Day of arrival - Renfrew
Riders begin their journey in various ways. Some arrive on their own motorcycles, enjoying a warm-up ride through the Scottish countryside, while others fly into one of Scotland’s major airports, such as Glasgow or Edinburgh. Regardless of the method of travel, all participants make their way to the Glynhill Hotel & Spa in Renfrew, located just a few miles from Glasgow Airport. This comfortable and well-appointed hotel serves as the gathering point for the start of the tour.
For those hiring motorcycles, the bikes will be waiting at the hotel, prepared and ready for the adventure ahead. The Glynhill offers secure parking and excellent facilities, making it an ideal base for the first night. As riders arrive throughout the day, there’s time to relax, settle in, and meet fellow tour participants.
In the evening, everyone comes together for a welcome dinner. This is a chance to get acquainted with the group, share stories, and review the itinerary for the days ahead. The tour guide will provide a briefing on the route, safety considerations, and what to expect during the journey. Whether you're a seasoned rider or new to touring, the atmosphere is friendly and inclusive.
With bikes ready and spirits high, riders can look forward to the first guided leg of the tour beginning the next morning. The adventure through Scotland’s stunning landscapes is about to begin.
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Renfrew to Pitlochry ~ 160 miles ~ 5 hours riding
For you first days riding we have route that blends loch views, forest passes, and Highland villages making it perfect for an introduction to some of Scotland’s most captivating landscapes from when we depart our hotel near Renfrew all the way to Pitlochry.
We begin with a bit of motorway to help riders adjust, to being on what will be to some, the wrong side of the road, and continues on dual carriageways as we cross the Erskine Bridge over the River Clyde and onwards beyond Dumbarton to the southern shores on Loch Lomond (Scotland’s largest freshwater loch by surface area).
The route now turns east toward where there will be two way traffic, we break away from the main road onto a single track that leads to Balloch Castle country park where we stop for those wishing to take pictures of the castle and Loch Lomond, then we rejoin the road to Gartocharn and onwards across the Campsie Hills to Killearn, Fintry and Kippen, on this section the roads become winding roads with gentle climbs to make for an engaging experience. Here the route veers west to Aberfoyle, a popular gateway to the Trossachs where we stop for a coffee break.
The next leg of this route becomes more challenging as we ride over the Dukes Pass, a thrilling stretch of road with forested curves and dramatic elevation changes, leading to Brig o’Turk and onwards to Kilmahog where we make another direction change to turn northerly as the journey follows the River Leny and Loch Lubnaig to Lochearnhead, then hugs the northern shore of Loch Earn en route to Crieff. This section offers lochside serenity and sweeping bends. We break for lunch in Crieff.
Continuing through Perthshire’s rolling countryside, the route reaches Aberfeldy, known for its distillery and riverside charm where we turn west to the Tay Forest Park and Loch Tay then alter course again to Fortingall, where you shall see the ancient European Yew Tree in the churchyard (thought to be at least 5000, and possibly as much as 9000, years old). We shall briefly stop but if anyone wants a refreshment the hotel next door is a perfect stop. The final leg follows the River Tummel past Tummel Bridge and then easterly along the northern shore of Loch Tummel to end the day at Pitlochry.
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Pitlochry to Golspie ~ 195 miles ~ 6 hours riding
Todays route blends Highland grandeur, cultural landmarks, and coastal charm. We depart Pitlochry, a charming Highland town known for its Victorian architecture and riverside setting, to begin this captivating motorcycle journey. Heading northeast, the route climbs into the Cairngorms National Park, passing through dramatic mountain scenery en route to Braemar. The winding roads and expansive views make this stretch a rider’s dream especially as we progress to the remote village of Tomintoul, the highest in the Highlands, as the journey offers open moorland and forested glens.
We deviate from our northerly progressing to visit the Glenfarclas Distillery where you will participate in their connoisseur tour, albeit without the whisky tasting, but you will take away samples to enjoy later. You shall also learn about the Speyside’s whisky heritage.
From Glenfarclas, the route heads north through peaceful countryside towards Dava, then turns west toward the historic battle site near Culloden, where riders can reflect on Scotland’s storied past and learn about the Jacobite uprising.
Bypassing Inverness, the journey crosses into the Black Isle, reaching the coastal village of Avoch then onwards for a short ferry ride across the Cromarty Firth. Here you are likely to see dolphins to add a unique maritime touch before arriving in Balintore, home to the striking Mermaid of the North sculpture.
The final leg hugs the eastern coastline, offering sea views and gentle curves as the route concludes in Golspie. Nestled beneath Ben Bhraggie, Golspie is a picturesque seaside town with access to Dunrobin Castle and scenic walking trails.
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Golspie to Scourie ~ 190 miles ~ 5 hours in the saddle
We may begin the day with a visit to Dunrobin Castle just a mile from the hotel. It doesnt open until 10am and you need to allow at least an hour to view, so, a group discussion and vote will decide.
After that it should be noted that teh East Coast's A9 can be boring. Furthermore this is what is referred to as the NC500 circuit and so it can get heavy traffic at times. To avoid the monotony of the worst sections A9 we shall depart at times to access more scenic and culturally rich locations along this part of Scotland’s east coasts.
Heading north to Brora, riders hug the coastline with the North Sea to the right and Sutherland’s rugged countryside to the left. Further on, notable stops include the Timespan Museum in Helmsdale and the Waterlines Heritage Centre in Lybster. Adventurous riders may tackle the Whaligoe Steps, a dramatic descent to a historic harbour framed by 250-foot cliffs. Wick offers glimpses of medieval history with its ruined castle, while Castle Sinclair Girnigoe lies further north near John o’Groats. For those not walking to the Duncansby Sea Stacks, a coffee stop at John o’Groats awaits.
Turning west, the route follows Scotland’s northern edge. Highlights include the Castle of Mey, once home to the Queen Mother, and Mary Ann’s Cottage, a preserved croft museum. Passing through Thurso, riders glimpse Dounreay, the site of the UK’s first nuclear reactor, now in decommissioning.
The journey continues past stunning beaches, with lunch options at Bettyhill or the Weavers Cafe near Tongue depending upon the progress we are making. The terrain becomes more dramatic along the single-track A838, winding through mountainous landscapes. Loch Eriboll’s limekilns and the Golden Eagle Zip Line at Ceannabeinne Beach offer unique diversions. Smoo Cave is a popular stop, though walking boots are advised. The day concludes with a sweet treat at Cocoa Mountain before reaching Scourie, and a little further on at a hotel overlooking Badcal Bay we stop for a peaceful end to a richly varied ride.
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Scourie to Kinlochewe ~ 155 miles ~ 4.5 hours riding
Departing from Badcall Bay, this scenic motorcycle journey heads south across the strikingly curved Kylesku Bridge, which spans Loch a' Chàirn Bhàin and marks the entrance to the UNESCO Geopark. A brief stop at the viewpoint offers insight into the region’s unique geology.
Continuing toward Loch Assynt, riders may pause to photograph the haunting ruins of Ardvreck Castle. Should any rider prefer a shorter ride they can follow the A837 and A835 directly to Ullapool, because the intended route will take single track roads on a westerly detour past Nedd to Achmelvich Beach and onward to Lochinver for a refreshment break.
From Lochinver, the road opens to spectacular sea and island views, leading to a viewpoint overlooking the Summer Isles near Achiltibuie. The route then rejoins the A835 and heads south to Ullapool for lunch and to regroup with any who chose the shorter journey.
Afterward, the journey continues to Corrieshalloch Gorge, then west to Inverewe, with an afternoon stop at Poolewe. The road winds past Loch Maree and Kinlochewe, offering dramatic Highland scenery where we end the day.
With varied terrain, coastal views, and cultural stops, this route offers a rich and rewarding experience for riders seeking both adventure and tranquillity.
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Kinlochewe to Glenmoriston ~ 190 miles ~ 5.5 hours riding
We depart Kinlochewe on a scenic ride southwest toward the coast. The road to Shieldaig offers sweeping views of rugged hillsides and shimmering lochs, providing a beautiful warm‑up before we reach the shoreline.
