Scotland Bike Tour

Welcome to Scotland! Your guides will pick you up at the Royal Botanic Garden in Edinburgh before transferring you across the Firth of Forth to the charming coastal village of Elie. Enjoy a welcome toast, map overview, and bike fitting in the charming harbor before we begin our ride along the quiet coastal roads. Remember to stay on the left side of the road as we venture past the fishing communities of the East Neuk of Fife. Stop for a delicious lunch featuring the local catch, then continue on into the medieval town of Saint Andrews. Our boutique hotel, an idyllic, turreted mansion house set in 10 acres of award-winning gardens, awaits our arrival. Dine in the hotel’s fine restaurant tonight and make sure to enjoy their famous sticky toffee dessert.

Meals: Lunch / Dinner
Destinations: Elie, Saint Monens, Elie, Saint Andrews
Accomplished: 20 miles / 33 km, elevation gain: 994 feet / 303 meters
Accommodations: Rufflets Country House Hotel

Our adventure begins with a gentle climb from the hotel into the ancient Kingdom of Fife. Cycle through rolling farmlands, past old stone bridges, and along tree lined lanes to the picturesque village of Ceres—stopping to take pictures of the beautiful scenery. Take in the amazing views of the coast along the ridge-top route back to Saint Andrews. After lunch, we will enjoy a guided tour of Saint Andrews Cathedral, the University, and The Old Course. Stroll along the chic boutiques that line Market and North Streets or head back to our hotel to relax before dinner. Tonight you’re free for dinner on your own in Saint Andrews.

Meals: Breakfast / Lunch
Destinations: Ceres, North Sea, Saint Andrews
Accomplished: 25 miles / 40 km, elevation gain: 1,525 feet / 465 meters
Accommodations: Rufflets Country House Hotel

Heading north, we’ll transfer just over an hour to begin our ride from the grounds of Scone Palace, the Gothic Revival mansion where Scottish kings, including Macbeth and Robert the Bruce, were crowned. As we meander through rural farmland this morning, the most traffic we’ll encounter will be from tractors, fellow cyclists, or Highland cattle. Along the way, you’ll be enlightened with tidbits about folk legends that inform the names of local sites and plant life. On our arrival in Dunkeld, admire the cathedral, enjoy a bite to eat, then explore the charming shops selling homewares and local Scottish crafts. A short ride brings us to our next hotel, a charming boutique property that’s big on tradition. Settle in with a drink at the bar and listen to a Scottish piper before dinner.

Meals: Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner
Destinations: Pitcairngreen, Dunkeld, Weem
Accomplished: 33 miles / 53 km, elevation gain: 1,741 feet / 531 meters
Accommodations: Grandtully Hotel

Today’s ride is a spectacular one that takes us through the rolling hills of Perthshire. Take a short detour to the Fortingall Yew Tree, one of Europe’s most ancient trees at an estimated 3,000 to 5,000 years old. It stands adjacent to Fortingall Chapel, which dates back to the 12th century and offers a glimpse into Scotland’s medieval religious history. Pedal onward to Blair Castle, the ancestral home of Clan Murray, and marvel at the fascinating collection of artwork, hunting trophies, furniture, and needlework amassed over generations. Here, we’ll also learn about the Atholl Highlanders, a personal army serving the Duke of Atholl, head of Clan Murray, and the only private infantry permitted in all of Europe. Enjoy lunch before heading to Pitlochry via the Pass of Killiecrankie, known in equal measure for its history and beauty. We’re treated to a well-informed whisky tasting led by a local friend, followed by a short transfer back to the hotel where we’ll regroup for dinner this evening.

Meals: Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner
Destinations: Blair Atholl, Moulin, Pitlochry
Accomplished: 44 miles / 70 km, elevation gain: 3,092 feet / 943 meters

Longer Option: 49 miles / 79 km, elevation gain: 3,207 feet / 1,008 meters
Accommodations: Grandtully Hotel

This morning starts out easy with a spin towards the charming village of Aberfeldy, a pretty town that’s right on the River Tay. If time allows, take a ride past the Birks Cinema, a faithfully restored 1930s Art Deco landmark. From here we settle in for a climb up General Wade’s Military Road, a narrow and twisty pass. On the other side is Strathbraan, a storied route that’s been traversed by notable generals, poets, artists, and pirates—all of whom have played a role in Scotland’s folk history. After one more push we reach the valley of Sma’Glen and begin descending gradually through the rolling and manicured farmlands of Strathearn. For our triumphant finish we arrive right to Gleneagles, the iconic five-star estate and our home for our final night in Scotland. After settling into your stately room, we’ll reconvene and toast to a wonderful week of cycling, followed by a celebratory dinner.

Meals: Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner
Destinations: Aberfeldy, Auchterarder
Accomplished: 41 miles / 65 km, elevation gain: 2,482 feet / 756 meters
Accommodations: Gleneagles

After a full Scottish breakfast, take one last stroll around the Gleneagles grounds—perhaps a game of croquet or a morning massage are in order. Then it’s off to Edinburgh Airport, only an hour transfer away, and we’ll bid you a final farewell.

Meals: Breakfast