Trossachs National Park: Gateway to the Highlands Bike Tour

The Trossachs National Park offers a stunning backdrop for an unforgettable cycling adventure. This 7.5-hour bike tour takes riders through a breathtaking landscape of serene lochs, picturesque forests, and majestic mountains. Whether you’re a seasoned cyclist or a beginner, this moderate challenge promises an immersive experience in Scotland’s natural beauty. But what surprises await along the way? Discover the hidden gems that make this tour a must-do for any outdoor enthusiast.

Key Points

• A 7.5-hour guided bike tour through Trossachs National Park, starting from Aberfoyle and exploring picturesque lochs, forests, rivers, and mountains.
• Participants will experience traditional Scottish fare for lunch and an ice cream treat at the end of the tour.
• The tour is not recommended for individuals with heart problems, respiratory issues, or low fitness levels, as moderate physical activity is required.
• Participants should be prepared for changing weather conditions and wear appropriate attire, with high-heeled shoes prohibited due to the cycling surfaces.
• The tour provides bicycles, helmets, snacks, and water, with the cycling portion starting in Aberfoyle and pick-up/drop-off in Edinburgh.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview

The Trossachs National Park: Gateway to the Highlands Bike Tour offers a 7.5-hour excursion through the stunning landscapes of this renowned Scottish region.

The tour starts in Aberfoyle, just an hour’s drive from Edinburgh, and takes cyclists on a scenic ride along Lochs Katrine, Ard, and Arklet.

The tour begins in Aberfoyle, just an hour from Edinburgh, taking cyclists on a scenic journey along Lochs Katrine, Ard, and Arklet.

Participants can expect to experience picturesque forests, rivers, lochs, and mountains, as well as the opportunity to view wildlife, including birds of prey.

The tour includes a lunch at a local cafe, featuring traditional Scottish fare, and an ice cream treat at the end at Trossachs Pier.

Itinerary and Highlights

Participants start the tour in Aberfoyle, just an hour’s drive from Edinburgh. The scenic ride takes them along Loch Katrine, Loch Ard, and Loch Arklet, where they’ll experience picturesque forests, rivers, lochs, and mountains. Wildlife, including birds of prey, can be spotted along the way. Halfway through, cyclists stop for a lunch featuring traditional Scottish fare at a local cafe. The tour ends at Trossachs Pier, where participants can enjoy an ice cream treat.

| Locations | Highlights |

| — | — |

| Aberfoyle | Start of tour |

| Loch Katrine, Loch Ard, Loch Arklet | Scenic lochs and landscapes |

| Forests, rivers, mountains | Picturesque views |

| Local cafe | Lunch with traditional Scottish fare |

| Trossachs Pier | End of tour, ice cream treat |

Participant Requirements

This tour isn’t suitable for individuals with heart problems, respiratory issues, or low fitness levels, as it requires a moderate level of physical activity.

Participants should be able to ride a bicycle comfortably. E-bikes are recommended for those with lower fitness confidence, as they provide an extra boost on the hilly terrain.

The tour takes place in the Trossachs National Park, featuring picturesque forests, rivers, lochs, and mountains, so participants should be prepared for changing weather conditions and wear appropriate attire.

High-heeled shoes aren’t allowed, as the cycling portion takes place on various surfaces.

Preparation and Meeting Information

Meeting for the tour takes place at The Caledonian Hotel, 11 Rutland Street, in Edinburgh.

Cyclists should wear comfortable shoes – high-heels aren’t allowed. Dress appropriately for changing weather conditions, as rain is common in Scotland.

The cycling portion begins in Aberfoyle, with pick-up and drop-off in Edinburgh. Participants should bring any personal items they may need.

The tour operator provides bicycles and helmets, as well as snacks and water throughout the day.

Importantly, cyclists should have the ability to ride a bike, as this is a requirement for joining the Trossachs National Park bike tour.

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Exploring the Trossachs National Park

The tour begins in the charming town of Aberfoyle, nestled within the picturesque Trossachs National Park.

