Scotland’s Castle Crusade

Arrive in Pitlochry a bustling town in the heart of the highland Perthshire countryside surrounded by mountains. If you arrive early you can visit the fish and dam ladder. This concrete ladder rises beside a dam which will allow salmon to make their way upstream to lay their eggs. You could also maybe visit one of the local whisky distilleries such as Bell or Edradour or just take a relaxing walk by the river.  For the romantics why not take a rowing boat out on the local lake!

Today you cycle east up the gentle climb out of the town. Eventually, the climb becomes worthwhile with a scenic eight-mile descent. This route is very remote and typical of the landscapes of Scotland. There are various optional routes available which allow you to cross to one of the stunning Angus Glens where time seems to stand still and with the Grampian Mountains behind you. Each corner will provide a new visual delight. Today is really about the wild beautiful Scottish scenery. Tonight you shall stay in either Alyth or Kirriemuir.

Leaving from Alyth you follow the lower farmlands as you cycle east with the Grampian mountains providing a wonderful northern scenic splendour. Soon you will arrive in the village of Glamis here you can visit Glamis castle which is everything a castle should be. It was the setting of Shakespeare’s Macbeth, also the birthplace of HM the Queen Mother. It has been the home of the Lyon family since the 14th century. Princess Margaret the Queen’s sister was born there. The guided tour of the castle is worthwhile to learn about the history of this great place. The gardens are particularly lovely and worth a walk to explore.  Once your visit is complete you will make your way north and then finally west towards Alyth, with stunning views of the Grampian mountains on your right shoulder. If you stayed in Kirriemuir you shall first cycle west to Alyth.

Leaving Alyth or Kirriemuir you will cycle south along the undulating lanes with lovely countryside views, eventually approaching the River Tay and Dundee. After checking into your hotel why not visit the Discovery Centre which has the RRS Discovery the ship used by Captain Scott on his race to the south pole in the early 1900’s, indeed the ship was built in Dundee.  Dundee has a historic past but also is a vibrant city.  The Victoria and Albert museum on the waters front is interesting to visit.

Today you have an out-and-back ride that will take you to St Andrews, a historic gem. St Andrews was once a Royal Burgh and is home to the 3rd oldest university in the English-speaking world! You can visit the Priory, castle, many quaint cobbled streets, sea life centre, lovely coastal walks and not forgetting those golf courses. The most famous of which is the Old Course where golfers worldwide pay huge amounts of money for the chance to play the course. It is part of the Royal and Ancient Golf Club founded in 1754. After your visit, you shall cycle back to Dundee.

Today your cycle tour continues along the shores of the River Tay, mainly using part of the National Cycle Network to Perth. Along this route, you can detour to Falkland Palace; which was once a Royal residence and wonder at the fantastic architecture and internal decorations. The Palace also has some wonderful gardens. Falkland Palace was a royal palace of the Scottish Kings. Today it is under the stewardship of The Marquess of Bute. After your visit continues onto Perth, check into your accommodation and explore the wonderful City of Perth.

If you have selected the 6-night tour today will depart today.  On the 7-night cycle tour a day to relax around the city with many non-cycling activities to occupy you or if you want to cycle some more then you can cycle out to Scone Palace. Scone Palace is full of treasures and a must for those interested in Scottish history. The palace was the crowning point of all past Scottish Kings and Queens and the famous Stone of Destiny which was once in the gardens has now been returned to Scotland after the devolution of Scotland from England.

Depart after breakfast.