The UK’s annual premier closed-road cycling race, passing right by your Scottish holiday accommodation at Dunalastair Hotel Suites
What is it?
Each May, cyclists from across Great Britain and beyond descend on Pitlochry for the Marie Curie Etape Caledonia; an epic, 81 mile, closed-road ride through the stunning remote countryside of Perthshire.
For avid cyclists and first-timers alike, the ride provides a unique opportunity to explore the Scottish Highlands up close and personal, whilst for spectators the festival atmosphere and live entertainment make Etape Caledonia a great family day out.
Where is it?
By far the biggest sporting event in Pitlochry, the Etape Caledonia starts and ends in the village itself.
In between, hundreds of cyclists climb no less than 1,196m, surrounded at all times by the captivating scenery and the kind of awe-inspiring backdrops that only the Scottish Highlands can provide.
The 81 mile trek sees riders scale the famously steep hill of Schiehallion, cross through the picture-perfect villages of Breadalbane and Atholl, and along the banks of both Kinloch Rannoch and Loch Tummel passing through Kinloch Rannoch and right past the doorstep of the Dunalastair Hotel Suites in Kinloch Rannoch. This is an ideal viewing point for spectators, as they are able to see the cyclists turn into the village before they head off to cycle around Loch Rannoch. Spectators can then once more cheer on the cyclists when they return to Kinloch Rannoch before heading up the steep climb around Schiehallion. It is then possible to head back by car to see the weary competitors cross the finish line in Pitlochry, approximately 40 minutes’ drive, accessible via the A9.
When is it?
Now entering its 11th year, The Curie Etape Caledonia takes place each year in May. Entries for the 2017 event will be open soon. For more information or to enter, visit: http://etapecaledonia.co.uk/
Inspired by the Etape Caledonia to dust off the mountain bikes and hit the road with your family? There’s nowhere better to stay for your next cycling holiday in Scotland than the Dunalastair Hotel Suites near Pitlochry today. See our website for our best available rates or give us a call on +44 (0)1882 580444