cycle highland perthshire 2014

www.CycleHighlandPerthshire.com

The Cycling Friendly Experience

Book your Land Rover Safari on 01887 820071 or visit www.highlandsafaris.net

Safaris • Red Deer Centre • Café & Shop • Trail Centre

HIGHLAND SAFARISBest Visitors ExperienceASVA 2012

VISITORATTRACTION

biking safariseat and shop discovery trail centre

Aberfeldy Perthshire PH15 2JQ Tel: 01887 820071 www.highlandsafaris.net [email protected]

“Drop at the Top”Self Guided Walking

& Biking Safaris. Enjoy easy hilltop starts.

Delicious homemade cakes, coffees & lunches.

Original Gifts and outdoor gear.

Red Deer Centre, Gold & Gem Panning

& Discovery Trail.

Directly on ETAPE route. Biking Trails, woodland walks,

route maps, MTB Skills loop.

BIKE HIRETop Quality

Mountain Bikes

This is the 7th edition of Cycle Highland Perthshire, the first edition was a year after the start of Etape Caledonia, Britain’s larg-est closed road cycle event, back in 2007. We perceived that having this event in Highland Perthshire, would bring huge benefits to the area in the long term.

In its first year 2006, Etape Caledonia sold just over 1,000 entries with some 900 participants taking part. Eight years later there are 5,000+ entries, selling out in under 12 hours, absolutely phenomenal!!

Another interesting fact is that over 70% of Etape participants have competed in previous years, which is testament to the or-ganisation, the spectacular scenery and the support given by local Highland Perthshire community along the route.

Etape Caledonia has been a catalyst for driving cycling locally. The Highland Perth-shire Cycling Group which has sponsored the pages 14, 15, 18 and 19 has attracted large amounts of public money to drive cycling in our local schools and communities.

Since 2006 we have seen a number of cy-cle business start-up. Escape Route in Pitlochry, arguably the best cycle business in Perthshire was al-ready here, having started back in 1997. The team at Escape Route will be the first to ac-knowledge that Etape Caledonia has totally transformed their business, with cyclist com-ing to the area to ride the Etape Course at all times of the year.

At Dull between Aberfeldy and Kenmore, is Highland Safaris, who have developed their own trail centre, bike hire, skills loop and drop at the top self-guided safaris.

In Dunkeld there is Progress Bikes who provide the popular uplift service to the top of Craigvinean Forest in Dunkeld at week-ends, also coaching and guided rides on local trails suited to your ability.

In Kenmore there are two cycle hire busi-nesses, with Taymouth Marina offering bike maintenance, hire, local route advice.

For up to date information go to www.cyclehighlandperthshire.com 2

Highland Perthshire

GetOutandRide

Performance

GuidingTrainingSkills

Get more out of your cycling in 2014

Skinny Tyres.com

Ride @SkinnyTyres.com

2014

For all the latest news of what ishappening during the festival and

more about the work we do all yearround visit the website…

HighlandPerthshireCycling.co.uk

Guided Rides

FilmNight

MTB Enduro Race

Skills Sessions

Youth Races

Community Bike Project

daysof

bikingfun

3rd to10th May

Find us on

8

For up to date information go to www.cyclehighlandperthshire.com For up to date information go to www.cyclehighlandperthshire.com 3

Highland Perthshire

Between Aberfeldy and Pitlochry, situated on the A827, explore the Scottish Chocolate Centre and learn all about

Iain’s artisan gourmet chocolates. Pop into the Coffee and Chocolate House and treat yourself to his very own hot

chocolate truffle ganache or gourmet coffee and a bite to eat.

Browse the elegant showrooms overflowing with enchanting gifts and homeware. Visit the chocolate shop

and indulge in Iain’s complete collection of award-winning Velvet TrufflesTM and Spiced Pralines.

Truly the perfect day out for every chocolate lover.

Grandtully, between Aberfeldy and Pitlochry PH9 0PLOpen 7 days, 10am - 5pm Tel No. 01887 840775

Website: www.HighlandChocolatier.com


Highland Perthshire

Highland Perthshire

70 Teams, 54 Hours, 6 Missions...

1 epic experience that improves your business.

Snowdonia, 3-6 July 2014

Snowdonia, 3-6 July 2014

Because business is a team challenge

Web: www.ukchallenge.co.ukEmail: [email protected] Tel: 0208 233 7831

JOIN COMPANIES LIKE:

A truly outstanding experience. Both my

team and I developed hugely as a result of

the event, I’d highly recommend it to anyone

thinking of taking part.

Paul, Global Programme Manager, HP

“

”


HYDRATION - WHY IT IS IMPORTANT?An average person‘s bodyweight is 60%

fluid. Research states that a mere 2% drop can impair performance by 25%.

To achieve optimum performance you need to drink frequently and consistently, don’t wait until you are thirsty. While training/ competing, sipping fluids every 15 to 20 minutes to keep a small fluid volume in your stomach, is ideal. Remember that daily hydration is just as important as pre and post race.Now for the science bit!!

Sports drinks are designed to replace fluid, energy and electrolytes which are lost in sweat during exercise and are vital to muscle function. This replacement occurs in your bloodstream and cells via your intestine. The speed which this fluid is absorbed depends on osmosis (the movement of molecules through a permeable membrane

from a dense solution to a less dense solution).

To fully understand which drink is suited to which situation, it is important to understand the effect each concentration has on your body. Depending on one solutions density to another, they can be described as Hypertonic - denser than your bloodstream. Can dehydrate you ,so it is important to also drink water.

Isotonic - the same as your bloodstream. Sports scientists agree this concentration is the best solution. Hypotonic - less dense than your bloodstream. Fast hydration with risk of passing quickly to your bladder. It is important to carry water and energy drink, in separate bottles. Hydration is unique to you so experiment while training, try different types of rehydrate powder, gels and bars.

