edinburgh: Cycle Tour to the Coast (family friendly)

⭐️  RATING:  5 out of 5 Stars, 12+ reviews | ⏳  TOUR LENGTH: 3 hours | ✔️  BOOK NOW

Hop on Visit Scotland’s ‘Best Outdoor Experience 2022/23’ with a chill cycling trip.

Kick off your day at Bridgend Farmhouse, just a 10-minute car or Uber ride from The Royal Mile.

Meet your guide, then cruise through cycle paths into Holyrood Park. Snap some pics with Arthur’s Seat in the background while you’re there – it’s a cool extinct volcano.

Keep the wheels turning on a laid-back downhill ride to Duddingston Village, home to Scotland’s oldest pub, The Sheep’s Heid Inn, from 1360.

Hit the road for a short stretch to John Muir Way, leading you to Portobello Beach for a breather.

On the way back, take a different path, passing through the Innocent Railway Tunnel, built in 1831 – the UK’s oldest, under a slice of Arthur’s Seat.

7. Edinburgh: Scenic Bike Tour

⭐️  RATING:  4.5 out of 5 Stars, 196+ reviews | ⏳  TOUR LENGTH:  3 hours | ✔️  BOOK NOW

Escape the city hustle with a 3 to 4-hour guided bike tour from Edinburgh’s Old Town.

Pedal past iconic landmarks like the New Scottish Parliament and Dynamic Earth, ascend Arthur’s Seat for stunning views, and explore hidden gems like Dr. Neil’s Garden at Duddingston Manse.

Return through Meadows Park and the Grassmarket to the Old Town for a comprehensive escape.

This is a regular trekking bike tour, with no e-Bike option, which makes it a bit slower paced and more chill.

Heading to London? Want the best tips?

Check out my Ultimate Guide to London for Visitors. Using text, images and video, this guide is packed full of tips, tricks, safety advice, knowledge on how to get around and what to do, and more!

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The Complete Guide to Bikepacking Scotland

Scotland is perhaps the most captivating and storied bikepacking destination in the world, attracting countless intrepid cyclists every year. We asked our resident Scotland expert, Huw Oliver, to put together this comprehensive guide to help you plan your next bikepacking getaway to this enchanted land…

Scotland might be a relatively small place, but the folds of its hills and glens are packed with millennia of history, stories, and enough roads, tracks, and trails to keep a bikepacker busy for a lifetime. Scotland draws visitors from all over the world. Some of them come to buy tartan umbrellas and pretend they’re a blue-painted Mel Gibson, but a fair few of them come to ride their bikes. You might be drawn by thoughts of riding through lonely, windswept glens on trails deeply infused with history, or a cosy dram in the pub after a long day’s pedalling.

Table of Contents

Iconic routes like the Highland Trail 550 attract racers and tourers alike, but in almost every corner of this intricately connected country there are adventures to be had for those willing to embrace the challenge, ranging from ‘tarmac in name only’ to chunky, rugged mountainous singletrack. The weather will test you, but the people will welcome you, and for the curious bikepacker Scotland is unlike anywhere else.

Of course, if you fill in all the answers, then the adventure ceases to exist. But don’t worry, that’s not what we’re here for. If you’re already planning a trip to Scotland, or just looking for inspiration, the information presented in this guide is intended to be a springboard to get you on the right track. We’ll cover the essentials of ‘what’, ‘where’, ‘when’ and ‘how’. The ‘why’ will reveal itself when you get here.

Scotland’s reputation outweighs its size, as though whoever was given the job of designing it gave in to temptation, and couldn’t resist squeezing just one more story into it. It’s a small country, occupying the northern third of mainland Britain, and home to around five million people. Similarly, Scotland contains more geography than it really should, and the landscape changes dramatically with just a few short miles of travel. At the border with England, the Southern Uplands’ rolling hills are dominated by moorland, sheep farming, and ancient hill forts, divided by forested valleys and rivers famed for their salmon. Moving north, these give way to the densely populated Central Belt, in the low-lying valleys of the rivers Forth and Clyde. The memories of shipyards, coal mines, and empire-building industry still snake through the commuter towns and post-industrial cityscapes. The two major cities of Edinburgh and Glasgow eyeball each other from opposing coasts.

Further north, the Highland Boundary Fault marks the abrupt rise of the Highlands themselves, the mountainous half of the country that extends all the way to the northern coast. They rise to high points of the Cairngorms in the east, and the volcano-born peaks of Ben Nevis and Glencoe’s famously jagged skyline. Fringing the west coast lie over 900 islands, among which the larger islands of Mull and Skye, and the long archipelago of the Outer Hebrides, are home to their own unique geographies and ecosystems. In the ancient rocks of the far north, monolithic mountains stand proud and isolated on plains of ice-scoured bedrock.

The highest point, the summit of Ben Nevis on the west coast, stands at 1,345 meters (4,412 feet), not so impressive on paper, but anyone standing in the teeth of its frequent storms would beg to differ. In total, there are 282 mountains over 914 meters (3,000 feet) in height, which are known as munros . Alongside many beautiful rivers are innumerable lochs , ranging from the infamous Loch Ness, Scotland’s biggest by volume, to Loch Lomond, which is the largest by area. The only lake in Scotland is the Lake of Menteith, near Stirling. The far north west Highlands and the Outer Hebrides are more water than land in some places, where the water has filled the many hollows left by glacial ice to leave a landscape known as Cnoc and Lochain . The impact of the ice can be seen all over the Highlands, especially in the long, fjord-like sea lochs of the west coast.

The Highlands themselves are a geologist’s dream, containing hugely varied rock formations all packed tightly together. Before the opening of the Atlantic Ocean, Scotland was originally part of the North American continent and separated from England by an earlier ocean. The two merged, and modern day North America split off again around 60 million years ago. The resulting rift can be seen today as a string of dramatic volcanic calderas down the west coast, such as the one at Ardnamurchan point, or the islands of Rhum and Skye.

