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The Lyon’s Den


9 Days Mountain Biking

From £895

  • Remote and lonely mountain glens.

  • Vast tracts of wilderness and abundant wildlife.

  • High mountain passes.

  • Gentle riverside trails.

  • Woodland single-track.

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The Lyon’s Den

From peaceful woodlands on the outskirts of Milngavie to the wild remoteness of Rannoch Moor this trip will test your stamina and by the end your will to return to the city if you hail from one. You’ll experience remote mountain valleys, vast forests and some of the biggest skies around. The route follows everything from metaled road to coveted single-track. It hugs river banks, skirts vast lochs and traverses high mountain passes. There’s miles of rough hill track and forest trail to be ridden. And most of it will be gobbled up by even the least experienced mountain bikers. All you need be is fit and capable of riding a bike over rough ground. That said this route is not without technical challenges. And one 4 km stretch will test the abilities of all. Expect some walking and take time to enjoy the scenery. Of course some will be fully capable of riding this patch in its entirety. And to them we offer a free bottle of malt whisky if they can produce video evidence supporting their claim. Toward the end of the tour expect some fun downhill sections on single-track. These should whet your appetite for more mountain biking. All along this route there will be opportunities to spot wildlife including red squirrels, red deer and even golden eagles. Other things to look out for include osprey, row deer, oyster catcher, peregrine falcon, pine martin and more. NB All our tours can be shortened or extended to suit. Just call or email our office.

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Itinerary

  • Day 1 - Stirling

    Arrive in Stirling and book into first night’s accommodation and pick up bikes. Choose from a mix of cycling trails and visit sites of historic interest along the way.

  • Day 2 - Milngavie to Callander 34 mi / 55 km

    Transfer to Milngavie. The first section of trail winds along the banks of a river on pleasant woodland paths before climbing gradually on forest tracks. At the top of the climb we are treated to the first of many spectacular views and a bumpy yet exhilarating descent. The trail flattens out but remains fun for several miles. We join a quiet country road for the final stretch into Drymen. From here the route quickly climbs producing panoramic views over the Carse of Stirling and surrounding hills before dropping down into the Queen Elizabeth Forest. A short ride on forest tracks shouldered by Victorian aqueducts soon deposits us in Aberfoyle. From Aberfoyle we push on into the hills climbing to the highest point of the day on a tough mudda of a trail. A short technically demanding section around a lochan leads to another exhilarating descent and the final stretch into Callander.

  • Day 3 - Callander to Crieff 25 mi / 40 km

    There’s little chance to warm up today before we’re faced with a tough climb to a high and expansive muir (moor). Soon the trail levels off and the going becomes relatively easy as we cycle along a broad hill track skirting the massive mountains of Ben Vorlich and Stuc a’ Chroin. Shortly after crossing a river the track turns near ninety degrees and soon we begin a long descent to the delightful village of Comrie. After some gentle riverside riding we find ourselves climbing again, up through deciduous woodlands on single-track. From the top we are rewarded with another fun blast downhill to Crieff.

  • Day 4 - Crieff to Killin 43 mi / 69 km

    Another morning, another climb. This time into a high glen overlooking Strathearn. Before long most of the climbing is out of the way and we can enjoy views over the southern reaches of Perthshire. Rough undulating hill track leads to a fast and fun descent to the Sma Glen. We cycle through the glen before turning west into a steep sided valley and following a riverside trail all the way to Loch Tay. Now we head for Killin and there is the option for some more climbing followed by a long and sometimes steep descent or a relatively easy lochside cycle. Those who climb will be rewarded with the best views and of course the joy of a pleasurable trundle downhill.

