- Overview
- Itinerary
- Key Places
- Essential Info
- Accommodation
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Scotland Far North Cycling Holiday
This 10-day guided cycling adventure explores the dramatic landscapes of Scotland’s far north, beginning in Inverness and tracing a route through ancient glens, coastal villages and vast Highland wilderness. From riding alongside Loch Ness to crossing the Black Isle and pedalling past Dunrobin Castle, the journey blends rolling hills, rewarding climbs and sweeping descents with ever-changing scenery.
Heading west, the route reveals rugged Atlantic coastline, white-sand beaches and panoramic views across the Summer Isles before reaching Ullapool and continuing south past Loch Maree. Quiet roads, historic landmarks and expansive Highland vistas create a cycling experience that combines physical challenge with the rich natural and cultural heritage of the Scottish Highlands.
Achiltibuie
The remote village of Achiltibuie, can only be accessed via hilly and twisting single track road. It represents the north west of Scotland from a bygone era before new roads forged pathways across the landscape. Your efforts to get here are rewarded by the beautiful natural mountain and coastal scenery.
It is the best known of a number of small settlements around the coast of western end of the Coigach Peninsula overlooking Badentarbet Bay to the west. Loch Broom and the Summer Isles (Tanera Mor, Tanera Beag and a couple of dozen smaller islands) that are no longer permanently inhabited, lie to the south. Some of the islands can be accessed from the pier at the north-western end of Achiltibuie.
The village lies to the south of the Northwest Highlands Geopark. It is a National Scenic Area and forms the northern boundary of the newly designated Wester Ross Marine Protected Area.
Inverness
Inverness lies at the north-eastern end of the Great Glen (Gleann Mòr). The city is the area’s largest metropolis and regarded as the capital of the Highlands. Meaning ‘mouth of the river Ness’ in Gaelic, the city is located where the Ness River flows out of Loch Ness into the Moray Firth (famous for its resident pod of Bottlenose dolphins). Inverness is near to two key historic battle sites: the 11th-century battle of Blàr nam Fèinne against Norway which took place on The Aird to the west of the city and the 18th-century Battle of Culloden (the last battle fought on British soil). Inverness Castle now stands were, legend has it, was once the seat of 11th Century Gaelic king Mac Bethad Mac Findláich who murdered king Donnchad Mac Crinain, as fictionalised by Shakespeare in ‘the Scottish play’.
There are many other historic buildings, notably in the Old Town and Victorian Market. St Andrew’s Cathedral, built from Red Tarradale stone, with a nave of five bays, divided by columns of Peterhead granite, has an imposing position on the River Ness. You can take a circular walk from the castle along the river and through the Ness Islands. Other attractions in the city include Inverness Museum & Art Gallery, tropical gardens at Inverness Floral Hall and a Titanic Inverness Maritime Museum.
Above the city lies Craig Phadrig, an ancient hill fort and once the stronghold of Pictish Kings. From here you can enjoy forest walks and magnificent views of the Moray Firth.
Discover more things to do in Inverness, Search on Kayak
Lochinver
Lochinver, in the Assynt district of Sutherland, sits amidst a spectacular scenery of dramatic high cliffs, waterfalls and hills. The Assynt Hills are reported to be the oldest in Britain and contain some of the great mountains of the north such as Suilven, Canisp, Quinag and Ben More Assynt.
Lochinver is Scotland’s’ second largest fishing port, a key industry to the local community. In the 1990s the harbour area was rebuilt and developed. The village is situated where the River Inver flows into the loch with dramatic views back across to Suilven’s peak and is a popular destination for hill walkers’, climbers and nature lovers. Local Birdlife includes the curlew, oyster catcher and hooded crow.
The Black Isle
The rolling landscapes of the Black Isle peninsula make a distinct contrast to the craggy mountains of North West Scotland. The Black Isle was once covered in dense forest. The population of the area is around 12,000. This watery headland is surrounded by the Cromarty Firth to the north the Beauly Firth to the south and the Moray Firth to the east (famous for its resident pod of Bottlenose dolphins which can be most easily seen from Chanonry Point between Fortrose and Rosemarkie).
