Coast to Coast

Day 1 – City of Aberdeen to Ballater

We meet in Aberdeen where we begin our bike journey west across Scotland. We ride through Royal Deeside, following the route of the old railway line built for Queen Victoria. After lunch we continue to Dinnet, to ride some of the best-kept secret single-track on Deeside, through beautiful birch and pine forest around the Burn of Vat and Cambus o’ May. Our first night’s accommodation is in the charming village of Ballater. (L, D)

Distance: 75km Ascent: 675m Descent: 480m

Day 2 – Lochnagar and Balmoral to Tomintoul

A classic day, typical of riding in the Scottish Highlands. In the morning we leave Ballater behind, following the River Muick, rising slowly towards Lochnagar.  Climbing over the shoulder of the mountain, we then drop down to explore the trails around Balmoral Estate.  Lunch is taken at Invercauld, followed by a long steady climb into wild Scottish countryside and a real mountain experience. Overnight in Tomintoul, the highest village in the Highlands. (B, L, D)

Distance: 66km Ascent: 1230m Descent: 1090m

Day 3 – Through the Cairngorms

An unforgettable day through the wild Cairngorms. This is backcountry biking at its best in the Highlands, and we must ride through this wilderness regardless of the weather conditions. We head west from Tomintoul into remote country, first through ancient pine forest and then into the open hills. A challenging 10km of single-track leads us into the beautiful Glen Feshie, and then the Spey Valley and our stop for the night in Newtonmore. This is the most demanding day of the trip and one you are likely to remember for a long time. (B, L, D)

Distance: 67km Ascent: 780m Descent: 880m

Day 4 – From the East to the West Highlands

From Newtonmore, we continue our journey west, following an old military road before taking the backdoor into Laggan. Here we stop for a coffee before we head into a remote glacial valley which passes through the heart of the mountains. Double track combined with single track to leads us on and into the West Highlands. We reach our accommodation for tonight in the village of Spean Bridge. (B, L, D)

Distance: 70km Ascent: 720m Descent: 850m

Day 5 – Spean Bridge to Acharacle

The lower reaches of the Great Glen Way lead to Fort William where we take a short hop across Loch Linnhe. From here we journey to Loch Shiel, where we jump off our bikes and onto a boat for a private cruise down Loch Shiel (with a beer in hand!). Back on land, it’s an easy 200m roll to our hotel. (B, L, D)

Distance: 65km Ascent: 450m Descent: 550m

Day 6 – Acharacle to Ardnamurchan Point

A great final day as we cover all types of terrains. From our hotel, we head west, soon joining a beautiful coastline trail and then heading into the hills. The views of the islands are simply amazing on a clear day. After lunch we tackle the final short section of road and coastline single-track to our final destination, Ardnamurchan Point – the most westerly point on the UK mainland! Celebratory dinner and drinks in Acharacle. (B, L, D)

Distance: 46km Ascent: 820m Descent: 820m

Day 7 – Return to Inverness

After breakfast, we load the vehicle and bike trailer and enjoy a leisurely 3.5 hour journey back to Inverness. Here you can catch your onward travel, and on the way home you’ll have a chance to reflect on what will surely be a memorable experience! (B)