  • Day 5 - Killin to Kings House 40 mi / 64 km

    Today is one of contrasts. There’s plenty of time to warm up the legs riding through a tranquil valley with a river on one side and pine forests on the other. At one point deep pools in the river just below some low cliffs prove an inviting temptation for a dook (swim), especially on warm days. Remember to pack a towel. Soon we leave the relative serenity of the wooded riverbank behind. A short but steep climb over a mountain pass leads to some easy lochside riding on rough track. Another short accent to yet another pass leads us onto a bridge suspended above a thundering mountain stream. From here a fast and exhilarating downhill awaits. The trail sweeps through a valley punctuated by a series of river crossings. High mountains rising steeply on either side add to the drama as we speed toward the final short and pleasant stretch to Bridge of Orchy. After a spot of lunch we ride across an old humpback bridge and immediately embark on a tough climb on rough and rocky single-track. Mercifully the climb is short and the rewards are plenty in the form of tremendous views of the surrounding mountain ranges. Looking north our destination for the day is just out of sight beyond the east ridge running off the Black Mount to Rannoch Moor. In March and sometimes April skiers can be seen descending the higher parts of this ridge. A short and bumpy downhill deposits us on metaled road that sweeps us round to the start of the next climb. Albeit a relatively easy gradual one. We join an old drovers road that is cobbled to begin with but later degrades to a rough track strewn with loose rocks and gravel. The route is shared with walkers many of whom are tackling the West Highland Way. The trail undulates at points but generally we keep climbing up to 450 metres on the eastern flanks of Meall a’ Bhuiridh (pronounced meal-a-voo-ree and coincidentially from where we get our name Vurie) overlooking the vast expanse of Rannoch Moor. Whichever way you look the views are impressive. From here we enjoy a blast downhill and more fabulous views as we reach our destination for the day. The mountain straight ahead – Buachaille Etive Mor (pronounced book-ill-ett-iv-mor) – is probably the most photographed mountain in Scotland. By comparison today’s ride is relatively short affording you more time to explore Glen Etive and Glen Coe at the end of your cycle.

  • Day 6 - Kings House to Kinloch Rannoch 29 mi / 47 km

    Rannoch Moor is often described as one of Scotland’s last true wildernesses and today we journey right across it. The vast majority of the cycling is done on firm hill track but right in the middle there’s a challenging moorland path to contend with. This single-track trail follows the contours over the moor and has no real hills to speak of, yet the terrain will prove difficult for most. Intermediate riders should manage to cycle over fifty percent of this path but only the very best mountain bikers will manage the whole stretch. Fortunately it’s a short section and soon we find ourselves back on good forest tracks and eventually metaled road. After a rest at Rannoch Station we continue on a quiet country road to Bridge of Gaur and then along the shores of Loch Rannoch to our goal for the day. There’s plenty of miles here but they’re easy miles and the scenery will keep you content.

  • Day 7 - Kinloch Rannoch to Kenmore 30 mi / 48 km

    A short and calming ride around the shores of Loch Rannoch kicks off our day. We then follow a burn (small stream) up through forest on single-track. As we climb the burn drops away below us where it runs through a deep ravine for some distance before the land flattens again and we are reunited with the burn. Now, still climbing, we take a forest track that then becomes hill track that ultimately leads us over a high mountain pass. Over the pass and an exciting descent leads us down into Glen Lyon where we can enjoy some refreshment at the local tearoom. From here we take a farm track and follow the course of the River Lyon through the glen. By this point you may already have discovered why Glen Lyon is often referred to as the “longest, loneliest and loveliest valley in Scotland”. Soon we’re back on metaled road cycling through woodlands with vertical rock faces rising on our left and a plunging ravine on our right, the river running along its bottom. Emerging from the woods we spill out amidst lush green pastures and enjoy our first glimpse of Fortingall with its famous 3000-year-old yew tree. Our days’ end approaches with a final climb on forest tracks to spectacular views over Loch Tay and Kenmore. A fast and fun downhill through the forest delivers us safely in Kenmore.

  • Day 8 - Kenmore to Pitlochry 18 mi / 29 km

    The finale of this epic cycle tour sees us start the day with a pleasant trundle along the southern shore of Loch Tay. A steep climb rewards with the sight of deep ravines, plunging waterfalls and the chance to visit a hermits’ cave. The trail levels out and we ride along undulating hill track enjoying views over Kenmore and the Tay valley with its’ grand castles and stately homes. Above the town of Aberfeldy we get to enjoy more waterfalls tumbling into deep ravines while flying downhill on a piece of breathtaking single-track. Next we enjoy easy riverside single-track as we hurtle toward Grandtully our penultimate destination. There may be a chance to watch kayakers tackling the whitewater at Grandtully while enjoying some locally made chocolate and a cup of tea. Across the bridge and through the picturesque hamlet of Strathtay a tough climb on single-track leads to open hillside and eventually into forest. After a brief section on forest track we rejoin single-track and commence our final descent of the tour. Soon we emerge onto farm track and hurtle downhill to Pitlochry. If you've still got the energy then a ride along the banks of the Garry and Tummel rivers and the shores of Loch Faskally provide an excellent end to this tour. There's some splendid singletrack and wider fast flowing double-track too. I highly recommend this and would say it provides the icing on the cake. This adds roughly 12km or 6 miles to the day.

  • Day 9

    Tour ends. There's still time for a quick blast round the shores of Loch Faskally before the transfer back to Stirling.

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Destinations

  • Stirling

    The historic city of Stirling, once Scotland's ancient capital, in the words of the eminent broadcaster David Dimbleby, has a castle "that rivals Edinburgh's". And so it does. Steeped in history this attractive rural city features in the story's of many of Scotland's and the United Kingdom's most famous historical figures including William Wallace and King James VI and I. James Stewart, known as King James sixth of Scotland and first of England and Ireland was the first king to rule all three nations at once. He spent most of his young life at Stirling Castle which it is thought was originally erected either during or sometime before the 12th century. Stirling is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts with open countryside all around that can be accessed within minutes from virtually anywhere within the city. Our accommodation is located in Kings Park, an affluent Victorian district situated below and adjacent to the old town. You are ideally placed to explore both the town, it's parks and the fabulous woodlands and country lanes nearby. All can be easily reached on foot or by bicycle.

  • Milngavie

    Milngavie (pronounced Mill-guy) is an affluent suburb situated in the north of Glasgow. It's 15 minutes away from Glasgow airport by car and 25 minutes by train from the city centre. Although not a holiday destination in itself considerable numbers of tourists, probably more than 30,000, pass through the town each year. This is because Milngavie is the traditional starting point for one of the world's most famous long distance walking trails - the West Highland Way. Within a 5 minute stroll from the train station lie the gates to this fabulous route. Walkers, cyclists and runners gather here to be photographed before undertaking their great journey.

  • Killearn

    Although our route barely glances the outskirts of Killearn we felt given its historic significance as the birthplace of George Buchanan that it was worth mentioning. The attractive village sits on the edge of a moor overlooking the confluence of the Blane and Endrick Valleys. A one-time farming village today it serves as an affluent satellite of Glasgow. It’s most famous son George Buchanan, born in 1506, was a prominent Scottish scholar and tutor to King James VI of Scotland who later became King James I of England and Ireland also. James was the first monarch to rule all three kingdoms simultaneously. He also ruled over Wales at this time but technically Wales is a principality. A 31metre tall monument has been erected in Buchanan’s name near the village Kirk and can be seen from miles around. A detour into the village would add roughly two miles or just over three kilometres to your journey.

  • Drymen

    Drymen is a relatively small village nestling just a few miles from the shores of Loch Lomond. It sits at a crossroads of the ways. The West Highland Way passes through the village while the Rob Roy Way starts here and the John Muir Way passes by only a couple of miles away. Despite it's size, Drymen is a lively wee place, supporting two hotels and numerous bed and breakfasts. With friendly bars and good quality eateries it's a popular haunt for locals and tourists alike.

  • Aberfoyle

    Aberfoyle, often referred to as the ‘Gateway to the Trossachs’, is a pleasant and peaceful village situated at the foot of the Menteith Hills and amidst the vast Queen Elizabeth Forest Park. The hills are particularly significant because they mark the line of the Highland Boundary Fault which runs through the island of Arran on the west coast to Stonehaven on the east coast and separates the Highlands from the Lowlands. Another prominent feature of the village is the River Forth that runs through its centre before winding its way across a vast flood plain to Stirling and then Edinburgh where it enters the North Sea. The village is busy through the day with day trippers but generally quiet later in the evening. However, there are still enough customers buzzing about to ensure the couple of inns providing food and one or two café/restaurants remain open.

  • Callander

    Like Aberfoyle just over the hill, Callander straddles the divide between the Highlands and Lowlands. It sits just beyond the eastern tip of the beautiful Loch Venachar at the foot of the forested Menteith Hills. It’s the largest village in the Trossachs and supports numerous hotels, B&B’s, restaurants and bars and is busy most of the year round. The centre of Callander is distinctly Victorian with many of that eras more substantial villas now operating as small hotels or guesthouses. However, many remain as family homes in this relatively affluent town. The River Teith runs right through the villages’ heart providing a particularly pleasant outlook for well placed residences on its banks and sport in the form of fishing and canoeing. Another great site from the village is that of Ben Ledi, a magnificent looking hill and one reasonably easy as well as pleasing to climb.

  • Comrie

    The conservation village of Comrie sits at the confluence of three rivers in what is an indescribably idyllic setting. Famed for its beauty the settlements history can be traced back to Pictish times with much visible evidence of standing stones in the area. And in 79AD the Romans built a fort here in order to take advantage of the locations strategic position on the edge of the Highlands. Comrie is also of great geological interest due to the fact that it sits along the Highland Boundary Fault. And as a result is the most seismically active place in the United Kingdom recording more tremors than anywhere else. Now an attraction it is possible to visit Earthquake House one of the world’s earliest earthquake monitoring centres. On the outskirts of Comrie there is an old military camp, Cultybraggan, which was used during the Second World War to house prisoners of war. The site is now owned by the community trust and is used for various things including growing vegetables. Round and about Comrie there are some great cycling and walking opportunities including a good choice of riverside walks, woodland walks and hill walks and both on and off-road cycling routes. Comrie Croft just over two miles away has its’ very own mountain bike trail and a short hop away Glen Lednock affords walkers access to Ben Chonzie.

  • Crieff

    Crieff is one of Scotland’s historic spa towns and like near neighbour Comrie sits at the confluence of productive rivers while straddling the Highland Boundary Fault. I say productive rivers because one is currently utilised for whisky production and the other used to power local mills. An affluent market town Crieff first grew rich as a cattle trading centre during the fourteen hundreds and later became a prominent player in the weaving industry. Nowadays it’s a popular tourist destination offering visitors a huge choice of things to do. Set amidst some very attractive countryside Crieff sits on the boundary between the Lowlands and Highlands. These two contrasting landscapes greatly complement each other while offering outdoor adventurers everything from delightful riverside walks to full on mountaineering. There are two golf courses, a high ropes course, a distillery, quiet back roads ideal for road cycling and some excellent single-track for mountain bikers. Macrosty Park is great for young kids and there’s also a good adventure play area at Crieff Hydro.

  • Ardeonaig

    Ardeonaig is a pretty little hamlet on the southern shores of Loch Tay. Not much more than a collection of farm buildings, cottages and country houses it manages to boast a hotel that is renowned for its quality. The Ardeonaig Hotel is a four star establishment that serves as a watering hole to walkers, cyclists and day trippers as well as providing comfortable bedrooms for overnighting guests.

  • Killin

    Killin is a pleasant Highland village corralled by two attractive rivers that flow into Loch Tay. The Falls of Dochart formed on the river bearing the same name are a wonderful site and draw many visitors to the area in themselves. The River Lochay is a more serene beast that gently meanders around the village, conveniently providing mooring for boats adjacent to properties along its bank. There are several shops in the village including an outdoors shop that hires out mountain bikes and Canadian Canoes. For sleeping, eating and drinking there are also several options in the form of hotels, inns, B&B’s, guesthouses, restaurants and bars.

  • Bridge of Orchy

    The wee village of Bridge of Orchy served by train station and a popular hotel straddles the River Orchy along the main road from Glasgow to Fort William. It’s a popular spot frequented by mountain bikers, walkers and those seeking to enjoy the white water rapids on the river. The West Highland Way, one of Scotland’s long distance walking routes, passes through the village and opposite are two of the country’s most regularly climbed mountains, Beinn an Dothaidh and Bein Dorain. Each is worth climbing on its own but they’re often tackled together due to their proximity.

  • Kings House

    Residing on the western fringes of Rannoch Moor the hotel at Kings House has been serving outdoor enthusiasts, day trippers and other patrons for centuries. The building dates from the 17th century and is reputed to be one of Scotland’s oldest licensed inns. The inn is blessed with some of the best views in Scotland. It’s a mere stone’s throw from the White Corries of which Meall a’ Bhuiridh (hill of roaring) pronounced meel-a-voo-ree is one and from where we get our name Vurie. Glen Etive and Glen Coe are accessed after a few minutes cycling from the hotel. And one of the most spectacular views of all is that of the Buchaille Etive Mor (big shepherd of Etive), one of Scotland’s most photographed mountains, standing guardian at the entrance of both glens. Meall a’ Bhuiridh is also home to Scotland’s oldest ski centre. Rebranded Glencoe Mountain Resort in the late noughties, the company have diversified and now offer downhill mountain biking to patrons in summer while still catering to an enthusiastic bunch of winter sports fans when the snow falls. Hikers also make use of the chairlift along with sightseers who’re mostly just after the view which in my humble opinion is pretty awesome.

  • Rannoch Station

    Rannoch Station is just that, a train station. It sits in the eastern reaches of Rannoch Moor one of Scotland’s last true wildernesses. It can only be accessed by road from the east and despite having a hotel does not support much in the way of a population other than the occupants of one solitary cottage opposite the hotel. Despite this remoteness you will not be alone in this neck of the woods as other adventurers frequently pass through in search of the solitude that the moor and neighbouring mountain ranges can offer. Roundabout there are various tracks leading into the hills or down to Loch Laidon a popular destination for fisherman and canoeists. These trails can be explored on foot or by bike.

  • Kinloch Rannoch

    Kinloch Rannoch is a quiet Highland village straddling the River Tummel at the eastern end of Loch Rannoch. It’s most spectacular view is that of Schiehallion, a fine mountain to the south. The scene down the loch is one of tranquillity and one that might be sought by those seeking peace and solitude. Although small Kinloch Rannoch is the largest settlement in the whole valley and can boast two hotels and a shop complete with post office.

  • Bridge of Balgie

    Bridge of Balgie is set amidst the middle reaches of what has been described as Scotland's 'Longest, loneliest and loveliest' valley, Glen Lyon. It is a remote glen perched high above and to the north of Strath Tay. Access is via narrow single-track roads sometimes with steep drops to ravines and rivers below. It’s a wild and stunning location and one that certainly shouldn’t be missed on a trip to Scotland. There’s little to speak of in the way of the village bar a few pretty private dwellings nestling amongst the trees. That said there is a village eatery in the form of Glenlyon Tearoom that is also a shop and post office too.

  • Fortingall

    Fortingall is a stunning wee village famed for its’ ancient yew tree estimated to be as much as 3000 years old. This would make it the oldest tree in Britain. The village sits amidst lush green meadows a short distance from where Glen Lyon runs into Strath Tay. It is undoubtedly the largest settlement in Glen Lyon but does not boast a shop or post office like Bridge of Balgie. Instead though there is an ample hotel that can satisfy many a traveler’s needs.

  • Kenmore

    Kenmore is blessed with some tremendous views over Loch Tay towards the Ben Lawers group of mountains on the loch’s northern shore. The village itself is pleasing on the eye too with a picture postcard bridge crossing the River Tay. And then there’s the pretty main square with rows of cottages running down two sides and shouldering the Kenmore Hotel on one of the sides. At one end on a promontory sits the village kirk overlooking both loch and square. Opposite is the grand arched entrance to Taymouth Castle Estate. The castle is currently being renovated and its new owners plan to open an upmarket hotel. Guests might even be able to arrive by plane using the loch as a landing strip.