The Black Isle was one of the first areas of the highlands to experience the clearances. The area had its own dialect used mainly by the fishing communities this died along with its last native speaker Boggy Hogg in 2012.
The isle is home to 2 distinctive RSPB nature reserves Fairy Glen an enchanting habitat of woodland songbirds and wild flowers and Udale Bay where you’ll find migratory pink-footed geese.
Ullapool
Located on the eastern shores of Loch Broom. Ullapool is a distinctive white fishing village designed and built in 1788 by Thomas Telford and the British Fisheries Society. The town is also the terminus for the ferry to Stornaway.
Although a small community of 1500, Ullapool is the largest settlement in the area and an important port and tourist destination. If the weather is good there are many walking routes in the area from coastal routes to inland footpaths. If you it is not so good the town has a beautiful museum based in a Grade A listed building where you can find out more about crofting, fishing, the “klondykers and other local history. There are also many inviting pubs in the town you can retreat to.
Itinerary
Your redspokes Scotland cycling tour begins in the vibrant Highland capital of Inverness. The city is well-connected, with flights arriving from across the UK and Europe, along with excellent coach and rail links. Taxis are readily available at the airport, coach, and rail stations to transfer you to your hotel.
Upon arrival, you’ll have a free afternoon to explore the area at your own pace. Discover the charm of Inverness Old Town, browse the Victorian Market, or visit the historic St. Andrew’s Cathedral. For a scenic option, take a circular walk from the castle, following the river and crossing the tranquil Ness Islands.
Accommodation: Hotel/B&B
The first day of your cycling tour from Inverness to Loch Ness starts with a gentle ride along mostly flat terrain for the initial 20 kilometers. The route gradually climbs as it reaches Dores, offering beautiful views of the loch. However, the real challenge begins after Foyers, where the profile reveals a series of steep ascents, peaking at around 300 meters. The demanding climbs reward cyclists with panoramic views before rolling over undulating terrain. As the route nears its end, there’s a long, exhilarating descent back to Inverness, a perfect way to wrap up the first day’s ride with a rush of speed and satisfaction.
Cycling Distance: 72 km (45 miles)
Cycling Ascent: 570 m (1,870 ft)
Accommodation: Hotel/B&B (B, L)
Today’s ride begins with a gentle section as we leave Inverness, heading towards Chanonry Point on the scenic Black Isle. The route features a short climb and descent around the 10 km mark, leading to one of the best coastal viewpoints for spotting dolphins, seals, and porpoises playing in the Moray Firth.
The real challenge of the day begins after Chanonry Point, as we tackle a significant climb reaching over 200 m around the 30 km mark. This rewarding ascent is followed by a long, thrilling descent as we approach Cromarty, the Highlands’ best-preserved historic town. Here, we take the iconic King’s Ferry across the Cromarty Firth to the village of Nigg. This ferry route, once traveled by King James IV, connects us to the quieter side of the Highlands.
From Nigg, we continue riding through peaceful farmland, passing the historic Shandwick Stone, a beautifully carved Pictish monument encased in glass for protection. The terrain flattens out as we cycle toward Balnagall, offering a relaxed ride with a mix of long, straight sections and gentle descents.
A final short climb brings us into the ancient town of Tain, Scotland’s oldest royal burgh. Here, you can explore its rich heritage, including a museum showcasing the stories of the ancient kings of Scotland who once visited this historic town.
Cycling Distance: 68 km (42 miles)
Cycling Ascent: 541 m (1,775 ft)
Accommodation: Hotel/B&B (B,L,S)
We start today’s ride with a gentle section passing the famous Glenmorangie distillery before crossing the Dornoch Firth on the A9 bridge. The route remains largely flat for the first 20 km as we reach Dornoch, a charming Edwardian resort town. We continue cycling northwards along the coast, hugging the shores of Loch Fleet, a Scottish heritage nature reserve teeming with diverse wildlife.
