Ricky’s Gateway to the Highlands Tour is a cycling adventure that takes travelers from Edinburgh into the stunning Scottish Highlands. With a small group size and personalized attention, participants can expect breathtaking views, delicious local cuisine, and knowledgeable guidance throughout the journey. Whether you’re an avid cyclist or simply seeking an unforgettable outdoor experience, this tour promises to deliver an exceptional way to explore Scotland’s natural beauty. But what truly sets this tour apart and makes it a must-try experience?
Key Points

- A highly-rated cycling tour from Edinburgh to the Scottish Highlands, offering scenic routes and stunning landscapes.
- Includes private transportation, lunch, and refreshments, providing a hassle-free and enjoyable experience.
- Requires a moderate level of physical fitness, with guides ensuring cycling is manageable for all participants.
- Receives overwhelmingly positive feedback, with travelers praising the knowledgeable guides and memorable experience.
- Provides a unique sightseeing adventure through landscapes inaccessible by car, showcasing the beauty of the Highlands.
Tour Overview
Rickys Gateway to the Highlands Tour is a highly-rated cycling adventure that takes travelers on a scenic journey from Edinburgh to the Scottish Highlands.
The tour earns a 5.0 rating based on 10 reviews and is recommended by 100% of travelers. Priced from $172.83 per person, the tour accommodates a maximum group size of 8 travelers and provides private transportation, lunch, and refreshments.
The tour departs from the Caledonian Edinburgh hotel at 8:30 am and returns to the same location. A moderate fitness level is required, and the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible.
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Inclusions

The tour includes the use of a bicycle and helmet, providing a comfortable and eco-friendly way for travelers to explore the Scottish countryside.
Plus, private transportation is provided, ensuring a seamless and hassle-free journey.
Bottled water is supplied to keep travelers hydrated, while a delicious lunch and refreshing coffee or tea are included to fuel the adventure.
With these thoughtful inclusions, the Rickys Gateway to the Highlands Tour offers a well-rounded experience that caters to the needs of its guests, allowing them to focus on seeing the stunning natural beauty of the Highlands.
Meeting and Pickup

The tour starts at the Caledonian Edinburgh, Curio Collection by Hilton on Princes Street in Edinburgh. From there, you’ll be picked up and transported to the starting point. At the end of the tour, you’ll return to the same meeting location.
| Meeting Details | |
|---|---|
| Meeting Point | The Caledonian Edinburgh, Curio Collection by Hilton, Princes St, Edinburgh EH1 2AB, UK |
| End Point | Returns to meeting point |
| Start Time | 08:30 am |
The tour lasts approximately 7-8 hours, with a mix of cycling, private transportation, and exploring the stunning Scottish Highlands. Be prepared for an active and memorable day.
Physical Requirements

This tour isn’t wheelchair accessible.
However, it’s conveniently located near public transportation. It requires a moderate level of physical fitness, so it may not be suitable for travelers with serious medical conditions.
The tour involves cycling, so participants should be comfortable on a bike. While the routes provide scenic views that are inaccessible by car, the terrain may be challenging for some.
Traveler Reviews

According to traveler reviews, Rickys Gateway to the Highlands Tour has overwhelmingly positive feedback, with 100% of travelers recommending the experience. Reviewers consistently praise the tour’s knowledgeable and entertaining guides, Stuart and Riccardo, who bring the local history to life. Despite weather challenges, travelers describe the tour as a "memorable experience" with "beautiful views and scenery" along scenic cycling routes not accessible by car. Common themes across reviews include an enjoyable cycling experience and an excellent lunch provided during the tour.
| Positive Highlights | Traveler Feedback |
|---|---|
| Knowledgeable Guides | "Entertaining and informative" |
| Scenic Cycling | "Breathtaking views" |
| Memorable Experiences | "Despite weather challenges" |
| Excellent Lunch | "Delicious and fresh" |
Scenic Cycling Routes

Scenic cycling routes are a highlight of Rickys Gateway to the Highlands Tour, as they take participants through landscapes inaccessible by car.
Winding along country roads and through picturesque villages, cyclists enjoy breathtaking vistas of rolling hills, lochs, and medieval castles. The routes showcase the natural beauty of the Scottish Highlands, allowing for a more immersive experience compared to driving.
Guides ensure the cycling is manageable for all fitness levels, providing support and commentary on the local history and culture.
These carefully curated routes make for a memorable and unique sightseeing adventure.
Local History Knowledge

One key factor that sets Rickys Gateway to the Highlands Tour apart is the guides’ deep knowledge of local history and culture.
Stuart and Riccardo expertly weave captivating stories about Edinburgh’s past, from its medieval roots to the tumultuous Jacobite era.
Travelers are enthralled as the guides bring the city’s landmarks to life, sharing little-known anecdotes and fascinating insights.
Whether it’s the dramatic tale of the infamous Greyfriars Bobby or the significance of the iconic Royal Mile, the guides’ passion and expertise elevate the tour, leaving participants with a greater appreciation for Scotland’s rich heritage.
Memorable Experiences

Beyond the guides’ captivating storytelling, Rickys Gateway to the Highlands Tour offers travelers truly memorable experiences that bring Scotland’s natural beauty and rich history to life.
Despite facing weather challenges, guests rave about the scenic cycling routes that can’t be accessed by car, allowing them to soak in the breathtaking landscapes of rolling hills, lochs, and distant peaks.
From stopping for a picnic lunch at a scenic viewpoint to exploring historic sites along the way, the tour provides an immersive and unforgettable journey through the Highlands that leaves a lasting impression on all who join.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is the Age Range of the Tour Participants?
The tour’s participant age range is not explicitly stated. However, it requires a moderate level of physical fitness, suggesting it may attract a wide range of ages, from younger adults to active older travelers, who are able to handle the cycling components.
Are Children Allowed on This Tour?
The tour is not suitable for children, as it requires a moderate level of physical fitness and is not wheelchair accessible. The tour is intended for adults and older teenagers able to participate in the cycling activities.
Can We Bring Our Own Bicycles?
No, you can’t bring your own bicycles on this tour. The tour includes the use of bicycles and helmets provided by the operator. Participants are expected to use the equipment provided as part of the tour experience.
How Many Stops Are Made During the Tour?
The tour typically makes several stops along the way, allowing travelers to explore scenic cycling routes and learn about local history from the knowledgeable guides. The exact number of stops may vary depending on the group’s pace and interests.
Is There an Option to Book a Private Tour?
Yes, the tour offers a private option. Travelers can book a private tour for their group, allowing them to enjoy a more personalized experience with the knowledgeable guides and scenic cycling routes during the Gateway to the Highlands excursion.
The Sum Up
Ricky’s Gateway to the Highlands Tour offers an unforgettable cycling adventure through Scotland’s stunning natural beauty. With its picturesque routes, personalized attention, and knowledgeable guides, this tour promises breathtaking views and memorable experiences for moderately fit travelers. Whether you’re seeking a scenic exploration or a physical challenge, this 5.0-rated experience delivers an unparalleled blend of adventure and discovery in the heart of the Scottish Highlands.
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