Lochs and Bens
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Cycle the picturesque Scottish Highlands
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, picturesque Highland villages such as Fortingall and the peaceful lochside towns of Kenmore 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.
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
Itinerary
Day 1 Join Perth
Arrive today in 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.
Day 2 Cycle to Dunkeld (42km)
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.
Day 3 Cycle to Aberfeldy (32km)
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”.
Day 4 Cycle to Killin (39km)
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.
Day 5 Rest day Killin
The day can be spent in rest and relaxation or you can visit the Falls of Dochart, sail on the Loch, walk in the quiet countryside, walk up Ben Lawers, (9.5km cycle to Ben Lawers visitor center and then climb Ben Lawers) or journey to the Trossachs and Callander 24km round trip.
Day 6 Cycle to Fortingall (26/34/53km)
A choice of routes, either a stiff climb and scenic ride through Glen Lochy and Glen Lyon or take the shorter easy way along the north shore of Loch Tay. Your destination is the village of Fortingall with its picturesque thatched cottages and 3,000 year old Yew Tree.
Day 7 Cycle to Pitlochry (32km)
A steep climb over the hills to Loch Tummel but you are rewarded with magnificent views and a level ride by the quiet south shore road. Perhaps pause to cross River Tummel and visit the Queen’s View Visitor Centre. From there it is a short distance to the Victorian resort town of Pitlochry nestling in the shadow of the mountain Schiehallion. There are plenty of things to see including Blair Castle, the Dam and Fish Ladder, two distilleries and the Festival Theatre.
Day 8 Trip concludes Pitlochry
The trip concludes after breakfast
Additional Information
Inclusions
- 7 breakfasts – Full breakfasts are served and usually start with porridge or cereals followed by fried eggs, bacon / sausages, tomato, toast (or any combination you prefer), coffee, tea and juices. This is a great start to the cycling day.
- 7 nights in 3 or 4 star guesthouses on a twinshare basis with private facilities
- Transfer of luggage between accommodation – one main bag and one small item of hand luggage per person with a total maximum weight of both bags of 15kg per person.
- 24 Speed hybrid cycles equipped with rear pannier bags, helmet, pump, tool kit, lock, map holder, cycle computer, water bottle
- Map and travel documentation and emergency service
Summary
- BED & BREAKFASTS
Trip Main Activities
- SELF GUIDED CYCLE
Group Size Min
A minimum of two people travelling together is required for safety reasons.
Group Size Max
Accommodation Summary
The accommodation will be a mixture of private houses (B&Bs) and guest houses. On booking you should indicate whether you would like a twin room (two beds) or a double room (one bed). The emphasis is on friendly welcomes and comfortable facilities.
Equipment Required
Cycle helmet, wet weather gear, sunscreen, sandshoes, midge repellant and sun hat (a comprehensive gear list is included in the pre-departure information provided on booking).
What You Carry
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Book this trip with World Expeditions on their site
from
USD$1,150
Why we recommend World Expeditions
- Pioneers in responsible travel.
- No local payments.
- True adventures in every sense.
- Expert guides and support.
- Quality facilities and transport.
Customer care
World Expeditions is a global company with offices in Australia, New Zealand, the United Kingdom and Canada, all staffed with experienced adventure travellers.
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