The relevance of geology to bikepackers is, literally, right at our feet, and riding here is a great way to see the ground change beneath your tyres. The high plateaux of the Cairngorms, in the east, are the eroded remains of a huge, sub-surface pocket of magma that slowly cooled to form the rounded, grippy granite that you will experience as a satisfying ‘brrrrt’ noise as your tyres stick to it like glue. In Torridon, the mountains’ sandstone midslopes give way to upper slopes of angular white blocks of quartzite that will terrorise your tyres and give the mountains the appearance of being dusted with snow even in midsummer. Even the capital, Edinburgh, has a skyline that is dominated by the extinct volcano of Arthur’s Seat.

Scotland’s wildlife has struggled against over-exploitation of mountain land and persecution of predators by sporting estates, whose primary interests are in raising numbers of target species (generally red grouse and red deer) at the expense of habitat and species conservation, although this tradition could be in the process of changing for the better. The red deer is easily recognisable, and the famous painting Monarch of the Glen was painted in a cottage that riders can pass right by in Glen Feshie on the Cairngorms Loop, though only the chimney stack now remains. The golden eagle is the most well-known bird, and both they and the larger white-tailed eagle can now be seen frequently, on the islands in particular. The Capercaillie, a species of giant grouse, is a rare but welcome sight in the Scots pine forests of the Cairngorms, as is the Crossbill, the pine marten and the critically endangered Scottish Wildcat. The fox is the largest land predator, but plans for a controlled reintroduction of the Eurasian lynx are gathering momentum.

The Romans did conquer England and southern Scotland, but the Forth-Clyde isthmus marked the northernmost reach of their control, and they abandoned it around 165 AD. One of the larger Roman camps at Trimontium in Melrose lies on the route of the Capital Trail, and the route itself follows the Roman route as it travels south along the ridge from lauder to Melrose.

The Dark Ages saw Scotland as three kingdoms: the Picts in the north-east, Anglo-Saxon Northumbria in the south-east, and Dál Riata in the west, which was a product of gaelic-speaking Irish settlers. After Viking raids began in the 8th century, the northern and western isles and much of the west coast were governed from Norway. The Gaels were pushed west and formed a kingdom known as Alba, while the Pictish kingdom ceased to exist. Modern day place names still give evidence of the old boundaries of these three Pictish, Gaelic and Norse-speaking worlds.

‘Scotland’ as a nation-state emerged in the 12th and 13th centuries, until the death of Alexander III in 1296 broke the line of succession and led to the Scottish Wars of Independence. Yes, that’s right: Mel Gibson wearing blue paint. Scottish history always seems to come back to that at some point. For the bikepacker, another series of battles in the 18th century has a more visible legacy, though. In 1746, the Jacobite rebellion led by Charles Stuart (‘Bonny Prince Charlie’) was roundly defeated by the British government at Culloden, just outside Inverness. In the aftermath, the government ordered General George Wade to build a series of new roads and forts to be built to suppress any further unrest in the Highlands, and many of those roads are still in use today. The Highland Trail 550 route uses them extensively, on the famous Corrieyairack Pass as well as the lonely miles across Rannoch Moor. The forts at Fort William, Fort Augustus, and Fort George, near Inverness, also date from the aftermath of Culloden.

Other, older roads are likely to be encountered, like the drove roads which were routes for livestock to be taken from rural farms to markets in the towns and cities. The Cairngorms loop makes heavy use of them through natural features like the Gaick Pass and the Lairig an Laoigh (Gaelic for ‘Pass of the Calves’). Applecross’ spectacular Bealach na Ba, ‘pass of the cattle’, is another. In several places, ‘Coffin Roads’ were routes that took the most direct line from a settlement to the nearest consecrated ground, as that was the customary way to take the dead to be buried. If you’ve ridden—or more likely pushed—the coffin road from Letters to Dundonnel on the Highland Trail 550 route, then you’ll know that direct can mean ‘steep’!

The Clearances emptied the Highlands of much of their human population, but the system of land ownership is largely intact and private landowners own huge tracts of land. In recent years community buy-out schemes have sought to redress the huge imbalance of land ownership in Scotland, but the fact remains that the Highlands in particular suffer from a poverty of land democracy stemming from the gradual transformation of clan chiefs into private landowners.

English might be the dominant language in most of Scotland, but both Gaelic and Scots English are also officially recognised. The traditional Gaelic is making a small resurgence, in fact. Gaelic speaking is concentrated in the north west, and in particular on the Outer Hebrides, where it’s not unusual to overhear a conversation or two in the local shop. Combine that with the wealth of broad accents to be found—looking at you, Glasgow—and the Norse and Pictish heritage found in place names, and the newly arrived bikepacker might benefit from a quick introduction to the linguistic hoops that they might have to jump through, not to mention the clues and stories to be found in names seen on the map.

As a primer, here are some common words you might hear on the trail, or want to use yourself:

The Weather

Place Names

On arrival in the Highlands you’ll see road signs written in both English and Gaelic. Scottish Gaelic (‘gallic’) is distinct from, but related to, Irish Gaelic (‘gaylic’). The Gaelic alphabet has 18 letters, missing the J, K, Q, V, W, X,Y, and Z of the English alphabet, and each is named for a tree or plant, hence the A, B, C of Ailm, Beith, Coll —elm, birch and hazel. Today, Gaelic is most commonly spoken in the north west and on the islands, particularly the Outer Hebrides, but it’s enjoying a modest resurgence, and its legacy lingers throughout Scotland in the form of place names. With the knowledge of a few common words, those names on the map can begin to tell a story of what you might find there, or what they once meant to people. A fantastic and more comprehensive guide to Gaelic pronunciation and names can also be found via the Ordnance Survey for those interested.

A simple glossary of Gaelic place names:

These are just some common place name elements, but by putting them together we can learn that the iconic hill Buachaille Etive Mor is ‘the big shepherd of Glen Etive’, and that Am Monadh Ruadh are ‘the red mountains’.

Outdoor Access in Scotland

Unlike those south of the border, in Scotland we are lucky enough to enjoy a universal right of outdoor access. Along the lines of Sweden’s allemansrätten , we have the Land Reform (Scotland) Act 2003 to thank for that. It’s a precious and relatively recent change to the way Scotland views the public relationship with its land. This means the vast majority of Scotland’s land and waterways are open to public access by non-motorised means, and the access code doesn’t discriminate between foot and bike traffic. There are exceptions to this freedom of access, the most obvious being gardens and fields with crops in them. Most importantly, this right of access only applies if it is exercised responsibly—be that by respecting other users, taking litter out with you, or respecting the natural environment. It’s worth familiarising yourself with the Outdoor Access Code before you travel.