  • Aberfeldy

    The Highland town of Aberfeldy is a bustling centre of activity. Along the main drag traditional Victorian buildings house shops, banks, hotels, and tea rooms. Step away from here and you’ll find yourself in residential streets full of Victorian terraces and villas many with gardens full of brightly coloured flowers, mature trees and sumptuous hedgerows. At the northern end of town the five arches of General Wade’s Bridge span the River Tay below four sculpted obelisks protruding skywards near the centre of the bridge. It is a simple yet stunning piece of architecture.

  • Grandtully

    Grandtully is a beautiful wee village on the south bank of the River Tay. And despite its size boasts a primary school, chocolatier, hostel, inn, coffee house and a water sports centre. From the inn it’s possible to watch white water rafters and kayakers careering down the rapids below. Less than a minute’s stroll across a bridge adjacent to the inn and water sports centre car park is Grandtully’s nearest neighbour Strathtay, also very attractive. What Strathtay lacks in chocolatiers and inns it gains in a village shop and golf course. And like Grandtully has some fabulous Victorian houses.

  • Pitlochry

    Grand hotels, castles and country homes reside alongside impressive examples of Victorian engineering in a truly stunning mountain setting amidst forests of pine and oak and beech and alder and more. With glistening Loch Faskally and the tumbling Tummel River right at the heart of this spellbinding picture, the allure of Pitlochry is patently obvious to see. It’s no wonder that this town is one of Scotland’s most popular visitor destinations outside of Edinburgh. Besides the usual attractions of spas, a distillery, fine restaurants and quality accommodation Pitlochry also boasts a theatre which is responsible in itself for many of the towns’ visitors. The theatre keeps the punters rolling in all year round with many acclaimed productions to see performed by theatre companies from near and far.

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Hotel, B&B, Inn or Guesthouse

We normally arrange 3 or 4 star bed and breakfast accommodation in guesthouses and hotels. We can also arrange for 5 star accommodation on request depending on availability. Some of the accommodation we offer has no official rating but we are satisfied that it meets a suitable standard of comfort and that the hosts deliver acceptable levels of service. We routinely inspect all accommodation offered and all accommodation must be approved by us before we book it for our clients.

In most cases rooms will have en suite facilities. On occasion two rooms may share the same facilities. That is two rooms accommodated by members of the same party.

Where possible we seek accommodation with access to leisure facilities such as a swimming pool. These may be hotel or municipal facilities.

Below is a sample list of accommodation options for this tour.

  • Stirling Highland Hotel - Stirling

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    Built in 1854 as the city’s High School, the Stirling Highland Hotel sits on the same rocky crag as Stirling's Castle. Certain rooms afford commanding views over the surrounding countryside with sight of the Gargunnock Hills, Carse of Stirling and Trossachs on one side and the Ochill Hills and Forth Valley on the other. It is a four star establishment with an AA rosette restaurant as well as swimming pool, gymnasium and spa facilities.

     
  • The Knowe - Callander

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    Built at the beginning of the twentieth century and enjoying many original Victorian and Edwardian features. The Knowe has been a Guest House for over 25 years providing superb Guest House accommodation to numerous travellers from all over the world.

     
  • Bridge of Lochay Hotel - Killin

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    The Bridge of Lochay Hotel is owned and run by Amanda Clark and Bob Stevenson who, along with their team of friendly staff, aim to offer the very best Scottish welcome and hospitality - our motto is 'nothing is too much trouble'. The hotel is situated on the banks of the River Lochay along our route. It's an ideal spot to rest and recuperate before continuing on your journey.

     
  • Macdonald Loch Rannoch Hotel - Kinloch Rannoch

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    Nestled in the heart of the Highlands, the hotel is situated on the north shore above Loch Rannoch and the picturesque village of Kinloch Rannoch with majestic views of the loch and hills that are simply breathtaking. The magnificent setting is the ideal location to enjoy a break away from busy lives or a romantic retreat. Steeped in tradition and rich in heritage, the hotel invites one to step back to a quieter time, while still enjoying the comfort of a superb hotel.