Participants embark on a scenic ride through the region’s stunning landscapes, including:

• Loch Katrine, a serene freshwater loch surrounded by rugged mountains

• Loch Ard, a tranquil lake with forested shores

• Loch Arklet, a peaceful body of water reflecting the surrounding hills

• Verdant forests teeming with diverse wildlife, including birds of prey

• Rushing rivers and streams carving through the dramatic terrain

Riders savor a traditional Scottish lunch at a local cafe before concluding the tour at Trossachs Pier with a refreshing ice cream treat.

Loch Katrine and Surrounding Lochs

As the tour winds its way through the Trossachs National Park, cyclists are treated to a breathtaking panorama of Loch Katrine and its surrounding lochs. The tranquil waters of Loch Katrine reflect the rugged peaks and dense forests that line its shores. Nearby, Loch Ard and Loch Arklet offer equally stunning vistas, each with its own unique character. The tour provides ample opportunities to spot wildlife, including birds of prey soaring overhead. To emphasize the natural beauty of this region, the following table highlights the key lochs and their distinguishing features:

| Loch | Distinguishing Feature |

|——|————————|

| Loch Katrine | Largest loch in the Trossachs |

| Loch Ard | Picturesque inlet and shoreline |

| Loch Arklet | Serene, nestled among the mountains |

| Loch Achray | Tranquil waters reflecting the forest |

Picturesque Forests, Rivers, and Mountains

Throughout the captivating bike tour, cyclists wind their way through an abundance of picturesque forests, rivers, and mountains.

The tour showcases the stunning natural beauty of the Trossachs National Park:

• Majestic pine and birch forests provide a lush, verdant backdrop

• Serene rivers and streams meander through the landscape

• Towering mountains, including the iconic Ben Lomond, rise dramatically in the distance

• Tranquil lochs reflect the surrounding scenery in their glassy waters

• Wildlife, such as red deer and birds of prey, can be spotted in their natural habitats.

Dining and Refreshment Stops

Midway through the captivating bike tour, cyclists stop for a well-deserved lunch at a local cafe featuring traditional Scottish fare. The menu showcases a delightful array of heartwarming dishes, from creamy Cullen skink soup to savory haggis, neeps, and tatties. To quench their thirst, riders can sip on refreshing locally-sourced beverages, such as Irn-Bru or Scottish ales.

| Menu Item | Description |

| — | — |

| Cullen Skink | Creamy smoked haddock soup |

| Haggis, Neeps, and Tatties | Minced sheep offal, swede, and potatoes |

| Irn-Bru | Traditional Scottish carbonated soft drink |

| Scottish Ales | Locally-brewed beer |

After the satisfying meal, the group heads out for the final leg of the Trossachs adventure.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Cancellation Policy for the Tour?

The tour has a free cancellation policy. Customers can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. This provides flexibility for participants to adjust their plans without penalty.

Are There Any Age or Fitness Level Restrictions?

The tour is not suitable for individuals with certain health conditions or low fitness levels. Participants should be able to ride a bike, though e-bikes are recommended for those with lower fitness confidence.

Can I Bring My Own Bicycle Instead of Renting One?

Participants can’t bring their own bicycle for this tour. The tour provider includes a bicycle and helmet rental as part of the package. Using the provided equipment ensures proper sizing and maintenance for the safety and enjoyment of all participants.

Are There Any Dietary Accommodations for the Lunch?

The tour provider doesn’t specifically mention dietary accommodations for the lunch. However, they note the lunch features "traditional Scottish fare," so participants with dietary restrictions should contact the provider in advance to inquire about any special menu options.

How Much Time Is Allocated for Stops and Breaks During the Tour?

The tour allows ample time for stops and breaks, with a lunch stop at a local cafe featuring traditional Scottish fare. The duration of the tour is 7.5 hours, so participants can expect multiple opportunities to rest and take in the scenery.

The Sum Up

The Trossachs National Park: Gateway to the Highlands Bike Tour offers an unforgettable cycling adventure through Scotland’s stunning landscapes. Participants can expect an exhilarating 7.5-hour journey, featuring serene lochs, picturesque forests, and the opportunity to spot local wildlife. The tour includes a traditional Scottish lunch and an ice cream treat, making it a well-rounded experience for those seeking a moderate cycling challenge amidst the natural beauty of the Trossachs region.

You can check availability for your dates here: