Ricky's gateway to the Highlands Tour
Traveler rating
5.0/5
Based on 10 traveler reviews. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.
Quick answer
Is Ricky's gateway to the Highlands Tour worth booking?
Ricky's gateway to the Highlands Tour is a 8.5-hour experience in Edinburgh, United Kingdom, from $135 per person. It scores 63 out of 100 on the Outty Ranking, which we label “Solid Choice”, based on a 5/5 rating across 10 reviews. Cancellation is free up to 24 hours before the start time. Same-day spots are currently showing.
- Outty Ranking
- 63 / 100
- Rating
- 5/5 (10)
- Duration
- 8.5 hours
- From
- $135 per person
Spend the day away from the bustling streets of Scotland's capital city, Edinburgh. We provide bicycles, helmets and transport into the heart of the Trossachs National Park just a short 1.5 hour drive from the city centr
What you get
- Private transportation
- Bottled water
- helmet
- Bicycle use
About this experience
Spend the day away from the bustling streets of Scotland's capital city, Edinburgh. We provide bicycles, helmets and transport into the heart of the Trossachs National Park just a short 1.5 hour drive from the city centre. We will spend our day cycling in the magnificent landscape at the gateway to the Highlands of Scotland. Passing by shimmering lochs, spectacular waterfalls, lush native forests and gazing upon the steep slopes of the towering mountains. We may be lucky enough to spot wild deer, eagles, highland cows and all the other wildlife that call this impressive park home. There will also be a great lunch stop with a stunning view. (Lunch not included in price)
What's included
Included
- Private transportation
- Bottled water
- helmet
- Bicycle use
Not included
- Lunch
- Tea and coffee
What you'll see and do
Edinburgh
We will leave from Edinburgh, Scotlands capital, and drive towards the Trossachs National Park. It will take us around 1.5 hours to reach the beautiful town of Aberfoyle, nestled among the mountains, lochs and forests to the start point of our cycle.
90 minutes here
Aberfoyle
Aberfoyle is a small, quaint town in the heart of the Trossachs National Park. It is surrounded by mountains and forests and will be the start of our bicycle ride. One of the Highlands first tourist desitinations in the 1800's, its popularity came from the opening of the railway station which would bring visitors from the cities of Edinburgh and Glasgow. We will follow in their footsteps by cycling out of town and heading for the great outdoors that surround.
30 minutes here
Loch Ard
After leaving Aberfoyle we will reach Loch Ard, a beautiful loch with glassy water and home to lots of wildlife and fantastic views
30 minutes here
Trossachs
Our rolling route rises, falls and winds through rare native forests passing by the remote and beautiful Loch Chon. Thee is a chance to visit a small, quiet beach and view the towering mountains.
30 minutes here
Stronachlachar
The pier at Stronachlachar is the stopping point for the Sir Walter Scott Steamship that has been active on Loch Katrine in 1899. It is also here that we can stop for a great lunch at the Pier Cafe. (Lunch not included in price)
60 minutes here
Scotland
Glen Gyle at the Western End of Loch Katrine was the birthplace and early home of famous outlaw and freedom fighter Rob Roy McGregor
30 minutes here
Loch Katrine
Reaching the end of Loch Katrine, to the Trossachs Pier, is the end of our great day out on the bikes. We will pick you up and take you back to Edinburgh.
90 minutes here
Loch Katrine
Loch Katrine is one of Scotlands vast fresh water lochs. It stretches as far as the eye can see. The route rises and falls above its banks and under the towering peaks of the mountains.
120 minutes here
Trossachs
Our route opens out from the native forests into stunning views across Loch Arklet and the distant Arrochar Alps. A great spot for photos of your experience.
30 minutes here
Where it starts and ends
Meeting point
Edinburgh
Infront of the main entrance to the Waldorf Astoria Caledonia Hotel.
Hotel pickup
No pickup: everyone meets at the start point.
Ends at
Infront of the main entrance to the Waldorf Astoria Caledonia Hotel.
Options you can book
E BIKE option
Electric Assist Bike Option
Standard Bike Option
Standard Bicycle
Before you book
- Cancellation
- For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
- Languages
- en, it
- Ticket
- Mobile Only
- Runs on
- Every day
- Group size
- Up to 8 travelers per booking
- Operated by
- Ricky’s Bicycle Tours
Know before you go
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
- Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
Photos
What travelers are saying
Outty’s summary of the themes that recur across 10 traveler reviews. Written by us, not quoted from reviewers.
Knowledge and storytelling
7 mentionsReviewers describe the commentary as informative rather than scripted.
The guide
6 mentionsTravelers single out the guide as the reason the experience works.
Photo opportunities
5 mentionsThe views and photo stops come up again and again.
Small groups
2 mentionsThe group size is repeatedly described as intimate rather than packed.
Traveler reviews
10 verified traveler reviews for Ricky's gateway to the Highlands Tour. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.
A wonderful highland get away!