Perthshire Fitness Therapy is based at the Atholl Centre , Etape Event Head Quarters

• 6-9pm Friday • 9-8pm Saturday • 8-5pm Sunday

For the 6th year we are providing sports massage and stretching, relaxation massage, the Bowen technique, injury advise and kinesiology taping. We look after your every need before and after the race to keep your body in tip top shape.

Special offer Friday and Saturday 2 x Bowen 30 min simultaneous treatments for £30, saving £10!

Jacquie Drane M Inst Ch P.HPC Reg Domicilliary Chiropodist Tel 01796 473705 for home visit.

Infinityblu Dental Care 60-62 Atholl Road PITLOCHRY PH16 5BL Tel 01796 470001 www.infinitybludental.co.uk

- Personal Training - Boot Camps- Sports Massage- Bowen Therapy- Individuals and Group training packages available.

Open all year round. For further details and

offers.Tel: 07784 119377

The Offi cial Sports Therapy Company for Etape Caledonia 2014.

9th,10th &11th May in Atholl Centre/Etape village.BOOK NOW for Pre and Post Race Therapy.

Info@PerthshireFitnessTherapy.co.ukwww.PerthshireFitnessTherapy.co.uk


Highland Perthshire

Aberfeldy and Kenmore has a whole host of off road routes for all abilities, from flat routes along the River Tay and around Taymouth Castle to off road routes on forest tracks and moorland.

Highland Safaris offers an excellent Skills trail, ideal for Mum and Dad who want to let the kids burn off some energy in safety! It is off road and they have bikes to hire too.

Taymouth Marina, beside the Crannog offers bike hire, maintenance and local route advice.

Fernbank House B & B Kenmore StreetAberfeldy PH15 2BLTel: 01887 [email protected]

Enjoy a warm family welcome with high standard of service in the heart of Highland Perthshire.

Etape Training Breaks available. Cycle storage and drying facilities.

Treat yourself to a session of Reflexology or Indian Head Massage.

Attractions/Restaurants

The Scottish Crannog Centre Kenmore Loch Tay PH15 2HY 01887 830583 www.crannog.co.uk

Ailean Chraggan Hotel and Restaurant Weem, Aberfeldy PH15 2LD 01887 820346 www.aileanchraggan.co.uk

Taymouth Marina Watersports, Kenmore, PH15 2HW 01887 827085 www.taymouthmarinawatersports.com


Aberfeldy and Kenmore

t. 01887 [email protected]

www.theinnonthetay.co.uk The Inn on the Tay, Grandtully,

Perthshire, PH9 0PL

Fabulous seasonal Scottish food, cooked with flair & passion

Served all day in a stunning location overlooking the

Grandtully RapidsOpen 7 days a week, 11am til late

Real Freedom, Real Luxury, Real Scotland T: 01887 830226 W: taymouth.co.uk

Luxury 4* & 5* self catering accommodation offering private hot

tubs, saunas & games rooms

The perfect place to relax after a long day in the saddle!

On site facilities include; Bar, Restaurant & Shop

Golf Course & Stables

Accommodation

Fortingall Hotel Fortingall By Aberfeldy PH15 2NQ 01887 830367 www.fortingall.com

The Inn on the Tay Grandtully, Perthshire PH9 0PL Tel: 01887 840760 www.theinnonthetay.co.uk

Coshieville House by Aberfeldy PH15 2NE 01887 830319 www.aberfeldybandb.com

Fernbank House Kenmore Street Aberfeldy PH15 2BL 01887 820486 www.fernbankhouse.co.uk

The Bothy at Garden Cottage Grandtully Aberfeldy PH15 2EG 01887 840487 www.aberfeldyselfcater.co.uk

Mains of Taymouth Cottages Mains of Taymouth, Kenmore, by Aberfeldy, PH15 2HN 01887 830226 www.taymouth.co.uk

Taymouth Marina, Self Catering Cottages Kenmore, by Aberfeldy, PH15 2HW 01887 830 216 www.taymouthmarina.com

Kiltyrie Farm House B & B By Killin FK21 6TY Tel 01567 820 141 M: 07766 566 935 [email protected]

Highland Safaris Trail Centre. The area surrounding Highland safaris was made for biking. Challenging off road Mountain Bike routes or gentle country lanes - There is some-thing for everyone.

Highland Safaris near Aberfeldy was recently awarded 5 star status by VisitScotland quality assurance and is the perfect base for direct ac-cess onto miles and miles of beautiful woodland walks and biking routes, as well as stunning road biking routes. Pick up a route map and discover breathtaking views before returning to Highland Safaris award winning cafe to re fuel and relax .In addition to this you can enjoy other activities such as the Award Winning Land Rover Safaris, Red Deer Centre, Gold Panning and their cosy café.. http://www.highlandsafaris.net/

Try the popular “Drop at the Top” where you and your bikes (you can hire them too) are dropped at the top of the hills, ideal for those who are looking for an effortless hilltop start!

BikeTrax is a purpose built Mountain Bike Skills Loop 900 metres in length. This fun-filled bike trail winds, twists, turns and is packed with heaps of exciting features and has been carefully designed to suit all levels of ability, it’s as easy or challenging as you want it to be. The good news is that it’s Free and just 50m from The Highland Safaris Café where you can refuel, relax, refresh and clean up your Bike at our bike wash.

They have recently taked delivery of a brand new fleet of top of the range Scott Montain Bikes available for half or full day hire and they come complete with emergency kits such as spare tube, work tool, tyre levers and bike pump all in a handy backpack. Tel: 01887 820071 or visit www.highlandsafaris.net


Aberfeldy and Kenmore

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Tel: 01796 481 500 [email protected]

TREK Bikes for the whole family

Tagalongs and Trailers

Great parking!

Route maps and spares

1/2 or full day hire

Perfectly situated for superb cycle routes within the Cairngorm National Park.