Thankfully, that right to access also extends to camping—again when done responsibly and in such a way as to minimise impact. A notable exception is a small zone in the Lomond and Trossachs National Park, which has a by-law allowing camping only in permitted areas between March and September. More information can be found on the park’s website .

Transport and Logistics

Getting to scotland.

Scotland is simple enough to get to, and depending on your start point you might use road, rail, water, or air travel to get here. Or even your bike!

Road travel is fairly straightforward. The A1 on the east and (more likely) the M74 on the west offer easy cross-border transport if coming up from England. Ferries from Belgium, the Netherlands and even Norway can get you to Hull or Tyneside on the east coast of England if you want to shorten the trip from the continent.

By rail, east and west coast mainlines run north from England to Edinburgh and Glasgow stations, or northwards to Inverness and Fort William, which is particularly handy if you’re planning an A-to-B route. However, although rail companies are keen to appear bike-friendly on paper, that isn’t always the case on the ground. Recent investments in ‘bike carriages’ and greater acceptance of bikes will hopefully improve things. Generally, trains don’t have many spaces for bikes and you often need to reserve a (free) space for your bike before travelling. This isn’t always possible when plans become fluid, so in a pinch a friendly manner toward the conductor is definitely the way to go, and you’ll often find that they will help you out. Don’t bank on it though, and it is worth checking to keep unnecessary levels of stress out of your life. Frustratingly, your means of doing this vary, depending on who you buy your tickets from, but the National Rail and ScotRail websites have good resources to help you work out what you need to do. The Cycling Scot’s guide on the subject also has some useful information.

Air travelers are likely to arrive at Edinburgh or Glasgow airports, which both have good transport links. However, if you’re bringing a bike in a box it’s worth noting that Glasgow has no direct-to-rail link, and needs a bus journey if you don’t want to hire a car or drive. Buses in Scotland can be tricky to navigate with a bike (easier if it’s still in a box), again subject to how friendly the driver is feeling, so be prepared to crack out your best smile. If you do want to take your bike on the bus, it’s best to contact the route operator and get written confirmation to show the driver. One exception is the Borders Bike Bus , which handily links Edinburgh to a couple of points on the Capital Trail Route .

You will of course need a valid passport to visit the UK and Scotland (or a national identity card if you’re from an EEA country or Switzerland). European Union and Swiss citizens don’t need a visa, either. Visit Scotland has a handy guide for travellers, as well as advice on what may or may not change when/if the UK works out what on earth it’s doing with regards to Brexit.

These routes already have their own in-depth route guides and additional resources, including BIKEPACKING.com’s ever-growing route library. Follow the links to get detailed information for each route, browse the list to find inspiration, or link existing routes together using your imagination!

Central and West Highlands

Highland trail 550.

• BIKEPACKING.com route guide
• Route website
• RJ Sauer’s account

Badger Divide

Drover’s route, wild about argyll, an turas mor.

The Cairngorms Loop

Deeside trail.

Central Belt and the Borders

Capital trail, reiver raid, fife fandango.

• Coming soon!

The Faultline Trail

The Islands

Hebridean way.

• Sustrans route guide

Machair Coast

Other route resources worth browsing include Bikepacking Scotland , Sustrans , and Cycling UK’s Great North Trail .

A Note on Mapping

Gear choices are, of course, a hugely subjective thing, but if you’re coming from the deserts of Arizona or somewhere similar then you might find a couple of handy ideas below. If you’ve never felt the need to wear waterproof shorts before then it’s probably worth reading on!

As ever, ‘run what you brung’ is the best philosophy. But if you have the luxury of choice, be aware that Scottish trails are generally on the rougher side and prone to being muddy. Tyres on the comfortable side of the spectrum and with a little bite are generally the best. MTB tyres in the 2.6-3.0” range are ideal. If you’re planning a gravel/road tour, then the same logic applies as our gravel tracks are rain-rutted and rocky, and the roads are often not much better! That said, your regular MTB tyres or 700c gravel tyres will be fine, but those leaning on the narrow side of either discipline might be better replaced with something with a higher volume before the start of a trip.

Waterproofs: bring them! Proper ones. As with any multi-day trip to damper regions, a decent waterproof jacket is a must. Your ultra-lightweight jacket with no hood won’t be a nice place to be if the rain sets in for two or three days. Waterproof legwear is also a very good idea—shorts as a minimum, but we generally always have lightweight waterproof trousers in our packs. I have seen a waterproof kilt before, but have never tried one, so further research is needed. Waterproof socks (such as Sealskinz) are also very popular, as when water comes over the top of them it stays warm against your feet, like a wetsuit. If it sounds like a drysuit is going to be your next purchase then don’t worry, it’s rare to get a week of uniformly horrible weather, but in Scotland it generally pays to pack for the worst and hope for the best.

If you’re visiting in summer, make sure that your shelter is midge-proof. If you haven’t yet been introduced, midges are tiny biting flies—picture a miniaturised mosquito—that appear from early May at the earliest, and can linger through to October on occasion. Individually, midges aren’t a menace, but where one pops up two million more will follow. They love calm, overcast, and humid weather, but are driven away by winds over 12km/h or so. A shelter with a bug net is highly recommended, and I’ve never understood why I still see so many people bivvying in summer, usually looking a bit demented and covered in small red bites. Considering the amount of water that’s typically around, a bathtub-style floor is also recommended. You might choose a hooped-bivvy or one of any number of tent styles to meet these two criteria, but you’ll be glad for both, whatever you go for. Tarps and bivvies are a recipe for a sad night in my opinion, but I’m sure you will find plenty of people to disagree!

Bothies often come up in conversation. To the uninitiated, these are various structures dotted around the Highlands—some used to be gamekeeper’s cottages, others are ex-schoolhouses or even an old submarine lookout post—that provide basic shelter and are open and free to use. Most, but not all, are managed by the Mountain Bothies Association , who promote a simple code of conduct to make their use sustainable and fair. In most cases, you get four walls and a roof, but some have a fireplace, sleeping platforms, tables and chairs. The toilet is usually a spade leaning in the porch. One even has electricity. Depending on your point of view, you might see them as a bit damp and grungy, or a welcome oasis. Either way, remember not to rely on their use: always have a tent or other shelter with you in case the bothy is full, and respect the bothy code !

