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Explore Scotland on a Self-Guided Trek Travel bike tour
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Explore Scotland on a Self-Guided Trek Travel bike tour
Ride in scenic landscapes on a Trek Travel Scotland bike tour
Explore Scotland on a Self-Guided Trek Travel bike tour
Dine at local pubs on a Trek Travel Scotland bike tour
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Explore Scotland on a Self-Guided Trek Travel bike tour 22UKSG-Scotland-WS-Day-2-avid-3-1600X670 Explore Scotland on a Self-Guided Trek Travel bike tour Ride in scenic landscapes on a Trek Travel Scotland bike tour Explore Scotland on a Self-Guided Trek Travel bike tour Dine at local pubs on a Trek Travel Scotland bike tour 22UKSG-Scotland-WS-Day-5-1600X670 22UKSG-Scotland-WS-Whisky-Bar_168293-2-1600X670 22UKSG-Scotland-WS-Day-3-3-1600X670 22UKSG-Scotland-WS-Day-2a-2-1600X670
TRIP STYLE: Self-Guided
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Scotland Self-Guided Bike Tour

The alluring charm of the Scottish Highlands

Think big skies, hospitable people, stunning scenery, haunting legends, and you've got the Scottish Highlands. If you are a fan of riding quiet roads along mist-covered lochs, or exploring ancient castles, then this is the perfect trip for you. Scotland's landscape is so raw and majestic that it's positively breathtaking. There's a natural playground which begs to be explored on two wheels, while the region's turbulent history has left behind some of the most beautiful and romantic castles in the world. There's the hearty food to delight your taste buds and fill your belly and unforgettable Scotch whisky which can be as varied as the land where it was created. This bike tour in the Highlands will see you get lost - not literally - in the glorious mountains and mysterious lochs, surrounded by mind-blowing landscapes and diverse wildlife. This small charming country is sure to beguile you with its magic. Book your trip with confidence » Learn more about Self-Guided trips and if they're right for you »
From:
$1999 Per Person
Duration:
5 Days & 4 Nights
Rider Level: ?
2 - Recreational Non-riders Welcome
Trip Style: ?
Self-Guided
Hotel Level: ?
Explorer
Reviews:
From $1999 per person View All Details
Close Details
Trip Wows
Ride past heather-clad moors and the River Spey, whose waters are used to create more than half of all malt whisky!
Relax and enjoy overnights from one welcoming and comfortable lodge in the Highlands, the Ravenscraig Guest House
Ride through the Cairngorms National Park, the largest in the UK, known for its stunning scenery and wildlife
Give your taste buds a workout as you enjoy single malt whisky from the local region, Speyside - the heart of Scotland’s whisky country
Watch the Experience
Explore Scotland on a Self-Guided Trek Travel bike tour
A very well-conceived trip with fun routes, excellent food, and interesting side tours. We felt Trek was fully behind us whilst enjoying the freedom of self-guidance. And the Trek bikes inspired confidence!
-John, Trek Travel Guest

Dates & Prices

The Earlier You Book, The Greater The Rewards

We reward our guests with lower pricing and more dates to choose from the earlier you book. Rest assured, once you book, your price and date are guaranteed.
Guaranteed 
to run
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Sold Out/
Waitlist
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Private/
Reserved
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Limited 
Availability
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Single Occupancy from: +$600
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May 15 – May 19 
Guaranteed Limited Availability
$1999 / Person, Double Occupancy Book this date
Jun 5 – Jun 9 
Guaranteed Limited Availability
$1999 / Person, Double Occupancy Book this date
Jun 19 – Jun 23 
Guaranteed Limited Availability
$1999 / Person, Double Occupancy Book this date
Jul 3 – Jul 7 
$1999 / Person, Double Occupancy Book this date
Don't see your ideal travel date? 
Call us at (866) 464-8735 for custom date availability
Looking for a one of a kind, once in a lifetime experience?
Look no further. Choose your trip date, get your group together and we will do the rest. Private trip pricing is as follows:

  • 10+ Guests Price as advertised*
  • 8-9 Guests +$750 per person to trip price*
  • 6-7 Guests +$1,500 per person to trip price*
  • 4-5 Guests +$2,000 per person to trip price*
  • 2-3 Guests +$3,000 per person to trip price*
  • 1 Guest        Call us for pricing*


Traveling with a small group? Consider semi-private trips.
For groups of up to six people, semi-private trips offer unique flexibility within a larger Trek Travel guided trip. Learn more »

