Cycling, MTB and E-Bikes
Discover so much on two wheels
We are not sure where to even start telling you about the amazing cycling opportunities available in Inverness and Loch Ness, there is genuinely something for everyone... even if you don't have a bike, don't worry, we have you covered!
Trails for mountain biking, scenic routes for relaxedcand road cycling, gravel bike fun, E-bike hire and guided experiences are all available. We also have some great bikes races if that is something you like to travel for.
Let us tell you more!
Guided routes
There is nothing better than local knowledge! Being able to discover a new destination and not miss all the hidden gems and be guided around the best routes and experiences possible whilst enjoying the sport you love, you can do just that in Inverness and Loch Ness with 42 Cycling.
42Cycling is a Highland cycle tour provider, founded and operated by experienced cycling professionals. They facilitate and provide road cycling tours, Highland mountain bike tours, group cycles, event support and corporate hospitality experiences - suitable for single cyclists, couples, families and large groups. What Kev, the owner of 42 cycling, doesn't know about cycling in all its forms in the area, doesn't need knowing.
From half day local guided experiences to challenging but VERY rewarding routes like the Loch Ness 360 by bike. Two day's of stunning cycling around the iconic Loch Ness with one night stay in Fort Augustus. Guaranteed out of this world views with plenty of chances to spot something mysterious in the deep waters.
Total of 80 miles with over 3000 metres of ascent, all equipment, accommodation, evening and breakfast meals provided and plenty of opportunity to experience Highland hospitality. This is just one of the quality experiences Kev offers in the destination
For something less strenuous but equally enjoyable, 42 cycling offer a great selection of half day guided tours to many scenic local locations. These include Dores, Foyers, Abriachan, the Great Glen Way, Fair haired Lads Pass and many more superb biking routes, not to mention the opportunity to stop for some cake and a coffee in local tea rooms or add on a boat ride on our famous loch.
Why try and figure out the best route when you can get inside knowledge from a local who is passionate about showing you the best the destination has to offer!
Bike & E-Bike Hire
No bike? No problem!
We have a number of bike and E-bike hire options in Inverness and Loch Ness for you to choose from.
INVERNESS BIKE HIRE
Ticket to ride based in Inverness have a fantastic fleet of bikes and E-bikes for hire. Drop-bar touring bikes, flat-bar touring bikes, hardtail mountain bikes and e-Bikes. Helmets, locks, lights, pumps and toolkits are supplied free with each hire.
42 Cycling have a fleet of a Cannondale Trail Neo 4 electric Mountain Bikes. Plenty ommpf to whisk you up steep climbs to stunning views, having fun with a slick descent back down. They also hire Mountain bikes.
DRUMNADROCHIT E-BIKE HIRE
The Loch Ness hub have a fleet of E-Bikes to hire from their central location in Drumnadrochit, meaning you can explore the stunning scenic area on two wheels and get further in the time you may have on foot.
Baggage Transfer and Transport services
If you are planning multi day routes and need assistance with baggage or transport there are some really helpful local baggage services available to make your cycling adventure easier to navigate.
Ticket to ride in Inverness offer both baggage and transport services. The baggage service covers the Great Glen Way, between Inverness and Fort William and all the way around Loch Ness. For transport there are many options available depending on your requirements, you can check their website for more detailed information.
The Loch Ness Hub and Travel offer the very same services from their base in Drumnadrochit. Baggage transfers for The Great Glen Way, Affric Kintail Way and Loch ness 360, full and partial options also available. They also have an 8 seater minibus for transfers to various locations including airport transfers and more, you can find out the full offering via their website.
Cycling Routes and Maps
We are sure that you will have your routes planned out on Strava or similar, but we have some really useful route planning resources that will help you plan your cycling adventures.
Ticket to ride have a selection of self guided routes ready made for you, these include Inverness routes, Loch Ness 360, Great Glen Wat and more. You will find them HERE.
Developing mountain biking in Scotland is an amazing resource for trail maps, route apps and ride guides, as well as practical information for cyclists who are in the Inverness and Loch Ness area.
The Active Travel Hub provides a wealth of information and advice on all things walking, wheeling, and cycling for anyone looking to make more of their journeys by active travel in Inverness.
Kev, owner at 42 Cycling has kindly shared some local routes from his Strava for use.
Caledonian Canal Ride - Cycling Route 16.75 miles
Beauly Abriachan, Carn n Leitire - MTB Trail 30.48 miles
Caledonian Canal and Loch Ness Tour - Cycling Route 32.2 miles
Cycling friendly and Local Cycling Community
There is nothing better than knowing where is cycling-friendly and where you can go if you need local support.
Velocity Cafe in Inverness is a social enterprise that combines three worlds; a vegetarian café, bicycle workshop and a range of projects to promote health, wellbeing and sustainability. They are the creators of the Active Travel hub which is an outstanding resource for information and advice on active travel in Inverness.
Camerons Tearooms in Foyers on the South side of Loch ness is famous for being a cyclists stop off due to the wonderful cycling routes and trails close by. You will see the collection of cycling tops the are celebrated on the walls of the cafe when you treat yourself to a well deserved lunch or coffee and cake stop.
Hydrating on the go!
It's essential to keep hydrated when exploring and the fresh water top up scheme is a great way to get access to fresh highland water to fill up your water bottles!
Find the locations across Inverness and Loch Ness where you can top up your water bottle for free on our useful map.
Need more cycling inspiration?
Read about the cycling offering in Inverness and Loch Ness
Sporting Events in Inverness and Loch Ness
Do you love to find new races and discover a new destination at the same time?
Sustainable Travel
Do you love to travel as sustainably conscious as possible? Learn more about sustainable travel in our destination.