Canister gas with a threaded fitting is easy to come by in the UK, and gas stoves generally perform best. Temperatures are very rarely cold enough to make a liquid-fuel stove worth the weight, although you might prefer the simmer control for cooking up a gourmet feast. Fuel for alcohol stoves is also easy to come by in outdoor shops if that’s your thing, although I’ve never really gotten on with alcohol stoves in windy, often lumpy tent porches.

Water in the Highlands is often safe to drink if there are no buildings or grazing animals upstream. This can never be guaranteed though, so a lightweight filter is worth carrying. Give extra thought to water sources on routes like the Capital Trail that pass through a lot of upland grazing areas. It’s rare to go far without access to water, and I can’t remember ever carrying more than 1.5 litres of water while riding in Scotland.

Weather, Planning, and Safety

Being a North Atlantic country, Scotland’s climate is wet, windy, and unpredictable. Rainfall in the west exceeds 3,000mm (120 inches) in places. One area that I work in regularly has been known to experience 30 rainy days out of 31 in a single month, while in the east it can be as low as 670mm (26 inches), and often dry. The temperate Atlantic climate is mild, especially in the west, thanks to the warming effect of the Gulf Stream. Winter low temperatures will generally hover around or above zero (32°F), while summer highs are generally in the high teens (60-67°F).

Outside these rules of thumb, expect the unexpected! May and September often enjoy spells of settled weather, while August is warm but often experiences wetter weather. Good and bad weather can be had at any time of year, often occurring in the same day or even the same hour. However, that changeability can work in your favour, and the rain rarely lasts too long. It’s often said that the best thing to do with a bad forecast is to wait until it changes for the better!

On that note, weather forecasts are a hotly debated topic, with different people swearing by different ones. It’s often useful to take an average of a few key forecasts. The following are widely used:

• metoffice.gov.uk
• xcweather.co.uk

The Mountain Weather Information Service is an invaluable resource for weather forecasts that are specific to Scotland’s mountain regions, and though the language used can take a little getting used to, it should be a go-to for weather in the highlands as it’s tailored to those looking to make plans in the outdoors.

The Met Office also provides forecasts for certain mountain summits, e.g. Cairn Gorm in the east, that paint a good picture of what’s going on in higher terrain.

In an Emergency

Scotland is lucky to be served by a mountain rescue service that is available 24/7, 365 days a year. The various teams are staffed by dedicated, highly trained volunteers, and there is no cost to the end user. Unlike some rescue services in other parts of the world there is no requirement to register or take out membership. However, you should always take out travel insurance relevant to your trip before travelling. The fact that the teams are volunteers, who undertake personal risk in order to mount searches in Scotland’s notoriously fickle weather, places a responsibility on outdoor users to be prepared. Don’t be fooled by Scotland’s relatively low altitude: even in summer, conditions can be extremely cold, wet and windy, and rugged trails can make escape (and assistance) difficult and slow. Do not expect rescue to be immediate and do not expect a helicopter. Know where you are, know where you’re going, and tell someone of your plans.

• Mountain Rescue is coordinated by the police service, so in the event of an emergency you should call 999 and ask for the police. When you’ve been put through to the police, you can then explain your situation and ask for Mountain Rescue.
• Phone signal in the mountains is improving, but will always be subject to huge areas without coverage. It is possible to text a message to the 999 number, but this requires registering your phone first, which is highly recommended.
• Even in serious incidents, it’s not unusual for bad weather to prevent helicopter support, and in remote areas of the Highlands an emergency response can take several hours to reach a casualty. You should always pack spare calories, spare layers, and some form of shelter to allow you to remain stationary for some time before rescue or self-extraction.

Midges aren’t the only beasties that want a piece of you. Ticks are present throughout Scotland, and Lyme disease is increasingly prevalent, as well as several other tick-borne diseases. Ticks can be found from February right through to November. Good practise is to check yourself for ticks at least once a day: they particularly like warm, damp areas like the backs of your knees, inner thighs, and under the hem of your socks. Leg coverings are a good idea if you’re moving through tall vegetation, as is tucking your trousers into your socks.

Tick bites are painless, but relatively easy to spot if you’re looking, as the surrounding area will be inflamed. Care should be taken when removing ticks to minimise the risk of disease transmission: the received wisdom of burning, ‘unscrewing’ or suffocating them encourages regurgitation, which increases the chances of infection, and should be avoided. Tick twisters and tick cards are small tools designed to remove them safely and can be found in any good outdoor shop. They are a recommended piece of equipment!

The NHS website provides information on the symptoms of Lyme disease and steps to take if you suspect infection.

Much has been written about Scotland here on BIKEPACKING.com, and the following are a handful of my favorite pieces from over the years. It’s my hope that these provide you with a bit of inspiration and encouragement to book a trip and see Scotland for yourself!

Drovers (Film)

Filmed on a 331-kilometer gravel bikepacking route in Scotland, Drovers tells the story of the ancient Scottish roads that are an integral part of the country’s history.

Rainspotting (Film)

Rainspotting is a short film from Pannier and Brother Cycles that follows a group of six bikepackers on a wintry three-day ramble through the gloomy Grampian Mountains of Scotland. Watch the full 17-minute film here

Ride of Passage

For a long time, setting off on a bikepacking trip felt unattainable for Lizz Corrigan. That is, until she decided she was done letting a lack of gear and experience hold her back and traveled to Scotland to ride a 220-mile route with her partner Ben. Ride of Passage is her reflection on her first trip to Scotland, along with some advice on how to get started.

Broken Road (Film)

Annie and I traveled by fatbike and packraft through Knoydart, one of the UK’s least accessible peninsulas, to link up old roads that have disintegrated with time. Along the way, Annie made this film.

Bikepacking the Cairngorms (Film)

Photographer and videographer Jeremy Janin surprised his father with a five-day self-supported bikepacking trip along The Cairngorms Loop in the Scottish Highlands. They had everything planned, but nothing went as planned.

Suilven Escape (Film)

Micro-adventurer Alastair Humphreys escapes downtown London via train on a folding-bike-rafting expedition to Suilven, a remote mountain in Scotland. Along the way he and Temujin Doran made this lovely film about the trip, the mountain, and the visual and written poetry that surrounds it.

The Highland Trail 550: The Fellowship (Film)

A beautifully shot video that follows rider Joachim Rosenlund during the 2017 Highland Trail 550 race, along with his story, “The Fellowship of the Highlands,”and a Q&A about the ride and Joachim’s kit list.

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Scotland’s Isle of Arran Bike Tour

.cls-1{fill:#2c6bb5;} badv_abilitylevel_icons intermediate, daily distance, 40-60 miles, included activities, cycling (bikes included), drumlanrig castle tour, & whisky tasting, included meals, all meals included except one lunch and one dinner.

A wonderful way to vacation. Best way to view the sights. Love the physical exertion.Both guides and other participants are fun and great folks to get to know. Food and beverages are always awesome.

FUN! Challenging rides, beautiful scenery, nice cycling companions, well-trained guides and great food!

Scotland – a land of myths, legends and majestic landscapes! Ride through rolling farmland and deep forest. Stop to visit ancient castles and hear stories of epic battles. Sample the craft beers and delicacies of Dumfries and Galloway. Board a ferry to cross the Firth of Clyde to Scotland’s 7th largest island, the Isle of Arran. Bicycle Arran’s wilderness and discover the rich natural and cultural heritage of this amazing place. Recharge at the island’s own whisky distillery. Ride the Mull of Kintyre and enjoy a final night of celebration before heading back to Glasgow.

COMBINING TOURS : We schedule our United Kingdom tour dates to make longer adventures possible. You can combine our Scotland tour with Ireland or England for the ultimate U.K. cycling experience!

Meet in Glasgow. Begin at a castle, and ride to the birthplace of the bicycle!

– Lunch – Dinner

Ernespie House Hotel

+1,909 ft / -1,996 ft

Meet in Glasgow. Transfer southwards out of the city (about 1.5hrs) to the magnificent Drumlanrig Castle. After a short briefing, we take a tour of the 17th century “pink palace” which is one of the country’s finest examples of Renaissance architecture and makes a fitting place to commence your journey. After lunch, enjoy a virtually traffic-free shakedown ride on the estate roads. Head south through quiet and scenic countryside, passing Keir Mill where the modern-day pedal bicycle was invented in 1839 by local blacksmith Kirkpatrick Macmillian. Stay the next two nights at the Ernespie House Hotel , a historic 18 th century country house.

Explore the countryside of Dumfries and Galloway and a "Sweetheart" of an Abbey.

– Breakfast – Lunch – Dinner

+3,231 ft / -3,231 ft

Dumfries and Galloway is a cycling revelation, sporting over 700 km/450 miles of marked routes on quiet roads through beautiful scenery. Starting just outside the ‘food town’ of Castle Douglas (with its fantastic range of cafes, bakers, butchers and fishmongers), todays’ ride is pure countryside where there are likely to be more sheep than cars. Bicycle onward to the quaint village of New Abbey, where a visit to the 13th-century Sweetheart Abbey is a must. Enjoy a delightful café lunch before the ride back to the hotel.

Watch for red deer and wild goats while you cycle through Galloway Forest Park and along Loch Ken.

Creebridge House Hotel

+2,722 ft / -2,903 ft

Today, cross the region from east to west, from Castle Douglas we turn north heading for Galloway Forest Park. Follow the shores of Loch Ken, then climb out of New Galloway into the heart of the Park. Watch for Red Deer and wild goats on this stretch of road with a brief stop at Murray’s Monument before leading to the final part of the day – a superb cruise on a gentle downhill gradient to the village of Newton Stewart. Stay at Creebridge House Hotel .

After a morning ride to the village of Straiton, hop a ferry and cross the Firth of Clyde to the Isle of Arran.

– Breakfast – Dinner

Auchrannie Resort

+2053 ft / -1745 ft

After an early, hearty Scottish breakfast, ride to the charming village of Straiton, then hop in the van for a shuttle north to reach the small ferry port of Ardrossan. Board the ferry and cross the Firth of Clyde to the fantastic Isle of Arran. Affectionately known as “Scotland in Miniature,” the island is a perfect mix of coast, moorland, and mountains. Want to explore the town or relax at the resort in the afternoon? No problem. We can drop you off to get a massage or other spa treatments at the resort’s ASpa , or go for a swim in one of the hotel’s two indoor pools. Lunch is on your own today, Stay at the Auchrannie Resort for the next 3 nights.

Do the Scotland Mull of Kintyre Whisky Ride. Finish with a dram!

– Breakfast – Lunch

+3,369 ft / -3,401 ft

Today’s ride is a true adventure involving two short ferry crossings and up to 60 miles of amazing roads and views of Arran from a totally different perspective. Bicycle north past Goat Fell, Arran’s highest peak at 874 meters (2,866 ft), to an ancient castle in the village of Lochranza, then take a short ferry ride to the mainland and the Kintyre Peninsula. Ride to lunch near the scenic working fishing village of Carradale, a small, peaceful harbor with stunning views across the Sound of Arran. At the nearby Carradale Point, the Scottish Wildlife Trust has a nature reserve with feral goats, and a good example of a vitrified fort built more than 2000 years ago on a small tidal island off the headland. Our guide, Jeff Barth, has put today’s route in his “Top 10 Rides” he’s ever done! After lunch, cycle back to the ferry enjoying new perspectives of this beautiful land. Enjoy dinner on your own tonight.

Bicycle the Isle of Arran loop, one of the country's classic day rides.

+3408 ft / -3413 ft

The complete loop of the Island offers 56 miles of fantastic riding. With plenty of hills it’s a challenge, but the reward is one of the country’s classic day rides. Head south from Brodick to tackle the loop clockwise, passing by Holy Isle with its Buddhist monastery. Rounding the southern end of the island, views to the Mull of Kintyre open up with Ireland just visible in the distance. Heading up the west coast, the reward in the north is a visit to the Arran distillery in Lochranza. Enjoy a wee tonic of malt whisky before tackling the climb near Glen Sannox. On the other side you’ll find one of the best descents anywhere on a brand-new road surface. Then it’s a mostly flat cruise back to Brodick and a final celebration dinner.

After a relaxing morning - or a very early bike ride - we head back to Glasgow.

– Breakfast

Go for a (optional) very early ride with the guides. Get back in plenty of time to shower and enjoy one more yummy breakfast spread before our ferry back to the “mainland” and our shuttle back to Glasgow.

Availability

Tour guides.

BIKES (Bike models will differ. Call our office or request our Guest Info Packet for models.)

Pedal Assist E-Bike $200 surcharge applies

Ready for your next adventure.

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USA TODAY 10Best Readers' Choice Awards

One of the best and greenest ways to experience the beauty of the world is by bike. Just start pedaling and the journey becomes as important as the destination. These top companies have been nominated by an expert panel for their fantastic guided and self-guided tours that take you around the globe on two wheels.  Which bike tour company would you most like to tour with? Vote for your favorite once per day until polls close on Monday, May 27 at noon ET. The 10 winning tour companies will be announced on Wednesday, June 5. Read the official  Readers' Choice rules . 

One of the best and greenest ways to experience the beauty of the world is by bike. Just start pedaling and the journey becomes as important as the destination. These top companies have been nominated by an expert panel...   Read More

Best Bike Tour Nominees

Photo courtesy of Adventure Cycling, photo from Bruce Malarky

Adventure Cycling

A dedicated advocate for all forms of biking, Adventure Cycling has compiled more than 50,000 miles of bike routes across North America since their inception in 1973. While seasoned cyclists are welcome to peruse their interactive map as they plan their next journey, the company also offers a wealth of guided tours, with regions ranging from the Florida Keys to the Pacific Northwest.

Photo courtesy of Backroads

Backroads believes in the transformative power of going at your own pace, which is why the company offers bike tours for every type of rider. Guests ride custom-built titanium bikes on itineraries in some 55 countries. In the United States, tours include everything from Death Valley or Saguaro National Park to Martha’s Vineyard or the Hudson Valley.

Photo courtesy of Bicycle Adventures

Bicycle Adventures

Bicycle Adventures’ motto is "stay curious, eat well, and pedal happy." With more than 35 years of experience in the industry, that’s just what many a guest does, whether biking the Chief Joseph Scenic Byway in Wyoming or riding through Oregon’s Columbia Gorge. Itineraries cover 11 states, along with around a dozen countries.

Photo courtesy of BikeHike Adventures

BikeHike Adventures

With curated tours across five continents, BikeHike Adventures showcases the diverse landscapes and cultures across the globe from the comfort of a bicycle. While strictly-cycling excursions can be booked across destinations like Colombia, Ireland, and Morocco, ambitious adventurers can also sign up for a multi-sport itinerary for some added hiking and kayaking.

Photo courtesy of Kruck20 // Getty Images

BikeTours.com

BikeTours.com specializes in organizing biking tour experiences in over 30 European countries. They offer both guided and self-guided tours geared towards all experience levels from leisure riders to biking enthusiasts. Riders can also enjoy family-oriented tours and a combination of biking/boating adventures.

Photo courtesy of Patrick Laughlin

Bubba's Pampered Pedalers

Bubba's Pampered Pedalers offers the ultimate bicycling vacation options. Whether taking a weeklong or cross-country tour, or simply overnighting at a hotel or bed-and-breakfast, you'll experience some of the best scenery from D.C. to Colorado or the sunny coasts of Florida. 

Photo courtesy of Carolina Tailwinds

Carolina Tailwinds

Carolina Tailwinds offers multiday, inn-to-inn bicycle tours to destinations largely around the eastern United States, with all bicycle vacations providing a nice balance between physical activity and relaxation. From flat and easy to hilly and challenging, there are bike routes to choose from for all levels of riders. Guests stay at boutique hotels and country inns, with breakfasts and most lunches and dinners included.

Photo courtesy of Ciclismo Classico

Ciclismo Classico

Ciclismo Classico is a woman-founded bike tour company that specializes in educational trips to European countries and the Northeast United States. Cyclists are fully immersed in the local art, language, music, and delicious cuisine of each unique area, aiming to meet the company's goal of providing an adventure their guests will never forget.

Photo courtesy of DuVine Cycling + Adventure Co. / Gwen Kidera

DuVine Cycling + Adventure Co.

DuVine's mission is "for every traveler to experience the world by bike." These luxury bike tours focus heavily on food and wine, and itineraries often include family-run restaurants and boutique accommodations. You’ll find tours around the globe, including domestic options in California, the Hudson Valley, Maine, and Vermont, among others.

Photo courtesy of Exodus Adventure Travels

Exodus Adventure Travels

Founded 50 years ago, Exodus Adventure Travels offers small group and self-guided cycling trips to over 100 countries. Cycling tours include leisurely exploration in places like Portugal and the Baltics, as well as more challenging routes in places like Sicily, Panama, and Sri Lanka.   

Photo courtesy of ExperiencePlus! Bicycle Tours

ExperiencePlus! Bicycle Tours

ExperiencePlus! is one of the oldest and most well-respected bike touring companies based in the United States. For more than a half-century, adventurous cyclists and active travelers have joined their guided bike tours and followed along some of the most delightful roads in the world. ExperiencePlus! provides both novice and seasoned cyclists alike with local tour leaders, thoughtful routes, and plenty of cultural immersion.

Photo courtesy of Daniele Mazierli / iStock / Getty Images Plus

Great Explorations

Built around being environmentally conscious, Great Explorations believes in leaving the environment around the biking trips the way it was found. As a boutique travel company with tours taking place across multiple continents, they create one-of-a-kind experiences that include charming hotels and unique dining experiences with cycling days that range between 25-40 miles.

Photo courtesy of Intrepid Travel

Intrepid Travel

Launched in 1989, Intrepid Travel offers more than 1,000 voyages across the globe — and cycling tours are no exception. In addition to classic biking destinations like Provence and Tuscany, the company has mastered the art of shining a spotlight on underrated regions, operating bike excursions to Sri Lanka, Slovenia, Tanzania, and a wealth of other countries.

Photo courtesy of REI Co-op / REI Adventures

REI is a household name for adventure seekers and outdoorsy tourists alike. Cycling enthusiasts will want to check out their biking adventures around some of the nation's best national parks, which range from three to six days in duration.

Photo courtesy of Summer Feet Cycling

Summer Feet Cycling

Summer Feet Cycling was founded more than two decades ago, offering bicycle tours of Maine. Today, the company continues to introduce visitors to the Pine Tree State, with additional tour offerings in Quebec, Nova Scotia, and Europe.

Photo courtesy of Barbara Hoyt

Timberline Adventures

Timberline Adventures provides guided and self-guided cycling tours throughout the United States and Canada. All guided adventures include lodging, support from a sag wagon, and most meals. Destinations include Death Valley National Park, the Northwest Passage, Aspen, and more.

Photo courtesy of U. J. Alexander / iStock / Getty Images Plus

Trek Travel

Trek Travel leads all kinds of adventure tours to all corners of the globe, but the company got its start in bicycling trips. From North America to Europe, and South America to the Asia-Pacific region, see the world with personalized care and fantastic guides for your type of cycling style. 

Photo courtesy of VBT Bicycling Vacations

VBT Bicycling Vacations

Guests traveling with VBT can choose their trip by activity level: easy, easy/moderate, moderate, or moderate/challenging. Guided and self-guided itineraries explore destinations around the globe, including the Vermont countryside, South Carolina Lowcountry, and the Sonoran Desert of Arizona.

Photo courtesy of Wilderness Voyageurs

Wilderness Voyageurs

From the arid depths of New Mexico to the lush forests of the Olympic Peninsula, Wilderness Voyageurs provides guests with an opportunity to traverse some of the most gorgeous bike paths across the lower 48. While road, gravel, and mountain bike tours are all available, the company's inn-to-inn rail trail tours offer a more relaxing perspective on the sport, combining outdoor adventure with cozy accommodations throughout the trip.

About 10Best Readers' Choice Awards

Nominees are submitted by a panel of experts. 10Best editors narrow the field to select the final set of nominees for the Readers’ Choice Awards. Readers can vote once per category, per day. For any questions or comments, please read the FAQ or email USA TODAY 10Best .

The Experts

Brandon withrow.

Brandon Withrow is a travel journalist based in...   Read More

Brandon Withrow is a travel journalist based in Northwest Ohio, covering ecotourism, wildlife, outdoor adventures, and eco-friendly stays, as well as the secrets of underrated cities. He appears in The Daily Beast, BBC Travel, Canadian Geographic, Business Insider, The Hill, and Sierra Magazine. You can find him at  www.brandonwithrow.com ,  @bwithrow  on Twitter, and  @bgwithrow  on Instagram.

Chelle Koster Walton

Chelle Koster Walton — the Local Expert for...   Read More

Chelle Koster Walton — the Local Expert for Naples, Florida and the Caribbean — has been covering the destination for 30 years. Her top-selling  Sarasota, Sanibel Island, and Naples  guidebook (Countryman Press) is in its sixth edition. She was contributing editor for  Caribbean Travel & Life  for 12 years and has written guidebooks on the Bahamas. A veteran travel writer, Chelle has published thousands of articles for  Miami Herald, USA TODAY, Latitudes;  has written/contributed to a dozen guidebooks, and produces travel shows for the local PBS station.

Chez Chesak

‘Chez’ Chesak is Executive Director of the Outdoor...   Read More

‘Chez’ Chesak is Executive Director of the Outdoor Writers Association of America, an adventure travel writer, board member of the Society of American Travel Writers and 22-year veteran of the outdoor and travel industries. While he’s lived all over the U.S. and traveled to more than 30 countries, he has the most fun when he’s exploring with his wife Sally and two daughters. An avid outdoors person, he’s happiest on a trail, on skis, or nestled into a sleeping bag. Learn more about him and his work at www.chezconnects.com .  

Dave Stamboulis

Dave Stamboulis is a travel writer/photographer...   Read More

Dave Stamboulis is a travel writer/photographer based in Bangkok. Born in Athens, Greece and growing up in the U.S., Dave first discovered Bangkok while on a 45,000-kilometer bicycle trip and moved there for good in 2005. Dave's photos appear in publications around the world. He's the author of Odysseus' Last Stand , which received the Silver Medal for Travel Book of the Year from the Society of American Travel Writers. In addition to updating the Fodor's Guidebook to Thailand, he is the author of 500 Hidden Secrets to Bangkok, and his travel stories and photography appear in publications around the globe. 

Jamie Davis Smith

Jamie is an attorney, writer and photographer. She...   Read More

Jamie is an attorney, writer and photographer. She was born with deeply ingrained wanderlust and has visited 45 countries and counting. She often brings her children along for the adventure and is passing her love of travel on to the next generation. Jamie has written for   Insider,   Fodor's Travel ,   Yahoo ,  the Huffington Post , the  Washington Post,   Viator  and  Reviewed  among many other publications. Jamie is from Philadelphia and now lives in Washington, DC, where she takes advantage of everything the region has to offer.    Jamie can be reached at  [email protected]  and can be found on  Twitter ,  Instagram  and  TikTok .

Melanie Reffes

Melanie is an island girl at heart . Born in...   Read More

Melanie is an island girl at heart . Born in Manhattan, she now lives on the sunny island of Montreal and covers  the Caribbean for a variety of publications  including  USA TODAY 10Best, CaribbeanTravel.com and MarryCaribbean.com.  A journalist with a boatload of writer awards under her belt, Melanie's affection for the Caribbean started  young when her family vacationed in Puerto Rico.   An avid fan of spicy food,   Melanie enjoys the diversity of Montreal - especially during the warmer months -when she's not en route to the Caribbean. She  holds a Masters Degree in Social Work from the University of Toronto. 

10Best Editors

USA TODAY 10Best provides users with original,...   Read More

USA TODAY 10Best provides users with original, unbiased and experiential travel coverage of top attractions, things to see and do, and restaurants for top destinations in the U.S. and around the world.

Results and Highlights from the 2024 Giro d’Italia

Check out stage-by-stage recaps and overall standings of the Italian Grand Tour.

Stage 2: San Francesco al Campo - Santuario di Oropa, 161 km

Stage 1: venaria reale - torino, 140 km.

Check out stage-by-stage recaps of the action below.

