Adventourus Active Vacations

8 day Independent tour

The region of Perthshire is probably one of the most beautiful in Scotland. The Highland fault which was formed during the ice ages runs diagonally west-east through the region. To the north are mountains and many lakes (Lochs) and to the south, flat farm lands.

Our route follows the geological fault giving spectacular scenery, with crystal clear lochs affording mirror like pictures of the surrounding mountains. The road and tracks we follow are mostly in the valleys. This region was also made famous by the Clan Chief Rob Roy McGregor who fought against the English during the 18th century and the so called Jacobite rising of the Clans. After this period it was forbidden to wear Highland Dress!

Arrive in Pitlochry a bustling highland town in the heart of the highland Perthshire countryside surrounded by mountains. Arrive early and visit the fish and dam ladder where salmon make there way upstream to lay eggs. Maybe also visit one of the local whisky distilleries or just take a relaxing walk by the river.

Today you cycle east up the gentle climb out of the town. Remember to stop and look behind you at the superb mountains scenes behind you. Eventually the climb becomes worthwhile with a scenic eight mile descent down the valley which seems to be a mass of different shades of greens, browns and purple heathers. Todays route is pretty remote and typical of the landscapes of Scotland. Various optional routes allow you to cross one of the stunning Angus Glens where time seems to stand still and with the Grampian mountains behind you each corner will provide a new visual delight. Today is really about wild beautiful Scottish scenery.

Day 3: Alyth to Kirriemuir (35-48 km)

Following the lower farm lands as you cycle east with the Grampian mountains providing a wonderful northern scenic splendor. Visit Glamis castle which is everything a castle should be. It was the setting of Shakespeare’s Macbeth and also the birth place of HM the Queen Mother. Once your visit is complete make your way to your hotel. Afterwards you can take an optional ride up the stunning Glen Clova one of the fabulous Angus Glens.

Leaving Kirriemuir the birth place of James Barrie the author of Peter Pan you cycle south along the undulating lanes, eventually approaching the Tay river and Dundee. Visit the Discovery centre and the berth of the restored HMS discovery before continuing across the Tay bridge. Check into your hotel before continuing with the optional route to St. Andrews. This university town is full of history with its abbey , castle , cobbled streets with ancient houses and of course the famous links being the home of golf.

Continue along the shores of the river Tay, mainly using part of the national cycle network to Perth. Along this route you can detour to Falkland Palace once a Royal residence and wonder at the fantastic architecture and internal decorations. The Palace also has some wonderful gardens. Check into your accommodation and explore the wonderful City of Perth.

A day to relax around the city with many non cycling activities to occupy you or cycle out to Scone Palace. Scone Palace is full of treasures and a must for those interested in Scottish History. The palace was the crowning point of all past Scottish Kings and Queens and the famous Stone of Destiny which was once in the gardens has now been returned to Scotland after the devolution of Scotland from England. You can spend most of the day exploring the castle and gardens before continueing your short circular ride.

Day 7: Perth to Pitlochry (45-56 km)

Following the national cycle network north along small lanes towards the historic town of Dunkeld. Dunkeld is one of Scotland’s oldest towns with many protected houses dating to the 1700's.

As you cycle north you start to see the Grampian mountains come back into view providing a magnificent target to cycle towards. Soon you will arrive to Pitlochry where you can take a well earned rest and last dinner in one of the many nice resturants in town.

Your tour is complete after breakfast, drive 8 miles north and visit Blair Castle before you leave the area. The Castle is Scotland’s most visited castle and its sparkling white turrets shine out against the greens and purples of the heather clad mountains.

PRICE & DETAILS

DEPARTURE DATES:

Every Saturday from April 7th to October 6th.

- 7 nights in excellent quality, family run guesthouses and hotels rated 3 star; all rooms with private facilities.

- Personal welcome meeting and distribution of tour information

- Breakfast each day.

- Luggage transport from hotel to hotel.

- Maps with indicated routes, detailed route description, tourist information about places of interest.

- 21 speed Trek hybrid bike with pannier.

- 7 day Service Hotline

EASY TO MODERATE: The route is generally flat or undulating alongside the Lochs, all on quiet back roads or cycle paths. No day is longer than 45km, with some accents on the optional rides.

The nearest international airports are Edinburgh or Glasgow. We can arrange transfers from Edinburgh Airport on Saturdays.

Return from Pitlochry to Edinburgh by train, fare approx. $25,-, leaves around 11 a.m. – 13.20 arrival.

Arrivals into Glasgow Prestwick airport: Take the train to Stirling, last train around 19.30, train every hour, fare around $25,-, then by local bus or Taxi to Callander (taxi can be pre-arranged but paid locally, approx. £15,-) Return journey: Train from Pitlochry – Glasgow Prestwick leaves 11 a.m., arrives at the airport 15.45, fare around $45,-.