From Shieldaig, the route follows a largely coastal line, heading west then south toward Applecross. This stretch takes riders through Fearnmore, with expansive sea views and dramatic, rocky terrain showcasing the raw beauty of Wester Ross before arriving at Applecross. From here the road begins its ascent of the legendary Bealach na Bà, one of Scotland's most iconic mountain passes, featuring tight hairpins and commanding vistas across the Inner Sound and Highland peaks.
Descending into Lochcarron, the ride continues toward Plockton, a picturesque village noted for its sheltered bay and unexpected palm trees thriving in the mild climate. Next, the route heads toward the Skye Bridge, crossing onto the Isle of Skye for a partial loop of the island.
On Skye, the ride continues to Portree, the island's colourful harbour town. From here, riders explore the surrounding scenery. Timer permitting we might extent the route to include landmarks such as Kilt Rock and the striking landscapes near the Quiraing. This section offers a blend of coastal curves and rolling inland climbs, with far‑reaching views toward the Cuillin range and Skye’s distinctive terrain.
Leaving Skye, we return to the mainland via the last surviving Turnstile Ferry taking us over to Glenelg then onwards through Glenelg to conclude at The Cluanie Inn in Glenmoriston, surrounded by majestic mountains and tranquil lochs.
With its coastal beauty, mountain drama, island landscapes, and sweeping Highland glens, this route offers a rich and varied riding experience through some of Scotland's most memorable scenery.
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Glenmoriston to Connell ~ 200 miles ~ 5.5 hours riding
We depart Glenmoriston journey heading east through Glen Shiel, a dramatic valley flanked by towering peaks, with stunning views over Loch Duich. Joining the A82, the route continues toward the southern tip of Loch Ness before turning south at Invergarry onto quieter scenic roads.
Just north of Fort William, a brief stop at Neptune’s Staircase offers a look at the impressive canal locks, with views of Ben Nevis, the UK’s highest mountain. Turning west, the route leads to Glenfinnan, where riders might catch sight of the steam train made famous by the Harry Potter films. From Lochoilart, the road winds into the remote Ardnamurchan Peninsula, offering single-track roads, coastal vistas, and forested stretches en route to Loch Sunart and Salen.
The ride continues to Kilchoan, where a ferry crossing brings the group to Tobermory on the Isle of Mull. From here, the route partially circuits the island, passing through Dervaig and offering a chance to paddle at Calgary Bay. The journey concludes with another ferry crossing to Oban, where McCaig’s Folly, a circular stone monument reminiscent of the Colosseum, dominates the skyline.
We continue to Connell, a short ride from the ferry terminal, where our hotel offers views over Loch Etive, providing a relaxing end to a richly scenic and culturally engaging day.
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Connel to Glasgow ~ 160 miles ~ 4.5 hours riding
Departing Connel, the route heads into the hills on a single track road to reach the A816 which offes coastal views and glimpses of the islands scattered across the Firth of Lorn. Riders pass through tranquil villages and wooded glens before reaching Lochgilphead, nestled at the head of Loch Gilp. This area marks the gateway to Argyll’s rugged interior and offers a chance to pause and enjoy the lochside scenery.
Turning north, the road follows the shoreline of Loch Fyne to Inveraray, a town rich in heritage. Here, riders can admire the grand Inveraray Castle and the historic jail museum, both set against a backdrop of forested hills and shimmering water. Continuing we loop around the north end of Loch Fyne riding down a low traffic single track road to Otter Ferry and onwards to Tighnabruich where we stop for lunch.
Heading north we reach a great viewpoint across the Kyles of Bute then onwards to Loch Striven before cutting across country towards Dunoon where to take a ferry from Hunters Quay to McInroys Point.
The final leg leads us through the Inverclyde and Renfrewshire countryside to return to the hotel where your journey began in Renfrew, concluding the day’s ride near the River Clyde. This route blends lochside beauty, Highland grandeur, and cultural landmarks, making it a rewarding and varied journey through western Scotland.
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