Around the 25 km mark, we encounter a few rolling hills as we ride another 7 miles inland to Dunrobin Castle, the largest in the Northern Highlands. With its fairytale French château design, beautiful gardens, and fascinating history, it’s the perfect spot for lunch and exploration.
After a well-deserved break, we begin a notable climb at approximately the 40 km mark. This steady 8 km (5 mile) ascent takes us through stunning, quiet backroads with rewarding views. Once at the top, the terrain levels out briefly before descending towards Lairg, where we finish today’s ride and settle into our accommodation.
Today’s route offers a mix of coastal flats, rolling hills, and one sustained climb, rewarding us with both history and spectacular Scottish scenery.
Cycling Distance: 71 km (44 miles)
Cycling Ascent: 560 m (1,837 ft)
Accommodation: Hotel/B&B (B,L,S)
This morning, our tour continues as we ride along scenic back roads through lovely, wooded areas beside the River Oykel, which flows down from Ben More through an impressive ice-carved valley. The route starts with a moderate climb in the first 10 km, reaching over 200 m, before descending steeply to more level terrain around the 20 km mark.
We continue through a rugged section of the Western Highlands, an area dotted with nature reserves that foster harmony between visitors and the environment. Around 25 miles in (40 km), we cycle alongside Loch Borralan, followed by some gentle rolling terrain before reaching the intriguing Bone Caves. Located on the limestone cliffs of Creag nan Uamh, these caves offer a fascinating glimpse into Scotland’s ancient past.
From here, the route flattens significantly over the next 15 miles, leading us toward Lochinver.
Cycling Distance: 72 km (45 miles)
Cycling Ascent: 570 m (1,870 ft)
Accommodation: Hotel/B&B (B,L,S)
After five rewarding days in the saddle, today is a flexible rest day to enjoy Assynt at your own pace.
- Easy cycle option: Ride out to Achmelvich Bay, a short, scenic spin on quiet roads leading to one of the area’s most beautiful white-sand beaches—perfect for a relaxed picnic or a paddle.
- Walking / hiking option: Strong walkers can take on Suilven, an iconic out-and-back hike across wild moorland with superb views from the summit (a full but very rewarding day).
- Take it easy: Stay local and enjoy gentle walks around Lochinver—along the harbour, coastal paths, or woodland trails beside the River Inver—followed by café stops and well-earned rest.
A chance to recharge, explore, or simply slow down before the journey continues.
Accommodation: Hotel (B)
Today’s ride is an undulating adventure filled with climbs, descents, and stunning coastal views. The route starts with short, rolling hills as we cycle south from Lochinver to Inverkirkaig, skirting the picturesque bay. We head inland through tranquil landscapes, climbing gently before descending to Loch An Arbhair at the 20 km mark.
We rejoin the coast briefly before tackling a mix of climbs and descents toward Loch Osgaig. By the mid-point, the terrain levels off as we cycle along Loch Ra and ride uphill toward the Achiltibuie loop.
Here, the route becomes an undulating mix of moorland roads with dramatic views across the Summer Isles. Passing through Achnahaird, Althandu, and Polbain, we encounter abandoned stone crofts and grazing sheep, soaking in the peace of this remote area. Achiltibuie, romantically named the “field of the yellow-haired boy,” marks the loop’s highlight with its serene beauty.
As we leave Achiltibuie, the ride takes us alongside Loch Vatachan and retraces our route past Loch Osgaig, before a twisting climb to Drumrunie. From here, enjoy a steep and exhilarating descent toward Strathcanaird, with stunning views of the Coigach Hills.
The final miles include one last climb near Ardmair, followed by a satisfying descent into the whitewashed fishing village of Ullapool, bringing an epic day in the saddle to a close. Ullapool is the largest settlement in the region and a key port as well as a popular base for visitors exploring the Highlands.
