Distance 214 miles (344km)
Classification Difficult
Start Exhibition and Conference Centre, Glasgow, G3
Finish Ness Bridge, Inverness IV3
Duration 3-6 days
Route NCN route 7
Map Lochs and Glens North, Cycling In Scotland, Lochs and Glens Cycle route

Route notes

A stunningly beautiful route that passes through two national parks and some of the most exhilarating scenery in the country.

Terrain and gradients

A mixture of traffic-free paths and minor roads – 42 miles is traffic-free, including the first 20 miles out of Glasgow. Be prepared for hill climbs; one section takes you over the Pass of Drumochter, at 460m the highest point on the national cycle network in Scotland.

How to get there/away

The route starts near the centre of Glasgow, and ends in the centre of Inverness. Both are well served by rail. You can reverse the route.

What to see

It would be hard to imagine a more beautiful UK long-distance ride. If two national parks – including Loch Lomond and the Trossachs, and the stunning Cairngorms – weren't enough, the route also takes you past six lochs, numerous castles and over the Glen Ogle viaduct.

Accommodation and watering holes

The two major cities on the route make finding places to stay at the beginning and end of the route straightforward. But even in the wilderness of the Highlands there are small towns and villages offering a wide range of places to stay. As some sections are quite remote, make sure to plan before you set off.

From Glasgow to Inverness, a popular overnight stop is Callander, around 50 miles (80km) from the beginning of the route, offering all sorts of B&Bs, hotels, guesthouses, campsites and pubs.

Pitlochry is around 115 miles (185km) along the route and also offers many options, among them Pitlochry Backpackers, with good facilities for cyclists and ample opportunity to share travelling stories with other riders.

Aviemore, after 175 miles (281km), is a hub for outdoor activities. Ardlogie Guest House here is a great pick, not least for the hearty breakfast.