In Scotland, every pedal stroke carries you deeper into landscapes shaped by ancient legends – past mist-laced lochs, over heather-clad hills, and along coastlines where the sea meets the sky in a symphony of blues.
At Bike Tours Scotland, we specialize in self-guided cycling tours that let you experience the country at your own pace. Whether you're looking for an exciting gravel ride, a beginner in cycling exploration or an experienced cyclist seeking a challenge, we take care of the details so you can focus on the road ahead.
We make your cycling journey effortless and unforgettable:
Cozy Accommodations: We book your cozy B&Bs and charming hotels so you can relax after long cycling days
Digital Guidebook & Itinerary: You will receive a detailed guide packed with route details, recommendations and must-see highlights
Expertly Curated Routes: All you have to do is follow stunning GPS-guided trails through Scottish landscapes
Round-the-clock Support: Even when you’re on the open road, you are never alone
Hand over the planning to us and let the open road lead you through awe-inspiring landscapes of Scotland.
What Makes Cycling in Scotland Unforgettable?
Scotland is justifiably known as one of the most beautiful destinations in the world. An overlooked gem in the cycling world, it boasts several incredible routes that offer not only cycling challenges but also explorations of the country's captivating past. So what convinced us that Scotland is a must-see cycling destination?
1. Iconic Long-Distance Routes
Signposts will always show you the way
Scotland is home to some of the UK’s most scenic cycling trails, including the Caledonia Way and the Great Glen Way. These routes are well-marked and maintained, taking you past some of Scotland’s renowned sights, such as Loch Ness, through the Highlands and along the scenic west coast.
2. A Journey Through History
Uncover remnants of rich Scottish history at Urquhart Castle
Scotland’s cycling routes follow historic paths – many roads were once used by Jacobite rebels, medieval traders, and even Roman legions. Nowadays, you can easily stop at Blair Castle, home to the last remaining private army in Europe, or explore the haunting ruins of Urquhart Castle overlooking Loch Ness while exploring Scotland by bike.
3. Breathtaking Natural Wonders
From Glencoe to Cairnforms and the Scottish Isles, the nature is simply breathtatking
It is no secret that Scotland’s landscapes are one of a kind. You can cycle through Cairngorms National Park, home to ancient forests, vast moorlands, and towering peaks, or ride through the Highlands, where dramatic glens and shimmering lochs create unforgettable views.
4. Land of Legends and Folklore
Embrace the moody mystique of Loch Ness
In a country where myths and reality blend together, there’s an extra layer of magic to every ride. It’s not every day that you get to ride along the shores of Loch Ness, keeping an eye out for the legendary monster said to lurk beneath its waters.
5. Welcoming Cycling Culture
Wherever your bike takes you, you'll find well-maintained paths and welcoming people
Scotland is a cyclist-friendly destination, with well-maintained bike paths, supportive local communities, and accommodations that cater to riders. Whether you're stopping in a small village pub or a historic town to unwind after an intense day of cycling the North Coast 500 route, you’ll find warm hospitality, secure bike storage, and even cycling-friendly eateries ready to welcome you.
A Land of Cycling Challenges
Looking for your next cycling challenge? Scotland delivers. Climb winding roads through towering glens, tackle wild gravel rides across ancient landscapes, or test your skills on adrenaline-pumping MTB trails. Whatever your style, Scotland’s diverse terrain guarantees an epic ride!
This is where you can truly find something for everyone. From leisurely and moderate trails to epic road cycling adventures, the views combined with the thrill of the ride will quite literally take your breath away.
HANDPICKED ADVENTURES
Only the best adventures across the world, cherry-picked by our team with an in-depth knowledge of the regions.
SELF-GUIDED TRAVEL
Explore independently and with confidence while we keep everything running from behind the scenes.
VALUE YOUR TIME
With everything on your plate, let us handle the vacation planning, so your valuable time stays exactly where you need it.
TRUSTED BY MANY
Since 2014, we have taken care of thousands of happy customers, making it our mission to put your satisfaction first.
Frequently Asked Questions
Self-guided cycling tours provide a personalized and flexible approach to cycling holidays. You can explore at your own pace and adapt your route or schedule as you see fit. Our team arranges all details, such as logistics, accommodations, detailed itineraries, GPS routes, and round-the-clock support. This way, you can enjoy a stress-free, immersive experience that offers independence, customization, and authentic encounters with local culture.
Our tours are rated on a difficulty scale from 1 to 5 to help you choose the right adventure:
1/5 – Short daily distances of approximately 30 km. Easy, flat terrain suitable for everyone, including those with no prior sports experience.
2/5 – Daily distances up to 40 km. Some light uphill sections, up to 200 m, but not every day. Suitable for anyone in good health.
3/5 – Daily distances around 50 km. Daily altitude gains of up to 500 m. On days with less altitude, distances may be longer. Ideal for recreational cyclists in good physical condition.
4/5 – Daily distances of 60 km or more. Daily altitude gains of 500 m or more, with some stages reaching up to 1000 m. Designed for well-prepared amateur cyclists who are comfortable with uphill riding.
5/5 – Challenging stages with steep climbs and long distances. Suitable for experienced road cyclists seeking a demanding adventure along with breathtaking scenery.
We continuously strive to find the perfect fit for you. We work with multiple accommodation providers that meet our standards, but their availability can vary, especially during peak season. We can also tailor your holiday according to your preferences and budget, ensuring we find the most suitable solution for your taste.