Cycling Distance: 74 km (46 miles)
Cycling Ascent: 915 m (3,004 ft)
Accommodation: Hotel (B,L,S)
Today’s ride offers a mix of dramatic climbs, thrilling descents, and breathtaking views. We start the day with a gentle ride along the shores of Loch Broom, warming up on relatively flat terrain for the first few kilometers. Soon, the route turns inland, and we begin a significant climb over the next 15 km, reaching an elevation of over 300 m as we ascend through the Corrieshalloch Gorge National Nature Reserve. This stunning area features dense forests and the roaring River Droma, cascading down a series of spectacular waterfalls.
From the peak, enjoy a rewarding and exhilarating long descent back to the coast, reaching the scenic shores of Little Loch Broom. The next section through Gruinard Bay offers a more relaxed ride with rolling hills and sweeping views of the rugged coastline.
As we approach the final section of the route, a few short, punchy climbs test our legs before leveling out near Loch Ewe. Just before reaching our final destination in Poolewe, a stop at the iconic Inverewe Gardens is highly recommended. This unique Atlantic Coast botanical garden showcases a variety of exotic plants, fostered by the Gulf Stream, and is also an excellent spot to observe red squirrels, otters, golden eagles, and sea eagles.
Cycling Distance: 79 km (49 miles)
Cycling Ascent: 998 m (3,275 ft)
Accommodation: Hotel/B&B (B,L,S)
Our final day of cycling begins with a series of short climbs and descents as we leave Poolewe, passing through moorland landscapes and enjoying peaceful coastal views. The first 10 km features undulating terrain, providing a scenic warm-up for the day.
We continue toward the picturesque village of Gairloch, nestled amidst rugged moorland and celebrated for its stunning scenery, considered some of the most beautiful in the British Isles. From here, the route becomes flatter as we ride toward Loch Maree, one of Scotland’s most iconic natural landmarks. With its 30 scattered islands, bordered by the towering peak of Slioch (3,215 ft) and ancient Caledonian pine forests, Loch Maree is home to diverse wildlife, including black-throated divers, sea eagles, otters, and even red deer known to swim between the islands.
As we head inland, the terrain remains relatively flat until 40 km, where the route begins a notable climb, rising over 200 m. The steady ascent rewards us with expansive views of the remote Highlands before leveling out into gentler terrain. The final section takes us through quiet backroads, leading us to the remote village of Achnasheen, where our cycling journey ends.
From Achnasheen, we board a scenic train transfer bound for Inverness, offering a relaxing and picturesque journey through the Highlands. On arrival in Inverness, we will transfer you to your accommodation where you can unwind and reflect on the week’s incredible adventures.
Cycling Distance: 56 km (35 miles)
Cycling Ascent: 672 m (2,205 ft)
Accommodation: B&B (B,L,S)
After a final hearty breakfast, your Highland cycling adventure comes to a close. Reflect on the unforgettable landscapes, historic towns, and shared memories with fellow cyclists. Whether heading home or exploring further, you leave Inverness with a sense of achievement and the beauty of Scotland firmly in your heart.
(B)
Essential Info
The Essential Information for this tour is currently unavailable.
Accommodation
The Scotland Far North Tour offers a welcoming mix of small Highland hotels, friendly guesthouses and cosy B&Bs, chosen for charm, warm hospitality and their location close to each day’s route. You’ll stay in a selection of traditional properties across Inverness, Tain, Lairg, Lochinver, Ullapool and Poolewe.
Across the Highlands, accommodation includes places such as Springfield Guest House, Woodland B&B, the characterful Poolewe Hotel, and traditional local lodges near the coast and lochs. Rooms are typically comfortable and en-suite, with hearty Scottish breakfasts, drying rooms for gear, and the kind of friendly service synonymous with the region.
Expect:
- Comfortable B&Bs, guesthouses and small hotels, full of Highland character
- Warm hospitality and home-cooked breakfasts, ideal after long days in the saddle
- Private rooms wherever possible, with en-suite facilities
- Stunning rural locations — from coastal villages to moorland valleys and loch-side towns
- Simple but charming stays in the most remote sections, always clean, friendly and well-loved by cyclists
Accommodation Level: comfortable
See our Accommodation Grading page for more details.
