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WHY RIDE THE SCOTTISH HIGHLANDS IN 2025?

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SIGHTS SET ON SCOTLAND!

As winter settles over the Northern Hemisphere, you might already be mapping out your next mountain biking adventure for 2025. If you’re looking for an unforgettable experience, consider setting your sights on the Scottish Highlands—the heart and soul of Scotland and the home of H+I Adventures.

Small in size but big in personality, this corner of the globe is a destination like no other. Wild, windswept, and hauntingly beautiful, the Scottish Highlands capture the hearts of all who visit and have become increasingly popular among thrill-seeking mountain bikers over the last 15 years. Here’s why:

The mountains are calling and we must go

Scotland boasts some of the best access rights in the world, meaning every inch of its rugged mountains are open for us to enjoy, as long as we do so responsibly.

With a wealth of remote singletrack trails to explore and the freedom to do so, Scotland has earned its reputation as a premier mountain biking destination. It’s no wonder we offer five different tours to choose from! But as they say, “with great power comes great responsibility,” so we must work together to respect and protect these wild places so they can be enjoyed for years to come.

Bonnie Scotland

From mountains to coastlines, forests to islands, our small nation is blessed with some of the most stunning landscapes in the world. Whether you’re marveling at the arctic tundra of Cairngorms National Park or hearing the roar of the Atlantic Ocean in the Hebrides, you’ll be mesmerized by the natural beauty that surrounds you. We may be biased, but we believe the best way to enjoy our scenic vistas is on two wheels!

A ‘Hoolie’ in the Highlands

The Scottish Highlands is a region rich in culture, shaped by its dramatic landscapes, history, and traditions. The Highlands are one of the last strongholds of the Scottish Gaelic language, which carries with it centuries of storytelling, poetry, and song.

Head to a local pub on the weekend, and you’ll be greeted by the lively sounds of fiddles, whistles, and even bagpipes. Traditional music is at the heart of Highland community life, bringing together people from all walks of life. With the right tunes and a good whisky in hand, your evening might just turn into a full-blown ceilidh!

Meet the Neighbours

Scotland’s vast rural landscape, covering 98% of its land area, provides plenty of room for an abundance of wildlife to thrive. Look to the sky, and you’ll see majestic birds of prey soaring through the clouds. Our rivers are teeming with salmon, and our coastlines are dotted with seals. The Cairngorms is also home to the UK’s only free-ranging herd of reindeer! The Scottish Highlands are perfect for people who love nature as much as riding their bike.

The infamous Highland Cow, or “coo” as they’re affectionately known in Scotland, are an iconic sight in the Scottish Highlands. Known for their distinctive long horns and thick, shaggy coats, these gentle giants are uniquely adapted to the cold winter climate. With their friendly demeanor and curious expressions, Highland ‘Coos’ have become a symbol of Scotland’s rugged beauty and resilience.

Fuel up for your Adventure

The Scottish Highlands is a delight for food lovers seeking fresh, local flavours shaped by the land and sea. Sheep and deer thrive on the Highland hills, making lamb and venison specialties in the area. Eateries across the region feature these dishes, celebrated for their depth of flavor and locally sourced appeal.

On the West Coast, seafood rules! Scallops, mussels, and langoustines are caught daily from the Atlantic, ensuring they arrive at your table as fresh as possible. Haddock is another local favourite, starring in both the beloved “Fish and Chips” and the traditional Cullen Skink—a creamy soup with haddock, potatoes, and leeks, known for its comforting, savoury warmth.

Of course, our list wouldn’t be complete without a nod to our beloved whisky (spelt without an ‘e’ if it is made here in Scotland). Crafted from the fresh waters of the rivers and streams that wind through our wild landscapes, each dram captures the spirit of the region. Every sip holds the story of its origins, from the peaty aromas of coastal malts to smooth, honeyed notes of Highland varieties. It’s more than just a drink; it’s a taste of Highland tradition!

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