(Within ‘Food in the Park’ Cafe)

Museum Car Park, Blair AthollPerthshire PH18 5SP

Atholl Arms HotelBlair Atholl, PH18 5SGTel: 01796 481205 www.athollarmshotel.co.uk

Dalgriene Guest House,Off St Andrews Crescent, Bridge of Tilt, Blair Atholl, PH18 5SX Tel: 01796 481276 www.dalgreineguesthouse.co.uk

Holiday Lodges @ Old FaskallyKilliecrankie by Pitlochry PH16 5LG01796 473436 www.oldfaskally.co.uk

Ptarmigan HouseThe Terrace Blair Atholl PH18 5SZ01796 481269 www.ptarmiganhouse.co.uk

Atholl CottageKilliecrankie PH16 5LR01796 470017 www.athollcottage.co.uk

Atholl EstatesBlair Castle Blair Atholl Pitlochry PH18 5TL 01796 481207 www.atholl-estates.co.uk

Secret BothyKilliecrankie PH16 5LG 01796 474402 www.secretbothy.com

Squirrel CottageThe Coach House Druimuan Killiecrankie, PH16 5LG 01796 473335 www.SquirrelCottage.net.

Blair Atholl.

One of the best places to ride your bike. Atholl Estates has over 50 miles of routes for cyclists. There are seven routes detailed in an Atholl Estates Cycle Route leaflet which retails at £1.20 and can be pur-chased in the Blair Atholl Hub next to the Country Life Museum.

For those who have not brought their bikes, you can hire bikes from Atholl Bike Hire, which is part of Food in the Park, chip shop and Pizzeria. They also provide packed lunches.

Another source of cycle route information is compiled by Trail Maps and can be purchased from Escape Route (see back page) in Pitlochry. There are two maps in the series for Blair Atholl covering seven routes in total, from Easy, to Moderate, Difficult and Ex-treme, they retail at £2.50 each.

My favourite route is Glen Tilt, no matter the time of day or night you find this route along Atholl Estate roads a real joy to ride.

You are often on your own, surrounded with magnificent scenery, the River Tilt and wild life. During the day you will see a whole variety of bird life, from plovers to sand martins to ring ou-zels. In the evenings especially in the summer months you will see massive herds of red deer, coming down from the tops to graze in the glen.


Blair Atholl

Set in a secluded woodland in the grounds of Blair Castle just 5 miles north of Pitlochry, our self-catering woodland lodges are in the perfect location for couples, families and groups wanting to explore Highland Perthshire. With a 40 mile network of way-marked trails for cycling, the estate offers a range of activities including Land Rover safaris, pony trekking, vintage tractor tours, nature walks and tours of Blair Castle.

For enquiries please contact our bookings team on 01796 481263 or book online at www.atholl-estates.co.uk

Atholl EstAtEs, BlAir Atholl, Pitlochry, Ph18 5sr

BLaiR CaStLe WoodLand LodgeS

Set in a secluded woodland in the grounds of Blair Castle just 5 miles north of Pitlochry, our self-catering woodland lodges are in the perfect location for couples, families and groups wanting to explore Highland Perthshire. With a 40 mile network of way-marked trails for cycling, the estate offers a range of activities including Land Rover safaris, pony trekking, vintage tractor tours, nature walks and tours of Blair Castle.

For enquiries please contact our bookings team on 01796 481263 or book online at www.atholl-estates.co.uk

Atholl EstAtEs, BlAir Atholl, Pitlochry, Ph18 5sr

BLaiR CaStLe WoodLand LodgeS

News from Blair Atholl Bike Hire.

With the first year under their belts Blair Atholl Bike Hire tell us they are looking forward to their second season of bike hire, with even more to offer – which include some of the very best cycle routes set in superb highland scen-ery.

In its first season Blair Atholl Bike Hire was very busy not only with holiday makers but also providing their bikes to charity groups and sponsored adventurers taking on the Munros. Many hill walkers who wish to climb the Mun-ros will hire a bike and cycle to the base of the Munro to cut their walk to a bear minimum.

Blair Atholl Bike Hire have a great range of TREK Mountain bikes available with frame sizes to suit everyone. They also have hybrid bikes for the easier ground and most of their bikes can be fitted with a baby seat, tag-along

or trailer so the whole family can go along.

Blair Atholl Bike Hire provide maps and guid-ance on routes for all levels of cyclist, whether it be a family who want an enjoyable days cy-cling in the hills or an experienced off road cy-clist looking for some challenges.

All safety, spares and security equipment is provided with your bike for a safe and fun ex-perience.

One of the things that sets Blair Atholl Bike Hire apart from other bike hire providers is that you can order a packed lunch to take with you, and you can pre book your lunch or even-ing meal in their cosy sit in Fish & Chip and Piz-za Restaurant for your return. Plus, this year, they have teamed up with ScotRail to give rail-way passengers a 10% discount on bike hire on production of a valid train ticket… great for promoting greener travel!

Blair Atholl Bike Hire hires out mountain bikes and hybrids for half days (9am – 1pm) or full days (9am – 6pm) with no limit on how many days you hire them for. Ideal for those stay-ing in the caravan parks and self catering cot-tages.

Blair Atholl Bike Hire is in the centre of Blair Atholl, in the new Gateway Centre, next to the Museum, Food in the Park Chippy and Pizza Restaurant, with plenty of free parking. New this year will be extra signage along the main road to guide you in to their premises.

For further details http://www.blairathol-lbikehire.co.uk or 01796 481500 anytime! Blair Atholl Bike Hire, Museum Car park, Blair Atholl, Perthshire, PH18 5SP

Blair Atholl Garage Blair Atholl Perthshire PH18 5SX 01796 481 221 www.blairathollgarage.co.uk

Atholl Country Life Museum Blair Atholl PH18 5SP 01796 481232 www.athollcountrylifemuseum.org

Blair Atholl Watermill & Tearoom Ford Road Blair Atholl PH18 5SH 01796 481321 www.blairathollwatermill.co.uk


Blair Atholl and Killiecrankie

Progression Bikes, Dunkeld Progression Bikes is an established bike shop at the hub of many trails in Perthshire. Miles of estate tracks, single track and remote wild trails can be found a few minutes cycle from their door. Ask in the Progression Bikes store for route advice, you can also book on a guid-ed trip to ride the trails suited to your ability. They can provide a guide to accompany you on your ride, show you all the best bits of rid-ing, sights and scenery. This takes the pres-sure off any navigating, and they are there to help with a puncture or mechanical issue. Their trips can be either local to you, or from their base in Dunkeld.

A coached ride is a great way to see the countryside but also to tackle elements that you may normally ride round or push over. By stopping and practicing on these sections, you develop your riding skill and confidence levels. It is also suitable for the whole family with a variety of ’line choices’ on many of the routes.Progression Bikes have several ‘Enduro’ routes with great descents and technical sec-tions, some that are raced on, others they save for their guided trips.

Progression Bikes also run a popular uplift service to the top of Craigvinean Forest, Dun-keld at weekends with their new 14 seater minibus and a new cycle transporter trailer. Booking is required, as they don’t just turn

up and wait.

If you have your own business and are look-ing to expand into offering cycling packages for guests or clients? Speak to the Progres-sion Bikes team about how they can help pro-vide the bikes, build the tracks and do the paperwork.

They are open 6 days a week (closed Tues-days), to get in touch Tel: 07825 322225, email: ([email protected]) or go to their website www.progressionbikess-cotland.com or Facebook www.facebook.com/progressionbikes. Progression Bikes, Dunkeld. PH8 0AQ

Accommodation

Birnam Hotel Perth Road, Birnam, Dunkeld PH8 0AA 01350 728169/728030 www.birnamhotel.com

Hilton Dunkeld House Dunkeld PH8 OHX 01350 728333 www.hiltondunkeld.co.uk

Royal Dunkeld Hotel Atholl St, Dunkeld PH8 0AR 01350 727322 www.royaldunkeld.co.uk

Bankfoot Inn Near Dunkeld & Pitlochry PH1 4AB 01738 787243 www.bankfootinn.co.uk

Big Tree Campervans Bankfoot, Nr Perth PH1 4BD 01738 788056 www.bigtreecampervans.com

Dunkeld, the Fort of the Caledonians, was the for a time the chief ecclesiastical site of eastern Scotland, a status yielded in the 10th century to St Andrews. The present Cathedral dates from 1318. A beautiful town in its own right.As a base to cycle it has much to recommend it. First of all is has its own dedicated cycle business in Progression Bikes. Adam the own-

er is an avid cyclist, there is not much he does not know about cycling, the areas best cycle routes, whether you are a family or an avid off road cyclist, he will help you get the best out of your trip. The popular uplift sertvice to the top of Craigvinean Forest, is highly recom-mended you, see the full details below and on the next page.


Dunkeld

Royal Dunkeld HotelAtholl Street Dunkeld PH8 OARA former Coaching Inn, now a modern

comfortable hotel.

Our Restaurant is the perfect place to enjoy our Chef’s innovative menus, created by using as much local produce as possible. In addition our Woodlands Lounge Bar offers a place to relax and enjoy the lunch and supper menus. Our traditional ‘1809’ Bar has an open fi re and a wide choice of beers and over 50 malt whiskies.Tel: 01350 727322Email: [email protected]

The Bankfoot Inn18th Century inn right in the heart of Perthshire.

Main Street, Bankfoot, Perthshire, PH1 4ABTel: 01738 787243 www.bankfootinn.co.uk

Real Ale Great Food Open Fires

Traditional inn dating back to 1760, located in the heart of Perthshire just south of Dunkeld, on Cycle Route 77. We serve Real Ales and a large range

of malt whiskies. Enjoy locally-sourced home-cooked food.

For Cyclists, we have:Locked Storage*Laundry/Drying*Tools available*Packed Lunches

Etape Caledonia: Early Breakfast available

We’re in the Good Beer Guide Folk session every Wednesday

CAMRA Pub of the Year Tayside runner-up 2013.

Beer Garden Free WiFi En-suite rooms Dog Friendly


Dunkeld

What is Highland Perthshire Cycling and what do we do?HPC is a locally based charity aiming to encourage and enable more people to cycle more often, whether locals or visitors. Highland Perthshire is a great place to cycle, whether you are a local cycling to work, or whether you are coming to do one of the fantastic events in the area. We do this through a variety of projects including• giving training and support to schools, groups and individuals to travel more actively,• organising events, • providing information and encouragement, • improving paths and signage• Promoting Highland Perthshire as a cycle destinationWe are funded from a variety of sources and work with many local organisations and businesses.HPC is working with Cycling Scotland to develop the ‘Cycle Friendly Community’ programme. We hope this will be rolled out this year and we hope we will be one of the first recipients! w

SchoolsWe want all schools in Highland Perthshire to be cycle friendly, actively encouraging young peo-ple to walk or cycle to school if possible. That way we will have healthier, happier young people. We work with schools on a range of projects to give them the skills and opportunity to get active.

www.highlandperthshirecycling.co.uk


Highland Perthshire Cycling

Active Travel ProjectIn Highland Perthshire many people use their car for longer journeys so when it comes to the shorter ones we automatically head for the car keys as a matter of habit. Our project is here to help you get the most from the day to day journeys by choosing to cycle or walk; to the local shop, work, the school run or any small journey.The project, funded by the Climate Challenge Fund, offers Free services –

• Personal travel planning on how to get from A to B by other means than the car. • Advice and information on: walking, cycling, bus travel and lift share• Cycle training, bike maintenance and buddy scheme Come and try sessions – electric bikes, family bikes – look out for them! Green Bike project – bikes available free to borrow – look out for them on the streets in May• For employers - advice on becoming a Cycle Friendly Employer and promoting Active Travel To take up some, or all, of these free services email [email protected] or give us a call 01887 829 802.

