Block Post Join a group! How to get the most out of your ride

Cycling as part of a group can be one of the most enjoyable and pleasant experiences for any cyclist, not least because you get the unrelenting wit and charisma of our guides en route! But joining a group ride is more than just a chance to make some new friends – it’s a very rewarding experience all around! But don’t just believe our words, hear from our amazing guides why cycling as a group will help you get the most out of your ride…

Greater support…
It’s good for encouragement and confidence boosting. Also, in a group you share loads of good tips, mutual support and skills like maintenance and style of riding. You will definitely share some great conversations.  And it’s also safer to travel as a group.   – Suzanne Clark

Fun multiplied and accomplishments validated! – Dawn Rugman

It’s always easier with friends. Support and encouragement are vital when you’re taking on a cycling challenge. – Tim Carpenter

 Making new friends…
It’s not rare for a group of people to become great friends on a group cycling holidays. As a guide, I often hear people planning future trips together while still on a trip. And problems are easier to deal with as a group too. – Doug Hyde

Meeting new people who enjoy cycling and sharing knowledge and travel experiences is so rewarding! Usually with such support you get the best out of your cycling. Also, it helps to avoid the insanity of talking to yourself! – Tony Stoddart

We are all in this together…
At the end of the day you’re all on a journey riding a bike: where you come from and social status is not important. – Isobel Riley

Feeling inspired?
Why not experience all the benefits of cycling in a group yourself by joining us on one of our guided holidays? We have more than 100 cycling trips for you to choose from! To see our full range click here.

“I’ve done the Highlands Coast to Coast 13 times!”

Jim – Glasgow, Scotland. 53 trips and counting.

Let’s start with the Highlands Coast to Coast, my favourite trip. You can do it so many times because it’s always different, always challenging and brings out the best in people. Definitely a trip where everyone pulls together in the face of tough trails, weather and guides with a wicked sense of humour (guide Steve and Tony in particular). The wildlife (deer, golden eagles, white tailed eagle, highland cattle, even the odd adder and pine martin here and there) and the history of places like Glen Elg, Corrieriac Pass, Tomintoul makes this journey about more than just riding your bike.

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My next favourite is the Tour d’Ecosse. A road trip which is challenging (distance, climbing, weather) and needs skill but is different every day. Each day, the Bealach na Ba is a subject of conversation, and it does not disappoint! A tough, interesting trip which is on road but off the beaten tourist path.

Last in the UK is either the Caledonia Way or the Reivers Trails. The Reivers really should be as popular as the C2C for any off-road enthusiast! Caledonia Way has lots of prehistoric burial mounds, standing stones etc, as well as being an amazing coast to coast journey. 

What keeps me coming back? Bike support is a big deal, and I think guests underestimate this until they need it. Bike fit and a bit of coaching also helps guests enjoy the holiday. There are cheaper alternatives but I prefer to have the reassurance that things will be taken care of when something goes wrong.