You can find examples of accommodation level and style in the itineraries, but there is no guarantee you will be staying at those exact accommodations.
Our tours cater to different cycling preferences, whether you prefer road, gravel, or mountain biking. Our cycling experts will consider your experience, preferences, and group dynamics to provide tailored recommendations. Additionally, e-bikes are always an option. If group members significantly differ in fitness levels, some can choose an e-bike while others opt for a regular bike.
The most versatile option is a gravel bike. Gravel bikes maintain excellent road performance while allowing you to explore scenic backroads that may be less maintained than main routes. They also tend to offer greater comfort, enhancing your overall experience.
Considering many tours in Scotland cover relatively hilly terrain, many people opt for an e-bike for some additional assistance. If you opt for an e-bike, we ask that you have some previous experience as the bike can be difficult to maneuver for someone who isn’t used to it.
If you’re not bringing your own bike and equipment, we can arrange a rental for you. We offer a wide range of bikes, including road, gravel, mountain bikes, and e-bikes, to suit your tour needs. Simply provide us with your usual bike size and any specific preferences, and we’ll ensure you have the perfect bike for a comfortable ride.
Our bike rentals include the agreed-upon bike, delivery before your tour, and pickup afterward. Additional equipment is also provided, such as a helmet, an extra chain, a basic repair kit, and pedals if needed.
Accommodating dietary restrictions depends on their severity. Vegetarian options can be found in bigger cities, but vegan dishes can be challenging in rural areas or smaller towns. Please note that lunch stops are often at traditional establishments that may struggle to cater to special requests outside their standard menu. Keep this in mind during your trip.
Although Scotland can be cycled all year round, the summer and early autumn offer the best conditions, particularly from May to September. May and June in particular see little rainfall. September can be a bit wetter but much quieter, as it nears the end of tourist season. It is always sensible to prepare for adverse weather and rainfall when cycling in Scotland, even during these months.
Some northern sections, such as the Isle of Skye and the outer Hebrides will have colder temperatures overall, and a higher chance of rain or misty conditions.
Most tours can proceed even in light rain, provided you dress appropriately. Afternoon thunderstorms are common in the peak months of summer, so early starts are recommended. If the weather appears to be particularly unfavorable, we can adjust the tour beforehand. You will be in contact with our support in case last-minute changes are necessary.
Angie Osborne
Verifed customer
This tour met and exceeded our expectations. It was certainly challenging cycling for seniors but most of us did it all seven days. Scenery and culture of the islands was glorious. Guide and crew was superb!
Greg Martin
Verifed customer
Great holiday. Really easy to follow routes, good choice of hotels and the en route places to eat and visit was really helpful. Super responsive to questions during my holiday. Would definitely use them again.
Jenny Wright
Verifed customer
Our one week tour of Slovenia with these 3 young local guides surpassed all expectations! We travelled from Bled through the Sovenian Alps all the way to to coastal seaside Piran, through villages , on backroads ….it felt like riding through a story book….a delightful surprise around every turn . Our guides took care of our every need: charming accommodations, snacks every day at fantastic off beat locations, mid-ride. We covered 250 km over 5 riding days. The one day we were rained out, they quickly pivoted, and we were able to visit a wonderful historical national museum, which informed us so much in terms of the history in the Soča valley…So the day became not a write off but an educational experience! It was quite special to know the history of the Soča valley as we journeyed through the region, seeing the incredible geographical diversity of this beautiful country on excellent quality e-bikes. Highly recommend! Trip of a lifetime ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
+14
Chris Pyne
Verifed customer
First class company with a well planned route, great accommodation and simply outstanding support in time of trouble.
We did a two week ride from Bled to Pula in September 2023. Fair to say we hit a lot of problems courtesy of BA with rescheduled and diverted flights, lost bags, problems with our own bikes, returning rental bikes and more. Daja was simply amazing in helping us sort all of them out and was so accessible at all hours. She even managed to source and buy a forgotten Thru-axle and deliver it personally to our hotel, which is far and above any service i would reasonably expect. Thank you !!
Our accommodation was fantastic and far better than expected in all but one location.
The route planning in Slovenia was great but due to our decision to bring road bikes from the UK and the nature of the roads in Croatia, our second week was a bit tricky route wise and it would have been good to have had a discussion about this section beforehand. A Gravel bike is far better suited to Croatia although this was our decision to bring road bikes.
Transport arrangement and logistics were flawless.
Overall, i would change very little and we will definitely be returning to Slovenia. Daja was fantastic and I absolutely recommend Slovenia Cycling Holidays and will be using their services again.
+7
Filip Vercruysse
Verifed customer
Top Company, Top Tour ! We did the 7 days tour (from Alps to Adriatic), from Bled to Piran in august 2024 ! It was the best tour made in years. Amazing landscapes and nature, great accommodations and food and perfectly organised. Daja did really a perfect job ! she was allways available for questions or suggestions ! I would recommend this tour to everyone.
+6
Susan Weissberg
Verifed customer
The bike trip exceeded my expectations and was beyond fantastic. From Ljubljana to Bled with a guide through the Hidden Hills. Then my first solo self guided from the Alps in Bled to Piran in the Adriatic.
I can’t say enough about the Slovenia Cycling Holidays crew who gave me guidance and confidence to take out on my own. Not to mention the extraordinary routes that they mapped out.
Explore Scotland’s epic cycling routes, from the scenic Caledonia Way to rugged Highland gravel trails, with expert-planned self-guided bike tours.