There’s a reason they call Scotland one of the world’s most remarkable natural playgrounds.
Long, open roads gently weave their way through mile after mile of rich, green fields, flourishing forests filled with flora, fauna and native wildlife, and acres of still waters which glisten in the gentle glow of sun and moon like something straight out of a fairy tale.
Altogether, this makes the country an idyllic place to visit for any kind of getaway, but when it comes to cycling holidays, Scotland truly is in a world all of its own.
Planning to join us for a two-wheeled adventure of your own this year? Here, the team behind the Dunalastair Hotel Suites in Kinloch Rannoch have put together six quick-yet-essential tips designed to help you plan the ultimate cycling break.
1: Be Realistic yet Adventurous
With limited time before you have to pack up the bike and head back to the real world, nobody could blame you for wanting to squeeze as much into your Scottish cycling holiday as you possibly can.
Yet in attempting to do just that, many novice cyclists find themselves trying to tackle routes which prove so demanding they sap all the fun out of what is ultimately supposed to be an enjoyable, exhilarating experience.
Sure, on the face of it, that five-hour ride looks perfect for a pleasant day out, but if large parts mean heading up steep hills and over rough terrain, you may find the right turns out to be more painful than pleasurable, especially if those are the kind of rides you’re not used to.
Not that anybody’s saying you have to take it easy.
The sheer wealth of both on and off-road cycling routes in Scotland means there’s always a new adventure waiting for you that is both challenging and rewarding, no matter what you’re skill level.
Think carefully about what you can realistically take on, and plan the adventure of a lifetime around that.
2: Pack Light, but Be Prepared
Part of the appeal of any cycling holiday in Scotland is the chance to head out into the glorious fresh air and enjoy a newfound sense of freedom.
After all, there’s nothing quite like the sensation of the wind rushing through your hair as you speed down long, open roads, conquering hills and soaring through valleys en route, liberated with a feeling of being completely unburdened.
Yet if there’s one thing guaranteed to hinder that sense of freedom and liberation, it’s weighing yourself down with a heavy rucksack and bulging panniers.
Instead, pack light, including only essential items like a layer of waterproof clothing, enough food for your ride, a fully-charged mobile phone and, of course, a puncture repair kit in case things go wrong.
Speaking of which…
3: Learn the Basics of Bicycle Maintenance
Cycling is such a popular pastime here in Scotland that if you run into a problem close to a town or sizeable village, there’s a good chance that you’ll find a bicycle repair shop.
However, let’s not forget that Scotland is a big place with vast amounts of remote wilderness.
Whilst that’s undoubtedly a good thing in as much as it means you often have those long, open-roads and beautiful surroundings to yourself, it also means you run the risk of picking up a flat tire miles away from anywhere.
As such, it pays to arm yourself with not only the aforementioned puncture kit, but also a pump, a set of Allen keys, and some basic knowledge about what to do if something goes wrong.
4: Keep Hydrated
There are few things more delightful than a Scottish cycling break during the summer months.
Those long, undisturbed hours of daylight, the beautiful warm weather and bright, radiant sunshine all help set the scene for what could truly prove to be the holiday of a lifetime, but only if you take good care of yourself whilst out on the road.
Hours spent riding in the warm weather can easily make you dehydrated, which can make you ill enough to ruin your entire holiday.
Having said that, be sure to take plenty of water with you and drink regularly.
On a similar subject, don’t forget your sunscreen. With the weather we’re having lately, you’re going to need it!
5: Stop and Take It All In
There’s a lot to be said for the sheer thrill of an exhilarating bike ride.
Few things make you feel so alive as simply heading out with nothing more than your friends or loved ones and the road ahead, but don’t forget to stop and savour the moment every now and again.
Whether you head off-road to enjoy a moment by the tranquil waters of a nearby loch, explore an ancient castle, or break out the camera and spend some time capturing one of Scotland’s many spectacular landscapes, those moments you spend simply taking in your surroundings can serve as the real highlights of your Scottish cycling break.
6: Look for Accommodation Close to Your Favourite Cycling Routes
You’ve planned a holiday specifically to spend as much time as you can cycling, so the last thing you want is to have to waste precious hours getting to your favourite routes.
Rather, you want to be up early, fuel up on a delicious, freshly-prepared breakfast and hit the open road, ready to really make the most of your day and still be back in time for an equally-as-delicious dinner.
Based in the heart of Perthshire, close to many of the Highland’s most popular cycling routes, the award-winning Dunalastair Hotel Suites is proud to announce the details of our exclusive special offer on summer cycling breaks in Scotland.
For a limited time only, enjoy two nights luxury accommodation in a five-star hotel with continental breakfast on both mornings, freshly prepared packed lunches for two guests, a map detailing the popular Loch Rannoch circular cycle route and a complimentary iced tea, all from only £200 per room per night.
If needed, we’ll even include half a day’s cycling hire at no extra charge.
This very special offer is based on two adults sharing a deluxe suite, and is available only until September 30th, 2018.
Book yours online today, or call now on +44 (0)1882 580444.