*Pricing, availability and guest minimums are all subject to change at any time. Certain dates have a minimum number of guests required, please contact us for details. Private pricing is not available on Ride Camp, Race, Special Edition or Cross Country style trips.
Book a Private Trip
Looking for a date that you don’t see?
Look no further. Simply tell us your preferred travel dates and we’ll work together to deliver the same great trip on your custom schedule.
*Pricing, availability and guest minimums are all subject to change at any time. Certain dates have a minimum number of guests required, please contact us for details. Custom dates are not available on Ride Camp, Race, Special Edition or Cross Country style trips.
Customize my trip dates
Want to customize this trip?
We've got you covered. We’ll work with you to build your perfect vacation from scratch, including your choice of riding, accommodations and dining options. With the help of our trip designers and travel experts, the world is available like never before.
*Pricing, availability and guest minimums are all subject to change at any time. Certain dates have a minimum number of guests required, please contact us for details. Custom trips are not available on Ride Camp, Race, Special Edition or Cross Country style trips.
Book a Custom Trip

Day To Day

See Dates & Pricing Download PDF

Meet your Trek Travel host at 3:00 PM at the Ravenscraig Guest House in the bustling town of Aviemore, surrounded by lush highland scenery in the northwest corner of the majestic Cairngorms National Park. The picturesque railway station in Aviemore is easily accessed by train from Inverness, Edinburgh, Glasgow or even London and it’s a 10-minute walk (or quick taxi ride) to your accommodation. At the lodge, your host will familiarize you with the itinerary for the week and will spend some time fitting you to your Trek bike, ensuring the best fit and comfort for the week. Afterwards, you are free to spend the day as you like: take a walk through town or venture out on a warm-up ride through the forests to the nearby village of Kincraig. Back at your guest house, relax and unwind perhaps with a cup of tea served in the cozy lounge. Tonight, take a recommendation from your host as you decide which local restaurant to try first.

Today's Ride:

Aviemore to Kincraig Loop
Approximately 16 mi | 25 km and 800 ft | 243 m

Short Ride:

Aviemore to Loch an Eilean Return
Approximately 7 mi | 11 km and 300 ft | 91 m

Avid option:

Aviemore to Kincraig Loop (with add-on to lochs and glens)
Approximately 20 mi | 32 km and 1,000 ft | 304 m

Hotel:

Ravenscraig Guest House

You'll get to know Scotland’s natural beauty today, starting your ride straight from the guest house and following a quiet country road as you pedal through nature at your own pace, embracing the sights, sounds, and smells of this lush landscape. You will reach the beautiful Loch Garten, where you may stop for a short walk, or perhaps stop to visit the Nature Centre to get close to some of Scotland's most amazing wildlife (look out for ospreys in early summer). Make your way to the "forest village" of Nethy Bridge, which boasts an excellent cafe. Enjoy lunch and a coffee at your leisure and when you are ready, follow your track back to Aviemore on a more direct route to complete a "lollipop" shaped circuit. In the afternoon, take the opportunity to visit the local microbrewery in Aviemore before enjoying dinner with hearty Scottish food in town.

Today's Ride:

Aviemore to Loch Garten and Nethy Bridge Loop
Approximately 27 mi | 43 km and 1,020 ft | 310 m

Short Ride:

Aviemore to Boat of Garten Return
Approximately 19 mi | 30 km and 750 ft | 228 m

Avid Ride:

Aviemore to Loch Garten and Nethy Bridge Loop (with climb)
Approximately 40 mi | 64 km and 1,750 ft | 533 m

Hotel:

Ravenscraig Guest House

Included Meals:

Breakfast

Today’s loop ride takes you south of Aviemore, towards Kingussie, a lovely lively town beside the River Spey in the midst of the beautiful Cairngorms National Park. You’ll follow a scenic road through ancient Caledonian Pine Forest, before arriving at the historic Ruthven Barracks. Take time to explore the ruins, which were built by George II's government in the early 1700s after the failed Jacobite uprising of 1715. From here, an easy roll takes you into the small town of Kingussie. This can be a good spot for a cafe lunch, and if you want to explore further, a 2-mile detour to the outdoor Highland Folk Museum is highly recommended. Your return to Aviemore takes you back to Kincraig, passing a number of small lakes before rolling back into Aviemore. Once back at the hotel, take some time to relax before heading into town for a delicious dinner in one of the taverns recommended by our local experts.

Today's Ride:

Aviemore to Kingussie Loop
Approximately 28 mi | 45 km and 1,250 ft | 381 m

Avid Option:

Aviemore to Kingussie Loop (with climb)
Approximately 38 mi | 61 km and 1,750 ft | 533 m

Hotel:

Ravenscraig Guest House

Included Meals:

Breakfast

This morning you will be collected from your accommodation for a short transfer (20 minutes) to a tiny settlement called Duthil, where you’ll begin an exciting traverse of the Dava Moor, passing through a wonderful mix of farmland, woodland, and moorland. The ride starts with a long but gentle climb up onto the wild scenery of the moor. Take a turn along a tiny road which hugs the shoreline of Lochindorb, complete with its island-castle with a dark history linked to Alexander Stewart - better known as the Wolf of Badenoch. After a short climb away from the loch, enjoy a fast descent to the stately town of Grantown on Spey - a good spot for lunch or a coffee. To return to Aviemore, take a quiet road which leads to Nethy Bridge, and then follow that road back to Aviemore. If your legs are tiring by the time you reach Nethy Bridge, your host will be available to boost you back to Aviemore! Tonight celebrate with one last dinner choosing from our list of hand-selected recommendations and toast to a week of wonders in this captivating country.

Today's Ride:

Dava Moor to Aviemore
Approximately 38 mi | 61 km and 1,525 ft | 464 m

Short option:

Dava Moor to Nethy Bridge
Approximately 25 mi | 40 km and 1,300 ft | 396 m

Avid Ride:

Dava Moor to Aviemore (with extra climb)
Approximately 42 mi | 67 km and 2,020 ft | 615 m

Hotel:

Ravenscraig Guest House

Included Meals:

Breakfast

This morning you can either sleep in and enjoy a leisurely breakfast or take an easy spin out to Loch Morlich, a popular spot in the heart of the National Park. Avid riders will relish the steep climb up to Cairngorm Mountain which lies beyond Loch Morlich. Alternatively, relax and enjoy the views at the lake, which boasts a large sandy beach, popular with the local swimmers. Return to the guest house in time to check out at 11:00 AM. Your host will meet you at the lodge to collect your bike and related accessories before you depart for the end of your self-guided trip.

Today's Ride:

Aviemore to Loch Morlich Return
Approximately 13 mi | 20 km and 550 ft | 167 M

Avid Option:

Aviemore to Loch Morlich Return (with climb to Cairngorm Mountain)
Approximately 21 mi | 33 km and 1,500 ft | 460 m

Included Meals:

Breakfast

Hotels

hotel image

Ravenscraig Guest House

Aviemore, Scotland

Explorer Accommodation | Located in the heart of the Cairngorm National Park, this exceptionally welcoming 4-star guest house is set in a traditional Victorian villa in the village of Aviemore. The location is the perfect base for discovering Scotland's great outdoors, with superb riding right outside the door, as well as many other activities to enjoy locally. The owners' warm hospitality and the proximity to local restaurants and bars will make your stay an unforgettable experience.
www.ravenscraighouse.co.uk
hotel image

Cairngorm Guest House

Aviemore, Scotland

Explorer Accommodation | Ideally situated in the Cairngorm National Park, this very comfortable and welcoming 12-bedroom Victorian guest house is the perfect base to explore the Scottish Highlands or to enjoy the abundance of outdoor pursuits which the immediate area has to offer. It is located in the village of Aviemore on the main road, with all the local amenities (bars and restaurants, rail links) under a ten-minute walk away. All rooms are equipped with everything you need for a comfortable stay, including making your own coffee and tea, along with high-quality bedding and towels. You will stay here in place of Ravenscraig Guest House on select 2023 dates.
www.cairngormguesthouse.com

What's Included

For us, the details matter most

Every moment of a Trek Travel self-guided bike trip has more than you could have ever dreamed. More experiences. More scenery. More choice. It's the little additions to every Trek Travel cycling vacation that make it truly special. And that's how we help you create more memories.

bike

Trek Domane AL 5 Disc

Trek’s latest innovation has led to the best aluminium bike on the road—a lightweight, stable, and technologically advanced machine to make every road seem smooth and easy while the disc brakes make stopping safe and secure. Ride confidently and comfortably for as long as you like, in the most beautiful British riding destinations. Learn More

bike

Trek Electric-Assist Verve+ UK

The Trek Verve+ is the perfect bike for our bike tours in England, Ireland, and Scotland. Featuring the Bosch mid-drive motor, stable 45mm tires, and a lightweight aluminium frame, you will be enjoying the scenery with comfort and a nice consistent boost of power. The suspension seat post will take the edge off any bumps in the road and the Shimano disc brakes will stop you perfectly in any weather conditions. You'll love the Verve+! Learn More

