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Duration
8 days
Activities
  • self guided cycle
Accommodation
  • 7 nights 3 or 4 * guesthouses or private houses
Meals
  • 7 Breakfasts

Price

$1550USD

 
 

Overview

Trip Code: SHC

Trip highlights


  • Cycling through the heart of the Scottish Highlands
  • Exploring the quaint villages which are full of historical intrigue
  • Experiencing the timelessness of the lochs
  • Visiting castles and taking side trips to experience the landscape further on foot

The Scottish Highlands have long been a favoured destination for cyclists and walkers keen to experience the mountain peaks, shimmering lochs and pretty glens. During this week long trip, you will take the backroads and country paths where cycle touring is pleasurable. Enroute you will visit charming historic towns such as Dunkeld, and the peaceful lochside towns of Kenmore, Lochearnhead, and Killin. A rest day at Killin is included to allow you time to visit the Falls of Dochart, sail the Loch or walk up Ben Lawers. En route there are opportunities to take a forest walk or visit one of the many castles and ancient monuments found along the way.

Trip Grading

moderate

More info about grading system

Make your own way to Perth. Depending on your arrival time you may have the opportunity to stroll to the shops, walk by the River Tay or climb Kinnoull Hill for a magnificent view of Perth and the Tay Valley. In the evening you will collect cycles and equipment, and there will be a route briefing. Accommodation: Elegant Victorian villa, all rooms ensuite.

Meals:  Nil

Cycle two miles from Perth to visit Scone Palace, a treasure house of furniture, ivories, fine porcelain, needlework and the unique Vernis Martin. From there you cycle north through the rolling farmland of Perthshire to the historic Cathedral town of Dunkeld, situated on the banks of the River Tay. It has a peaceful character and charmingly restored eighteenth century houses forming a small Square. Cathedral Street leads from there to the partly restored Cathedral, construction of which began in 1318. Accommodation: Family run small B&B with ensuite rooms. Breakfast is taken in the Conservatory overlooking the garden.

Meals:  B

You are never far from the swift flowing River Tay. Leave Dunkeld passing the Cathedral and follow the path along its north bank: join the quiet road northward to cross the river by an old railway bridge at Logierait. From there to Strathtay, a popular spot with canoeists and river rafters. Continue by the river to the small village of Weem. Only a short distance now to cross General Wade's Bridge into Aberfeldy. Visit the Distillery, the Water Mill or explore the beautiful walks in the “Birks of Aberfeldy”. Accommodation: A stunning Edwardian Guesthouse overlooking the River Tay.

Meals:  B

Leave Aberfeldy by General Wade’s Bridge and stop to visit Castle Menzies, the seat of the Chiefs of Clan Menzies, currently being restored. Past Drummond Forest to the conservation village of Kenmore at the eastern end of Loch Tay. Visit the Crannog Exhibition, which illustrates life on the Loch in the Bronze Age. By taking the south shore road you can enjoy to the full the unrivalled beauty of the Lochs and Bens on the way to Killin. Accommodation: Two nights staying in a late Victorian country house offering excellent Bed and Breakfast accommodation. Overlooking the River Lochay, it has a private riverside garden with its own moorings and access to Loch Tay. There are spectacular views of the mountains from the house, including Ben Lawers, the highest mountain in Perthshire.

Meals:  B

Today can be spent in rest and relaxation or you can visit the Falls of Dochart, walk in the quiet countryside, or cycle to Ben Lawers visitor center (9.5km) and walk up Ben Lawers, Perthshire's highest mountain. Another option is to cycle to scenic Glen Lochay and Glen Lyon.

Meals:  B

Enjoy a traffic free cycle through Glen Ogle to reach the small lochside village of Lochearnhead. From there continue along the south shore of Loch Earn enjoying the beauty of the loch and Ben Vorlich to reach St Fillans at the eastern end of the Loch. Follow the valley of the river Earn through Comrie to arrive at Crieff. Perhaps visit the Glenturret Distillery and the ‘Famous Grouse Experience’ or the ‘Crieff Visitor Centre’. Accommodation: Comfortable B&B accommodation in large and spacious rooms with ensuite facilities.

Meals:  B

Take the opportunity to visit the famous formal Italian gardens at ‘Drummond Castle Gardens’ which are just over 3 kilometres south of Crieff before an easy ride through quiet countryside to return to the riverside town of Perth. Accommodation: Elegant Victorian villa, all rooms ensuite.

Meals:  B

The trip concludes after breakfast.

Meals:  B


Map

Elevation

The map and elevation chart are for illustrative purposes only and meant to provide general guidelines.
On self guided trips, actual route information provided before departure will be more detailed.


Inclusions

  • 7 full Scottish breakfasts
  • 7 nights in 3 or 4 * guesthouses or priavate houses on a twin share basis
  • Transfer of luggage between accommodation – One case or bag a (up to 15kg per person).
  • Map, GPX files, travel documentation and emergency service
  • Quality 27 speed sport hybrid cycles are provided for our tours. E-bikes available with a
  • supplement. Helmets, rear pannier bags, tools, puncture repair kit, spare inner tube, lock, map
  • holder, cycle computer, water bottle, reflective vests and lights are included E-bikes supplement £100

  • Travel to and from Perth
  • Drinks, lunches and dinners
  • Items of a personal nature
  • Tour guide – this is a self guided trip
  • Entrance fees
  • Transfers
  • Travel insurance

Bike information


Grading

moderate  

MODERATE – GRADE 3 The cycle is moderate (3) grade with daily cycles of between 26 and 53km on undulating to mountainous terrain. The cycling is on low traffic side roads and is suitable for adults of all ages and fitness levels but not for children under 13 years of age. The accent is on keeping a relaxed pace to take in all of the attractions, with time to stop and take photos. You will need a reasonable level of fitness to participate fully in this adventure.


Departure dates

Daily from 1 Apr to 31 Oct

Notes

DN1
This trip is not suitable for solo travellers. Please contact our team for alternative tour suggestions

Want to organise a private group?

Fundraising events, sporting groups, family treats; learn how you can organise a Private Group from just 6 travellers.

Priceper person from

$1550USD

Options & Supplements*
    *Prices listed are per person

Trip reviews


Why travel with us

Making Europe Affordable

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

Self-Guided Specialists

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

Our Wide Range

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

Videos

Scotland. Made for Cycling.

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