Café Stops to Fuel Your Route Recce
One of the best parts of Cancer Research UK Etape Caledonia isn’t just the ride itself — it’s the incredible Highland Perthshire setting that comes with it. Many riders choose to arrive early, spend a weekend in the area, or head out for a route recce the day before the event. A recce ride is the perfect excuse to explore some of the fantastic local cafés and coffee spots along the route.
Our operations team spend plenty of time on the ground around the course, and they’ve pulled together a list of recommended café stops along the Etape Caledonia route. Whether you’re rolling out for an easy spin or just exploring the area over the weekend, these are some great places to refuel while supporting local businesses.
Pitlochry: The Start Line Coffee Scene
Pitlochry is the start and finish hub for Etape Caledonia, and it’s packed with brilliant cafés within easy reach of the route. If you’re heading out for a recce ride, it’s a great place to start your day with coffee and breakfast.
Popular stops include:
Most of these are located along Atholl Road, right in the centre of town, making them ideal for a pre-ride caffeine boost or a post-ride reward. Expect everything from specialty coffee to full breakfasts and (of course) some excellent cake options.
Kinloch Rannoch: A Scenic Mid-Ride Stop
As you ride out along the beautiful stretch towards Loch Rannoch, the village of Kinloch Rannoch offers a couple of welcoming places to pause during a training spin.
Both spots provide a relaxed atmosphere and are ideal for riders looking to refuel while taking in the incredible scenery around the loch.
Glengoulandie: A Hidden Gem on the Route
Tucked along the route between Rannoch and Aberfeldy is a quieter stop that many riders might not know about.
This friendly café sits within the Glengoulandie campsite and offers a peaceful place to stop for refreshments if you’re riding this section of the course during a recce.
Weem: A Scenic Riverside Stop
Just before you reach Aberfeldy, the small village of Weem provides another charming place to take a break.
Set right beside the River Tay, this is a beautiful location for a coffee or bite to eat while enjoying the Highland scenery.
Aberfeldy: Worth the Short Detour
Aberfeldy sits just under a mile off the Etape Caledonia route, but it’s well worth the short diversion if you’re riding the course ahead of the event.
The town has a fantastic range of cafés and bakeries, including:
Whether you’re looking for artisan coffee, a hearty lunch, or something sweet to keep the legs turning, Aberfeldy is a great place to refuel during a training ride.
Logierait: One Last Stop Before the Finish
As the route heads back toward Pitlochry, riders pass through Logierait, where you’ll find:
This historic Highland inn makes a great final stop if you’re taking a more relaxed pace during your recce ride.
Supporting Local Along the Route
Cancer Research UK Etape Caledonia has always been about more than just the ride — it’s also about celebrating the communities that make this event so special. Many of these cafés and businesses are run by local families and small teams who welcome thousands of riders and supporters to the area every year.
If you’re spending the weekend in Highland Perthshire or heading out to ride parts of the course before event day, consider dropping into one of these spots along the way.
Good coffee, great food, and stunning scenery — the perfect combination for a Highland ride!