Cycling the Scottish Highlands

Day 1: Arrival in Nairn

Arrive in Inverness, where you’ll be met by your host and transferred to your hotel in the coastal town of Nairn. This historic fishing village boasts a long beach and a working harbor. After settling in, your host will walk you through the cycling plans, fit your bike, and answer any questions. Spend the rest of the day unwinding or exploring the charming seaside surroundings.

Day 2: Nairn - Findhorn Loop
26 or 38 mi. / 42 or 61 km

Today’s route takes you along flat, scenic terrain to the unique village of Findhorn, known for its stunning bay and forward-thinking spiritual community. Along the way, pass Brodie Castle and quiet woodland paths, with optional stops at a distillery or wildlife-rich tidal flats. Explore Findhorn’s quirky character, beach, and pubs before riding on to Forres. From there, choose to either take the train or cycle a new route back to Nairn.

Day 3: Nairn - Inverness
24 mi. / 38 km

Leave Nairn behind and cycle through peaceful countryside toward the legendary Cawdor Castle—linked forever to Shakespeare’s Macbeth. Ride on past pastoral scenes and beneath a striking viaduct before reaching the historic Culloden Battlefield. From there, it’s a short cruise into the highland capital of Inverness, where you’ll stay the night.

Day 4: Inverness - Fort Augustus
19 or 33 mi. / 30 or 53 km

Today, follow the length of Loch Ness on a quiet, winding back road. The scenery is unforgettable: sparkling waters, remote beaches, and panoramic views from high above the loch. It’s the most challenging day with a long climb, but you’ll be rewarded with a spectacular downhill into Fort Augustus. A van transfer to the summit is available if pre-booked.

Day 5: Fort Augustus - Fort William
31 mi. / 49 km

This leg of your journey through the Great Glen is nearly flat and filled with breathtaking views. Follow peaceful towpaths beside the Caledonian Canal, ride through ancient forests along Loch Oich and Loch Lochy, and enjoy the serene beauty of the Highlands. Finish the day in Fort William, passing the impressive Neptune’s Staircase locks with Ben Nevis rising nearby.

Day 6: Fort William - Ballachulish
16 or 22 mi. / 26 or 35 km

Start by cycling through Fort William, then cross Loch Linnhe by ferry. On the far shore, the ride becomes a tranquil retreat with no traffic—just loch views, sheep pastures, and the occasional bog. After a second ferry ride, follow a quiet cycle path around Loch Leven to your hotel in Ballachulish. If you have the energy, take a detour into Glencoe village to explore.

Day 7: Ballachulish - Port Appin
16 to 43 mi. / 26 to 69 km

This is a true Highland highlight, tracing the old railway line along the west coast past woodlands, stone jetties, and castle ruins. You’ll arrive in postcard-perfect Port Appin, a tiny harbor village with sweeping sea views. Adventurous riders can extend the route by continuing south to the Isle of Eriska, then returning the same way for a longer day.

Day 8: Port Appin - Oban via Lismore
6 mi. / 10 km

Cap off your trip with a peaceful ride on Lismore, an island just a 10-minute ferry away. Cycle along quiet lanes past wildflowers and sea views, soaking in the rich natural beauty and heritage. After exploring, take the ferry from Achnacroish for the scenic hour-long journey back to the mainland and into lively Oban for your final night.

Day 9: Depart Oban

Enjoy a relaxed departure from Oban, a town well-connected by rail and ferry. From here, you can explore more of the Scottish islands, such as Iona or Mull, or continue on another cycling adventure through the Hebrides.