View all our bikes & gear

WHAT'S INCLUDED

  • Four nights of accommodation at one handpicked guest house
  • Daily breakfast
  • Daily lunch and dinner recommendations
  • Ride a Trek Domane ALR 5 Disc road bike or Trek Electric-Assist Verve+
  • Up to three daily route options on riding days
  • Trek Travel water bottles to keep
  • Each bike is equipped with a Garmin GPS computer, a flat pack containing one tube, two tire levers, CO2 cartridge with inflator, and a patch kit (the flat pack is only large enough for these items so if additional gear is needed, please plan to bring your own bar bag or small backpack for daily rides)
  • A mini frame pump, front and rear lights
  • Bontrager helmet (optional if you do not bring your own)
  • Bontrager saddle (we suggest you bring your own for the most comfortable fit)
  • Shimano clipless pedals or flat pedals (optional if you do not bring your own)
  • A bike lock, all necessary chargers and a floor pump
  • Bike fit on the first day to help you find your optimal riding position
  • Ride With GPS Experience on your phone to get all the information you need on your self-guided adventure

GEAR

  • Trek Domane ALR 5 Disc road bike or Trek Electric-Assist Verve+, available in a limited quantity
  • Garmin GPS computer with mount
  • Trek Travel water bottles to keep
  • Shimano clipless road pedals, Shimano clipless mountain pedals, or flat pedals (optional if you do not bring your own)
  • Bontrager helmet (optional if you do not bring your own)
  • Bontrager men's and women's specific saddles
  • Bontrager front and rear Flare R lights
  • Each bike is equipped with a flat pack containing one tube, two tire levers, CO2 cartridge with inflator, and a patch kit (the flat pack is only large enough for these items so if additional gear is needed, please plan to bring your own bar bag or small backpack for daily rides)
  • A mini frame pump
  • A bike lock, all necessary chargers, and a floor pump
  • Coupon valued up to $500 off a new Trek Bicycle. Your coupon will be delivered via email prior to your trip.
  • For the most comfortable ride, you may choose to bring your own pedals, saddle, and helmet on the trip. Your Trek Travel host will install your gear on the first day during your bike fit.

WHAT'S NOT INCLUDED

For self-guided trips you are welcome to thank your host with a gratuity based on your level of service.
  • Airfare and transportation to and from the trip meeting/departing locations
  • Lodging before and after the trip
  • Personal items purchased during the trip
  • Optional activities not scheduled by Trek Travel
  • While we provide daily breakfast, the other meals are not included. On self-guided trips, Trek Travel provides restaurant recommendations and invites you to explore the local cuisine at your leisure.

More Information

Rider Level: 2 - Recreational?

AVERAGE DAILY MILEAGE:
40 kilometers / 25 miles
TOTAL MILES:
197 kilometers / 123 miles
AVERAGE DAILY ELEVATION:
311 meters / 1,021 feet
TOTAL ELEVATION:
1,556 meters / 5,106 feet
TERRAIN: UNDULATING
The terrain on our Scotland self-guided bike trip includes quiet secondary roads or cycle networks. The terrain tends to be gently rolling with wonderful views of the Highland mountains and glens. Scotland self-guided is best suited for our Type 2 Riders. Type 3 Riders will enjoy the extra mileage the avid route options offer, with more testing climbs.
NON-RIDING ACTIVITIES:
There are a variety of non-riding options on this trip for riders who want to take the afternoon off or travel companions who want to spend little or no time in the saddle. Some of these options may need to be scheduled before your trip–please contact one of our Trip Consultants for more information. Except as specified in the itinerary, expenses and transportation to these activities are not included in the trip price. Some non-riding options on this trip are:
  • Tour of whisky distillery with tasting
  • Golfing options
  • Hiking options
  • Swimming, Stand Up Paddleboarding or Canoeing at Loch Morlich
  • Steam train ride
  • Microbrewery tour
  • Highland Folk Museum visit
  • Easy rafting and canyoning trips
  • View wildlife on a "hide" excursion

See itinerary for specific daily ride distances and elevation options. On all of our vacations, Trek Travel seeks to find quiet, paved secondary roads or bike paths to experience a region; busy roads are avoided as much as possible. Our itineraries are an approximation of our trips. Trek Travel strives to offer every guest a vacation of a lifetime on every trip. At times routes, hotels, activities, etc. listed here may change at the discretion of the trip designer or Trek Travel's local experts to improve the trip experience.

Averages and totals are calculated from our Today’s Ride options.

Travel Details

How to Get There

FLY INTO:
Inverness Airport (INV)
MEETING TIME:
3:00 PM
MEETING LOCATION:
Ravenscraig Guest House in Aviemore

Say Farewell

FLY OUT OF:
Inverness Airport (INV)
DEPARTING TIME:
11:00 AM
DEPARTING LOCATION:
Ravenscraig Guest House in Aviemore

All Details

Arriving

We suggest that you arrive at least one day prior to the trip start, which will enable you to adjust to the time zone and minimize the risk of missing the trip start due to flight-related delays. We recommend that you fly into Inverness airport (INV). Flying into Edinburgh (EDI) or Glasgow (GLA) is also possible. From these locations you can take a train to Aviemore enjoying a very scenic ride.

There are regular trains from the three cities, also with First Class ticket options. A train ride from Inverness to Aviemore takes approximately 45 minutes and a one-way ticket costs about $18. A train ride from Edinburgh to Aviemore takes approximately three hours and a one-way ticket costs about $58. A train ride from Glasgow to Aviemore takes approximately two and a half hours and a one-way ticket costs about $55. Train tickets can be found at www.scotrail.co.uk or at thetrainline.com

Once you arrive at the train station in Aviemore, you can choose to walk or take a taxi. A taxi ride takes five minutes and costs approximately $10; there are always taxis waiting at the railway station.

Your Trek Travel host will meet you at the Ravenscraig Guest House (141 Grampian Road, Aviemore, PH22 1RP) in Aviemore at 3:00 PM on the first day of the trip. Please bring anything you need for your bike, including personal pedals, saddles, GPS units, etc., which will be installed on your bike. Your host will make sure you are fitted comfortably on your Trek bike and will give you a brief orientation of the trip before you saddle up to begin the day's ride at your own pace.

If you will be late for the meeting or are going to miss it altogether, please inform your host. You will receive an email a week before the trip start with their name and contact details. If you cannot reach them, please call our hotel, the Ravenscraig Guest House (+44 1479 810278), and leave a message with your expected arrival time and contact details. A taxi from Inverness to the Guest House will cost approximately $90.

View our pre hotel recommendations

Leaving

Your Trek Travel host will meet you at 11:00 AM at the Ravenscraig Guest House (141 Grampian Road, Aviemore, PH22 1RP) to take your bike and equipment before your departure.

View our post hotel recommendations

Planning For Your Trip

Packing and Weather

Summer temperatures range from the 50s to 70s. Always remember that rain is possible at any time of the year–daily Scottish weather is very unpredictable! It’s a good idea to bring a light rain jacket, as well as layers. Packing List

Before and After Your Trip

before

Before: Edinburgh, UK

Reasons to stay in Scotland's capital abound. Since the 15th century, this city has served as the hub for Parliament, government, royalty, and judicial courts. Both the Old Town and New Town together have been maintained as a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1999. See for yourself the majestic stone castles, bell towers, and universities. Full days can be dedicated to meandering the many neighborhoods, visiting art museums or galleries, and partaking in the classic Scottish sport of golf. (We can also provide recommendations for Perth, if you choose to stay there instead of Edinburgh. Please contact one of our Trip Consultants for details.) We recommend the following accommodations for your pre-trip hotel in Edinburgh:

after

After: Inverness, UK

As one of the smallest cities in Scotland with some 55,000 people, Inverness is ideally located as a hub in the north of Scotland. Known as the "Highland Capital," Inverness offers outdoor activities as well as many cultural attractions. Enjoy dolphin watching on Chanonry Point, arguably the best place to watch Bottlenose Dolphins in Scotland. Walk along the Caledonian Canal, a scheduled ancient monument that runs the length of the Great Glen. Explore some local castles and fortresses and learn about highland clan history, or savor a pint with some live music at the Hootananny Ceilidh Bar. If you like to play golf, there are several links for courses nearby: Royal Dornoch (www.royaldornoch.com), Castle Stuart (www.castlestuartgolf.com), and Nairn Dunbar (www.nairndunbar.com) We recommend the following accommodations for your post-trip hotel:

Customer Reviews

Why Trek Travel

Our Bikes

Our unrivaled selection of Trek Bikes sets the bar for quality and comfort. From the ultra-smooth Trek Domane SL 7 to the Trek Electric-Assist Verve+, you deserve the best ride on your vacation. Plus, we offer a range upgrade options to take you the extra mile.

Our Guides

Our guides are trained to make your trip magical. They aren't just experts in riding; they're trained in delivering uncompromising service in ways you won't believe. We know that it's the unexpected surprises that make a trip magical. That's why our guides pride themselves on anticipating your needs before you ask.

Your Day. You Decide.

Our vacations are built to deliver the ultimate in flexibility, from extreme relaxers to hard-core roadies. You pick your mileage, itinerary and experiences. We take care of the rest.

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