If gravel riding is about adventure, wilderness and riding into remote places then Scotland must be one of the best destinations to explore by gravel bike. Few roads connect the main towns and cities across much of Scotland but head off the tarmac and there is a whole natural world to discover of hidden coastlines, ancient Caledonian pine forests, shimmering lochs, heather-clad hills and deep mountain valleys. Not to mention the traces of centuries old historic sites, castles and old drover’s roads to explore.
The question is where to begin? These two multi-day gravel riding tours offer up the perfect blend of adventure and holiday comfort – days spent exploring wild trails and admiring rugged Scottish landscapes, followed by evenings spent enjoying warm Scottish hospitality and a comfortable night’s sleep in a cosy BnB or country inn.
Trossachs and Tayside Trails
In a nutshell: New for 2026, Trossachs and Tayside Trails is the perfect escape if you’re looking for a gravel adventure without too much technical riding.
Why we love it: From the heart of Loch Lomond and the Trossachs National Park to the legendary forest trails of Aberfeldy and Dunkeld, you’ll enjoy a delicious blend of some of the best gravel riding in Scotland over 5 riding days. The network of scenic forest trails around Aberfoyle are fast becoming a hotspot for gravel enthusiasts, and it’s easy to see why. After sampling a few of them for yourself and stopping to admire the views of Ben Lomond, you’ll ride through the magnificent Glen Ogle with its famous viaduct. Pedalling past a serene Loch Tay you’ll soon find yourself in another biking hotspot – the Tay Forest. Here you’ll be treated to yet more gravelly goodness, looping round our favourite and most scenic trails before celebrating the end of your off-road adventures in the charming town of Dunkeld.
The riding: Picture serene forest tracks, lochside paths and the odd hill climb and grassy singletrack descent to you keep you on your toes. Graded 2-3 out of 5, this has aspects of both our grade 2 and 3 holidays and is a gentle / moderate gravel riding holiday suited to regular cyclists with off-road riding experience.
More holiday highlights: This part of Scotland is famed for natural beauty and wildlife. You might spot a red squirrel or even an osprey. Rolling alongside Loch Tay you’ll have the opportunity to visit the reconstructed ‘crannogs’ (Iron Age loch dwellings) of the Crannog Centre. Then in Aberfeldy you can enjoy a ‘golden dram’ from the distillery which has been running for 125 years. Your journey through time continues as you pedal towards Dunkeld with time to visit The Hermitage and the Birnam oak, one of the oldest remaining trees from the forest that inspired Shakespeare’s MacBeth.
About the tour: This is a self-guided holiday using a navigation app. You can choose your own dates and set your own pace for you and your riding partner on each day. Accommodation is a mix of quality B&Bs, and hotels including breakfast, and luggage transfers are provided.
More About Trossachs and Tayside Trails
Wild About Argyll
In a nutshell: One of our most popular guided gravel riding holidays with a mix of sublime coastal trails and wild forest tracks along Scotland’s spectacular ‘Adventure Coast’ in Argyll.
Why we love it: Variety is the spice of life, and this weeklong holiday with 5 riding days delivers a brilliant blend of trails through ever-changing and beautiful landscapes. Leaving Loch Lomond, you’ll head west to explore the tranquil glens, sea lochs and epic coastlines of Argyll. A combination of forest tracks, a few cheeky hill climbs and plenty of off-road trails unlocks incredible views and there’s a real sense of escaping off-the-beaten-track. The routes have been carefully selected for their scenic cycling, challenging segments and fun descents – perfect if you’re looking to push off-road handling skills whilst enjoying a proper adventure in the wilderness with the support of a guide team and van.
The riding: Expect a bit of everything from hard-packed forest tracks to loose rocks, grassy singletrack and muddy trails. This is a grade 3 out of 5 ‘moderate’ gravel riding holiday, which makes ideal for regular riders with off-road riding experience.
More holiday highlights: Aside from the first-class riding there is so much to enjoy. Along the west coast, you’ll be treated to magical sunset views at the end of a fun day in the saddle. The sea lochs are a draw for lots of wildlife and if you’re lucky you might even spot a white-tailed eagle. Loch Fyne is famed for its incredible seafood and many of the delicious whiskies from neighbouring Islay and Jura need little introduction. There are plenty of castles and historic sites along the route too, including Castle Sween, the oldest stone castle in Scotland.
About the tour: This is a guided group holiday with riding guides and a support van. Accommodation is a mix of country inns, lodges, B&Bs and small family-run hotels. Breakfast and picnic lunches are included, and transfers and luggage transfers are provided.
More on Wild About Argyll
Tips and What to Pack
When is the best time of year to go on a gravel riding holiday in Scotland?
Anytime between spring and autumn is a good time to plan your holiday in Scotland. The weather can be changeable at any time of the year so be prepared (see our kit recommendations below). The summer months (July and August) tend to be warmest but can also be prone to the pesky midge, although they only come out when there is very little wind.
What kind of bike is best for Scottish gravel riding?
We recommend a gravel bike with minimum 38mm width tyres. You could also use a hard tail mountain bike with minimally-treaded cross-country tyres. See our gravel riding FAQs for more information about bikes, kit and more.
Do I need to carry anything whilst on the bike?
Your luggage will be moved each day but it’s a good idea to carry a small number of essentials on the bike in a saddle bag. You could bring a small rucksack if you need more space to stash any extra layers or snacks.
What to pack for a cycling holiday in Scotland
In addition to your essentials like helmet, water bottle, bike spares, gloves, riding clothes, it’s a good idea to pack
- Sunscreen
- Riding glasses for both sunny and overcast days
- Midge repellent
- Warm layers and / or arm and leg warmers
- Waterproof and windproof jacket
- Personal first aid kit
Check out our 7 Kit Bag Essentials for more tips on what to pack
