Loch Lomond to Edinburgh: Lakes & Valleys of Scotland

Day 1: Loch Lomond

Arrive at Loch Lomond on Thursday and check into your hotel located adjacent to the largest freshwater loch in the UK. This is the day to enjoy the spectacular scenery and islands of this stunning location. Take a stroll along the water's edge or a cruise along the loch. If you can add an extra day here at Loch Lomond, you will be able to make the most of this unique spot by pedaling north along the lakeside and returning by boat.

Day 2: Loch Lomond – Kinlochard
24 miles/38 km

This morning, you’ll meet your host for a briefing on the journey ahead and a careful bike fitting. From here, you leave the shores of Loch Lomond behind and cycle into the heart of the Trossachs. Rolling hills give way to open glens, where sheep graze on patchwork fields, and farms sit quietly beneath wide skies. You pass through the welcoming village of Drymen, a traditional stopping point for travellers and a good place to pause for refreshments before tackling a steady climb through forested slopes. The effort is rewarded with a long, gentle descent into Gartmore, a village filled with old-world character and once home to the famous Scottish poet Robert Burns’ friend, Reverend Thomas Buchanan. From here, the route continues to Aberfoyle, long associated with the nearby Forest of Queen Elizabeth, before arriving at your overnight stop. Your hotel lies on the banks of Loch Ard, a freshwater loch steeped in local legend and surrounded by wooded hills, offering a tranquil end to your first day’s ride

Day 3: Kinlochard – Callander
24 miles/38 km

Your day begins with a scenic transfer over the dramatic Duke’s Pass, a classic Highland road known for its sweeping bends and far-reaching views across the Trossachs. On arrival at Loch Katrine, you encounter one of Scotland’s most treasured landscapes. This beautiful loch, protected for its natural purity and long valued as a water source for Glasgow, can only be experienced by boat, bike, or on foot, preserving its peaceful character. From the pier, board a historic steamboat for a one-hour cruise to the far end of the loch, where mountains rise sharply from the water. After time to enjoy the views and visit the café, you begin cycling along the shoreline, following a quiet, traffic-free path. The route continues through Queen Elizabeth Forest Park, passing the tranquil waters of Loch Achray and Loch Venachar before bringing you into Callander. Often referred to as the “Gateway to the Highlands,” this lively riverside town offers a warm welcome and a relaxing overnight stay in the heart of the village.

Day 4: Callander – Ardeonaig
32 miles/51 km

A wonderful day of riding lies ahead, with long stretches of easy, flat cycling through some of the most scenic landscapes in the region. You begin by passing the Falls of Leny before following the shoreline of Loch Lubnaig, where still waters reflect the surrounding hills. From here, the route joins a disused railway line, now a beautifully converted cycle path, leading you to a much-loved local food stop before continuing on to the impressive Glen Ogle Viaduct. Elevated high above the glen, the viaduct offers sweeping views across Loch Earn and the surrounding mountains, an area once associated with the legendary outlaw Rob Roy. This memorable section also provides one of the finest traffic-free rides of the tour. The sight and sound of the Falls of Dochart announce your arrival in the village of Killin, dramatically set where the mountains meet the western end of Loch Tay. A gentle ride along the shoreline brings you to your overnight stay, peacefully located on the banks of the loch.

Day 5: Ardeonaig – Fortingall
18 miles/29 km

Today is all about Loch Tay as you pedal the full length of this huge expanse of water. The ride along a back road is peaceful and undulating with stunning views across the water of mountains and Ben Lawers. Perhaps you will pack a picnic, as refreshment stops are minimal until you reach the attractive village of Kenmore at the far end of the loch. You can hire a boat or canoe here or relax on the beach with a little refreshment. Heading on, pedal the flat and delightful Lyon Valley for a different scene – little known and cozy. Your characterful hotel nestles in the valley.

Day 6: Fortingall – Pitlochry
23 miles/37 km

Setting out again on your last day of cycling, the scene changes as you leave the loch behind and follow the highland valleys of the River Tay. These wider valleys shelter villages, gardens, castles, and distilleries, and offer plenty to stop and explore. Following the River Tay, you may visit 16th Century Castle Menzies and its turrets and cellars, the water mill and whisky distillery, where you may have time to sample a ‘wee dram’. The magical woodland gardens with some very large trees at Cluny House are worth a visit. Before you come to Grandtully, take a detour and cross the bridge to find a choice of great lunch stops and a very special chocolate shop. The landscape here is cozy and pretty, and the ride is predominantly flat for most of the day. You sneak into the highland center of Pitlochry across the river, just downstream of the salmon ladder, and refreshed by the wonders of the Trossachs.

Day 7: Pitlochry – Edinburgh

Leave your bike in Pitlochry this morning and hop onto the train to reach Edinburgh in a couple of hours. Here, your accommodation lies close to the station and the center of Scotland's capital city. The day is yours to explore as you wish, and we give you our top ten tips for enjoying this vibrant and wonderful city.

Day 8: Depart Edinburgh

Depart Edinburgh at your leisure, or book extra nights.