Loch Ness 360 (5-day tour)

Overview

Distance: 127km / Elevation gain: +1760m

The Loch Ness 360° takes you on a full circumnavigation of one of the most famous lakes in the world. Nestled in the northern reaches of the Great Glen, it is an area rich in both natural and man-made wonders, making it one of the most historically and geologically fascinating regions of the UK. 

Starting and finishing in the Highland Capital of Inverness, you will experience both the quieter and underrated southern side and the more popular, more technical northern slopes of the Loch. 

From tranquil canal side gravel paths to single track trails and forestry roads, prepare for relaxing flat sections to your fair share of challenging hill climbs and exhilarating descents. Breathtaking views between every break in the trees and warm Scottish hospitality make this tour a journey you will never forget.

For a different paced version of this trip, you can opt for an e-bike or alternatively, check out our Loch Ness 360° 6-day tour!

 

Itinerary

Arrive in Inverness

Welcome to Inverness! Your adventure starts here. Known as the Highland Capital, it has faithfully guarded the Northern entrance to the Caledonian Canal for 200 years. This beautiful city should meet your every last minute shopping needs. If you’re keen on a hearty meal and a nice drink, there are plenty of restaurants and bars to choose from, too. Don’t forget to pick up your trusty bike before you settle in for the evening!

Enjoy your rest and get ready for a stunning day of cycling tomorrow!

Inverness - Fort Augustus

Distance: 55.2km / Elevation gain: +512m

Your first day takes you along the glorious Southern side of Loch Ness, via a combination the South Loch Ness Trail and Route 78 of the UK’s National Cycle network. Be sure to absorb the views across the water – an insight into what awaits you over the next two days.

The route quietens down quickly once you are out of the city and with the majority of today’s cycling being on a good road surface, the miles fly by. Keep an eye out for squirrels darting across the path – they’re very common on this side of the lake! The trail sections of today’s ride are stunning and have a distinctly different feel to their northern counterparts.

Once you are out of Foyers, you steadily start to climb to the highest point of the day. From here, prepare for an exhilarating descent down into Fort Augustus – ending your day’s adventure on a cyclist’s high!

Fort Augustus - Drumnadrochit

Distance: 35.6km / Elevation gain: +758m

You kick off with undulating forest roads that lead you to your first destination – Invermoriston; an opportunity to rest the muscles and step off track to have a good look at Invermoriston falls and the stone circle nearby. 

A big climb awaits, and soon after the choice to take the High or Low route on your next leg. We highly recommend opting for the Low route on the bike as the high section is best suited for those on foot. The biggest hills of the day are saved for the last half, so pace yourself and take as much rest as you need (this is where the Electric Mountain Bikes really come in handy!). 

A final, speedy road and short woodland section bring you into Drumnadrochit and your home for the evening. A lovely place to spend the night, absorbing your accomplishments of the day.

Drumnadrochit - Inverness

Distance: 36.3km / Elevation gain: +493m

We’re almost there! Some challenging climbing awaits you in the first half of your final stretch, but what goes up must come down, and you will soon be treated to plenty of glorious downhill riding. 

Be prepared to get off your bike and push up the technical hilly sections of the route if they prove too challenging, but there is great news in the form of cake, tea and coffee at the end of the hardest part. Do consider dropping into the wonderful Abrachian Forest campsite outdoor cafe on your way through – surprises await you!

The rest of the ride into the highland Capital involves a real treat in downhill cycling. Your final few kilometres back into Inverness culminate in a finish line at the foot of Inverness castle – the perfect ending to a wonderful adventure.

End of adventure & onward travel

Your Loch Ness 360° tour ends here with memories that will last a lifetime!

includes & excludes

Price includes

  • 4 nights accommodation in charming B&Bs, Guesthouses and Hotels
  • A hearty breakfast each morning
  • Luggage Transfers from one accommodation to the next
  • Detailed itinerary, GPX files and printable maps of your route
  • Tips on local attractions, history & evening meals

Price excludes

  • Flights and transfers to and from the trail heads
  • Lunches & Dinners
  • Insurance
  • Bike rental (costs are added once you select your preferred bike type during the booking process)

Price

From €589/PPS*
5 days / 4 nights

Highlights

  • Circumnavigate the great Loch Ness – home to Nessie, the world famous monster!
  • Experience one of the country’s most beautiful Glens
  • Go back in time and get lost in the ruins of ancient castles
  • Marvel at sections of the man-made Caledonian Canal which runs for 60 miles between Fort William and Inverness
*Cost per person sharing. Additional charges are imposed for cyclists booking a single room for themselves.
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