Information for visitors and locals

A key part of anyone feeling confident about getting out on their bikes is to be sure of where to go. The map on the adjoining pages gives a good overview of cycling in Highland Perthshire and this will be seen on signs around the area. There are a good range of maps and leaflets available in bike shops and Tourist Information centres to point you in the right direction, along with the HPC website which has lots of routes and information on it. HPC have also produced maps and information. Check out www.highlandperthshirecycling.co.uk for more information.

www.highlandperthshirecycling.co.uk



16

Map shows the key cycle locations in Highland Perthshire

Copyright © Explore Scotland Ltd. 2014 Tel: 01796 473335 Email: [email protected]

Map shows the key cycle locations in Highland Perthshire

17Copyright © Explore Scotland Ltd. 2014 Tel: 01796 473335 Email: [email protected]

Events overview

2014 is a big year for cycling events in Highland Perthshire.

The annual HPC Festival kicks off in a big way with the 2nd edition of the Dunkeld Enduro MTB event. After only its first year this event has become a “must-do” event for many riders. The festival however is about cycling for everyone and however you enjoy your two-wheel fix you will find something during the week for you from guided poetry cycle rides, to film nights to Youth races and guided road rides there

really isn’t any excuse not to get involved in the festival and some two-wheel fun.

Also big for 2014 is the Highland Perthshire Marathon which will include, alongside the running event a 13 mile and 26 mile road bicycle ride. If you are just getting into cycling then this is an ideal event for you.

The Highland Perthshire Cycling Festival runs from 3rd to 10th May 2014

The Highland Perthshire Cycling Marathon is on 6th September 2014

Details of both events can be found at: www.HighlandPerthshireCycling.co.uk/eventsPaths and Signs




is also working with other partners to improve the network of paths and routes, and the signage of how to get there, for walkers, cyclists and horse riders. We welcome any ideas on this. Our current project is to improve the riverside path from Kenmore to Grandtully.

Cycle Tourism

Cycle Tourism is worth a lot to the Scottish econ-omy and here in Highland Perthshire we depend on tourism. HPC work to promote the area for cy-cling and give the appropriate information required to make it a fun and safe experience. www.highlandperthshirecycling.co.uk



Pitlochry

Pitlochry is the principle town in Highland Perth-shire, it has the most accommodation providers and is situated on the main north south high-land rail and road routes.

It is the start and finish for Etape Caledonia, Britain’s largest closed road event, attracting some 5,000+ participants each year. It is the start of many training rides, as participants pre-pare for Etape Caledonia. These participants are very fortunate as Pitlochry has one of the best equipped cycle businesses you will find any-where in Britain, in Escape Route.

Escape Route team of five dedicated cyclists know the area intimately, whether you are looking for advice for a family ride, bike hire or your bike needs a service. They are renowned for getting cyclists on the road, quickly and ef-ficiently when some disaster has befallen them, such as leaving an important item at home or damage to their bike. See pages 24 and 32 for full details.

Skinny TyresSkills : Coaching : GuidingSkinny Tyres has been going from strength to

strength in the last 12 months with a specific aim on helping road cyclists get the most out of their riding. From providing performance coaching for two youth riders who are racing at a national level on the track and road, and

who aim to be British Champions in 2014, to those new to cycling and want to compete in the Etape Caledonia we have packages to suit

all abilities. Our Etape Caledonia Training rides are proving to be as popular as ever as rid-ers join us on group and bespoke rides on the roads around Highland Perthshire to get the “low-down” on how to make the most of the closed-road sportive.

Highland Perthshire is a fantastic place to cycle with a vast network of roads that weave their way through the stunning scenery and riders are now coming from around the world to ex-perience the delights of the area.

In the last 12 months Skinny Tyres have guid-ed riders from New Zealand to Texas, Athens to Amsterdam and a whole lot of places in-be-tween. From 1:1 guided rides to fully-support-ed and packaged trips with luggage transfer and accommodation we have something to suit everyone, so there is no excuse for not getting on your bike in 2014.

MacDonald Bros. Butchers & DelicatessenBonnethill Rd, Pitlochry

PH16 5BSTel: 01796 472047

Award Winning Butchers - Pride themselves on their careful selection of meats from local farms known to the family for over 40yrs.

The Delicatessen offers fresh and Scottish delicacies as well as hot take-away snacks

Pre-order from the website www.macdonald-bros.co.uk

Café Biba

40 Atholl RoadPitlochry

PH16 5BXTel: 01796 473294

Great Pasta, Pizza, fresh fish, homemade burgers and freshly cooked specials. All day breakfasts and fab kids menu available. Large conservatory area and bike racks at rear of restaurant. OPEN EARLY on ETAPE Sunday 11th May.

For up to date information go to www.cyclehighlandperthshire.com

Pitlochry

20

Your home from home in the Scottish Highlands – beautifulrooms with open fires and spa baths along with some of thebest food in Perthshire awaits you.

• Lockable storage for bikes • Double, twin and family rooms• Self-catering cottages • Dog friendly • Excellent bike track nearby

Pitlochry, Perthshire, PH16 5TE • 01796 473121 • [email protected]

EAST HAUGH HOUSERestaurant • Rooms • Bar • Shooting • Fishing • Golf • Weddings

McKays has all you need & more for a truly memorable cycling break in Perthshire.

01796 473 888

138 Atholl Road, Pitlochry, Perthshire, [email protected]

From 11am until Late

Great Pub Food & Live Music

Local cycle tracks nearbyOpening Times

For up to date information go to www.cyclehighlandperthshire.com For up to date information go to www.cyclehighlandperthshire.com

Pitlochry

21

The Prince of India5-7 Station Road, Pitlochry PH16 5AN

Tel: 01796 472275/473770

Open Every DayGreat value 3 course lunch £6.95

Children under 12 £3.95. 12noon to 4.30pm (2pm in winter)

Main Menu 5-11pm also 10% discount on Take Away meals.

