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3
moderate

Traveller Rating

 

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

8 Days£1130GBP

Overview

Trip Code: SHC

Lochs & Bens Cycling Trip highlights


  • Cycling through the heart of the Scottish Highlands
  • Follow the flow of the River Tay
  • Moderate cycling distances, allowing ample time for exploring
  • 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
  • Visit historic Dunkeld and peaceful lochside towns
  • Rest day in Killin: visit the Falls of Dochart or cycle into Glen Lochay & Glen Lyon

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.

Countries:

Scotland

Starting Point:

Perth

Finishing Point:

Perth


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 private houses on a twin share basis
  • One piece of luggage transfer between accommodation (up to 20kg) per person
  • Map, GPX files, travel documentation and emergency service
  • Quality 27-speed sport hybrid cycles are provided for 6 days. 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.

  • Travel to and from Perth
  • Drinks, lunches and dinners
  • Items of a personal nature
  • Tour guide – this is a self guided trip
  • Entrance fees
  • Unscheduled transfers
  • Travel insurance
  • A supplement will apply if you are travelling solo or book a single room

Bike information


Suitability

moderate

3

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

Priceper person from

£1130GBP

Options & Supplements*
  • E-Bike SupplementGBP£140
  • Single Room SupplementGBP£300
*Prices listed are per person

Lochs & Bens Cycling Trip reviews


Why travel with us

Personal Experience

We've been walking and cycling the planet for over four decades and are passionate about delivering exceptional service. Combined, we’ve travelled to virtually every corner of Europe, and are eager to share the many benefits of travelling on foot or by bike.

Great Value & Quality

Our well priced trips offer great value for money. Included in your package are comprehensive route notes, maps & guide books along with bag transfers and locally run accommodation. We take the stress out of organising your holiday.

Self-Guided Specialists

We have been operating active self guided holidays since 1973. We handle all the necessary logistics so that you can relax and explore your destination at your own pace. Many of our tours depart daily, giving you even greater flexibility.

Lochs & Bens Cycling Videos

Scotland. Made for Cycling.