northern scotland bike tour

• Adventures Hiking Appalachian Trail Camino de Santiago Dolomites Grand Canyon Machu Picchu Mont Blanc New Zealand Patagonia Switzerland Mountain Biking Croatia European Alps Cycling Cuba France Italy Japan New Zealand Tuscany Backcountry Skiing British Columbia European Alps Japan Norway Rock Climbing California Colorado Kalymnos Sardinia Utah More Activities Avalanche Education Ice Climbing Kayaking Kiteboarding Mountaineering Sailing Surfing Trail Running

Northern Scotland Guided Cycling Holiday

June through August

Intermediate to advanced

Things to know

Explore the fairytale landscapes of the Scottish Highlands on two wheels. This week-long adventure takes you along the famous North Coast 500 route, allowing you to explore the scenic northern parts of the country. Pedal through vast stretches of emerald-green wilderness, where majestic peaks emerge from the swirling mist—before following remote lochside paths, where enchanting islands dot the glistening waters. With each turn, prepare to be spellbound by new spectacles, from the serene heather-clad shores teeming with dolphins and dramatic vistas of Skye’s rugged mountains to medieval castles steeped in legends and thrilling hairpin bends of the iconic Bealach na Bà. And after a day in the saddle, unwind with a glass of Scotch whisky—eagerly anticipating the adventure that awaits you tomorrow.

Adventure highlights

Quiet single-track roads for miles on end, with breathtaking views of the Cuillin Ridge on the Isle of Skye

Cross the iconic, winding Bealach na Bà, renowned as the greatest road ascent in the UK

Indulge in delicious seafood, explore picture-perfect villages, and get some scotch after a day in the saddle

Join an 8-day cycling holiday in the Scottish Highlands. Starting in Inverness, ride along picturesque coastal roads, part of the iconic North Coast 500 route. Marvel at the captivating views of Loch Shin and Loch Assynt, savor delectable seafood in Lochinver, and immerse yourself in the vibrant culture of Ullapool. Experience the Bealach Na Ba route, soak in breathtaking vistas of the Isle of Skye, and enjoy comfortable cyclist-friendly accommodations. Conclude your adventure where it started—in Inverness—and leave richer for a memorable cycling trip showcasing the best of Scotland.

Upon your arrival in Inverness, your Sctoland cycling guide will meet you and transfer you to your accommodation near the vibrant city center. For those driving, accommodation details will be provided in advance. Afternoon arrivals are recommended to allow bike setup time. The rest of the day is free to explore Inverness, known for its impressive castle, old town, and scenic coastal walks. In the evening, enjoy a delightful dinner with fellow adventurers, discussing the thrilling journey ahead.

Your journey starts gently, leaving Inverness via the famous Kessock Bridge into the Black Isle. Enjoy a scenic ride along the picturesque northern shore of the Beauly Firth, often spotting dolphins and seals. Heading inland, you reach Dingwall, the gateway to the Cromarty Firth. A quiet backroad takes you over the day’s significant climb, crossing the hills of Easter Ross. Delight in a lunch break at Bonar Bridge near the Dornoch Firth. Continuing north, explore off the main road, captivated by the area’s beauty. Pass by Shin Falls and traverse forested single-lane roads until you arrive at Lairg, located on the southern tip of Loch Shin. Meals: Breakfast and lunch Riding: 56 miles / 90 km Ascent: 700 m / 2,296 ft

After a hearty breakfast, head north briefly before turning sharply to the wild west coast of Scotland. Ride along quiet single-lane roads, enjoying Loch Shin’s shoreline and the scenic Glen of Allt Ceann Locha. Reach the sheltered Laxford Bay and continue south along a rocky and undulating shoreline. Pass through tiny villages, experiencing the captivating coastal road with breaks to admire views of the Hebrides. Beyond Kylestrome and Kylesku, face a challenging ascent before descending swiftly by Loch Assynt. Enjoy a mostly downhill road to Lochinver, renowned for its delectable seafood. Meals: Breakfast and lunch Riding: 71 miles / 115 km Ascent: 1,300 m / 4,265 ft

Today’s shorter ride offers an unforgettable experience with the dramatic Suilven peak to the east. Departing Lochinver, you’ll encounter sharp little climbs. After 15 miles south, change direction and head west to explore a remote coastal peninsula, enjoying empty roads and stunning coastal panoramas, including views of the Summer Isles. Rejoin the main route at Loch Lurgainn and continue south, passing through the charming village of Ardmair and its beautiful bay. Reach Ullapool, a bustling town on Loch Broom’s shore, where you can immerse yourself in west coast culture and observe the fishing boats and ferries in the harbor. Meals: Breakfast and lunch Riding: 46 miles / 74 km Ascent: 1,050 m / 3,445 ft

Day 5 is the longest day of the tour with a focus on exploring the mountains of Wester Ross. Ride on quiet Highland routes, climbing gently to the highest point and descending to Little Loch Broom. Experience ups and downs along the scenic coastline, stopping for a relaxing lunch at Poolewe with a chance to explore Inverewe’s botanic gardens. Enjoy breathtaking views of nature reserves and islands while riding along Loch Maree. The day ends in Kinlochewe, surrounded by the majestic Wester Ross National Scenic Area. Meals: Breakfast and lunch Riding: 75 miles / 120 km Ascent: 1,500 m / 4,921 ft

Embark on an epic stage with one of the most iconic climbs. Ride gently along Glen Torridon, enjoying the stunning view of Loch Torridon. Encounter manageable challenges with undulating ascents for the next 30 miles. Stop at the charming fishing village of Shieldaig and admire the surroundings, perhaps spotting a sea eagle. Continue along a narrow single-lane road around the Rubha na Fearn peninsula to reach Applecross, where the Bealach Na Ba climb awaits. Conquer this challenging road climb and reach the summit at 2,053 ft (626 m) for breathtaking views of the Cuillin Ridge on the Isle of Skye. Descend carefully to Loch Kishorn and make a final effort over the hills to reach Lochcarron, your evening destination. Meals: Breakfast and lunch Riding: 60 miles / 96 km Ascent: 1,700 m / 5,577 ft

Although it’s the final day of riding, there’s still plenty in store as you traverse from the west coast of Scotland to the east coast. Leaving the shores of Lochcarron, you bid farewell to the mountains of the west and embark on somewhat gentler roads compared to recent days. As you enter Glen Carron and the watershed around Achnasheen Junction, most of the climbing is completed within the first 20 miles. The remainder of the day consists of rolling terrain, predominantly downhill, through small rural towns and past picturesque minor lochs. You’ll journey back to the Beauly Firth and eventually return to Inverness for your final evening. Meals: Breakfast and lunch Riding: 65 miles / 104 km Ascent: 750 m / 2,461 ft

After breakfast, bid a farewell to your companions who are driving home, while transfers to Inverness train station and airport will be arranged for the rest of the group. Say goodbye to your Scotland cycling guide, fellow riders and to Scotland—or continue touring on your own. Meals: Breakfast

Meet your guide

We have used various companies to manage our rides over the years and Skedaddle gets cycling and cyclists in a way no one else seems to. Thank you to Straws, our Tour Leader. Our guides were both brilliant too, it clearly mattered to both of them that we had a good experience. Please pass on my thanks. All days were all great! The climb up Bealach na Bà will live long in the memory.

I wouldn’t normally choose a holiday in the UK. But due to Covid, the UK was the only option and the NC500 (or variation thereof) was something I’ve wanted to do for a long time. I wasn’t disappointed as I really enjoyed the holiday. Each day was great with superb scenery and challenging terrain. The route was well designed and the last day was well chosen to get a push for 60 miles from the prevailing winds. As ever the tour leader and guides were really professional and great company. The leader and the guides were all really positive and helpful. There were really clear briefings every morning about the route. Also, there was quite a mix of abilities on this ride and I think they handled this well – e.g. splitting into two groups and giving clear instructions on where to regroup.

Better than we had ever expected. Our guides were amazing, we had great support and fun the whole holiday. Will book again. We loved each day as they were all so different and all together great!

Well thought out routes through some of the most spectacular scenery the UK has to offer, the most friendly group of people you could wish for, terrific support from our guides – Wouldn’t have wanted to change a thing! Day 2 ranks as one of my all-time favourite cycling days. A long stretch from Lairg along a beautiful valley floor besides the lochs, then lovely accommodation and a top meal in the evening. Happy days!

Every day was outstanding. I have cycled all over the world except Australasia and this was the most consistently beautiful ride I have ever done. The guides were all extremely helpful, knowledgeable about bikes and the route and good to chat to and spend time with.

What you get on this adventure:

• An experienced cycling guide with extensive local knowledge of the area
• At least one leader qualified in first aid
• 8-day cycling adventure in the Scottish Highlands
• Accommodation during the tour in shared twin/double en-suite rooms
• Meals as indicated in the itinerary
• Support vehicle and luggage transfers
• Airport/train station transfer on scheduled arrival/departure day from Inverness
• GPX files available on request

What’s not included:

• Transportation to and from Inverness
• Meals not indicated in the itinerary
• Single room (available for an additional fee)
• Bike rentals (available for an additional fee)
• Personal clothing and equipment
• Entrance fees to museums and other attractions en route
• Any personal expenses (souvenirs, bar bills etc.)
• Travel insurance
• Guide gratuities — optional

To fully enjoy this Scotland guided cycling adventure, a good level of fitness is essential. During this Scotland guided cycling tour, you’ll be covering between 45 and 75 miles (72-120 km) daily, with daily cumulative elevation gain between 3,000 and 5,580 ft (700-1,700 m). Needless to say, you should be more than just a casual rider, going for regular weekend cycling sessions with riding that can last for much of the day. Uphill challenges and easier mountain passes excite you, and you’re equally comfortable descending as you are climbing. While not a professional racer, you can pick up the pace when needed and can skip occasional coffee breaks to stay on schedule. You’re adept at using clipless pedals, maintaining control of your bike effortlessly. Though you appreciate a full day of riding, you also crave local cultural experiences and savoring delicious cuisine.

Keep in mind that you will always have a guide by your side who will observe your technique, make breaks more often if necessary and even change the route if riding gets too strenuous for your group.

If you’re looking for something more challenging and are interested in MTB, take a look at this mountain biking adventure in Scotland .

Here’s what you’ll need:

• Comfortable riding or athletic clothing, preferably moisture wicking or synthetic material
• Bike (rental available for an additional fee)
• Helmet (communicate with your guide if you want to rent one from them!)
• Necessary spares (let your guide know in advance if you would like them to include them if you are
• renting your bike and helmet from them)
• Sneakers or sport shoes
• Breathable outside layer or jacket
• Water bottle or hydration bladder
• Daypack large enough to fit all the things you might need in a day
• Biking gloves are optional but recommended
• Leisure clothing for when you’re not cycling
• Toiletries (sunscreen, hand sanitizer, bug spray, etc.)

Dress comfortably and for the weather in clothes you can move in. We suggest bringing clothing appropriate for the season. Layers are best and don’t wear jeans.

During your Scotland guided cycling trip, you can expect comfortable accommodation in good quality 3 or 4-star hotels, B&Bs, inns, and family-run guesthouses.

These establishments are cycle-friendly and conveniently located near the cycling route, showcasing the style and hospitality of the area you’ll be visiting. Locally owned businesses are prioritized, with an emphasis on offering locally sourced food, drink, and specialty products. This commitment to sustainability aligns with a responsible travel policy.

Accommodations are based on a double/twin-share basis, with the option for single occupancy rooms available for an additional fee and subject to availability at the time of booking.

If you don’t own a suitable bike or would prefer to avoid bringing your own, road bikes are available for rent.

The rental fleet includes high-quality, full carbon Giant Revolt / Liv Devote bikes with good quality components. These bikes are set up tubeless on road-specific wheels and 700x28c tires, providing a comfortable riding position and a wide range of gears with a 2×11 drivetrain, 32/48 chainrings, and an 11×34 cassette. They are fitted with hydraulic disc brakes.

If you decide to rent and would like a helmet, please let us know at the time of booking. Otherwise, you should transport and assemble your own bike before the beginning of the tour. Additionally, inform us if you plan on bringing your own clip-in pedals or if you will use the flat pedals that come with our rental bikes.

Group sizes and prices:

• The usual client-to-guide ratio for this group tour is 10:1.
• The minimum number of participants for this Scotland cycling trip is 6.
• The cost does not decrease as the group grows.

Mountain biking in the Scottish Highlands can be arranged for bigger and for private groups (with custom dates). Contact us prior to booking.

Min. age requirements:

• If you are older than 18, you’re good to go.
• If you have a young rider strong enough to handle sustained climbs (either riding or walking their bike) of hundreds of feet, and rough terrain, then they may be able to participate on a case-by-case basis.

If your group has riders under the age of 18, contact us prior to booking to make arrangements.

To get to Inverness, the starting point of this tour, most people fly into Glasgow International Airport. From here, we suggest you either take another flight, or take a train ride to Inverness from Glasgow Queen Street station.

Your guide will meet you either at the airport or the train station in Inverness and take you to your accommodation not far from the city center. If you’re driving, the exact location will be sent to you prior to the trip.

57hours is committed to providing safe outdoor adventure experiences. We require all guides using our platform to have a COVID-19 safety plan and to make the details of that plan accessible to travelers. In most cases, group sizes will be reduced, guides will avoid overcrowded locations, and other safety measures will be met depending on the location and activity.

We also expect clients to respect local regulations and take measures to protect themselves, guides and the communities they’re traveling to. For more information on COVID-19 measures in the Scottish Highlands, please refer to the Scottish Government’s COVID-19 updates .

Please contact us if you have any questions or require further information. We are happy to provide you with the most up-to-date information!

Secure your place with a $230 deposit due upon booking. The remaining amount is paid 3 months (90 days) prior to departure. Once the trip is confirmed by the guide, the cancellation policy stated below applies.

• If Client cancels the Booking anytime prior to one hundred twenty 60 days in advance of the trip contemplated by the booking, the deposit will be forfeited.
• For cancellations thirty (30) to sixty (60) days in advance, Client is entitled to a refund in the amount of fifty percent (50%) of the total amount paid when Booking.
• After that deadline, Client is not entitled to any refund. Any reimbursable expenses arising out of the Booking incurred by Guide prior to the date of cancellation (including but not limited to plane tickets, car rental payments, and lodging or transportation fees) are non-refundable as soon as they are incurred by the Guide.

Other things to do in Scotland

Women’s-Only Walking Holidays on Isle of Arran, Scotland

Women’s Hiking tour of Scotland’s Orkney Islands

Scotland’s West Island Way: All-Women Walking Trip on the Isle of Bute

Rewilding Scotland: The Cairngorms Walking Tour

Coast-to-Coast Mountain Biking in Scotland

Women’s Hiking Tour of Cairngorms NP in Scotland

View all (7) adventures in Scotland

Choose a currency

• USD - $ US Dollar
• EUR - € Euro
• AUD - AU$ Australian Dollar
• CAD - CA$ Canadian Dollar
• GBP - £ British Pound Sterling
• CHF - CHF Swiss Franc
• JPY - ¥ Japanese Yen
• SGD - S$ Singapore Dollar
• HKD - HK$ Hong Kong Dollar
• DKK - Dkr Danish Krone
• NOK - Nkr Norwegian Krone
• SEK - Skr Swedish Krona

North Coast 500 - 7 Days

£1,595.00 based on 2 people sharing a Twin/Double Room

($1,993.75 USD or $2,855.05 AUD)

£300.00 deposit

£550.00 single room supplement

2nd May to 10th May 2025

You may also like

Ireland End to End

21st May 2025

France End to End

See tour page

LEJOG August 2019 was excellent, it was exceptionally well organised, friendly and a great experience. The Pedal Britain crew worked very hard to ensure everything was as good as it could be with food, accommodation, information and route. Neil Ritson

• A truly unique Scottish cycling experience, our 7 day North Coast 500 is incredible.
• Experience the unique scenery of the west coast from rugged coastlines, white sandy beaches to dramatic mountain peaks.  
• Sample amazing local produce from incredible fresh seafood, organic meats and of course haggis, with the odd wee dram.
• Our route avoids the busy A9, taking some very special remote roads through the 'flow country' 

Sounds like the perfect cycling tour?