Stage 3: Novara - Fossano, 166 km

Soudal quick-step’s tim merlier takes sprint victory amidst gc favorites’ late attack.

Stage Winner: Tim Merlier (Soudal Quick-Step)

Race Leader: Tadej Pogačar (UAE Team Emirates)

May 6, 2024 – The sprinters had their first chance to shine, as the race’s third stage from Novara to Fassano featured just 750 meters of elevation over 166 kilometers.

However, it wasn’t without a bit of drama, as the race’s biggest GC favorites launched a thrilling attack over the last four kilometers, throwing a wrench into what was expected to be a straightforward day. After an early move from EF-Education EasyPost’s Mikkel Honore, Tadej Pogačar (UAE Team Emirates) and Geraint Thomas (INEOS Grenadiers) followed, forming a small, three-man breakaway that, for a moment, looked as though it might stay away from the group.

Honoré was swallowed up by the group with about 1 kilometer to go, and given the day’s high pace and series of breakaways, there was some thought that Pogačar and Thomas’s attack might just stick. However, the two GC men were caught with about 400 meters to go, setting up the bunch sprint everyone expected the day to end with.

Soudal Quick-Step’s Tim Merlier nipped a group at the line that included Lidl-Trek’s Jonathan Milan and Intermarche Wanty’s Biniam Girmay, who rounded out the day’s podium, along with Arkea’s Jenthe Biermans and dsm-Firmeninch PostNL’s Tobias Lund Andersen.

After a masterful recovery from a late crash to win Sunday’s second stage, Pogačar started the day in the maglia rosa , forty-five seconds clear of Dani Martínez of BORA-hansgrohe and Geraint Thomas of Ineos Grenadiers. By the time stage 3 was over, those standings remained exactly the same.

“It wasn’t the plan,” Thomas said of the two-man attack over the closing kilometers. “We just wanted to stay out of trouble.”

He added that, over the final few hundred meters, it took everything he had to keep contact with Pogačar. “I was just trying to hold his wheel,” Thomas said, admitting that the attack was never part of the day’s plan.

“It was the hardest victory so far,” stage winner Merlier said of the unexpected chase he and his group of sprinters found themselves in as Thomas and Pogačar rode away. Merlier said he hesitated, causing him to miss out on his leadout man, and eventually forcing him to attack directly into the wind without any support.

Tadej Pogačar Wins Stage 2 and Takes the Maglia Rosa

Stage Winner: Tadej Pogačar (UAE Team Emirates)

May 5, 2024 - Tadej Pogačar of UAE Team Emirates wins Stage 2 of the Giro d’Italia 2024 and takes the Maglia Rosa. Twenty-seven seconds behind, Dani Martínez (Bora-hansgrohe) takes second, and Geraint Thomas (INEOS Grenadiers) is third.

It was a masterful performance by UAE Team Emirates once Pogačar made it back to the front of the peloton after a small crash due to a front flat tire. The Slovenian leads Thomas and Martinez by 45" in the General Classification.

In the post-race interview, Pogačar was asked if he panicked after crashing in the lead-up to the last climb. “Not really. I was quite calm. I hit a hole in the city and had a super fast flat tire. There was a bit of confusion. I wanted to stop before the corner, but the DS said, ‘No, no, after the corner.’ I was feeling good. The team was super good today. And then we set the pace that we like and it was perfect,” said the race leader.

“I didn’t know the climb well. Everybody was maybe doing this climb for the first time, and it was hard to guess where to do the [hard] pacing, but I think we did a really good job today. And it was super good the last pull of Rafał Majka in the hard part so that I could attack,” Pogačar added.

“I just wanted a stage win today and some gap. Test the legs a little bit. And the [goal] was to take the pink jersey. Now I can relax a little bit in the next few days with the team and we stay safe in the sprints.”

Watch the final kilometer of Stage 2 on the Giro d’Italia’s YouTube Channel

Geraint Thomas of INEOS Grenadiers found himself meeting his limit in today’s stage. “It was so hard to follow, but I knew if I tried to keep going I would completely blow up. I felt bad for sitting on Ben [O’Connor], but I was on the limit for a while there,” said Thomas in the post-race interview.

Regarding Pogačar’s crash, Thomas said, “Honestly, I didn’t know until I was on the climb, and someone said Tadej was back. The plan was to go to the front, not to attack, but to stay safe on the front.”

Narváez Upstages Pogačar to Secure Stage 1 Victory and Maglia Rosa

Stage Winner: Jhonatan Narváez (INEOS Grenadiers)

Race Leader: Jhonatan Narváez (INEOS Grenadiers)

May 4, 2024 - The opening stage of the Giro d’Italia produced plenty of fireworks and a surprise winner on the line. Team UAE Emirates set it up perfectly for Tadej Pogačar on the opening stage. After some long-lasting breakaways were caught, Pogačar broke free in the last four kilometers with Jhonatan Narváez (INEOS Grenadiers) and Max Schachmann (Bora-Hansgrohe). The Slovenian just couldn’t gap those two rivals, and it set it up for a sprint finish. In a bit of a surprise, it was Narváez, the 27-year-old Ecuadorian national champion, outsprinting Schachmann (second on the stage) and Pogačar (third). Narváez earns the first Maglia Rosa of the 2024 Tour of Italy.

Though he didn’t win the stage, Pogačar will head into Stage 2 with an advantage over many of his top GC rivals. Geraint Thomas (INEOS Grenadiers) was 10 seconds behind Pogačar on the stage and, after factoring in time bonuses, 14 seconds behind Pogačar in the GC standings.

Watch Stage 1 Highlights on the Giro d’Italia’s YouTube Channel

“It was a great feeling. We knew it was going to be a stage for me, and I worked a lot on it,” Narváez said in the post-race interview. “Following the best guy in the world on the climb was really hard, so it’s a special victory today. It’s still hurting me now. It was really hard—really, really hard. But in the end, I made it.”

“I think [Pogačar] went too long in the sprint, 200 meters after a really hard stage, and I did a short sprint, and in the end, I took the victory. For me, it’s amazing. There aren’t many opportunities in a Grand Tour to get the maglia rosa on the first day because you have a bunch sprint, a TT, or a different stage. Today was a good opportunity. I worked really, really hard for it,” added Narváez.

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