Fort William and the Highlands

Home of Ben Nevis, and often described as the UK’s outdoor capital, Fort William and its cinematic scenery is a true paradise for bikers.

The Highlands has everything from the northern lights to sandy beaches, but its epic munros and mountains will be the stars of the show as Fort William plays host to the Mountain Bike Downhill events at the 2023 UCI Cycling World Championships.

MUST-DO

In a nation packed full of majestic hills, munros and mountains, one stands taller than the rest: Ben Nevis. Bagging ‘the Ben’ is bucket list stuff for any hiker. There are multiple ways around (and up) the mountain, ranging from moderate ascents to technical climbs. But whatever route you choose, remember to always be prepared: consult a detailed weather forecast and local guides, and ensure you have proper equipment, supplies and navigation aids.

Fast Fact

Fort William became the UK’s mecca of mountain biking after hosting its first UCI Mountain Bike World Cup Round in 2002.

If you make it to the summit and you get a clear day, you’ll be rewarded with incredible 360° panoramic vistas which can stretch as far as Northern Ireland.

MUST-SEE

There will be hundreds of stars on show at the 2023 UCI Cycling World Champs. There’s 7000 more if you look up at night. Blessed with some of Scotland’s darkest skies, the wilderness area around Fort William is a perfect spot for stargazing and getting perspective on your place in the universe. No telescope required.

MUST-RIDE

Touted as Scotland’s Route 66, the North Coast 500 is an epic 500-mile road cycling loop taking you around the spectacular scenery of the Highlands coastline – if you can cope with the climbs! The Great Glen Way is also popular with cyclists (and walkers), while the Road to the Isles is an epic ride. Stretching west from Fort William to the port town of Mallaig, it offers awe-inspiring sunsets over the Isles of Rum, Eigg, Muck, Canna and Skye.

Glasgow

The great city of Glasgow needs no introduction… but the friendly folk of Glasgow will be sure to say hello anyway!

Famous for its live music, striking architecture, marvellous museums, botanic gardens and loads more, the bike will be added to that list after Glasgow becomes the epicentre for the 2023 UCI Cycling World Championships.

MUST-DO

No visitor can come to this stylish city without hitting the shops. Big brands, boutiques, luxury outlets and indie stores are all well represented in Glasgow with plenty of great restaurants, cafes and bars dotted in between. Check out Buchanan Street, Argyll Arcade and Merchant Square and you’ll see what we mean. If you’re on a budget or just fancy an unusual day out, the legendary (and weekend only) Barras Market is a one-of-a-kind mix of street

Fast Fact

Notable Scottish figures born in Glasgow include Sir Billy Connolly, Lewis Capaldi, Lulu, Charles Rennie Mackintosh and James McAvoy.

vendors, vintage flea markets, shops and pubs.

MUST-SEE

Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum is a truly magnificent building, bringing an amazing range of art, history and nature to life. With 22 galleries featuring extensive and internationally significant collections, this is one of Scotland’s most popular attractions. And it’s all free. The grand building provides an iconic backdrop in the heart of the bohemian West End of the city and recently hosted world leaders, including President Biden, for the COP26 climate summit.

MUST-RIDE

With over 300km of cycleways, there’s no better way to explore Glasgow than by bike. There are plenty of fantastic cycling routes in the city. Check out the Kelvin Walkway, the Forth and Clyde Canal, the banks of the River Clyde and Glasgow Green. If you fancy some urban adventuring, there’s the indoor e-bike arena, iMotoX. You can even cycle all the way to Loch Lomond and Edinburgh on a flat, easy canal path routes.