Bike tour through the green Highlands

Welcome to Callander – the "Gateway to the Highlands". This charming town on the edge of Loch Lomond & Trossachs National Park will set you up perfectly for the days ahead. Stroll along the River Teith, visit small galleries or enjoy a pint in a quaint pub. If you like, take a short trip into the surrounding area - for example to the Bracklinn Falls Circuit. The rolling hills and rugged rock formations all around give you a first impression of the diverse landscapes that await you on your bike tour through the green Highlands.

Your first circular tour takes you right into the heart of the Trossachs – a region that enchanted Theodor Fontane and Sir Walter Scott. Cycle along Loch Venachar to the wild and romantic Loch Katrine, which is surrounded by mountains and forests. Rob Roy, the famous Scottish freedom fighter, once lived here. A highlight is the trip on the historic steamboat "Sir Walter Scott" (not included, advance booking recommended), where the captain will chat about the country and its people with great wit. Or you can cycle around the lake on a paved cycle path – spectacular views guaranteed. Nature, history and enjoyment make this day unforgettable.

A relaxed cycle tour today takes you to historic Doune Castle – an impressive fortress with an eventful past. Perhaps the castle looks familiar to you? No wonder – it served as the backdrop for "Outlander", "Game of Thrones" and Monty Python. The way there leads through wide fields and small villages where life pulsates at a leisurely pace. Along the way, you may come across a few shaggy Highland cattle or the sound of bagpipes. If you feel like it, take a detour to the Deanston Distillery and let yourself be initiated into the secrets of whisky distilling on a guided tour. Or visit the beautiful cathedral of Dunblane, one of the few remaining medieval churches in Scotland.

You leave Callander on a quiet cycle path heading north. After just a few kilometers, it is worth stopping at the Falls of Leny, where the water tumbles wildly over the rocks. Along the idyllic Loch Lubnaig, you can enjoy wonderful views of the water and mountains. A detour takes you to Balquhidder, where the famous Rob Roy is buried – a simple place steeped in history in the middle of the Highlands. The route then takes you over the gently ascending Glen Ogle Pass with sweeping views of the hilly landscape. Your destination is Killin, picturesquely situated at the Falls of Dochart, where the water flows roaring through the village – an ideal place for a relaxing evening on your bike tour through the green Highlands.

Today you have the choice: either you cycle along the southern shore of Loch Tay, with sweeping views over the elongated loch. A visit to the Scottish Crannog Center provides exciting insights into life in Bronze Age pile dwellings. The pretty village of Kenmore also invites you to take a break. The route over a pass into the remote Glen Lyon – one of the longest and most pristine valleys in Scotland – is a little more sporty. Both options take you through Fortingall, where you can marvel at what is probably the oldest yew tree in the world. Finally, Castle Menzies, once the seat of the clan of the same name, and the historic bridge over the Tay, built in the 18th century for General Wade, await you. Your destination is charming Aberfeldy.

Today you have the choice between a shorter and a longer route. The direct route takes you on quiet paths through gently rolling hills directly to Pitlochry, where you can arrive early and enjoy the charming town at your leisure. The longer option takes you via Dunkeld, a village steeped in history with roots dating back to the 6th century. After its destruction in 1689, it was lovingly rebuilt. Today, its old cathedral and charming alleyways invite you to linger. The route then continues through wooded landscapes to Pitlochry, which delights with its Victorian charm, small stores and cozy cafés. A relaxing end to an eventful day on your bike tour through the green Highlands.

Today is all yours – and there are many ways to spend it. You can explore Pitlochry at your leisure, take a stroll or visit Blair Castle, which lies to the north of the town. The magnificent castle with its gardens and stag antler hall is one of the most beautiful aristocratic residences in Scotland. Alternatively, there are various cycle routes in the surrounding countryside, such as a tour along Loch Faskally or a more sporty ride through the wooded Highlands. No matter what you choose – this day offers you time to pause, enjoy and marvel.

After an eventful week full of impressions, views and exercise, it's time to say goodbye today. Perhaps you would like to extend your stay for a few more days or combine your journey home with a visit to Edinburgh. Either way, the memories of your bike tour through the green Highlands will stay with you for a long time to come.