Authentic Balti dishes, Chef ’s recommendations, tranquil setting in the

centre of town, with friendly attentive service. For up to date information go to www.cyclehighlandperthshire.com 22

Pitlochry

HOTELS 2014

Craigvrack Hotel West Moulin Road, Pitlochry PH16 5EQ 01796 472399 www.craigvrack.com

East Haugh House Hotel East Haugh Pitlochry PH16 5JS 01796 473121 www.easthaugh.co.uk

Knockendarroch House Hotel Higher Oakfield, Pitlochry PH16 5HT 01796 473473 www.knockendarroch.co.uk

Moulin Hotel 11 Kirkmichael Rd, Pitlochry PH16 5EH 01796 472196 www.moulinhotel.co.uk

The Old Mill Inn Mill Lane Pitlochry PH16 5BH 01796 474020 www.old-mill-inn.co.uk

Pine Trees Hotel Strathview Terrace Pitlochry PH16 5QR 01796 472121 www.pinetreeshotel.co.uk

Rosemount Hotel 12 Higher Oakfield, Pitlochry PH16 5HT 01796 472302 www.rosemount-hotel.co.uk

Tigh na Cloich Hotel Larchwood Rd, Pitlochry PH16 5AS Tel:- 01796 472 216 www.pitlochry-hotel.com

GUEST HOUSES AND BED & BREAKFASTS 2014

Ashbank House 14 Tomcroy Tce, Pitlochry PH16 5JA 01796 472711 www.ashbankhouse.co.uk

The Atholl Centre Atholl Road Pitlochry PH16 5BX 01796 473044 www.athollcentre.org.uk

The Claymore 162 Atholl Road, Pitlochry. PH16 5AR 01796 472888 www.claymorehotel.com

Craigatin House and Courtyard 165 Atholl Road, Pitlochry PH16 5QL 01796 472478 www.craigatinhouse.co.uk

Craigmhor Lodge & Courtyard 27 West Moulin Road Pitlochry PH16 5EF 01796 472123 www.craigmhorlodge.co.uk

Dalshian Guest House & Lodges Old Perth Road Pitlochry PH16 5TD 01796 472173 www.dalshian.co.uk

Derrybeg Guest House 18 Lower Oakfield Pitlochry PH16 5DS Tel 01796 472070 www.derrybeg.com

Ellangowan B & B24 Lower Oakfield Pitlochry PH16 5DS01796 473704 www.ellangowanhouse.co.uk

Fasganeoin Country House Perth Road Pitlochry PH16 5DJ 01796 472387 www.fasganeoincountryhouse.co.uk

Port na Craig Pitlochry PH16 5ND Tel 01796 472777 [email protected]

Rosehill Guest House47 Atholl Road, Pitlochry, PH16 5BX01796 472958 www.rosehill-pitlochry.co.uk

Southwood B & BEast Haugh Pitlochry PH16 5TRTel: 01796 474 218 Mobile 07747 657006 www.southwoodpitlochry.co.uk

Strathgarry Restaurant & Rooms113 Atholl Road, Pitlochry PH16 5AG01796 472469 www.strathgarryhotel.co.uk

Tir Aluinn Guest House10 Higher Oakfield, Pitlochry PH16 5HT01796 473811 www.tiraluinn.co.uk

SELF CATERING 2014

Dalshian House/LodgesOld Perth Road, Pitlochry PH16 5TD01796 472173 www.dalshian.co.uk

Home from Home Perthshire, self-catering cottages01796 470048 www.homefromhomeperthshire.com

Kirkmichael ApartmentsMain Street, Kirkmichael PH10 7NT07717 618129 www.kirkmichaelapartments.com

Woodlands Cottage c/o East Haugh HotelEast Haugh, Pitlochry PH16 5JS01796 473121 www.easthaugh.co.uk

CARAVANS AND BUNKHOUSES 2014

Blair Castle, Caravan Park Blair Atholl Pitlochry PH18 5TLTel 01796 481263 www.atholl-estates.co.uk

Faskally Caravan ParkPitlochry, Perthshire PH16 5LDTel 01796 472007 www.faskally.co.uk

TEAROOMS 2014

Hetties Tearooms Pitlochry 93-95 Atholl Road Pitlochry PH16 5AB0845 2636853 www.hetties-tearooms.com


Pitlochry

News from Escape Route Perthshire’s top Bike Shop.

What makes Escape Route stand out from the rest, is that everyone who works in Escape Route are avid cyclists. They are passion-ate about cycling, have lots of first hand local knowledge and are always looking for ways to improve the business.

Escape Route is one of the most comprehensive cycle shops you will find anywhere in the UK, which is amazing for a small town like Pitlochry. It offers everything you can think of for cyclists, off road and road bikes, dedicated maintenance workshop, bike hire, bike fitting, all the cycle clothing and accessories and out door clothing, for those who are ready to head for the hills.

Escape Route’s all encompassing bike hire in-cludes both mountain and road bikes. Bikes for everyone, including the whole family, start at £14 for a half day. Also full suspension demo bikes for hire too!

Over the winter, Dan Howe the Workshop Man-ager, has rearranged the workshop, which now takes up the whole of the back end of the shop, it has two work benches, to meet the ever in-creasing demand for servicing. Dan says “No matter how small or big the job, we are geared up to fix them all!”

The Spare Part Store is better stocked than ever before, with a large variety of road and off road bike spares. Escape Route now offers in house specialist suspension and shock service, as all mountain bikers know this service should be done annually.

Escape Route is one of the very few businesses in Britain to offer a Bike Fitting Services - Kevin Grant the proprietor of Escape Route says of Bike Fitting, “The goal is to find a cycling posi-tion in which power is maximally converted into motion,” adding “99% of people who ride a bike do not have it set up properly!”

See page 32 back page for full details.

The Logierait Inn, Nr Ballinluig Pitlochry PH9 0LJ 01796 482423 www.logieraitinn.co.uk

Munros Ltd (Outdoor Clothing) 63 Atholl Road Pitlochry PH16 5BL 01796 474424 www.munros-scotland.com

Pitlochry Hardware Store 36 Atholl Road, Pitlochry PH16 5BX Tel 01796 473 110 TLC Laundry Servicess Ltd Unit 7-9 Atholl Road Pitlochry PH16 5BX 01796 470118 www.tlclaundry.co.uk

THE AULD SMIDDY INN154 Atholl Road, Pitlochry

Tel: 01796 472356Email: [email protected]

www.auldsmiddyinn.co.uk

Open daily from 11am for teas, coffees, lunches and evening meals.

Daily specials freshly prepared by our Chefs and served by our friendly attentive staff.

Come & enjoy our warm and friendly beautifully refurbished old Blacksmiths Forge.


Pitlochry

Riding every Caledonia Etape event since 2008.

Apart from the very first Caledonia Etape, back in 2007, I have participated in all of them, six in total and it has become a firm fixture in my annual calendar and a good target for that ear-ly season training.

It is a great social occasion providing a chance to meet up with friends and family both partici-pants and spectators. The Etape is also a good

excuse to visit a beautiful part of the country and enjoy all the other things it has to offer.The atmosphere in and around the area is ex-cellent with a strong cycling focus as over four and a half thousand cyclists and their families descend on Highland Perthshire.

On Saturday, the day before the ride, a visit to Aberfeldy to enjoy the Big Day was a must, unfortunately it is not on in 2014. There were a range of stalls and, usually, a spectacular dis-play by Clan Cycling (don’t try this at home!!)

After an often sleepless night it is an early start to get to the starting grid on time. The first wave of cyclists leaves at 6.30 am.


Pitlochry

Rooms l Food & Drink l Live MusicFollow us online: Mill Lane, Pitlochry, PH16 5BH | T: 01796 474 020

E: [email protected] | www.theoldmillpitlochry.co.uk


The ride itself is a great experience with spec tacular scenery all the way round. The fact that it is a closed road event (no cars) makes the ride extra special.

From my point of view the level of challenge provided is perfect. The 82 mile course has a total ascent, of approximately, 4500ft (accord-ing to my GPS) so most people will finish in time for a slap up lunch, not to mention the recovery beer, in one of Pitlochry’s many res-taurants. For those of you who have seized up with cramp, and I have had that problem on a

few occasions, there are massages available at the finish (these need to be booked in advance though).

The fact that you are travelling around in pelo-tons for a lot of the time means that your aver-age speed will be a lot higher than you will get in your training runs.

Overall, it is a great weekend that is very well organised event, in a wonderful part of the country.

My only hesi-tation in rec-ommending it, and this is purely self in-terest, is that it is already very popular and therefore hard to get into, so more people want-ing to enter will make it even more difficult to get in.

Pitlochry

26

Strathgarry has all you need & more for a truly memorable cycling break in Perthshire.

01796 472 469

113 Atholl Road, Pitlochry, Perthshire, [email protected]

Double, twin & family rooms from £69 per room

Delicious menus, beer garden & parking

Local cycle tracks nearbyTo book please use


DrummondsRestaurnat & Public House

Home of home cooking - fresh to order all day fromhomemade steak pie to fresh Scottish haddock.Family friendly, children welcome. Bikers/Cyclistswelcome. A comfy haven for a meal a drink and a blether.

Ferry Road Pitlochry PH16 5DD Tel: 01796 470000

The Co-Operative FoodWest Moulin Road, Pitlochry,Perthshire PH16 5EATel 01796 474088

Open 6am to 11pm 7days.Local Co Op Meeting the needs of the community

A Great Deal Locally. - Supporting the Local Community.

Pitlochry


Pitlochry

Etape Caledonia - Event HQ

Atholl Centre, Atholl Rd, Pitlochry

Cyclists and outdoor enthusiasts welcome. Secure cycle storage and drying room.B&B, Groups (full board or self catering)Disabled facilities. Self catering apartment.Quote “Etape” for 10% discount.

Tel: Iain 01796 473044Web/email: athollcentre.org.uk

Atholl Baptist Centre LtdRegistered Charity number SC015113

Get in the Zone with your cycle trainingTo get faster on two-wheels you need to train smarter. This means pre-planning and setting goals and targets to aim for. One mistake that many riders make is riding at a moderate to high intensity all of the time in the belief that the only way to improve is to shred your legs. In fact the opposite is true and a planned pro-gramme of predominantly low intensity work mixed with around a 20% volume of high in-tensity sessions will lead to a greater improve-ment in fitness.

For many people new to cycling this may seem counter intuitive and they might assume that periods of cycling at a very low intensity is a waste of time, but it is this very approach that has formed the basis of a cyclist’s winter training programme for decades. It is a case of training smarter, if you can make the hard ses-sions harder and the easy sessions easier then you will likely see better progress; most riders tend to spend a lot of their training in a moder-ate intensity bracket, which will bring smaller improvements.

The question for those cyclists who may not have experience in gauging the intensity of their efforts is how much is “hard” and how little is “easy”. Well, the easiest way, without using technical and often expensive equipment such as power meters and heart rate monitors, is to gauge your effort using perceived exer-tion. Based on a set of zones, where zone 1 is cycling at a pace that your gran with a basket full of shopping on her bike could pass you, to Zones 5 and 6 where you can’t talk and can only maintain the effort for a few seconds at time, this method is surprisingly easy to use and if you trust your intuition, relatively

a


HARVEY Maps Perthshire cycling mapsThese 3 cycling maps of Perthshire have been pro-duced by Harvey Maps, in cooperation with ByCycle, Perth and Kinross Coun-cil and Perth and Kinross Countryside Trust. They have been designed so that they are ideal for cycle touring around this beautiful cycle friendly area of Scotland. They :-

• Show the network of minor roads and recommended cycle routes.

• Steep hills are marked.• Include layer-coloured high ground and

general topography of forests, rivers, lochs and settlement.

• Locations of cycles shops and hire, tourist information centres, places of interest, toilets, services and facilities are shown.

The maps are printed on waterproof paper.Maps retail at £3.95 each, or as a pack of 3 at £10.00. Available lo-cally or at www.harveymaps.co.uk

accurate method to gauge the intensity of your performance.

Many amateur cyclists are turning to profes-sional coaches to develop structured and spe-cific training plans based on a combination of intensity and volume; even those with very little time to train can achieve improvements in their performance and as an added bonus longer lower-intensity rides are key to losing weight. For those training for events such as the Etape Caledonia, this “smart” approach to cycling could be what you are looking for to achieve your goals.

Scot Tares is the Director of Skinny Tyres and is a British Cycling qualified Level 3 Road and Time Trial coach and Level 2 Track and Mountain Bike coach.

Rannoch and Tummel.

A very special and unique area of Highland Perthshire, for a number of reasons. It is a dominated by the beautiful Schiehallion, “Mountain of the Fairies” made famous by Nevil Maskelyne the astronomer Royal, who used the mountain to calculate the mass of the earth.

The lochs of Tummel and Rannoch are a sig-nificant part of the landscape and the unique Caledonian pine forest of the Black Wood of Rannoch adds something very special and unique to the area.

The road around Loch Rannoch offers an ex-cellent road cycling route. It is flat, relatively traffic free, as one couple who cycled it dur-ing the summer said, “We only saw four cars all day, it was wonderful with all the views across the loch, peaceful and that special feel-ing of being outdoors, in clean fresh air, full of scents, sounds and smells of the countryside.”

Rannoch accommodation provider details are on this pages 29 – 30.

Bridge of Gaur GuesthousePerfectly positioned at the West end of Loch Rannoch surrounded by beautiful scenery right on the doorstep of the Etape route, a fantas-tic base for training rides or just to explore

this stunning area.There are great cycling routes nearby for all abilities. Arrive by bike, car or train as we are only 5 miles from Rannoch Station – perfect for a short stay.Recently refurbished farmhouse, where the house may be old but the owners are not! Boasting large comfy beds, TV & complementary beverage facilities, mod-ern ensuites & bathroom, cosy guest lounge with wood burning stove. Guest dining room where you can enjoy a hearty homemade evening meal and enjoy Scottish beers & drams. Fully Licensed. Packed lunches. Bike storage. Cycle Hire Available Nearby

Bridge of Gaur Guesthouse

Bridge of Gaur, Loch Rannoch, Pitlochry.PH17 2QD Tel:01882 633356 [email protected]

www.middleofnowhere.co.uk


Rannoch

Accommodation

Macdonald Loch Rannoch Hotel Kinloch Rannoch, PH16 5PS 0844 879 9059 www.macdonaldhotels.co.uk/lochrannoch/index.htm

Bridge of Gaur Guesthouse Bridge of Gaur Loch Rannoch Pitlochry PH17 2QD Tel 01882 633356 www.middleofnowhere.co.uk

Dunalastair Estate Cottages Kinloch Rannoch, Pitlochry, PH16 5PD, 01882 632491 www.dunalastair.com

No 2 Kenaclacher Steading, Bridge of Gaur, Rannoch PH17 2QD www.wildernesscottages.co.uk and search for Kenaclacher

CYCLING BREAKS FROM £45 PER PERSON PER NIGHT.

MACDONALD LOCH RANNOCH HOTEL, KINLOCH RANNOCH, PERTHSHIRE

Overlooking Loch Rannoch and Schiehallion, the hotel is the perfect base for your cycling holiday in Highland Perthshire.

B & B from £45 per person per night. Relax with: • Health Club with indoor pool, sauna, steam room and gym. • Numerous cycle routes for all levels nearby. • Mountain bike hire onsite. • Local attraction inc. Pitlochry Festival Theatre, Blair Castle, Historic Distilleries.

For further information or to book please call 0844 879 9059or e.mail [email protected]

www.MacdonaldHotels.co.uk/LochRannoch


Rannoch and Kenmore

3 Reasons Why We Love Coming Here!

Water Sports / Outdoor Activities

Waterfront Restaurant / Wine Bar

Luxury Accommodation

w w w. t a y m o u t h m a r i n a . c o m

“A World Apart Within Driving Distance”Taymouth Marina, Kenmore, Perthshire PH15 2HW

Tel: 01887 830450

Tel: 01887 830216

Tel: 01887 827085


Kenmore

Lets go down to escape route and get you a new bike!

Hop on!

I can’t wait!! we can have a coffee there while we speak to the guys about my new bike!

Open All Weekend with extended opening hours! Escape Route is located across from registration and will have our competitor’s village in full flow! With top brands showing this year’s new products with lots of deals. Any last minute worries please don’t hesitate come see us!

ESCAPE ROUTE BIKE HIRE CENTRE

ETAPE CALEDONIA

ESCAPE ROUTE BIKE SERVICE CENTRE

Pop down to escape route and hire a bike today, we offer a range of bikes including Road, Mountain, Hybrid and Full Suspension Demo bikes.

No job too big or small we’ll do them all! Work shop open 7days.

Massive range of Cycle & Outdoor Clothing, Accessories & Footwear in store.

Escape Route Bike Sales. Looking for a new bike? Come in, have a coffee, we’ll get you sorted out!

We also sell the best Bike Shop Coffee in the land! Come see for yourself!

[email protected]

Tel. 01796 4738593 Atholl Road Pitlochry PH16 5BXESCAPE ROUTE

www.escape-route.co.uk

cycle highland perthshire 2014

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