In Scotland, universal access to lands for recreational purposes makes riding easily accessible and mountain bikers are welcomed with open arms. The views across the landscapes were unforgettable. In Cairngorm National Park, we rode through wide open valleys and crystal clear rivers (so many times), through farmland with fuzzy cows and hundreds of little lambs. On the edge of Loch Morar, we challenged ourselves on wet, rocky climbs and finished the ride in a remote bay, where we were shuttled back to civilization by boat.
On Skye, our first experience with water bars tested our maneuvering skills, which luckily improved over the next few days, ensuring no carbon rims were harmed the remainder of the trip. Then came the true test, the Torridon day, without a doubt the week's climax. A challenging 7-hour ride over two mountain passes with technical singletrack, a punishing hike-a-bike, and exhilarating rocky descents. We were tested, but we passed and finished with mud-speckled grins.
It was an incredible week, and our guides, Chris and Kirsty went over and above each day to make the experience unique. From the perfectly curated itinerary to the accommodation selection, the food and restaurant recommendations, and the added touch of a whisky and gin tasting, we couldn’t have asked for more. Scotland, a'll be back!
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