Joining the tour

Start: inverness .

Arrival day is Friday  in Inverness, where we stay overnight in a centrally located Hotel before setting off from Inverness Castle on Saturday morning.

For more detailed information please click the  " Itinerary "  tab

Cycling level

Challenging: For cyclists with stamina and a good level of fitness - requires training. Long days with some tough ascents.

Description

A truly unique scottish cycling experience.

A journey around the 500 mile circular route which offers cyclists a spectacular array of mountain ranges, lochs, glens, castles, ruins, beaches and wildlife - not forgetting a range of memorable locations to sample some of the best of Scotland’s food and drink.

Tour Summary

We start in 'The Capital of The Highlands' Inverness and head west to the coast. A stunning but optional ascent over the famous 'Baelach na Ba' awaits with a hair-raising descent into Applecross. Whitewashed crofting houses pepper the road to Gairloch, where we may if lucky catch a glimpse of dolphins.

Following this is the awe-inspiring scenery of Glen Torridon, which is amongst the most spectacular you'll see in the UK. Heading into Wester Ross, the road hugs the coast and there are views of Skye and the Western Isles. After stocking up on supplies in the wee fishing town of Ullapool, we cycle through Lochinver with stunning views to Stac Pollaidh and Suilven, just two of many idiosyncratic peaks in the area.

The sleepy settlement of Kylesku and its iconic bridge see us heading north on a winding single-track road towards Assynt, a region that captures the stark, elemental beauty of the Highlands like nowhere else. The north coast road continues to Durness, the UK's most NW village and worthwhile detour into Smoo Cave. 

The stunning North Atlantic coastline guides us to Melvich before we turn south towards one of the world's last wild places, the 'Flow Country'. An undulating, vast expanse of peat and pools provide our backdrop to Forsinard Station. A smooth single track road weaves alongside Loch Naver and past the famous Crask Inn to Lairg. Our route then heads towards the east coast for the first time and coastal town of Dornoch.

Riding back west to Bonnar Bridge we get spectacular views over Dornoch Firth to distract from climbing 'The Struie', whilst Cromarty Firth and The Black Isle provide a welcome sense of the end being in sight. Before long the cycle paths of Inverness draw us to our conclusion at the majestic Inverness Castle.

 Overview of our 7 Day Itinerary

Customer safety and enjoyment are always our priorities at Pedal Britain, and on this tour we have made a few adjustments to what would ordinarily be considered the traditional NC500 route that enhance both of these.

Firstly, we avoid large parts of the very busy A9 which runs along the east coast section of the NC500, favouring a much safer and ultimately more scenic route further inland. Interestingly this is also a detour highly recommended by Mark Beaumont, who holds the record for this route - just the 38 hours!!

Secondly, for those of you wanting to avoid some of the climbing on this route such as 'The Baelach na Ba', but without compromising the overall experience, we have also built in some alternative route options for Day 2 and Day 4 that are equally as stunning - these are outlined in detail within the 'itinerary' tab.

  Route Map

Arrival day : friday > inverness.

Our Hotel in Inverness is 10 minutes on foot from the Railway Station and around 20 minutes drive from the Airport. If you are arriving by plane please let us know your arrival time so we can arrange for transport to the Hotel.

As with all Pedal Britain tours we'll meet at our Hotel around 6.30pm for a tour briefing and then eat together in the evening at a restaurant close by.

Day 1:  Inverness to Lochcarron 

64 miles  | 103km |  2468ft  | 752m

From our start point of Inverness Castle it is an easy cruise on rolling roads out of town, providing tremendous views of the Beauly Firth. Heading North to Garve we pass Rogie Falls and its famous fish ladder, before we strike west through increasingly mountainous country. As we ascend alongside Loch Gowan we are treated to stunning views of the Ledgowan Forest. Then, riding alongside Loch Dughaill on single track, pine tree lined roads, we reach our overnight stop at Lochcarron.

Day 2: Lochcarron to Gairloch  

80 miles  | 129km | 7033ft  | 2143m

A hearty Scottish breakfast is recommended for todays epic ride. From Tornapress the riding is incredible, with Loch Kishorn away to the left you begin to ascend Bealach na Ba, a UK Top 100 climb. Gently you'll grind your way from sea-level to 2085ft, negotiating alpine hairpin bends and seeing the spectacular view of Scottish Islands and the West Coast unfold before you. After a tricky, but amazing descent into Applecross our work isn’t quite finished, with some punchy climbing around the incredible coastal road to the charming village of Shieldaig.

For those of you not wanting to take on this climb, we have an alternative route that takes you north through equally stunningly remote countryside, rejoining the route at the coast near Shieldaig. This route is 52 miles | 84km | 3267ft | 996m  which allows for a more relaxed day in the saddle.

From here our route winds its way through Glen Torridon and arguably some of the most spectacular landscape in the UK. Dramatic mountains such as Liathach and Beinn Eighe rise like ancient giants, providing an unforgettable backdrop to the riding as we reach the village of Kinlochewe.

Heading west on flatter roads we ride alongside Loch Maree which teams with wildlife, before arriving at Gairloch for a well deserved rest and reflect on one of life's great days in the saddle.

Day 3: Gairloch to Ullapool

56 miles  | 90km | 4361ft | 1329m

After our big day yesterday you’ll surely be lifted by Day 3 being shorter, but one that contains further magnificent scenery.

Climbing out of the village we head towards Poolewe, from where we rejoin the coastline and cycle along Gruinard Bay. After some further climbing we are treated to incredible views of the An Teallach Hills. As we cross Fain Bridge our ride enters the wild and brooding Dundonnell Forest which culminates after a gentle descent at the Corrieshalloch Gorge. Wide, sweeping landscapes, punctuated by impressive peaks guide us into our picturesque destination for this evening, Ullapool – very much the “capital” of the NW Highlands, with a great range of restaurants and bars.

Day 4 :  Ullapool to Kinlochbervie 

75 miles  | 121km | 6928ft | 2111m

Today is another day of amazing scenery on simply brilliant roads - but with nearly 7,000ft of climbing you will earn the views.

It starts with a stunning single track road that winds its way past the beautiful Loch Lurgainn and Bad a Ghaill. Squeezing between mountains and sea, past deserted white sand beaches on the way to Lochinver. The next 22 miles almost defy description for its sheer natural beauty around every bend and may be like no road you have even ridden before.

You'll be used to the routine by now of short sharp ascents and similar descents, as we follow the coastline past tranquil and undisturbed limestone lochs. Cycling through Drumbeg and Negg the landscape is dominated by the wonderful geology of the Quinag mountain range, en-route to the iconic bridge in Kylesku which spans the Loch a Chairn Bhain. 

Again we offer an alternative route to the coastal road which is 68 miles | 110km | 5577ft | 1700m . This takes you more inland after Lochinver cycling through the incredibly remote but beautiful Assynt region and rejoining the main route at Kylesku Bridge. It's just a shame you have to choose, because both routes are fantastic.  

The final miles of this day take us to the delightful fishing village of Kinlochbervie our overnight stop.

Day 5:  Kinlochbervie to Melvich  

67 miles  | 108km |  5679ft | 1730m

We start the day cycling a memorable section that covers the wild and exposed terrain towards Durness, the UK's most NW village. After leaving Durness a stop at Smoo Cave is highly recommended, as we once again hug the stunning coastline. Continuing east the views are almost tropical (albeit the temperature is not!!) with incredible white sandy beaches on this unspoilt section of rugged coast.

After following the remote Loch Eriboll the terrain remains undulating as we head across the Kyle of Tongue. Those who did LEJOG with us will be familiar with parts of this next section as we take in the stunning North Atlantic views at Bettyhill. The road has further short sharp climbs, followed by majestic sweeping descents which persist until we reach the sand dunes surrounding the amazing bay of our overnight stop in Melvich.

Day 6: Melvich to Dornoch

92 miles  | 148km | 4249ft | 1295m

Today we stray from the traditional NC500 route that would ordinarily take us down the east coast. Our assessment is the very busy and fast flowing A9 is not cycling friendly. Instead we turn south onto the NCN1 where we exchange wild coastlines for a vast remote area of bog moorland known as the "Flow Country". Very few cars venture this way, which makes for cycling in splendid isolation alongside the Halladale River, famous for its salmon fishing until we reach Kinbrace.

Heading west again this final section is a Pedal Britain favourite, as we ride a smooth single track road alongside the incredible Loch Naver in the shadow of the striking Ben Klilbrek (reverse to those that have done LEJOG) towards Altnaharra. 

On leaving Altnaharra we climb steadily towards the famous Crask Inn (where Douglas will happily serve you a wee nip of Whiskey if you so wish) before a glorious 14 miles of gentle downhill to Lairg known as 'The Crossroads of the North'. From here we head east to the coast, where after a very short stint on the A9 we cycle alongside Loch Fleet to Dornoch, where if lucky we might catch a glimpse of some basking seals. 

Day 7: Dornoch to Inverness  

79 miles  | 129km | 4449ft | 1356m

The final push. After 6 days of epic riding, you've nearly completing this incredible bike tour. While today has fewer mountains there is still some climbing to be done, especially in the first half of the day.

From Dornoch we cycle back inland on relatively flat terrain towards Bonar Bridge, before tackling the long and occasionally steep 'Struie' which affords spectacular views over the Dornoch Firth, which will again be familiar to any previous LEJOG clients. A welcome descent brings the Cromarty Firth into view as we pass through Evanton and across the Cromarty bridge on the A9 for a short distance.

Then at Culbokie we turn left to the historic and quaint village of Cromarty where we spend most of our time on single track roads. We’ll continue rolling well on the flat roads alongside the Moray Firth, with the Black Isle and Inverness nearly in sight, and we’ll finish where we began, right on the esplanade of Inverness Castle. 

Departure Day: Saturday > Inverness

Pedal Britain staff will need to leave early for the long journey home. However we will beforehand arrange for transport to collect groups from the Hotel and take to the airport if required.

What's included

       8 nights bed & breakfast accommodation.

We stay in a great mix of cyclist friendly Hotels or B&B's. Where ever it is possible we all stay together in the same accommodation as a group. No need to check in Pedal Britain team will have done that for you, just collect your key and relax. Bikes are either locked in a secure area of the hotel or in your room. Breakfasts are all included with a choice of Full or Continental available.

 Fully Supported Tour 

The Pedal Britain support van is never far away to provide any assistance you need, be it access to your day bag, resolve a mechanical issue, report a first aid problem or just have a morale boosting chat. Just phone the driver or tap helmet as we pass if you need anything and we'll stop for you.   

Daily Luggage Transfer

The support vehicle moves all of your luggage between each nights accommodation. Luxury, wherever time allows we'll even put it in your room for you. Also we recommend leaving a day bag in the support van to further reduce what you need to carry on the bike.

Includes Lunch and Brew Stop Refreshments 

Lunches are a mix of rolling buffets in pubs and cafes or a picnic in a very scenic spot. The famous Pedal Britain pop up café delivers welcome brew stops at strategic points along the route to keep energy levels up providing you with water, tea, coffee, fruit, biscuits, cake, flap jacks and anything else you specifically request.

Expert Cycling and Tour Guides

Pedal Britain prides itself on having staff with a 'can-do' attitude, their entire focus is on ensuring they attend to your every need, to ensure that you have the best experience possible. They have detailed knowledge of the route, are first aid qualified and decent mechanics - but most importantly they care about you. When asked 'What makes Pedal Britain better than others?' quite simply it is our amazing staff - the one thing our competition cannot copy.

Pedal Britain Tour App & Detailed Route Notes

From here you can download the relevant file format for the daily route maps - GPX, TCX etc.. These can then easily be transferred to whatever GPS unit you are using such as a Garmin or Wahoo.

Don't have a GPS unit? No problem, just download our APP and it turns your Smart Phone into a GPS unit with turn by turn route navigation. We also provide very detailed route notes which act as both information about the days cycling and back up to your electronic gadgets.

Live Tracking App

Pedal Britain Live Tracker app allows family and friends to see how well your progressing. The same tracker also helps us keep you safe and also ensure your following the route!!

Facebook Tour Groups

We will invite you to join a closed Facebook group for your specific tour. This enables you to get to know people before the holiday and provides a platform to share training experiences or any questions, concerns you may have before the tour.

Not Included

Evening Meals  (although group bookings will be made at local restaurants attendance is optional, however payment isn’t!!)

Travel Insurance

Transport to and from Inverness  

Easy Bike Transfer (available for a fee)

Single Room Option  (limited number available for additional fee)

Entrance fees to historical or cultural sites

Cycle Hire  

Travel logistics

Getting to the start and home from inverness.

One important factor in planning your Scottish adventure holiday with Pedal Britain is arranging transport for yourself and bike to Inverness to arrive on Friday .

The easiest method of travelling to and from Inverness is by air. There are an abundance of relatively cheap flights to Inverness from many airports in the UK.

You can on this tour bring bike boxes (hard case) and bike bags (soft case) - please indicate when asked if you’ll be bringing either one of these as we'll need to arrange with the Hotel for storage of these until we return.

Alternatively for an even more hassle free tour, you can use our   ‘Bike Transfer Service’   click for details.

Inverness is very accessible from all directions and is well served by both major roads / Motorways. But just as an indictor with a few stops travelling this way from the South (Northants) can take 9-10 hours.

Hiring Car/Van    

Best options for Inverness if you are planning to  hire a car or van  are: Europcar - near the train station. Enterprise or Thrifty - just to the North of the centre.

By Train 

There are frequent trains from across the country to Inverness. We normally stay around 5-10 minutes from the station on foot. 

NB. If you are bringing your bike on a train please make sure you also book it a space on your train as many services have restricted capacity for cycles. 

Bike transfer

Getting your bike to inverness and home again, option 1:  customer drop off  / collection.

FREE of Charge

If you can bring your bike to our offices in Northamptonshire then we will take your bike  Free of Charge . No need to dismantle we'll take it fully assembled and safely secure it in the support vehicle for transporting to Inverness.

We can also take helmets strapped to bikes and day bags labelled with your name.

Option 2:   Bike Collection or Delivery -  Pedal Britain Support Van

Cost for this service is  £75.00  per bike -  One Way to Start or From the End

On the Tuesday and Wednesday before a tour starts based on geographical location of clients that have signed up for this service, Pedal Britain's support van will come to an address of your choosing, which could be work, home or cycle shop to collect your bike. 

No need to dismantle we'll take it fully assembled and safely secure in the support vehicle for transporting to Inverness.

Option 3:   Bike Collection or Delivery  - Transport Partner

Cost for this service is  £75.00  per bike - One Way to Start or From the End

If you happen to fall outside the geographical area being covered by the support van prior to the tour then do not despair we have an alternative solution.

On the Monday before a tour starts we'll arrange for our trusted transport partner to collect your bike from an address of your choosing, which could be work, home or cycle shop and deliver your bike to Pedal Britain.

Clients will need to securely package up their own bike in a Medium size (150 x 22 x 90 cm) cardboard bike box. A local bike shop will for free or small fee provide a suitable box and much of the packing material you will need for this. Pedal Britain will return your bike to you the same way in the week after a tour ends.

Once we arrive in Inverness on the Saturday the Pedal Britain team will help you re-assemble your bike ready for push off on Sunday.

We cannot via this service accept helmets or any day bags packed inside the boxes.

Option 4:    Bike Delivery  - JOG Bike Company 

Cost for this service is  £135.00  per bike - One Way back Home

We only use this option when the delivery address for your bike is one that does not fit geographically into any of the routes planned for the Pedal Britain support vehicles and you do not want to use Option 3. The bikes will be packed into oversized reinforced cardboard boxes for you - saddle lowered and handle bars turned - are only adjustments made.

We'll send you a link to provide information required for this service and your bike will be delivered within 7 days of the tour ending.

Bike Transfer Service:   Both Ways

Total Cost is  £150.00   per bike 

£210.00 per bike if using JOG Bike Transfer Company.

Terms & Conditions of Bike Transfer Service

• Pedal Britain cannot be held responsible for any damage that occurs in transit - although we will obviously take great care of bikes in transit
• Where a third party is being used Pedal Britain cannot be held responsible for any damage in transit
• We recommend that you have insurance in place to cover you for any accidental damage or theft during transit

Pedal Britain has always strongly recommended that clients use their own cycles wherever possible for our tours, as there is no substitute for using a bike that you are familiar with and are comfortable riding. 

However we fully understand that sometimes circumstances mean this is just not possible.

Need to Hire a Bike?

We do not run our own fleet of hire bikes therefore have to source them from our trusted range of suppliers. At peak times of the year stock can be limited therefore please do let us know well in advance if you intend to hire a bike. 

First step is to please email us with your measurements and preferences:

• Shimano group set
• Disc or Caliper brakes
• Carbon or Non carbon

PLEASE NOTE:  Most road bikes run 11-28 compact gearing as they are generally set up for sportive hire. However we'll do our best to find a bike that works for you.  

Once you hire the bike it will be available to use from Sunday Lunch in Inverness giving us time to make any adjustments that you may want.

Road Bike Hire:

Branded High Spec Carbon Road Bike  =  £350-£375 each for 2 weeks . This will be a Trek Madone SLR 6 or equivalent

Non Branded UK Built Bikes =  £250-£300 for 2 weeks  

Hybrid Bike Hire:

Branded High Spec Carbon Hybrid Bike =  £250-£300 each for 2 weeks .

Want to Bring Your Own Bike But Need Help With Logistics? 

If you currently live outside UK but are unsure about bringing your own cycle,  please call or e-mail for advice.  We can discuss a variety of solutions that might help you to bring a bike along.

Some of the ways we can help:

• Bike Box/Bag on Van :  On this tour we can accommodate bike bags / boxes as we'll be able to store at our Hotel or with our local hire partner.
• Getting Bike to the Start :   Also if when you land in UK you are planning to tour first / or just want to travel without bike to the start - we can as part of our bike transfer service collect your bike from a Hotel (Tuesday/Wednesday) before the tour and take it to the start for you.
• Staying on longer in UK after tour :  Don't want a bike in tow? We can also keep bike and box with us after the tour, then by using our bike transfer service we can deliver the bike to a Hotel near London/or an Airport when you are ready to head home

Just contact us on [email protected] setting out what your plans are and we'll come up with a solution that works for you.

Can I Bring a Bike Box/Bag?

For our NC500 tours you can bring along a Bike Box or Bag as we will be able to store either at our Hotel or leave with our local bike hire partner in Inverness. Please do indicate if you are going to bring a bike box so that we have an idea of numbers.

How fit do I need to be?

Pedal Britain tours are designed to attract people of all ages and levels of fitness.

To help you assess if a ride is suitable we have added a 'Cycling Level' indicator on each tour. Obviously the more training you do beforehand it will increase the overall enjoyment of any tour as you'll be more prepared.

Pedal Britain has a range of 'Training Support Resources' including a free consultation and a blog about  Training Plans within which you'll find some great tips and an easy to follow framework that can be adapted for any of our tours. 

We do not issue 'standard' training plans, everyone starts at different levels of experience, fitness and available time. For those confident enough, all you do is adjust our framework to suit your own needs.

However to provide another level of support, we have created with Pedal Britain guide Grant Goodman (qualified cycling coach) also of cyclingfitness.co.uk several coaching packages from Basic to Premium. You can find links to these and all our training information here:  Training Resource

What are the group sizes?

At Pedal Britain we want to ensure you receive the highest level of support possible whilst you are on one of our tours.

To this end we will normally run a tour with a minimum of 10 people, but unlike other operators we limit the group size to a maximum of 18 people. We feel this ensures there is always enough people to be social, but not too many for it to feel overcrowded and your just part of a herd.

What are the groups like?

There is no one standard group every tour is unique. But generally people that undertake our tours are a fun, friendly and adventurous lot with one key similarity - they love cycling!! We have people of all ages (teens through to mid 70's) and all walks of life which makes for an interesting and diverse group of fellow participants.  

Groups tend to be split 50:50 between those traveling alone or part of a group be it pairs of friends/couples/family or occasionally larger ones of 3-4. We try and limit our group size to a maximum of 18 people which we think works best, providing plenty of people to socialise with during the day and evening, but also enables people to find some quiet time too. 

How fast do we ride?

That is completely up to you. It is your holiday and so we encourage you to ride at your own pace. The average touring cyclist will normally travel at 10-13mph. What we find is naturally 2-3 groups form and you'll always find one that suits your pace.

Some people get concerned by always being at the back as they feel anxious about holding everyone up, believe us you are not!! However if that mentally becomes an issue then you can always set off 30 minutes ahead of the pack. But we will never ask you to pedal faster.

No one on a Pedal Britain tour gets left behind as our guides for the most part ride at the back, especially at the end of a day to provide encouragement and support.

What sort of cyclist comes on your tours?

We have a mixture, from keen club cyclist through to newcomers looking for a challenge.

Do I need to be a good bike mechanic?

Pedal Britain provides  mechanical support  in form of basic adjustments, or simple repairs, while your guide will also carry a reasonable tool kit to help with any minor problems on the road - the van has a more comprehensive set.

However it is essential that you are able to fix a puncture . Obviously if the guide, fellow riders or van are nearby they will assist but it maybe that the van is tied up elsewhere therefore you don’t want to be unnecessarily held up waiting.

Essential kit to carry at all times for puncture repair

It is advisable to carry on your bike at least 1 or 2 spare inner tubes, a mini pump / Co2 gas pressure pump, tyre levers and multi-tool with you each day. This essential kit can be kept either in a small rucksack that you carry or in a medium sized saddlebag.

We also ask that you take care of basic bike maintenance. Firstly having a comprehensive bike service before you arrive on the tour, then by inspecting your bike daily to ensure its in proper working order.

A work stand, track pumps, chain lubricant and cleaning materials will be available for your use on the van.

The support vehicle will carry a limited number of universal spares that are provided at cost should they be required. If your bike has any obscure or unusual parts that may not be readily available at a bike shop it is highly recommended that you bring your own set of spares with you that can be carried on the support vehicle.

We will carry a spare bike and wheel so that you can keep moving if you do have any serious bike problems.

Whilst Pedal Britain will endeavour to fix your bike issues, any major repairs will have to be co-ordinated through a local bike shop on the road, with any cost for these repairs being your responsibility.

If I am travelling alone can I join a tour?

Yes, no problem. In fact usually around 50% of a group are single travellers.

You can either pay for single supplement or we can if you are happy to share a twin room, find you a room buddy. Either way trips are very sociable and you’ll soon make some new cycling friends.

Do you offer group discounts?

Yes we do, if you have 8 participants or more able to book at the same time then you'll be eligible for a 5% discount (up to maximum of £100 per person)

If you all live close together then we can also work out a deal for our 'Bike Transfer Service' which could save you up to 50% per person for this service.

Can I raise money for a specific charity?

Yes, you can join any of our tours and use that challenge as a way of raising funds for any cause of your choice.

Sometimes we are asked "Can a Charity Sponsor my Ride by paying for the Tour?" again no problem. We just raise an invoice and send that for payment to the charity. Any other financial agreements such as on minimum fundraising targets are between you and the charity. 

We can also if there is enough interest work either with a group of likeminded people wanting to raise money for a specific charity or with the charity itself to create a bespoke cycling event just for that purpose.

What are the lunches like?

Lunches are generally at either just before or after the halfway point of a day in terms of milage. They consist of various combinations of soup, sandwiches, crisps/chips, savouries, coffee/tea/soft drinks and cake, served as rolling buffets or set meals hosted in either local cafes / pubs.

Occasionally, depending on the weather, Pedal Britain's pop up cafe will provide a substantial picnic buffet lunch in a suitably scenic location en-route. Don’t worry if your cycling slowly we always make sure there is enough food for everyone at picnics and never leave until everyone is fed and watered.

Where are the evening meals?

Whilst evening meals are not included in the cost of the holiday, Pedal Britain will make reservations between 7.30-8.00pm most days for a group evening meal, so you don’t have to worry.

Also to make life even easier for you we'll sometimes take pre-orders for the evenings food in advance. We find this just helps speed things up at service to maximise your recovery time.

We tend to eat at the accommodation we are staying in that evening although we do occasionally use other local options. These meals provide a great opportunity for socialising together and swapping tales of the days events, further developing the group bonds.

However attendance is purely optional. If you prefer to eat earlier, or alone or wanted to find somewhere else, your Tour Guide can provide alternatives its no problem at all it is your decision.

On longer tours where we are staying in major towns/cities we also have several what we call 'free evenings' where we do not book anything for the group - which allows you to explore local options with smaller groups of new your new cycling buddies.

With all evening meals individuals are responsible for settling their own food and drink bills once finished.

Do we have back up support?

We take great pride in the level of support we give to riders on our cycling tours and is a key part of the 'The Pedal Britain Difference'.

That is why we are 5* rated on Trustpilot with many of the reviews specifically mentioning the excellent back up support we provide. You can read extracts of these on our  Pedal Britain Testimonials page.  

All our trips are led by at least one or two experienced leaders from the UK – one driving the support vehicle and the other cycling with the group, usually at the rear to ensure that no one gets left behind. They carry a first aid kit and a tool kit, so that if you or your bike breaks down they will if possible be there to help. 

The Pedal Britain support vehicle doesn't follow the group very closely. It's main function is to once/twice a day provide the our famous 'Brew Stops', carry luggage between accommodation or if you have a problem you can jump onboard. You will also have access to the van at our lunch stop.

Also be comforted in the knowledge that the team at Pedal Britain HQ are also with you as an invisible hand, making sure everything is running smoothly. 

What happens to my luggage each day?

We want your holiday to be as hassle free as possible. So for you comfort we transfer your luggage each day to the next accommodation.

All we ask is that on setting out each morning you leave your fully labeled luggage and day bags in the reception or at the rear of the support van. Don't worry we'll provide you with labels.

Will the Hotel or B&B do our laundry?

To remain social it’s advisable that on our longer tours you wash your kit out regularly - that includes shorts - a key factor in preventing sore bottoms!!

What most people do is take with them several days worth of cycling kit to rotate through and a small bottle of liquid clothes detergent. Then as part of their daily routine use facilities in the room to wash and dry kit as many have heated towel rails.

If not fully dry the next day roll kit up tightly into a towel or hang up in back of the support van to ensure you have clean kit ready for following day.

Some accommodations do offer limited laundry services (usually just drying kit) either for a small fee or usually free, ready for collection the following morning. Your tour guide will let you know which places on your tour provide this.

Alternatively if time prevails you can use local launderettes to wash and dry clothes - your tour guide will help locate these for you.

What kind of clothing and equipment is needed?

Once you're signed up Pedal Britain will send you a detailed ‘Kit List’ of what you should bring along, however do feel free to contact us if you would like a copy sending to you or have any specific questions .

Do I need insurance?

Pedal Britain has public liability insurance cover for all of our tours.

However we strongly recommend you take out adequate insurance to cover yourself against personal accident, loss of belongings and cancellation cover.

Yellow Jersey Insurance  are one company that other clients have used previously.  Worth checking first what might be covered under various other policies you may have such as household and travel insurance, then plug any gaps with a specific policy.

Still have questions?

Please  contact us  here..

We use cookies to give you the best possible website experience. By using Pedal Britain, you agree to our Cookie Policy .

Scotland’s North Coast 500 cycle route

Scotland’s North Coast 500 cycle route (NC500) is gaining a bit of a reputation for itself. Often touted as the Scottish equivalent to the USA’s Route 66, it’s a 500 mile road cycling loop, that takes you around the coastline of the Scottish highlands, taking in some of the country’s best scenery and a good dose of demanding gradients.

It’s also a popular route for cyclists looking to set records – like reader Andy, who got in touch to tell us about riding the whole 500 mile loop in just TWO days!

This article is split into two parts.

Part 1 aims to answer the general questions cyclists often have when considering cycling the NC500 Scotland.

Part 2 provides the full story of Andy’s experiences and his tips for anyone considering taking on this testing ride.

Looking for more general information on cycling in Scotland? This article contains our pick of the best regions for cycling in Scotland  – and don’t miss our in-depth guide to cycling Edinburgh .  Want other great UK content? Find it here .

Want a custom map to commemorate your ride once you’ve completed it? Check out these beautiful GPX-based prints .

This article includes details of products and/or services that we have used ourselves or which we would consider using. Some are paid features or include affiliate links where if you click on a link and make a booking or buy something, we may earn a commission. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. Please read our disclosure policy for further information.

All metrics in this article are approximate.

Part 1 – General info

1. what and where is the north coast 500 cycling route.

The North Coast 500 – sometimes referred to as the Scotland 500 route – is an iconic route circumnavigating the entire north coast of Scotland, from Inverness, across to the west coast and then right around the west, north and east coasts, via John O’Groats, and back to Inverness.

To some, the NC500 is the ultimate Scottish cycling challenge. It’s 516 miles (830-kilometres) and takes in some of the best sights of the Scottish Highlands. It’s also well known as a driving route, something of a Scotland Route 66 (Route 66 being the iconic driving route in the USA).

It’s been a great success for tourism in Scotland and is very popular with motorbikes and camper vans – (perhaps unfortunately!) this route is by no means just for those who want to plan cycle NC500 breaks. There are ways cyclists can avoid the busier sections, but even so you will encounter traffic at points on this route so bear in mind the dangers when packing and make sure you have high-vis clothing and lights. We’d also suggest leaving those earphones at home…

That said, cycling the NC500 is definitely one for the bucket list, it’s long enough for a multi-day trip, and there are plenty of amenities along the route for cyclists.

GPX Download Terms of use reminder

NC500 cycle route map (note Andy’s route includes the A9, which is a fast and potentially dangerous road – alternatives are available)

2. What routes are there for cycling the North Coast 500?

There are two main ways to tackle the NC500 route according to the official Scotland 500 cycle route map – and both begin and end in Inverness. You can ride it clockwise or anti-clockwise, with the most popular being clockwise.

Why? Because it means you tackle the hillier parts of the route first – the western coast. This way around, the route climbs over 32k feet, with the majority of this in between miles 60 and 360. But it’s no way ‘flat’ on the rest!

The official North Coast 500 cycling route follows the same route as the driving route, but there are ways to avoid some of the busier stretches of road if you want to (such as the A9), though these will add on a few miles to your total.

Going in the clockwise direction, once you leave Inverness, you head west towards Beauly, then around to the western coast where you ride north, following the lines of the shore until you reach the infamous John o’ Groats. From there you head south back towards Inverness and the Black Isle. There are numerous points of beauty on this trip, with rugged landscapes and hidden beaches you won’t see anywhere else in Britain.

3. How long does it take to cycle the North Coast 500?

The current record is now just under 28 hours, but most people like to take around seven days to take in the route. Particularly if you’re bikepacking, or travelling unaided i.e. carrying all your own kit, taking your time and seeing the sights can be much more appealing.

4. Where does the NC500 cycling route start and finish?

The official NC500 cycle route map starts and finishes in Inverness, which is in the Scottish Highlands.

5. Is the NC500 signposted?

It is partially signposted with brown signs, and it helps to direct you to the next village en route. But, we would recommend downloading the North Coast 500 GPX route before leaving, as well as perhaps taking your own cycle north coast 500 maps, as the mobile signal in certain parts of the route can be patchy and shouldn’t be solely relied on! You don’t want to try tackling the NC500 by bike and accidentally end up lost.

6. Is the NC500 hilly (and what NC500 bike route is best)?

Overall, the route takes in just under 10,000 metres in elevation gain. However, most of this is on the western coast line, hence why many people ride this way first! It isn’t exactly flat the rest of the way, but the bulk of the climbing is in this section.

With the amount of climbing on this route, we’d recommend something lightweight for your North Coast 500 bike. Whether this is a touring bike or road bike, try to pack lightly and consider taking the essentials. You’ll be thanking yourself when you climb the Bealach na Ba!

7. Any accommodation tips for the NC500?

Read our tips below or, for more detailed info, head over to our new article that’s solely focused on the best North Coast 500 cycle accommodation .

If you’re cycling the NC500 and do roughly 70 miles a day, these are some of the places you might stop. As far as we are aware, they are cycling friendly but as we haven’t used these locations ourselves, we recommend checking with the staff before booking. You may find that you’d prefer to bike across to alternative locations to find cheaper deals, but these locations are all largely on the route.

