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Routes
Choose Your Challenge: 3 Scenic Closed-Road Routes for Every Rider
Whether you're a seasoned cyclist or taking on your first sportive, Etape Caledonia offers a route to suit your ability and goals. Explore the stunning Scottish Highlands with fully closed roads, exhilarating climbs and unforgettable views. Choose from one of three distances: 40, 55 or 85-miles. All of our routes start and finish in the heart of Pitlochry so you can soak in the amazing local area and celebrations pre and post event.
40 Miles: The Explorer’s Choice
Perfect for newer riders or those looking for a shorter, scenic ride without major climbs.
Route Highlights:
Distance: 40 miles / 64.4 km
Elevation Gain: 860 m (2,823 ft)
Total Descent: 866 m (2,842 ft)
Net Elevation Change: -6 m
Start/Finish: Pitlochry
What to Expect:
A manageable challenge ideal for first-timers.
Rolling hills with one main climb around 25–30 km.
Flatter terrain in the second half, making for a strong finish.
Scenic highlights: Loch Tummel, Dull, Aberfeldy.
Two feed stations - scroll down to find out more info!
55 Miles: The Balanced Challenge
A great step up for riders looking for a longer day in the saddle with rewarding climbs.
Route Highlights:
Distance: 55 miles / 88.5 km
Elevation Gain: 1,166 m (3,826 ft)
Total Descent: 1,172 m (3,846 ft)
Net Elevation Change: -6 m
Start/Finish: Pitlochry
What to Expect:
Two notable climbs between 25–50 km.
Long plateau section allows for recovery before descending.
Quiet roads and beautiful glens near Loch Rannoch and Bridge of Balgie.
Slightly more technical than the 40-mile, but very rideable.
Three feed stations - scroll down to find out more info!
85 Miles: The Full Etape Experience
For experienced riders ready for a proper challenge across Scotland’s rugged terrain.
Route Highlights:
Distance: 85 miles / 136.8 km
Elevation Gain: 1,555 m (5,101 ft)
Total Descent: 1,561 m (5,121 ft)
Net Elevation Change: -6 m
Start/Finish: Pitlochry
What to Expect:
Epic loop through the Highlands, including remote stretches near Rannoch Moor.
Steady climbing begins early, peaking around 70–80 km.
Demands good pacing, nutrition, and gear prep.
Truly stunning and remote Scottish scenery throughout.
Four feed stations - scroll down to find out more info!
Feed Stations: Keeping You Fuelled Along The Way
We are thrilled to provide riders multiple stops along their ride where they can have a refresh, whether that’s take some photos, have a chat with your pals or grab a slice of cake. Say a big thank you to our wonderful team of volunteers when you’re there too!
Feed Station 1, Kinloch Rannoch (along all three routes)
Fruit and flapjacks
Feed Station 2, Forestry Commission Car Park (along all three routes)
Fruit and flapjacks
Macaroni cheese pies from a local butcher
Bacon rolls available for a donation to Pitlochry Scouts
Potatoes
Hot drinks
Feed Station 3, Glengoulandie Campsite (only on 55 & 85 mile routes)
Fruit and flapjacks
Cakes available from the Glengoulandie Campsite
Pork pies form a local butcher
Feed Station 4, House of Menzies (only on 85 mile route)
Fruit and flapjacks
Macaroni cheese pies from a local butcher
Homemade cakes available for a donation to Aberfeldy Scouts
2026 feed stations subject to final confirmation.