We had a truly amazing time! We were lucky to have a private tour (just with the 2 of us due to cancellation of a group) and couldn’t be happier! Ricky (and dog Lucy) are wonderful hosts. With great knowledge of the area and professional guidance during rougher terrain we experienced an adventurous (ask for the gravel road!) but safe ride. Some tips, we had rain during our time so we recommend waterproof clothing and definitely go for the e-bikes. We give this ride a 10/10 and wouldn’t mind taking it again!
via Tripadvisor
Above and beyond
Me and my husband went on Rickys gateway to highlands tour and it was absolutely amazing!!! The view was beautiful beyond imagination. And Riccardo were such a talented tour guide, both knowledgeable and funny. We are so happy that we went on this tour and I recommend it to anyone that would like a piece of magic on your trip to Edinburgh. 🤩 Best regards // Astrid
via Viator
The rain did not stop us
It was a very very wet Scottish day. The country side was impressive in its own beauty. The lake and high mountains shrouded in a mysterious mist. The forest colors enhanced by the rain and waterfalls overflowing their banks making their presence visible that according to Stuart (guide) was a treat since they are hard to see otherwise. Our guide Stuart helped us have the best day we spent in Scotland. His knowledge of the area, Scotland and it’s history was amazing. He kept us laughing and smiling. He went above and beyond to make sure we were happy with our time. A must, highly recommend this one… 👍🏽
via Viator
Perfect Tour
Top rated tour. Stuart was a great guide. We enjoyed the cycling, the nature, the lake and the town. It was perfect trip.
via Viator
Amazing Day Biking the Highlands
My husband and I have done many bike tours in many locations. We absolutely loved the Scottish Highland tour. Ricky was very flexible, knowledgeable, and created a wonderful tour. The ride was almost all on off road trails, that were doable for most cyclists. The scenery was stunning and Ricky was very adaptable with the agenda. All the equipment was in good working order and Ricky even provided gloves and rain coats (for the mist at the start of the ride). I really can’t recommend this ride enough. It has been our favorite part of Edinburgh! Thanks for a stunning day, riding the Highlands
via Tripadvisor
Good to know
- Duration
- 8.5 hours
- Free cancellation
- Up to 24h before
- Minimum age to book
- 14+
- Availability
- Bookable today
- Runs on
- Every day
- Price range
- $135 to $160
- Hotel pickup
- No pickup, meet at start point
- Booked in 30 days
- 4
- Verdict
- Solid Choice
Why this scores 63
The Outty Ranking is a weighted composite. Here is how this experience performed on each component.
Ricky's gateway to the Highlands Tour: questions travelers ask
Practical detail on this experience, plus the wider planning questions for Edinburgh.
How much does Ricky's gateway to the Highlands Tour cost?
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Prices start at $135 per person. The final price depends on the date, the time slot and the number of travelers, and peak weekends in Edinburgh usually price higher than midweek mornings. Live pricing and remaining availability are confirmed on the booking screen before you pay.
How long does Ricky's gateway to the Highlands Tour take?
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Plan for about 8.5 hours from start to finish, not counting travel to the meeting point. Most travelers leave another 30 minutes on either side so the rest of the day in Edinburgh is not rushed.
Is Ricky's gateway to the Highlands Tour worth it?
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It holds an Outty Ranking of 63 out of 100, which we label "Solid Choice". That score blends traveler sentiment (5/5 across 10 reviews), the depth of that review evidence, recent booking momentum, value for money against comparable last minute in Edinburgh, and how flexible the cancellation terms are.
Can I cancel or reschedule Ricky's gateway to the Highlands Tour?
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Yes. Cancel free up to 24 hours before the start time for a full refund. Inside that window the booking is non-refundable, and no-shows are not refunded.
Is Ricky's gateway to the Highlands Tour suitable for kids and families?
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The operator sets a minimum age of 14. Older children generally do well here, and families should factor in the 8.5-hour running time when deciding.
How far in advance should I book Ricky's gateway to the Highlands Tour?
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Around 4 people booked this in the last 30 days, so popular slots go early. Two to three weeks ahead is comfortable in shoulder season, while summer weekends and holidays in Edinburgh can sell out a month out. Same-day spots do open up when other travelers cancel, so it is worth checking if you are already in town.
What should I bring or wear?
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Bring photo ID, your booking confirmation on your phone, a refillable water bottle and comfortable shoes. Dress for the weather in Edinburgh and add a light layer if any part of the 8.5-hour experience runs outdoors or after sunset.
Where does Ricky's gateway to the Highlands Tour start and how do I get there?
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The exact meeting point and directions are on your voucher once you book, and they sit in central Edinburgh within reach of public transport. Arrive 15 minutes early: late arrivals are treated as no-shows by most operators.
What are the best things to do in Edinburgh?
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On Outty we rank every Edinburgh experience on the same 0 to 100 scale, and alongside this one the highest scorers right now include Edinburgh: Loch Ness, Glencoe and The Highlands, Edinburgh: Glenfinnan Viaduct, Glencoe & Fort William, Edinburgh Ghost Tour: Mysteries, Legends and Murders. The city page groups everything into most popular, highest reviewed, last minute and family-friendly so you can build a day around what actually delivers.
When is the best time to visit Edinburgh?
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Booking patterns follow the same curve: prices and queues climb in peak weeks, while shoulder season gives you better availability on the top-ranked experiences and more room to change plans.
How many days do you need in Edinburgh?
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Three full days covers the headline sights without sprinting. A workable rhythm is one anchor experience each morning, such as this one, an unhurried afternoon in a single neighborhood, then a food or nightlife booking in the evening. Five days lets you add a day trip outside the city.
Do I book through Outty or through the operator?
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Outty ranks and explains the experiences, then hands you to Viator to complete the booking with the operator directly. The price is the same as booking on Viator yourself, and Outty earns an affiliate commission on the referral, which is how the rankings stay free to read.
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