     
  • Kenmore Hotel - Kenmore

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    Located in the pretty village of Kenmore, which lies to the East of Loch Tay with River Tay to the North, the Kenmore Hotel offers delightful rooms, delicious dining in our restaurant and traditional bars, all in an unrivalled location with stunning views across the Tay. It’s the perfect place for a relaxing getaway, catching up with family and friends or, perhaps, escaping for a romantic rendezvous.

     

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We've got it covered

Included

  • En route support (see notes).

  • Accommodation in selected hotels, inns, bed and breakfasts or guesthouses.

  • Specified meals (See notes).

  • Detailed route descriptions and colour coded maps.

  • Specified transportation.

  • Daily baggage transfer of one bag (suitcase / backpack) per person.

Not Included

  • Travel Insurance.

  • Travel not specified - airport transfers and transfers to start of route etc.

  • Cycle hire - we can provide high quality serviced hybrid, mountain or adventurer bikes. E-bikes also available. (see notes).


NOTES:

  1. All breakfasts are included as standard. Lunch and dinner are not included unless otherwise specified. Packed lunches are available from most accommodation providers on request. Please ask the accommodation host when on tour. Prices and offerings vary between establishments.
  2. All accommodation providers will cater for clients with special dietry requirements. You must inform us before travelling if any travellers have specific dietry needs in order for accommodation hosts to make appropriate arrangements. We cannot guarantee special dietry needs will be catered for unless we are forewarned.
  3. Most of our routes pass by several eateries so it is usually possible to pick and choose where to have lunch each day. However, on routes (days) where you will not pass an eaterie we advise that you order a packed lunch from your accommodation host. All of our accommodation hosts offer packed lunches. Charges vary from establishment to establishment.
  4. We provide you with a good quality bicycle that is well maintained. NB Cycle hire is not included in the advertised from price as many guests choose to bring their own.
  5. If you encounter a technical issue with the bike provided we will either fix it or replace it with another suitable bike. Our support staff can be summoned to your aid en route.

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The best time to go

This tour is available from March to October. The quietist times being between March and May and September and October with July and August being the two busiest months.

Spring
In late March the days grow longer and warmer and the first shoots of young life begin to appear. The fields are full of newborn lambs and wildlife everywhere is once again on the move. The mountain tops are often still capped with snow and even at low levels the last gasps of winter may still be felt with a slim chance for late snow showers. By April spring is in full flow and temperatures can soar into the late teens Celsius although a maximum of around thirteen degrees Celsius is more in line with the norm. Trees have regained all their foliage and nest building is in full swing. The chatter of busy birds can be heard everywhere.

Summer
By May and June the days are long and bright. Around the time of the summer solstice in mid June it's often possible to read by natural light until past 11pm at night. And out on the hill the red deer are fawning. By July and August days are at their warmest with average temperatures around nineteen degrees Celsius although temperatures have been known to climb into the late twenties and even as high as thirty. Most destinations are buzzing with activity during July and August as these are the traditional school summer holiday months. September in Scotland is quieter out on the trail and temperatures generally remain in the high teens. In the rivers salmon can be seen running as they strive to swim up river to their spawning grounds.

Autumn
October is one of the most atmospheric months to be out and about in the wilds of Scotland. The trees gradually turn from green to many shades of brown and orange and when they finally fall they form huge billowy piles on the ground, a couple of feet deep in places. Around the middle of the month the red deer rut gets under way and the bellowing stags can be heard for miles around.

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In Brief

  • 8 Nights

  • Challenging

  • Mountain Biking

  • Suitable for: Improver

  • From £895 per person (based on 2 adults sharing)

  • 216 mi / 348 km

  • From: Milngavie

  • To: Pitlochry

  • Available: March to October

  • Min. Age: 15

  • Suit Tagalong:

  • Suit Trailer: