We've had a love affair with north west Scotland since holidaying there with family as children and a little more recently in our 20's, wild-camping and exploring the munros by foot. We can't wait to get back up there with our bikes. It surely one of the most spectacular areas for riding anywhere in the world. Quiet, remote, beautiful. Can we go now, please?! Have your ridden up there? Get in touch and let us know what to look out for.
We're not suggesting you do the same, but check out the video of Mark Beaumont, endurance cyclist, who completed the route in 24 hours in 2016. It looks amazing.
Or check out visitscotland.com for details of a more leisurely 6 day route with everything you need to begin planning your next adventure. All we ask is that you give us a shout out when you're up there. Happy riding!
Thank you to www.visitouterhebrides.co.uk for the video.
Thank you to @hannahbarnes66 for the photograph.
]]>No, your eyes aren't deceiving you. This twisting ribbon of road on Vaeroy, a small island of 800 inhabitants in the Lofoten archipelago in Norway, really does defy belief. Just look at that switchback in the middle!
Image courtesy of @frida_xiang
]]>Few places are as mystical as the west coast of Scotland, and The Quiraing on Trotternish, the northernmost peninsula on the Isle of Skye, has to be one of the most breathtaking landscapes in the UK. It's absolutely beautiful. The climb up Quiraing itself peaks at 15% with a classic switchback near the summit. The full climb is recorded at 3.8km, ascending 217m at an average gradient of 6%. Check it out in Simon Warren's 'Another 100 Greatest Cycling Climbs' - no.170. Skye is definitely one for the bucket list.
Have you ridden on Skye?
Image courtesy of @poetic_mouse
]]>]]>
Visit the UCI website for details of all the time trials and races over the 9 days from 21st to 29th September 2019.
Image courtesy of @spineditorjames
]]>In this video, Mike takes you on a tour of the Serra de Tramuntana mountain range in Mallorca. Absolutely stunning terrain. Enjoy.
The Col Collective have also recently introduced a great range of cycling tours from their base in Hautes-Pyrénées. With rides to suit all experience and fitness levels, there's bound to be something to add to your wish list. Have a look and let us know what you think. There's certainly a few we fancy.
]]>