Usually the first stop on this route for riders is Lochcarron, where the  Rockvilla Guest House  comes recommended. It’s got a seafront view, and previous visitors have said the owners allowed the bikes inside the rooms.

You may have to put in a big stint to get to this B&B on the second day, but Corriness House is also recommended by those who have ridden the NC500 route.

If glamping is more your style, then we suggest the North Coast 500 pods campsite, of which there are two locations. One on the western side of the route in Achmelvich, and one on the eastern side in Brora . Each have beachfront views and basic amenities making it ideal for a quick overnight stay. If you don’t mind roughing it then there are plenty of other North Coast 500 campsites along the route too, where facilities may be more limited but you can at least pitch a tent cheaply.

Further along in Tongue, there is the Kyle of Tongue Hostel and Campsite which is great for those looking for a cheaper overnight stay. As you head towards the most northerly points of the trip, you’ll find places like John O’ Groats that caters well to cyclists, after all, it is the end point for many making the LEJOG pilgrimage. Places like the Seaview Hotel have been well received by cyclists.

And as you head towards the finish in Inverness, there are plenty of cycling friendly options around the city. From the Inverness Youth Hostel to quaint B&B’s like Ardbrae House, each has it’s own charm and allows for you to tailor your trip to your own liking.

8. How do I train for the NC500?

There are many ways you can get prepared to ride the NC 500 route. If you’re doing it in one go you’ll need to train slightly differently to someone who’s riding it over several days, but in essence, you want to become comfortable riding your bike over long periods of time. Upping your weekly mileage (slowly!) by incorporating longer rides at the weekends or during your free time is a great way of getting used to being in the saddle.

If you’re worried about the amount of climbing, the best way to prepare is by practicing on your local hills. If you live in the flatlands, it might be worth considering some turbo training that can simulate hills for you. Although it’s not quite the same thing, anything you do now will pay dividends when you’re riding the NC500 route later on.

If you’re looking for more info, read these for our tips on preparing for long rides and training for long distance rides ). And if you’re really stuck for ideas, we have written an article on how to train for the Mallorca 312, which albeit isn’t quite the same, but the same training principles will apply. You can read that here .

9. What’s the best time of year to cycle the NC500?

For cycling NC500 holidays, you’re going to want to consider the weather. Scotland’s climate is hardly ideal even at the best of times, and trying to tackle the North Coast 500 by bike during the high winds and rain would be exceptionally difficult, plus it would spoil the views.

It’s best to plan your cycling North Coast 500 break during the summer when you at least have a chance of good weather, plus more hours of sunshine to complete the journey quicker.

Even if you tackle the ride in summer you should check the weather forecast each morning and ensure you have kit for every eventuality. If the forecast is really bad you may even need to be prepared not to ride that day. It’s also worth having the number of a local taxi company to hand in case you need an emergency pick up.

10. What’s the best way to get to and from Inverness?

Other than driving, your two other options are flying or travelling by train.

Inverness Airport is just eight miles from Inverness city centre. From here there are domestic flights all over the country.

Inverness train station is also an excellent option. There are around twelve trains per day from Glasgow, seven trains per day from Edinburgh and four from Glasgow. There is also one direct train a day from London – and the Caledonian Sleeper is a sleeper train from London that runs six nights per week. You’ll need to check with the train operator for their requirements for carrying bikes on the trains.

11. Are there bike shops on the NC500?

As far as we are aware, there are no bike shops between Beauly and Thurso on the NC500 route (which is over 300 miles).

This means it’s extremely important your bike is in tip top shape before you embark on cycling the NC500 – and that you are confident doing basic bike repairs yourself. Invest time before you depart to ensure your trip doesn’t end in disappointment!

12. Are there any books about cycling the NC500?

Most books about the NC500 are aimed at motorists. However these are books on the NC500 route for cyclists. The Big Rides book obviously contains more of an overview of the route than the other two, and serves as a useful North Coast 500 route planner.

Published 10 October 2018

View on Amazon

Published 11 October 2019

Published 1 July 2021

Part 2 – Andy’s ride

11. which north coast 500 cycle route did you do.

You can see the route I rode above. There are variations on this route, but most North Coast 500 routes follow this general route. In many places there is literally just one road – so you can’t get lost! You can do it clockwise, or counter clockwise.  I chose clockwise as I had an ambitious plan to complete in two days and I wanted to get the majority of the climbing out of the way on day 1.

The intrepid round the world record holder, Mark Beaumont, set an initial elapsed time record of about 38hrs for riding the entire North Coast 500 cycle route. In 2016 this was bettered by ex Scottish Common Wealth Games cyclist James McCallum, who targeted and completed it with an elapsed time of 31hrs and ride time of 28hrs, 57mins. In 2023, the NC500 cycle record was beaten again by Matt Downie with a time of 27hrs and 30 minutes exactly.

12. Why did you decide to tackle Scotland’s NC500 cycle route?

It was a totally ‘on a whim’ decision. I had received some sad news of the death of one of my Mum’s good friends to cancer, and the funeral was to be near Oban.  I’d vaguely heard of the NC500, and watched something GCN did with Mark Beaumont – it looked amazing!

I checked the weather, and the forecast was stunning, Inverness was only 120 miles or so from Oban, so a plan formed!  I decided I wanted to try and do it in two days, partly driven by time availability due to work, and partly as a mental and physical test for myself ahead of returning to defend my 2018 UK CTT National 24hr title.  I wanted to remind my body what it was like to ride for long hours.

So on Wednesday evening, 26 th June I drove into Inverness, parked up the van, downloaded a map of the route to my Garmin and bedded down.

13. Tell us about day 1

I had booked a BnB just over half way round at around 280miles,  I HAD TO GET THERE tonight!  My plan was to travel as light as possible, so all I carried was a spare set of kit, sunscreen, energy products for the day, spares and battery chargers.  I had planned ahead and sent the BnB all the energy product I would need for day 2 to enable me to travel lighter on day 1.

Part 1: Inverness to Bealach na Bah (AKA Applecross Pass): 0-120 km (0-75 miles)

So the alarm went off at 4.30pm and I crawled out the van!  This far north it hardly goes dark at all at this time of year, so I woke to a beautiful, fairly crisp morning.  A quick breakfast and I was off.   I always find on very long rides that the mental part of the first few hours is hard.  Dealing with the thought, after 10miles, that today I have another 28x that to go, or 20k ft of climbing to do is no easy feat.  I used a strategy I use a lot in long races, and prescribe with clients I coach: I chunked the ride down into four sections, with planned stops at certain points to act as interim markers.

My first planned stop was at the bottom of Bealach na Bah, the longest road climb in Britain, which is commonly know as Applecross pass.  This came at around 70miles.

That first 60 miles or so was pretty easy, and fast, crossing Scotland, effectively coast to coast at one of its narrowest points. You traverse from the industrial city of Inverness, gradually climbing into the highlands where the views are magnificent and just ‘huge’!  It’s hard to convey the majesty of the surroundings.

The early start meant I barely saw any traffic, at all until well past the Applecross pass!

After 60 miles you hit the coast and the first test,  a sharp 1mile climb out of Loch Carron, then after a nice fast descent you arrive at the bottom of Bealach na Ba.  I have climbed Bealach before,  last year with a friend where we smashed a 40 odd mile loop out, so I knew what I was facing.  To be honest, it’s not that hard a climb, for 2-3 miles you get gradual 2-4% gradients, so big ring stuff.  The last 1.5-2miles it kicks up and goes to 10% in parts, but before you know it you are at the top and looking out on the unbelievable view from the top (see banner photo).

Part 2: Bealach na Ba to Kinlochewe: 120-196 km (75-122 miles)

Following this you have a section of never-ending rollers, I was struggling with a nagging cross head wind here which made each one energy sapping, forever changing gear form 52-11 to 36 -28 as you drive over each one.

The next section heads inland on a stunning single track road from Torridon to Kinlochewe.  One of the noticeable things on this ride is how the wind changes. As you leave the coast you invariably get a tail wind, but maybe 10miles in land this would change to a head wind!  On this section this was actually great, a tail wind 10miles in land, then a tail wind as you climb back to the coast at Garloch.

I was on about 19mph average speed here after 5hrs, although I was a bit above planned power numbers!

Part 3: Kinlochewe to Ullapool: 196-318 km (122-198 miles)

The next long section to Ullapool was energy sapping; every time you went away from the coast you hit massive rollers and long climbs. The climb from Dundonnell was one such section, cresting to the fabulous view we see below, looking towards Sgurr Mor. The climb and views were stunning, the descent to Ullapool, at 200 miles was even better!

Part 4: Ullapool to Rhiconich: 318-446 km (198-277 miles)

I stopped in Ullapool, it was now around 4pm and I had about 80 miles to go.

Average speed was still good so I was on track for an 8-9pm arrival at the B and B. After a huge refuelling, that predominantly involved Scottish Tablet and Iron Bru (well when in Rome…!), I was off.

This next section was HARD.  Another noticeable part of this trip is BEWARE when you go inland.  The road just climbs and descends relentlessly, the next section to Lochinver certainly backed this up.

After Lochinivor was a small right turn with that sign we all dread ‘road impassable for caravans and coaches’ – this meant one thing STEEP gradients!

Here a bit of a sea fret blew in so it started to get cooler. It was also 7pm at night, and I was getting cold.  After 261m I hit a 25% gradient sign, this was for about 500m. HELL!

Then another section like this, before a thankfully steady run into my BnB: Ardberg BnB at Rhiconich.  There the hosts sorted me pizza and chips in lieu of breakfast.  The best I’d ever tasted!

After retrieving my box of goodies, resolving a few squeaky bits on the bike I hit the sack, for the next 4.30am alarm call

14. How was Day 2?

I woke up before the alarm! A good sign. I was surprised how good I felt in all honesty.  I was up quickly and on the road by around 5am, with just a couple of energy bars and a gel to get me going.

The morning was truly stunning!

Part 1: Rhiconich to Thurso: 0-141 km (0-88 miles)

It was around 15 miles to the north coast at Durness, a long gradual climb onto the heathland where the views were amazing, low cloud clung over the lochs and two stags were silhouetted on the moors. It was a quintessentially Scottish scene that could have come off a box of Scottish shortbread!

Once on the coast road, the route continued its relentless up and down rolling nature, down into cloud and sea fret, up into some stunning views on the moorland.

One thing noticeable about this coast is how little habitation there is – and also how little opportunity to fuel there is.  I was so glad of my strategy to send food ahead. Due to the early start I didn’t pass a shop that was open until more than 50 miles into the day, so without the food I’d sent ahead, I’d have been in trouble.

From Tounge, through Bettyhill (where I found a shop), Armadale and right to Thursoe was a series of relentless climbs and descents alternating from by the sea to anything up to a mile in land.  Again the main feature of the ride was clear, the more inland, the more you climbed and descended.

Part 2: Thurso to John O’Groats: 141-174 km (88-108 miles)

As I came into Thursoe the scenery changed, from the rugged coastline and moorlands, to more rolling farmland, and a noticeable increase in the wind.  Along the north coast road, past Douneray Nuclear plant and it was into John O’Groats at around 11am.  By now a sea fret had blown in and a strong south easterly was blowing making it hard going.

Stopping in John O’Groats, with 120 miles or so to go I realised I was actually, on ride time, well within the existing record, and on elapsed time only a few hours outside, despite my luxurious 6.5 hrs sleep!  I was on about an 18.5mph average speed for the day, so doing okay!

After the obligatory picture at the sign post at John O’Groats, loaded up with tablet and Lucozade, I decided to push on and see if I could hit Inverness by tea time.

Part 3: John O’Groats to Inverness: 174-372 km (108-231 miles)

The main A9 / A9 travels in a south / south westerly direction, so particularly the first 50miles I was slugging into a nagging cross head wind which made the going tough. [Note: the A9 is a fast and potentially dangerous road that you should consider bypassing.]

As you head south, the landscape again changes from the rolling farmland to more sheer cliffs and stunning beaches. It reminded me of the North Yorkshire Moors around Whitby,  massive long steep climbs, and hair raisingly fast descents!  Between Helmsdale and Tain the road never flattened once, constantly undulating and sapping energy.  Still I pushed on well and was well over 20mph average for all this section.

The final run down the Moray Firth had me pass Glenmorangie distillery. It was very tempting to stop but I hit on!  Just after Glenmorangie, the A9 turns due west and you pick up a monster tail wind – this was a fast 20 miles!

Come 5:45pm it was all over!

So Day 2 in cycling computer stats:

15. What were your numbers for your NC500?

Moving time 27 hrs 36 mins (80 mins quicker than the current record)

Elapsed time 37hrs exactly

33,000 ft climbed

18.5mph average speed

238w normalised power (average 230w)

126bpm avg HR

16. If you had to pick your three favourite sections of the route, what would they be and why?

1. The Bealach Na Ba climb – it’s a picturesque road, climbing parallel to a sea loch to start and then turning inland and climbing towards the pass. The view from the top is just unbelievable. One of the best I’ve ever seen.

2. Dundonnell to Ullapool descent – really fast, on great tarmac with stunning inland views to the highlands and lochs, before sweeping down through the forest into Ullapool itself.

3. Durness to Thursoe on the north coast – because I left so early in the morning, it felt like I was the only one on the planet and the scenery, with the sea mist, was spectacular.

17. What were your North Coast 500 highlights (and lowlights)?

The scenery was just jaw-dropping for much of the ride – lochs, moors and mountains. I was also lucky to be riding in fantastic weather, which is certainly not a given for this part of the world. While there were busy stretches of road, I also thought that overall the roads were pretty quiet, which made the whole experience much nicer.

The worst thing about the ride was the relentless climbing! It felt like the whole route didn’t have any flat sections in it!

You should also plan ahead for the north coast, since there really aren’t many facilities there.

Finally, I’d suggest not hitting the A9 run back into Inverness on a Friday afternoon (when I was there) – though I suspect, it’s not very pleasant at any time of day/week…

18. Tell us about your kit choices

I used my standard SRAM red eTap equipped Evo2Max Hyperson road bike, with 52/36 and 11-28 gearing. I just added just a frame pack with key essentials.

My packing list looked like this:

1. 2x500ml frame mounted bottles, 1x500ml bottle in my back pocket

2. Garmin 1030

3. External power pack with leads for phone and garmin

4. Socket chargers x2 to charge everything overnight

5. Spare set of cycling kit

7. Arm warmers

8. Bike lube

9. Insulation tape (solves almost anything)

10. Sunscreen and lypsyl (*which I lost early on and am paying the price for now with seriously cracked lips!)

11. Pair of boxer shorts to sleep in

12. Toothbrush and toothpaste

I wish I’d also taken gloves for the morning – it was COLD, about 4 degrees early on. I got round this on day 2 by taping yesterday’s cycling kit around my hands as impromptu gloves, it worked a treat and, to be honest, I’d probably do again rather than carry more items!

19. What did you eat and drink while cycling the NC500?

I carried (and sent on for day 2)

1. 14 OTE gels

2. 4 OTE bars

3. Tube OTE electrolyte tabs

I stopped pretty much whenever I saw a shop to ensure my bottles were full. This was vital as I didn’t know when I might be able to refuel again, especially up until I got to John O’Groats.

I also ate a couple of sandwiches from the shops en-route, sweets, nuts and seeds – and my own body weight in Scottish tablet!

20. What tips would you give to someone wanting to take on the Scottish 500 cycle route?

1. Route planning – you can make your NC500 route planning as easy or as complex as you want. Many people make a detailed North Coast 500 itinerary and plan this in huge detail, mapping every stop, possible rest point and undulation.  Or you can do what I did: download a map to my Garmin, pick a point to stop over night(s), book some accommodation and press ‘start’!

2.  Accommodation – you can either choose to BnB, hostel or camp.  I chose BnB to minimise what I had to carry and give me a clear point I ‘must’ reach. Mentally I find this helps.  I would have found it too easy to just stop otherwise.

3. Road conditions – I found the road conditions generally pretty good. There are a lot of single track roads where you need to watch for camper vans and bikers, but in general the route is quiet.

4. Best time of year to ride – definitely consider the time of year you tackle this route and the weather. I’d strongly recommend the time I did it, high summer, for the long days and chance of the weather being good. This route is ALL about the weather. I only went as the forecast was great, but a typical Scottish coastal day of rain and wind this ride would be grim, wet and cold and nothing to see.

5. Fitness – you need to be fit to do this route; every time you go inland you will be climbing a lot!

Big thanks to Andy for sharing his experience of cycling the North Coast 500. What a route! We hope you are feeling inspired to give cycling the NC500 a go…

Want something to help you remember your NC500 ride?

These cycling map prints are just the ticket, serving as a great reminder of your Scotland 500 route map.

• You upload a GPX file or connect to Strava and find your ride (you can add multiple day rides to one map). 
• You use the map builder to create the print as you want it (you can alter the size, colour and text). 
• You submit all the details and are then sent a preview to check before it’s printed and sent to you.

More info here . Prices start at £35.

Want more inspiration for challenge rides?

You might find our in-depth article on Land’s End to John O’Groats inspiring!

Check out our guides to RideLondon , Mallorca312 , Granfondo Stelvio Santini and riding the Tour of France course .

Or check out our guides to other fantastic parts of the UK for cyclists, from Cornwall to the Yorkshire Dales to the Brecon Beacons.

NC500 features in our list of the World’s best long-distance cycle routes. Want to see what else is on the list? Read this.

Please support Epic Road Rides

A huge amount of time and effort goes into the article you’ve just read, all with the aim of helping you!

If you found what you’ve read useful, I’d really appreciate it if you dropped something in the tip jar  here .

It’s a way you can say thank you and help us carry on creating top quality content with no annoying ads and no pay wall.

Leave us a tip here!

Looking for an organised cycling trip?

If you want someone to help you plan and book your cycling holiday, fill out this form. We aren’t a tour operator/agent but we work with lots of people who are and will do our best to put you in touch with someone that can help (within 24 hours wherever possible)!

We will use this info to send the enquiry to Clare and/or their team. Our privacy policy explains more and here’s a reminder of our disclosure policy and terms and conditions.

Clare Dewey is a cyclist with a passion for travel. She set up epicroadrides.com in 2018 to help make it easy for cyclists to explore the world by bike. Today her mission is still inspiring cyclists to discover new places on two wheels – and doing what she can to make sure they have the best possible time while they’re there. Clare has visited 50+ destinations around the world, many of them by bike.

The contents of this website are provided for general information purposes only. It is not intended to amount to advice and you should not rely on it. You should carry out your own due diligence and risk assessments and take professional advice. Views expressed by interviewees or other users of this website do not necessarily represent our views. We make no representations, warranties or guarantees, whether express or implied, that the content on our website is accurate, complete or up to date. If you use any information or content on this website, download from, or otherwise obtain content or services through our website, it is entirely at your own discretion and risk. Epic Road Rides Ltd disclaims all liability and responsibility arising from any reliance placed on the information and content on this website. Find out more here .

7 Responses to “Scotland’s North Coast 500 cycle route”

Thanks Andy – this looks rad. It’s definitely going down on the list. Amazing achievement to do it in two days!

If I did this route without booking any accommodation and with five days to complete the ride, would I be able to find B&Bs without pre-booking?

Hi Les, I’m sorry, but I’m not sure we can reliably answer this. Guess it will come down to the time of year and luck. We’ve heard summer can be extremely busy… May be better to pre-book if you’re concerned. Good luck with the trip! Clare

It’s a fantastic route – impressive performance but to be honest why do it in two days? Theres so much fantastic cycling it’s almost a crime to rush through it, we spent a week completing the route and there’s definitely enough miles and climbing to make it a full week’s adventure. Why not take a lunch break and sit on one of the amazing beaches or take in the views from the top of one of the many (!) hills?

It’s a fair point! I think the vast majority of people would do it the way you did, it’s just speed nuts like Andy that have an inclination towards making a tough route ridiculously hard that would attempt it in two days!

Hi Andy, Im looking at doing the NC500 either in 2022 or 2023 and over 7 days, but I was wondering if you can give me some names of places you used as accomodation. The following places are where I plan to stop over night so any help with accomodation you might have in any of these areas would be much appreciated – Inverness, Lochcarron, Gairloch, Ullapool, Kinlochbervie, Melvich and Lairg

Hi Steve, thanks for your message. The places people choose to stop is so individual and dependent on the number of days of their ride. For example Andy did it in just two days! Sorry not to be able to provide any more useful information at this stage – but I will certainly think about updating the article with cycling-friendly places to stay in future. Hope you have a great trip! Best wishes, Clare

Leave your comment

Click here to cancel reply.

• Name (required)
• Mail (required) (will not be published)

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

• +447763675381
• [email protected]

• 2024/25 Schedule
• Cycle Tours Croatia - Split to Dubrovnik Balkans - Dubrovnik to Istanbul Ireland End to End (8 Days) Ireland End to End (13 Days) London to Barcelona (14 Days) Northern Ireland Revolution Portugal End to End (8 Days) Portugal End to End (12 days) Scotland - North Coast 500 Spain - Pyrenees C2C (9 Days) Spain - Coast to Coast (14 Days) Spain - Andalucia
• Regions Balkans Croatia & Dalmatia Islands France Ireland Portugal Scotland Spain
• Essentials Cancellation Policy Request Brochure Rider Types FAQs 2025 Schedule Videos

Cycling Tours & Holidays in Europe

Supported cycle tours & holidays in ireland, spain, portugal, scotland, croatia and the balkans from wild atlantic cycling.

See the full 2024 / 25 Schedule .

The team at Wild Atlantic Cycling design amazing bike  tours and cycling vacations in Ireland, Spain, Croatia, Scotland, Portugal, and the Balkans. Our bike tours are fully van supported. Ride at your own pace. Luggage is moved from stop to stop. We use very good quality hotels on our cycle tours. Our cycle routes are carefully crafted to ensure you see the best scenery, enjoy great stopovers. Groups are usually between 12 and 24 people from all walks of life. Join Wild Atlantic Cycling and you will enjoy a cycling vacation that is second to none!

Cycle Tours and Vacations from 700km to 1,300km!

We provide long distance, point to point cycle tours in  great locations, including Spain, Ireland, Portugal, Scotland and the Balkans. Explore our cycling vacations to discover a great bike tour to suit your style.

We have five-star ratings on  TripAdvisor  and wonderful reviews from the  Guardian Bike Blog ,  Inside Hook  and  Adventure Magazine . Have fun exploring and be sure to  sign up to our our mailing list  and we'll keep you posted.

What our Customers say about our Bike Tours and Cycling Vacations

Absolutely a terrific bike tour. Paul and Steven are great hosts. And the MizMal route is something special. Loved every minute of it.

the luxury of having to do no thinking and the minimum of preparation for a maximum enjoyment experience on your bicycle.

Everything was perfect and very well organized. I really reccomend this tour operator and I'm sure I will cycle with them in the future!

Tour News and Offers

Enter your email below

Awards, Affiliations & Press Coverage

Stories and News on our Blog

Cyclists' stories, training tips, company stories and more! It's all on our blog where we write as often as time allows!

Best Long Distance Adventure Cyclist Tour Operators 2022

We are delighted with success in SME News UK's award! Read about it here .   

• Cycle Tours Balkans
• Cycle Tours Croatia
• Cycle Tours Ireland
• Cycle Tours Portugal
• Cycle Tours Scotland
• Cycle Tours Spain

Tailwind on every ride? – See e-bike trips

European Classic booking fast – see the trips

• Request a Catalog
• 866-464-8735

Select Date Range

Popular searches.

Denmark to Sweden Bike Tour

Croatia and The Dalmatian Coast Bike Tour

Amsterdam to Bruges Bike Tour

Dolomites Hiking & Walking Tour

Scotland Bike Tour

The Scottish Highlands and Loch Ness

Tour Duration

Classic Guided, Signature

Activity Level

Hotel Level

Explorer, Luxury

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

Starting from

$ 4,599.00 per person

Have a question?

Experience Scotland's spectacular highland landscapes by bike where quiet roads blend with the country's rich cultural heritage.

Venture into Scotland's captivating Highlands—starting from the picturesque Royal Deeside, home to the King’s Scottish residence, Balmoral Castle—and wind your way into the heart of Cairngorms National Park's untamed beauty. Navigate the shores of the legendary Loch Ness, ascend remote moors, and conquer steep, secluded roads. Surrounded by Scotland's awe-inspiring landscapes, your ride takes you through ancient forests, over heather-clad climbs, and into quaint stone villages. Delve into Scotland's rich history and vibrant culture with visits to castles and a traditional distillery. Nights bring rest and culinary delight with seasonal dishes in cozy accommodations. This adventure melds Scotland's wild scenery with unparalleled cycling, showcasing why it's a must-visit for cyclists.

Visit a traditional 14th-century Scottish castle, built and inhabited by the Cawdor family for over 600 years

Enjoy a scenic boat cruise on Loch Ness, and you might even be lucky enough to spot the legendary monster!

Explore beautiful Royal Deeside, home to the King's Scottish residence, nestled deep in the heart of the Cairngorms National Park

Cycle through Scotland’s whisky region, savoring the finest Scotch whiskies as your guides introduce you to the rich heritage and exceptional flavors of the area

Ride on one of the highest roads in the UK, the Lecht Pass, with its sprawling heather moorland and panoramic views

The famous lake that inspired tales of the Loch Ness monster

Urquhart Castle commands great views of Loch Ness and can be found beside the village of Drumnadrochit.

What Guests are Saying

Well chosen routes, almost entirely off the beaten path. Fantastic lodging and food. Seamless service from our guides. I was not the fastest nor the most fit of our group, though did all but 1 segment of the avid rides available— was greeted like a Tour de France segment finisher each time =)) This was our honeymoon— we're active types. A little extra TLC and celebration extended to us, made us feel like family.

Jenny, Ft. Collins, CO

The countryside of northern Scotland was beautiful. The roads were smooth and in general, lightly traveled by cars and trucks. I enjoyed the challenging hills and the wonderful guides who willingly answered all our questions about Scottish history and traditions

The Scotland tour was amazing. Beautiful, quiet, scenic routes, just enough hills, fantastic guides and support.

KC, Boston, MA

Ballater to Nethy Bridge

This ride is one for the memory books. Ride through Speyside’s Whisky Country and over one of Scotland's most famous climbs, The Lecht.

Dates & Pricing

Book early for the best price

Join Waitlist

Limited Availability

May 31-june 5, 2025 guaranteed.

Hotels you`ll stay at on this date:

• Darroch Learg

Available bikes:

Trek Domane AL 5 Disc

Trek electric-assist allant+ 6, $ 4599.00 per person.

Double Occupancy

Single Occupancy from: + 1,299.00

June 28-July 3, 2025

August 9-14, 2025 guaranteed, september 13-18, 2025 guaranteed, looking to plan a private trip just for your group.

We’ve got you covered. Choose an available trip date, gather your group, and we’ll handle the rest. Here’s the private pricing for this trip:

Looking for a date that you don't see?

Look no further. Simply tell us your preferred travel dates and we’ll work together to deliver the same great trip on your custom schedule. Want to make a few changes to your itinerary, no problem. We will work with you to make sure your custom vacation is the ultimate vacation of a lifetime for your group.

You have another booking already in progress

Booking a new trip will cancel all of your previous booking progress. Continue your previous booking or proceed with your new booking.

Arrival / Departure

Where to Arrive

Edinburgh Airport (EDI)

Pick-up location :

Perth Railway Station, Perth, UK

Pick-up time :

Where to Depart

Inverness Airport (INV)

Drop-off location :

Inverness Airport, Inverness, Scotland

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 you fly into Edinburgh Airport (EDI) and then take a train to Perth. You can either travel to Perth the day before the trip starts and take a short taxi to meet the group the following morning; or you can head over on the 9:29 AM train from Edinburgh on Day 1 of your trip, which will arrive at the Perth Railway Station at 10:52 AM. Train tickets and updated schedules can be found at www.scotrail.co.uk or at thetrainline.com . We highly recommend exploring Edinburgh before your trip.

Your Trek Travel guides will meet you at the Perth Railway Station (Leonard St, Perth PH2 8RT, UK) at 11:00 AM on the first day of the trip. You’ll then shuttle approximately one and a quarter hours to the trip start. Please have your first day’s riding gear handy and separate from your other luggage to facilitate the bike fitting and ride.

If you will be late for the pick-up or will miss it altogether, please inform your guides. If you cannot reach them, please call our first hotel, Darroch Learg (+44 13397 55443), and leave a message with your expected arrival time and contact details. A taxi to the first night’s hotel will cost approximately $120.

Additional Departure Information

From The Lovat Hotel in Fort Augustus, you will say farewell to your guides at 11:00 AM. You'll then board a private shuttle to Inverness, arriving around 12:15 PM, where you can be dropped off either at the train station or the airport. Please do not book flights for departure prior to 2:30 PM or train tickets for departure prior to 1:00 PM.

Day 1 Welcome to the Highland village of Braemar and the Cairngorms National Park

Welcome to the Highland village of Braemar and the Cairngorms National Park

Welcome to the Scottish Highlands! As you gaze out across the misty hills, remember that this place is defined by its unique climate, stunning landscape, and warm-hearted people. Your Trek Travel guides will meet you at the Perth Railway Station in Perth at 11:00 AM. We’ll head north together to the Highland village of Braemar in the Cairngorms National Park for a relaxed lunch at a delightful museum cafe. After a brief introduction to your new travel companions a... Welcome to the Scottish Highlands! As you gaze out across the misty hills, remember that this place is defined by its unique climate, stunning landscape, and warm-hearted people. Your Trek Travel guides will meet you at the Perth Railway Station in Perth at 11:00 AM. We’ll head north together to the Highland village of Braemar in the Cairngorms National Park for a relaxed lunch at a delightful museum cafe. After a brief introduction to your new travel companions and an overview of the rules of the road, you'll be fitted to your Trek bike. Our warm-up route first takes you on a scenic loop along the River Dee and through the ancient Caledonian Pine Forest. You’ll then head east along the river, passing the Royal Castle of Balmoral before arriving in the quaint village of Ballater. In the heart of the village, we’ll enjoy pre-dinner cocktails and learn more about the week ahead in the Scottish Highlands while dining on a selection of regional specialties. Read More

Darroch Learg Hotel

Meals included

Lunch | Social Hour | Dinner

Highlight of the Day

Caledonian Forest

Riding through the breathtaking ancient Caledonian pine forest of Royal Deeside, you may even be lucky enough to spot some rare local wildli... Riding through the breathtaking ancient Caledonian pine forest of Royal Deeside, you may even be lucky enough to spot some rare local wildlife. Read More

Ride Options

Ride Option 1

TODAY'S RIDE:

Braemar to Ballater - Approximately 31 mi | 50 km and 1,393 ft | 425 m

Day 2 Ride through the valleys of Royal Deeside and Donside along the river, through forests and mountains

Ride through the valleys of Royal Deeside and Donside along the river, through forests and mountains

You’ll experience the true essence of Scotland’s natural beauty today, with a ride along the river, through forests and mountains. Starting right from the hotel doorstep in Ballater, you'll follow the valley of Royal Deeside before turning north and passing through several small villages to reach the next valley of Donside. You can expect quiet roads in this scenic corner of the Highlands where heather-clad hills form the beautiful backdrop. After a hearty picni... You’ll experience the true essence of Scotland’s natural beauty today, with a ride along the river, through forests and mountains. Starting right from the hotel doorstep in Ballater, you'll follow the valley of Royal Deeside before turning north and passing through several small villages to reach the next valley of Donside. You can expect quiet roads in this scenic corner of the Highlands where heather-clad hills form the beautiful backdrop. After a hearty picnic lunch together, you’ll gently climb alongside the river before reaching your first challenge of the week. Two climbs take you and your riding companions over military roads built in the 1700s to help government forces travel through these wild highlands. Magnificent views across the mountains of the Cairngorms National Park provide ample reward as does the fast cruise down to the tiny village of Crathie. Here you'll find the Queen’s official residence in Scotland - Balmoral Castle. From Balmoral, it’s a short distance back to our starting point in Ballater. Now it’s time to relax before dinner; enjoy a stroll around the village or perhaps go out for a pint. Our hotel is just a few minutes walk from the pub. Read More

Breakfast | Lunch | Dinner

Cairngorms National Park

A ride along the river, through forests and mountains

Royal Deeside Loop - Approximately 50 mi | 80 km and 3,663 ft | 1,116 m

Ride Option 2

SHORT OPTION:

Short Royal Deeside Loop - Approximately 41 mi | 66 km and 2,912 ft | 888 m

Ride Option 3

AVID OPTION:

Avid Royal Deeside Loop - Approximately 57 mi | 92 km and 4,340 ft | 1,323 m

Day 3 Discover the heart of Speyside’s Whisky Country

Discover the heart of Speyside’s Whisky Country

Are you ready to discover the distilled side of Scotland? Enjoy a relaxed Highland breakfast before rolling out of Ballater and into the hills for a classic Scottish ride through the heart of Speyside’s Whisky Country. Our route today crosses one of the highest roads in the UK, the Lecht Pass, with some steep ramps which will test your legs and challenge your heart. From the pass, it’s a fast descent into the village of Tomintoul. Explore the highest village in ... Are you ready to discover the distilled side of Scotland? Enjoy a relaxed Highland breakfast before rolling out of Ballater and into the hills for a classic Scottish ride through the heart of Speyside’s Whisky Country. Our route today crosses one of the highest roads in the UK, the Lecht Pass, with some steep ramps which will test your legs and challenge your heart. From the pass, it’s a fast descent into the village of Tomintoul. Explore the highest village in the Highlands over a lunch of your choice before cruising through Speyside, which is the undisputed home of Scotch Whisky. More climbing and rolling terrain follows lunch as you cross the Bridge of Brown, pass through the village of Nethy Bridge. From there, we will shuttle to our next hotel in Inverness. Read More

Ness Walk Hotel

An incredible days ride, over some of Scotland most famous cycling climbs, including The Lecht Pass.

Ballater to Aviemore - Approximately 38 mi | 61 km and 3,468 ft | 1,057 m

Ballater to Aviemore - Approximately 24 mi | 38.5 km and 2,600 ft | 793 m

Avid Ballater to Aviemore - Approximately 49 mi | 79 km and 3,880 ft | 1,183 m

Day 4 Explore the landscaped gardens of Cawdor Castle and the tranquil countryside of Dava Moor

Explore the landscaped gardens of Cawdor Castle and the tranquil countryside of Dava Moor

Today we take on the local's favorite ride as we enjoy a relaxing loop across the wild heath-covered landscapes of Dava Moor. We take a short morning shuttle to Cawdor Castle, built in the 14th century, to explore its landscape gardens before setting off on our ride. A steady climb will take you up onto the Dava Moor, with its extensive vistas set beneath huge skies. We’ll cross the historic Dulsie Bridge, which dates back to 1755 when it was built in by Major Wil... Today we take on the local's favorite ride as we enjoy a relaxing loop across the wild heath-covered landscapes of Dava Moor. We take a short morning shuttle to Cawdor Castle, built in the 14th century, to explore its landscape gardens before setting off on our ride. A steady climb will take you up onto the Dava Moor, with its extensive vistas set beneath huge skies. We’ll cross the historic Dulsie Bridge, which dates back to 1755 when it was built in by Major William Caufield (or, more likely, his troops!) and then ride out onto the moor. At lunchtime, we’ll stop in a pretty farm courtyard, which has been converted into a small country store, selling whisky, local crafts and second-hand books (many about Scotland). Of course, it has a lovely cafe too! After a lunch refuel, you'll continue west, completing our loop and finishing at the atmospheric Culloden Battlefield, the site of the last battle fought on British soil, when Bonnie Prince Charlie’s Jacobite rebellion came to a bloody end in 1746. We take a walk around the battlefield to stretch our legs and soak up the atmosphere, before a 10-minute shuttle takes us back to the hotel. Tonight is free for you to enjoy on your own, and your guides will help you secure reservations for dinner in town, or simply stay back to dine at the hotel. Read More

Breakfast | Dinner

Culloden Battlefield

Culloden Battlefield is the last hand-to-hand battle fought on British soil.

Cawdor to Culloden - Approximately 43 mi | 70 km and 2,988 ft | 911 m

Cawdor to Culloden, Dava and Logie Logie - Approximately 19 mi | 30 km and 1,203 ft | 367 m

Day 5 Cycle to Loch Ness and enjoy a private boat cruise across this mystical, storied lake

Cycle to Loch Ness and enjoy a private boat cruise across this mystical, storied lake

Today we delve into another famous Scottish legend with a trip to the mystical Loch Ness. You'll set off from the hotel this morning, riding out of Inverness and onto the open moorlands above the city. A beautiful descent brings us down to the shore of Loch Ness, where we enjoy a scenic ride along a shore-hugging road. Keep an eye out for the monster as we head towards the village of Foyers for lunch. After lunch, we ride across the wild moors which form the souther... Today we delve into another famous Scottish legend with a trip to the mystical Loch Ness. You'll set off from the hotel this morning, riding out of Inverness and onto the open moorlands above the city. A beautiful descent brings us down to the shore of Loch Ness, where we enjoy a scenic ride along a shore-hugging road. Keep an eye out for the monster as we head towards the village of Foyers for lunch. After lunch, we ride across the wild moors which form the southern banks of Loch Ness. The ride concludes with an epic descent, dropping 1,300 feet over five miles, taking you to our hotel in the picturesque village of Fort Augustus. After settling in, enjoy a boat cruise on Loch Ness—the perfect aperitif! Our final night ends with a dinner celebrating a memorable week of riding through the Highlands. Read More

Breakfast | Lunch | Social Hour | Dinner

Featured Meal | The Lovat

The Lovat crafts Highland ingredients into culinary masterpieces. Enjoy fresh seafood, meats, cheeses, seasonal berries, and authentic Scott... The Lovat crafts Highland ingredients into culinary masterpieces. Enjoy fresh seafood, meats, cheeses, seasonal berries, and authentic Scottish recipes, all beautifully presented with meticulous attention to detail and focus on zero waste. Read More

Inverness to Fort Augustus - Approximately 33 mi | 53 km and 2,410 ft | 735 m

SHORT RIDE:

Inverness to Foyers Point - Approximately 20 mi | 32 km and 1,277 ft | 389 m

Inverness to Foyers Point - Approximately 39 mi | 63 km and 3,029 ft | 923 m

TODAY'S ACTIVITY:

Private Zodiac Trip on Loch Ness

Day 6 Say farewell with a local classic, the Glendoe Climb

Say farewell with a local classic, the Glendoe Climb

It’s time to bid farewell to your Trek Travel guides and the atmospheric Scottish Highlands – perhaps with one final ride up a classic climb used on the Loch Ness Etape. Or, simply rise at your own pace and enjoy a leisurely breakfast before taking a one-hour transfer to the Highland capital of Inverness. You'll say farewell to your guides at 11:00 AM and board a private shuttle to Inverness Aiport. Please do not schedule a flight out of Inverness Airport before... It’s time to bid farewell to your Trek Travel guides and the atmospheric Scottish Highlands – perhaps with one final ride up a classic climb used on the Loch Ness Etape. Or, simply rise at your own pace and enjoy a leisurely breakfast before taking a one-hour transfer to the Highland capital of Inverness. You'll say farewell to your guides at 11:00 AM and board a private shuttle to Inverness Aiport. Please do not schedule a flight out of Inverness Airport before 2:30 PM or a train before 1:00 PM on the last day to allow plenty of time for any unforeseen delays. Read More

Fort Augustus to Great Glen Way - Approximately 11 mi | 18 km and 1,563 ft | 476 m

Print full itinerary

View full itinerary to print.

Activity Information

Activity Level: Level 3

Terrain: Hilly

The terrain in Scotland includes quiet roads with views of heather-clad mountains, testing climbs, and superb descents. Scotland is best suited for our Type 3 Riders. Our Trek Travel guides can also easily accommodate Type 2 Riders, who seek less mileage or fewer uphills, with a boost in the van. For those eager to experience every mile but mindful of their physical limits, our electric bike option offers a comfortable and enjoyable solution. Type 4+ Riders will enjoy the extra mileage the avid route options offer.

Daily Average

34 miles | 55 kilometers

206 miles | 332 kilometers

2,581 feet | 787 meters

15,405 feet | 4,720 meters

On most Trek Travel trips, we offer non-riding options for riders who want to take the afternoon off, or travel companions who want to spend little or no time in the saddle. Some of these options may need to be scheduled before your trip–please contact one of our Trip Consultants for more information. Expenses and/or related transportation to these activities may not be included in the trip price. Some non-riding options on this trip are:

• Tour of Royal Lochnagar whisky distillery with tasting
• Boat ride on Loch Ness
• Golf (not included)
• Explore Inverness

We've got you covered on and off the bike! Our team of guides will always have one in the support vehicle and one on the bike, ready to fill up your water bottles, fix a flat tire, or give you a lift up the hill. They'll also give you the inside scoop on the best local spots. And when you're not riding, your guides are happy to help with anything you need - from massage appointments to finding that special local treat you've been craving.

• Fully guided and supported with two guides and one van minimum
• Up to three daily route options on a pre-loaded Garmin GPS
• Additional guides and vehicles added dependent upon guest count and trip logistics

Nestled in the heart of Ballater, this beautifully renovated boutique hotel just recently recovered from a devastating fire, to the delight of locals and travelers alike. Family-run for over 60 years, they are well-known for their on-site restaurant with excellent food and charming views. The Franks family’s warm “Highland hospitality” will make you feel well-cared for from the moment you step inside.

Nestled along the tranquil River Ness, Ness Walk offers a luxurious 5-star retreat in the heart of Inverness. This family-owned hotel, set in a beautifully restored 19th-century house, blends historic elegance with modern amenities. The hotel features spacious, air-conditioned rooms with private bathrooms. The attentive staff at Ness Walk is renowned for providing exceptional hospitality, ensuring a memorable stay.

The Lovat is the only four-star, three-Rosette hotel in Loch Ness. This award-winning hotel is a short walk from the shores of the majestic and internationally famous loch. It has been fully upgraded in recent years with environmentally conscious additions to classic architecture stretching back to the 1860’s. You can expect comfortable rooms, stylish lounges and fantastic food from the 3AA Rosette restaurant. It’s a great place to stay for the final part of your Scotland journey.

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!

Trek Travel Guides

The World’s Best

From the moment you meet our guides, you'll understand the difference. You'll feel the genuine care they take to make your vacation perfect. From their expert support to sharing their favorite hidden spots, they tailor every moment to you.

Additional Gear

• Trek Travel Santini cycling jersey to keep
• Trek Travel water bottles to keep
• Cinch sack day bag to keep
• Garmin Edge 1030 GPS computer with pre-loaded routes
• Bontrager saddle*
• Bontrager helmet*
• Choice of Shimano SPD-SL road style pedals, Shimano SPD mountain style pedals, caged, or flat pedals*
• *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 our guides will install your gear on the first day during your bike fit.
• Bontrager front and rear Flare R lights
• A flat pack containing a tube, levers, and a CO2 cartridge with inflator

Trip Inclusions

• Five nights of accommodation at handpicked hotels
• Daily breakfast, three lunches, and four dinners
• Two social hours of drinks and hors d'oeuvres
• Trek Travel cycling jersey, water bottles, cinch sack day bag, and luggage tag
• Two experienced guides to provide local knowledge, support, and camaraderie
• Daily route support with both guides and our support van
• Ride With GPS Experience for your phone with daily itinerary and route navigation information

• Up to three daily route options on riding days
• Snacks and drinks for each day's ride
• Post-ride refreshments
• Electrolyte drink supplements
• A digital photo album of your trip
• All gratuities for drivers, local experts and hospitality staff
• All luggage transfers and transportation during your trip
• Entrance fees for all activities, private tours and events

• Airfare and transportation to and from the trip pick-up/drop-off locations
• Lodging before and after the trip
• Personal items purchased during the trip
• Optional activities not scheduled by Trek Travel
• On select trips some meals are not included. On these trips, Trek Travel invites you to explore the local cuisine at your leisure.
• Trip cancellation and travel protection are not included. We recommend adding travel protection to your trip. Go to our FAQs section for more information.

Guide Gratuities

Guide gratuities are customary and at your own discretion, to recognize service, hospitality, and the little extras that surprise and delight. For this trip, we suggest a tip for your guides between $240-$300 per guest and, of course, you may choose to give more if your guides made your trip an unforgettable experience. While local currency is preferred, there are other options to make tipping easier. Most guides accept gratuity via PayPal or our staff can help before or after the trip. Gratuities will be divided among the guide team, so feel free to leave your gratuity with whomever you choose at the end of your trip.

Additional Details

Know Before You Go!

We want you to be fully prepared for your cycling vacation of a lifetime. This involves making sure that you choose the appropriate trip for you and that every aspect of your experience is flawless. Each Trek Travel trip is unique to ensure maximum enjoyment every time.

Your Trip Need to Knows:

• Road conditions: Roads are in good condition, with little traffic. Be prepared to ride on wet surfaces due to potential rain. 
• Packing: Layers! Layering is the best way to regulate your body temperature. This tried-and-true strategy is all about slipping layers on and off as your activity level or the weather changes. Rain gear is a must.
• 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 an 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 your trip consultant for details.) We recommend the following accommodations for your pre-trip hotel:

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 castles and fortresses in the area to 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 golf courses nearby: Royal Dornoch , Castle Stuart , and Nairn Dunbar . We recommend the following accommodations for your pre-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). Always remember that rain is possible at any time of the year–daily Scottish weather is very unpredictable! It’s a good idea to bring a light rain jacket, 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 email 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. You will also receive instructions to download the Ride with GPS app before your trip to provide you the day to day plan and daily route guides.

Guaranteed to run

With one person booked on a date, the trip becomes guaranteed.*

In the case where trips are at one or two guests, we will contact you prior to final payment to give you the following options:

Pay a small trip fee of $500 per person for two guests or $1000 for one guest, which ensures your preferred trip date will run. If there are three or more guests before departure date, the fee will be refunded in full.

Switch to a different trip or different departure date. Should there be any difference in trip price between your original trip and the new one, you will be expected to pay the difference, or we will refund you accordingly.

Offer only valid if Trek Travel contacts a guest to discuss these specific options. Bike trips with fewer than three guests may operate with only one guide. The guide will support all rides with a Trek Travel van. If you would like to discuss the option of having two guides, please speak with your trip consultant.

The small trip supplement for Ride Camps is as follows – for two guests an additional $250 or for one guest an additional $500.

*Cross Country, Discover, Race, and Special Edition trips as well as a small number of select departures have a minimum guest count to guarantee. Please check with your Trip Consultant for more information.

Unforeseen events may make it necessary to cancel or modify a trip. Our Guest Services team will update you with any changes. We reserve the right to cancel departures in cases of force majeure or the failure of third parties—such as hotels—to honor their reservations, in which case all payments received to date will be refunded, which constitutes full settlement. Trek Travel is not responsible for expenses incurred in preparation for any canceled trips, such as airline tickets, or for costs that are incurred due to travel delays, flight cancellations, or illness. We strongly encourage Travel Protection for complete coverage.

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

Sharing the joy that comes with wow moments

Trek Travel guides are dedicated to making moments that last a lifetime, and we invite you to thank them with a trip gratuity. These are customary and at your own discretion, to recognize service, hospitality, and the little extras that surprise and delight. For this Signature trip, we recommend between $240-$300 per guest and, of course, you may choose to give more if your guides made your trip an unforgettable experience.

Like everything else about your vacation, the Trek Travel team is here to make this experience easier for you. While local currency is preferred, you may also tip through the following options:

Via PayPal (please have this account set up in advance when possible) or with your guest services representative on the phone before or after the trip.

Gratuities will be divided among the guide team, so feel free to leave your gratuity with whomever you choose at the end of your trip.

You cannot put a price on a wow . But you can show your thanks for an exceptional experience.

General 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 FAQs

Similar Trips

Ireland Bike Tour

 Compare

England Coast to Coast Bike Tour

Portugal Bike Tour

Asheville to Brevard Bike Tour

Norway Fjordlands Bike Tour

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.

Self-Guided

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.

Don’t see exactly what you are looking for 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 Explorer and Luxury hotels. Rest assured, no matter which hotel level 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

This website uses cookies to ensure you get the best experience on our website.

North Coast 500 Cycle

About the North Coast 500 Cycle

Fast becoming the most popular cycling destination in the uk.

The North Coast 500 cycle route is the ultimate coastal scenic tour of Northern Scotland, starting and ending at Inverness Castle. With 500 miles of meandering open roads, white sand beaches and hill top views, the NC500 route follows the winding contours of the coast line. Taking in the likes of Easter Ross, Caithness and Wester Ross, you’ll get to see the beauty the Scottish Highlands have to offer from the comfort of your saddle!

NC500 Cycle Details at a Glance

July 27th - august 3rd 2024, beginning and ending in inverness, scotland., 36,000 feet of elevation change, meet ms groups en route, ready. set. ride for ms., are you ready for the best adventure of your life here’s a couple of pointers of what to expect., fundraising.

With an achievable £1.75 per mile, £965 fundraising target and no sign up fee, there’s no more cost effective way to travel the country.

Accommodation

A mix of camping, staying at churches, town halls and community centres. Options to book alternatives if preferred.

We provide you the platform to help you reach your goal of riding around Scotland. This is a supported bike tour where roughing it is embraced.

Preparation

We’ll plan the trip so you can focus on training, preparing your gear and planning your journey to and from the event.

Gearing up to pedal through Inverness - shire Ross and Cromarty Sutherland Caithness in:

We are pedalling the North Coast 500! Follow along on Instagram .

North Coast 500 Cycle Route

Where will the nc500 take you.

2024 North Coast 500 Overnights

Keen to discover where you’ll be stopping off on the NC500 cycle route and what your daily mileage will be? Here’s the full route for you to digest. Naturally, these are subject to change, but it’s a good starting point!

Destination

• John O'Groats
• near Gairloch

Scotland Bike Tours

Occupying the northern third of the United Kingdom and comprised of nearly 800 individual islands, Scotland is distinguished by its wild beauty. Between the Atlantic and North Seas and within the Scottish Highlands and Lowlands lie the country’s rural farmlands, links courses, sleepy coastal villages, mythical lochs, and medieval castles.

The only thing more vibrant than the green and gold of a Scottish landscape is the culture and history contained therein. The perception that Scotland is all whisky tastings, tartan, kilts, and bagpipes may be a “wee bit” banal, but a cycling tour reveals that gracious Scotsmen embrace—and share—all facets of their culture with pride.

Hand-dived scallops, hot-smoked Scottish salmon, aged local cheese, and buttery shortbread

Craft beers, Scotch whisky, and Irn-Bru, a beloved Scottish soft drink

Let’s talk bike travel: tell us how we can help! Contact Us

Scotland Bike Tour

2025 tour dates.

• Jun 1 – 6
• Jul 15 – 20
• Aug 17 – 22
• Aug 31 – Sep 5
• Sep 14 – 19

Any scheduled tour can be made private. Your group, your dates. Go Private

Our Newsletter:

• Search Search

Destinations

• Czech Republic
• Switzerland
• View all of Europe
• Ecuador + Galápagos
• View all of Latin America
• Hudson Valley, NY
• Shenandoah Valley, VA
• View all of United States
• South Africa
• View all of Africa

Tour Collections

• Cycle + Sail
• Private + Custom
• Private Tours
• Villa Bike Tours
• Travel Services
• Travel Protection
• Packing Lists
• Cycling Apparel
• Terms + Conditions
• DuVine Difference
• Tour Guides
• What’s Included
• Bikes + Gear
• Sustainability
• Peloton Loyalty Club
• Brochure Request

Want some DuVine inspiration?

Sign up for our newsletter:.

• Walking in Austria
• Walking in the Channel Islands
• Walking in Croatia
• Walking in England
• Walking in Finland
• Walking in France
• Walking in Germany
• Walking in Greece
• Walking in Italy
• Walking in Portugal
• Walking in Romania
• Walking in Scotland
• Walking in Slovenia
• Walking in Spain
• Walking in Switzerland
• Walking in Wales
• Cycling Holidays in Austria
• Cycling Holidays In Belgium
• Cycling Holidays in the Channel Islands
• Cycling Holidays in Croatia
• Cycling Holidays in Czech Republic
• Cycling Holidays in Denmark
• Cycling Holidays in England
• Cycling Holidays in Finland
• Cycling Holidays in France
• Cycling Holiday in Germany
• Cycling Holidays in Greece
• Cycling Holidays in Holland
• Ireland Cycling Holidays
• Cycling Holidays in Italy
• Cycling Holidays in Poland
• Cycling Holidays in Portugal
• Cycling Holidays in Romania
• Cycling Holidays in Scotland
• Slovenia Cycling Holidays
• Cycling Holidays in Spain
• Cycling Holidays in Sweden
• Cycling Holidays in Switzerland
• Cycling Holidays in Wales
• Walk the St Francis Way
• Walk the Via Francigena
• Jacobs Trail
• Camino de Santiago
• Bike & Boat Holidays
• E-Bike Holidays
• Family Cycling Holidays (under 12)
• Active Teen Family Cycling Holidays
• Road Bike Cycling Holidays
• Sporting/Experienced Road Cyclists
• Gran Fondo and Cycle Sportives
• Easy Walking Holidays
• Easy to Moderate Walking Holidays
• Moderate Walking Holidays
• Challenging Walking Holidays
• Easy Cycling Holidays
• Easy to Moderate Cycling Holidays
• Moderate Cycling Holidays
• Challenging Cycling Holidays
• Trip Search
• Meet The Team
• Activity Gradings
• Guided v Self Guided
• E-Bike FAQs
• Brochure Request
• Essential Travel Information
• Book With Us
• Booking Conditions
• Payment Methods
• Travel Insurance

Scotland Cycling Holidays

Complete with country lanes, scenic landscapes, and nature as far as the eye can see, cycling in Scotland is always a treat for biking enthusiasts. Cycling holidays in Scotland are the perfect adventure for outdoorsy folk and holidaymakers alike. From mountain biking in Scotland’s stunning highlands to historic bike tours across the country’s many remote islands, our cycling holidays in Scotland are sure to please.

With a huge range of self-guided cycling tours in Scotland to choose from, you are free to explore the Scottish countryside your way!

Read More Cycling Holidays in Scotland

Take a self-guided cycling holiday in Scotland with Hooked on Cycling. We have bike vacations in several regions, each destination offers a little different scenery and cultural experience. Our cycle tours cover the regions of Loch Lomond and Trossachs National Park, Western Isles, Highland Perthshire, Angus, Fife and the historic Scottish Borders. We believe the experience you shall have while in Scotland cycling will be very unique.  Not only is the scenery stunning but the historic nature of the trips will leave you spellbound.

Our road cycling tours in Scotland are ideal for experienced riders with an appreciation for beautiful scenery, while our e-bike tours offer a less intense but equally enjoyable ride for those who would prefer to relax when biking in Scotland.

There are not many countries where you can visit ancient castles or glorious mansion houses all with a history going back centuries. This is why guests visit Scotland from all over the world, it is not just all about how hot it shall be but it is about finding out about our past, the legends, the conflicts and the storytelling. You shall find proud locals offering friendly hospitality but wanting to tell you about our country! You might also wish to visit Scotland to trace your ancestors. Many Scot’s travelled across the world for another life and returning to take a cycling holiday while tracing your Scottish routes would be a great pastime.

Biking in Scotland

Cycling Outlanders Film Locations

Duration: 7 Nights Difficulty: Level 2 Tour Type: Self Guided Availability: Daily from 1st April to 30th September Starting Location: Callander

Lochs and Glens in Style

Duration: 6 or 7 nights Difficulty: Level 2 Tour Type: Self Guided Availability: Daily April to October Starting Location: Callander

Guided Bike and Boat Tour of Scotland

Duration: 7 Nights Difficulty: Level 2 Tour Type: Guided Availability: 9/6, 16/6, 23/6, 18/8, 25/8, 1/9 Starting Location: Oban

Historic Scottish Borders and Abbeys

Duration: 6 Nights Difficulty: Level 2 Tour Type: Self Guided Availability: Daily April – September Starting Location: Berwick upon Tweed

Historic Scottish Borders by Road Bike

Duration: 7 Nights Difficulty: Level 3 Tour Type: Self Guided Availability: Daily April – September Starting Location: Berwick upon Tweed

Lochs Galore by Road Bike

Duration: 7 Nights Difficulty: Level 3 Tour Type: Self Guided Availability: Daily April – October Starting Location: Callander

Lochs Galore by Bike

Duration: 5 or 7 Nights (12 night option when combined with Castle Crusade) Difficulty: Level 2 Tour Type: Self Guided Availability: Daily April – October Starting Location: Callander

Scotland’s Castle Crusade

Duration: 6 or 7 Nights (12 night option when combined with Lochs Galore) Difficulty: Level 2 Tour Type: Self Guided Availability: Daily April – October Starting Location: Pitlochry (Callander for 12 night option)

Scotland’s Family Lakes and Castles Cycle

Duration: 6 Nights Difficulty: Level 1-2 Tour Type: Self Guided Availability: Daily from April to October Starting Location: Callander

Scottish Island Hopping by Bike

Duration: 6 or 7 Nights Difficulty: Level 2 Tour Type: Self Guided Availability: Departure on a Sunday (7 nights) or daily (6 nights – not on Sundays) April – October Starting Location: Ardrossan then transfer by ferry to Arran

More Information

Why book with us.

• 100% Financial Protection
• Established in 1997
• Family Owned Business
• ABTA Member – Y6420
• Great Value For Money

Latest News

THIS SITE USES GOOGLE ANALYTICS TO ANALYSE TRAFFIC. CONTINUING TO USE THIS SITE MEANS YOU ACCEPT THE USE OF COOKIES. LEARN MORE  OR SEE OUR PRIVACY POLICY

SEVEN DAY CYCLIST CYCLING, BUT NOT  USUALLY RACING

LATEST UPDATE: SEPTEMBER 12th

HOW DO WE DECIDE OUR OVERALL RATINGS FOR PRODUCTS WE REVIEW?

CYCLE TOURING IN NORTHERN SCOTLAND

Cicerone 2019

Laminated Softback

Isbn 978 1 78631 002 6

£14.95

Reviewed by Steve Dyster

For many British cycle-tourers, the Scottish Highlands are a gold standard. The far north of Scotland is amongst the wildest areas of all, and has been high in my top touring spots for many years. It can be challenging territory, but do not fear. Mike Wells told www.sevendaycyclist.com  that he loved writing cycling guides to the Rhine and the Rhone and other major rivers because you generally started at the top and headed downhill. Well, this new guide is certainly a departure, with some very challenging terrain, both remote and with plenty of big ups and downs.

It is important to be clear that this is not a guide to the North Coast 500. That is promoted mainly as a motoring route, though cyclists do follow it. The NC500 has been phenomenally successful in boosting tourism in the far-flung section of the UK. More money has flowed into communities 

along the route, some new infrastructure has been built, and more people are coming to appreciate the wonderful landscape. On the other hand, roads are busier – though this is relative to the very quiet roads of the past – and there have been clashes between various users. Moreover, there’s greater pressure on infrastructure. This guide aims to deal with some of the things cyclists have found off-putting, as well as providing Mike’s take on the best of Northern Scotland.

In that sense, and as an introduction to touring in the far north, a new guide is very welcome. Some of the NC500 route is used – a glance a t a map will quickly show that there is little choice of roads – but Mike does his best to take in some fine roads that are not on the NC500 route. For example, he heads north from Lochinver to Clachtoll, and along what was once known as “Breakdown Road” rather than follow the main road to Skiag Bridge and Newton. However, he also describes the latter, as the former has a fearsome reputation as a one road argument for getting an e.bike. The same routine is followed for other sections of the route where major climbs occur. Do not be put off! Give yourself lots of time and push, if necessary. It is not a crime, though it is not always much easier than attempting to pedal.

However, as Mike points out there is much more to cycling in the Highlands than hills. There are plenty of beautiful glens to be found, and the route makes very good use of these to avoid sections of the busy A9 down the east coast. In general, the east coast is gentler than the west and, though less spectacular, is full of charming places.

Mike’s circular route is based on Inverness and runs for 528 miles. It is possible to use the train to Muir of Ord or Garve, when heading west, or indeed, to head all the way home from the north coast by train from Thurso/Wick or some of the more remote stations.

Old hands may wonder whether buying a guide is necessary, as there are few roads to follow – hill-tracks are a different matter (See  Mountain Biking in West and North-West Scotland , or books such as Scottish Hill Tracks). Mind you, many of the long cul de sacs are well-worth exploring. It is a shame, although understandable, that there’s little about these in this guide. Cycle Touring along Highland Dead-Ends, would, in my opinion, make a fine book!

Having said that, this is remote country that deserves respect, and, for those who are new to the area, Mike gives lots of useful information and guidance, as well as providing a very satisfying and attractive route.

If you are unfamiliar with the Cicerone style, you get all you need in one pocket-sized volume. Guidance on prep, equipment, bike and so on; some background on history, flora, fauna, and so on; maps and written directions; listings of accommodation, refreshments, services, shops etc. There are also gradient charts, though it is worth remembering that scale always makes them look far more beastly than they actually are – honest, though you may not believe me on the Bealcah na Ba or “Breakdown Road.” You will be surprised how gentle much Highland cycling is: well-graded rather than fierce.

Well done Mike Wells for helping to make what can, at first sight, appear to be intimidating cycling country, more accessible to those who have never been. Mike recommends going between April and October. He’s right, though avoiding July and August is not a bad idea – accommodation is busier (as he points out) and the weather tends to be hazier. The midges are out, too, though, in my opinion, the Norther Highland midge is a kitten when set beside its West Highland counterpart. In summer the days are long, although the shorter days of autumn can provide fabulous colours.

Reading this guide for review made me realise how much I miss not cycling in the Highlands, especially in the far north. For those less familiar with the area it gives all you need for a great trip. If you are a first-timer, then it will repay every penny many times over.

www.cicerone.co.uk

REVIEW PUBLISHED NOVEMBER 2019

Read the review, get the discount code. Click here!

FANCY A REMORP FOR YOUR ORP? $5  DISCOUNT CODE HERE FOR 7DC READERS

LEE COOPER CYCLE FRAMES

BUILDER OF STEEL CYCLE FRAMES

Ryton On Dunsmore

Coventry  CV8 3FH

[email protected]

http://leecoopercycles.webs.com/

30% DISCOUNT CODE ON ALL TITLES FROM PM

USE bikepunk

  PM USA HERE

  FOR PM UK CLICK HERE

  www.sevendaycyclist.com    Feel free to get in touch, we'll respond as soon as we can.

All  material on this site is copyright to www.sevendaycyclist.com and may not be reproduced under any circumstances in any form without the direct written permission of the owners - Michael Stenning and Steve Dyster.  

Success! Message received.

We've noticed that you're using an out of date browser. We recommend that you update to the latest version to enhance your browsing experience.

We've refreshed our website design so things may look a little different if you've been here before. We'll be making more improvements soon so watch this space.

Go sailing and cycling Scotland's Inner Hebrides

Scotland by Bike & Boat

Explore Scotland's Inner Hebrides by bike and boat on an unforgettable, 8-day, self-guided cycling tour that includes cosy sailboat accommodation with most meals, 24/7 support, bike hire and an expert local guide.

Scotland's Inner Hebrides are known for their spectacular landscapes still largely untouched by mass tourism.

Travelling by bike and boat, explore the island of Mull and the Morvern Peninsula, before making your way to the Isle of Jura, which is known for its rich stock of red deer and its world-famous whiskey distillery.

Marvel at the wild scenery of Scotland, its intense colours and great biodiversity. Look out for dolphins and seal from the boat, and eagles and otters from your bike.

Nights aboard your floating hotel, a two-masted sailing boat with a comfortable dining and lounge area and cabins with ensuite, are a time for relaxation amongst a group of like-minded cyclists.

From £1690 per adult

Departure days.

• W Wednesday

June — September

Contact details

• +44 (020) 88755069
• View tour details
• [email protected]

Tour information

• Outdoor Activities

Tour prices

From £1690 Per Adult

Prices are subject to change depending on season

JavaScript needs to be enabled to see this. You can turn this on in your browser settings.

Tour gallery

Tour company information

A UTracks active holiday is all about exploring Scotland and Europe your way. It’s about walking or cycling the incredible trails of Europe and becoming completely immersed in your travel experience. Since we began in 2006, UTracks has been the leader in active European holidays. Our itineraries have always been creative, rewarding, and very affordable. With over 450 active trips across the continent, UTracks offers unique opportunities to discover an untrodden Europe that spans postcard-perfect landscapes, centuries-old cultures, rural lifestyles and tempting gastronomic delights.

Social Channels

Visit UTracks

Opening times

Other tours from this company.

West Highland Way

Departs: Drymen

Explore the West Highland Way, one of Scotland's iconic hiking trails, on an aff...

Price from:

West Highland Way - 10 Day Rambler

Departs: Milngavie

Explore the West Highland Way on a relaxed pace walking itinerary. Enjoy this af...

Rob Roy Way

Explore the Rob Roy Way on a walking holiday. Enjoy this affordable self-guided...

John Muir Way

Departs: Helensburgh

Explore the John Muir Way on a walking holiday. Enjoy this affordable self-guide...

The content of many of our web listings is provided by third party operators and not VisitScotland. VisitScotland accepts no responsibility for (1) any error or misrepresentation contained in third party listings, and (2) the contents of any external links within web listings ((1) and (2) together hereinafter referred to as the "Content"). VisitScotland excludes all liability for loss or damage caused by any reliance placed on the Content. The Content is provided for your information only and is not endorsed by VisitScotland.

Do you have any questions? Feel free to contact us! We try to reply within one working day.

Inner Hebrides · Scotland

• Islandhopping
• Cycling Tours
• Sail & Bike Scotland | Guided bike tour Inner Hebrides & Highlands

Raw nature, incredible colour contrasts and great biodiversity

Oban is the start and end point of this tour through the Inner Hebrides and Highlands. Onboard the magnificent Flying Dutchman, we visit the Isle of Mull and the Kintyre Peninsula, still largely untouched by mass tourism and home to the most spectacular landscapes in Scotland. The isle of Jura, known for its large number of red deer and world-famous whisky distillery, is new to our program. Enjoy the wild scenery of Scotland, its colour contrasts, and great biodiversity. Once evening falls, treat yourself to a glass of whisky in one of the pubs while listening to foot-tapping Scottish music. During our crossings on the Flying Dutchman, be sure to keep an eye out for dolphins and seals while enjoying views of the magnificent landscape as we pass by. On our cycle tours, we may see eagles, red deer, and otters alongside the incredible views of the sea we get to enjoy from the most beautiful lookout points.

Accommodation

Rental bikes.

• Dates & Prices
• Things to note

Flying Dutchman (Tall Ships)

The Flying Dutchman was originally built as a herring fisher and was later reconstructed into the impressive passenger ship which it is today. Furnishings on board are simple yet functional. The saloon is comfortable and is the heart and soul of the Flying Dutchman.

Outside the decks offer plenty of open space, necessary for setting the sails. In good weather, the crew like to serve mealtimes at the three tables on the main deck. Adventure hungry enthusiast can climb into the bowsprit net and feel the true speed of the ship and the force of the wind. The impressive 480 m² sail surface make…

• Our E-Bikes

All our e-bikes are high quality pedelecs, most of which are fitted with Bosch motors with extra battery range. They are characterized by their relatively light weight and great components. Some of our fleet are equipped with other motor systems. With an Islandhopping e-bike, you will be able to climb almost any hill with ease. They are a true set of wings for anyone who needs a little ‘tail wind’ to make their ride that little bit more enjoyable.  …

Northern Scotland Tours & Trips

• Choose from 50+ Northern Scotland tours
• 1,100+ verified reviews from TourRadar travelers
• 24/7 customer support

10 best Northern Scotland tour packages

Compiled by

Melissa Northern Scotland travel expert at TourRadar

Ultimate Skye Experience

Isle of skye and the highlands, hebridean escape 3 day tour, 4-day isle of skye & west highlands small-group tour from edinburgh, 5-day highland explorer: skye & far north small-group tour from edinburgh, scottish highlands from edinburgh - 5 days, outer hebrides & skye explorer - 6 days, isle of skye & outer hebrides, wild skye & loch ness hunter, isle of skye & hebridean hopper.

“Tour was fantastic! We had a great time even with the inclement weather.” Louise OToole, traveled in January 2020

• In-depth Cultural
• Coach / Bus
• Christmas & New Year
• Culloden: Visit the historic battlefield and learn more about the Jacobite Rebellion
• Eilean Donan: Scotland’s most beautiful castle, beneath the mountains of Kintail.
• Loch Ness: Monster spotting on a boat cruise

“Scenery was amazing, so beautiful! Highly recommend this trip.” Beverly Hilton, traveled in May 2024

• Spot Nessie as you explore the shores of Loch Ness
• View the picturesque Eilean Donan in the Highlands
• Enjoy the greatest railway journey in the world (Mid April – Mid Oct)

“Very comprehensive tour and fascinating history with stories to match!” Janet Howes, traveled in June 2019

• Arnol Blackhouse: Learn about traditional Hebridean Crafts
• Callanish Standing Stones & Carloway Broch: Explore the islands fascinating pre-historic sites
• Butt of Lewis Lighthouse: The windiest place in the UK

“It was a lovely balance of scenery and history, with some pop culture thrown in as well.” Susan Smith, traveled in August 2024

• View the majestic Glencoe and visit the great Talisker Bay
• Marvel in the stunning scenery of the Scottish countryside
• See Ben Nevis and stop in Dunkeld - a historic village

“We saw so many beautiful places and heard as many lovely stories about Scotland's past, present and some fairytales as well.” Mafalda Wittig, traveled in July 2024

• Explore the natural wonders of the Skye
• Glimpse Britain's highest mountain
• Behold the iconic Eilean Donan Castle

“Had a brilliant trip.” Lisa Dawn Wyman, traveled in May 2024

• Search for Nessie at Loch Ness
• Drive Scotland's scenic Bealach na Bà
• Hike trails on the Isle of Skye

“A lovely trip which is well organized. Enjoyed the companionship of the friendly tour mates 😊” MUI KWAN CHEN, traveled in July 2024

• Sightseeing
• Ullapool - Stay in this pretty whitewashed fishing village, on the shore of Loch Broom
• Glencoe - Soak up the stunning mountain views and learn about the tragic and famous massacre that took place here in 1692
• Scottish Highlands - Uncover some of the UK's best scenery as you traverse coastal roads, pass mountains and native pine forests

“Lots of very interesting and entertaining information, outstanding driving and extraordinary scenery and experiences.” Gaye Hamilton, traveled in June 2024

“Great trip, learnt so much about scottland and saw amazing sights. Would recommend especially if wanting to travel solo.” Sarah D, traveled in May 2024

• Educational
• Hostel Multi-Share Mixed-Gender Dorm accommodation is included in the price of your tour
• German, Mandarin, French, Italian, Spanish, Portuguese
• We’re the only Tour Operator offering multi-language audio guides on our tours

“The 6 day Isle of Skye Outer Hebrides tour was fascinating, fabulous and a lot f fun.” Joan S, traveled in June 2024

More about Northern Scotland

Discover TourRadar

• Tour Overview
• Tour Highlights

Tour Dates & Pricing

Day itinerary, departure cities, scotland & northern ireland.

Discover the gorgeous scenery, interesting folklore, and friendly people of Scotland & Northern Ireland. We begin our adventure with a tour of Glasgow, Scotland’s most vibrant city, before traveling to Edinburgh with time in medieval Old Town, the Royal Yacht Britannia, and Edinburgh Castle. Enjoy a visit to Inverary Castle and a picturesque Loch Lomond cruise, then take an impressive Superferry ride to Northern Ireland, where we begin exploring Belfast’s top sights, including the award-winning Titanic Belfast Museum. Soak up breathtaking coastal views during our journey to the geological wonder of Giant’s Causeway and uncover rich history in the walled city of Derry. We also stroll through the castle gardens in Glenveagh National Park, learn how whiskey is made, and observe the skilled craftsmanship at Belleek Pottery. Our tour concludes with an immersive Irish experience at Taylors Three Rock dinner and show, featuring traditional cuisine, music, and dancing.

Hosted By: Chris Lincoln

Long-Time Tulsa Sports Personality

View Biography

The Holiday Advantage

You can earn a $100 Travel Show Credit good for your next trip with Holiday Vacations by simply clicking the photo to watch the online travel show! The show is about 10 minutes long and at the end, you'll have the ability to submit your contact information and receive a travel credit which can be applied to this or any Holiday Vacations tour. Get started now!

Additional Tour Information

Your holiday vacations experience includes:, all accommodations featuring.

• 3 nights at Maldron Hotel Glasgow
• 2 nights at Europa Hotel in Belfast
• 1 night in Letterkenny
• 1 night at Mill Park Hotel in Donegal
• 2 nights at Dunboyne Castle Hotel near Dublin

Attractions & Highlights

• Glasgow guided city tour
• Edinburgh Castle & guided city tour
• The Royal Yacht Britannia
• Inveraray Castle
• Loch Lomond Cruise & the Highlands
• Cairnryan Port Superferry to Belfast
• Belfast guided city tour
• Titanic Belfast
• Giant’s Causeway
• Derry Walls walking tour
• Glenveagh National Park
• Crolly Distillery tour & tasting
• Belleek Pottery tour
• Dublin guided city tour

14 Excellent Meals Featuring

• Welcome Dinner in Glasgow
• Lunch at The George Hotel’s pub in Inveraray
• Taylors Three Rock dinner & show
• Farewell Dinner in Dublin

May 6th, 2025 - May 16th, 2025

Price Per Person

Final Payment Date: 01/31/2025

Day 1 : Fly to Scotland

We begin with an overnight flight across the pond.

Day 2 : Glasgow

Upon arriving in Scotland, our adventure kicks off with a guided city tour of vibrant Glasgow. Later, we settle into our accommodations for the next three evenings and get to know fellow travelers over a delicious Welcome Dinner.

Day 3 : Edinburgh & The Royal Yacht Britannia

This morning, we travel to Edinburgh for a guided tour featuring the history of Georgian New Town, medieval Old Town, and The Royal Yacht Britannia. Step aboard the royal family’s floating vacation home of more than 40 years that has remarkably sailed over one million miles around the world! We also visit iconic Edinburgh Castle, which towers high above the city on Castle Rock and was previously one of the country’s most important military strongholds.

Day 4 : Inveraray Castle & Loch Lomond

Today, the scenic splendor of Inveraray awaits us. Our sightseeing begins with Inveraray Castle, seat of the Clan Campbell since the 18th century. This sprawling fortress is surrounded by gorgeous gardens and overlooks beautiful Loch Fyne. After lunch at The George Hotel, we cruise the country’s most picturesque waterway, Loch Lomond, as panoramic views of the Southern Highlands unfold before our eyes.

Day 5 : Ferry to Belfast

We bid goodbye to Scotland this morning and board the impressive Cairnryan Port Superferry for a pleasant trip to Northern Ireland. Enjoy scenic views, grab a bite to eat, see a movie, and more as we cross the Irish Sea. Then, watch Northern Ireland’s largest city come alive on our guided tour! Belfast is a city rich with history, culture, and lively Irish craic. We see the Titanic Quarter, City Hall, St. Anne’s Cathedral, Queens University, and the Prince Albert Memorial Clock. After checking in to our hotel, the evening is at your leisure.

Day 6 : Titanic Belfast

Today, we explore Titanic Belfast, a museum with striking architecture that commemorates the birthplace of the world’s most famous ship. Built to resemble the doomed vessel, it extends over nine interactive galleries and is frequently rated as one of the top museums in the world. This afternoon, you have some free time to explore all that Belfast has to offer before we gather for dinner at one of the city’s oldest and largest pubs, Robinsons Bar and Bistro.

Day 7 : Giant’s Causeway

We receive our first glimpse of Northern Ireland’s majestic coast this morning on our way to UNESCO World Heritage-listed Giant’s Causeway. Walk along this unique geological wonder, formed from thousands of interlocking basalt columns, and soak up surreal vistas of the incredible landscapes around us. Later, we travel to the walled city of Derry. Learn about the area’s rich history during a walking tour of the city walls, including views of its iconic Guildhall. We overnight in Letterkenny, also known as “the Cathedral Town,” most recognized by its towering cathedral spire that dominates the skyline.

Day 8 : Glenveagh National Park & Donegal

Our morning begins with a visit to Glenveagh National Park, perfectly located among the rugged Derryveagh Mountains. Enjoy exploring some of Ireland’s most beautiful vistas as you stroll through the castle gardens along Lough Veagh, a serene lake, and watch various birds soar up above. Next, we stop at Crolly Distillery in the Gaeltacht region of Ireland, where Gaelic is spoken, to learn how whiskey is made and taste “the water of life!” Afterwards, a scenic drive takes us back to our accommodations in Donegal for a wonderful dinner.

Day 9 : Belleek Pottery

Today, we observe skilled craftsmanship at work during our guided tour of Belleek Pottery. Watch as they demonstrate how to delicately sculpt and hand paint the world-renowned pottery, then take time to explore the visitor center. This evening, we check in to our hotel in the Dublin area before experiencing Irish Night at Taylors Three Rock, complete with delicious food, Irish drinks, traditional music, and award-winning dancing.

Day 10 : Dublin

Our last day is spent discovering the Emerald Isle’s vibrant capital, an idyllic blend of modern architecture and historic attractions. A local guide joins us for a tour that includes views of Dublin Castle, the Spire of Dublin, and Ha’penny Bridge, plus a visit to the National Museum of Ireland. This afternoon, enjoy time to soak up the city’s lively atmosphere on your own. We celebrate our travels and new friendships this evening with a wonderful Farewell Meal.

Day 11 : Fly Home

We return home today with fond memories of our Scottish and Irish adventures.

KTUL TV Pickup Locations:

Tulsa, OK - Tulsa International Airport

Chris Lincoln

In 1974, Chris began his career in Tulsa as Sports Director at KTUL Channel 8. In 1976, he was tabbed by ABC sports as one of the network’s regional college football play-by-play announcers. He would later go on to do college football and basketball play-by-play for ESPN. From 1982-1998 he hosted thoroughbred and quarter horse races and the weekly Racehorse Digest show on ESPN. In 1999, Chris was hired as the global presenter for the World Racing Championship Series. He was the main presenter of the world’s top international thoroughbred races.

Chris has announced local high school football play-by-play for KRMG radio. He is also an active board member of the Tulsa Boys Home, Tulsa Sports Commission and Tulsa Sports Charities.

Chris and his wife Becky previously hosted several Holiday Vacation tours.

Join them and KTUL viewers on this fabulous trip of a lifetime.

Interested in more travel opportunities? Click here or visit www.holidayvacations.com and enter keyword TULSA.

Activity Levels

Tour days tend to be shorter in length, at a relaxed pace, and include lots of unscheduled time for leisure. Expect standing and walking for extended periods of time on flat surfaces, mostly low altitudes, and consistent temperatures.

Tour days usually move at a leisurely pace. Some days’ scheduled activities last longer than others. Expect standing and walking for long periods of time on occasionally uneven terrain. You may experience changes in altitude or temperature.

Tour days tend to be long, move at a consistent pace, and may include long travel days. Expect standing and walking for long periods of time on uneven surfaces. Some destinations may have changes in altitude and/or temperature.

Tour days tend to be long, move at a brisk pace, and may include lengthy travel days. Expect long periods of walking and standing on uneven surfaces. Scheduled activities may require physical effort or have distinct changes in altitude or temperature.

Very Active

Tour days tend to be long, move at a vigorous pace, and may include lengthy travel days. Expect long periods of walking and standing on rough surfaces. Scheduled activities may require physical effort or have distinct changes in altitude or temperature.