Pitlochry

I had an unexpected couple of days free at the start of November. Harriet was in London, and the Grandparents volunteered to look after Jack for the weekend. I decided to take myself off to the countryside for some cycling. I have posted both days of cycling on Komoot.

On the Friday I took a train from Edinburgh to Perth and cycled to Pitlochry. The route mostly follows the National Cycle Network route 77, known as “the Salmon Run” due to the proximity to the River Tay.

The afternoon of cycling started nicely, picking up a Greggs from Perth town center, and wheeling my way out of town along the riverbank. The autumn colours glowed in the low sun, and faded as the rain started.

I got a bunk at the Pitlochry Backpackers, basic but clean and friendly, and located right in the center of town. I popped along the road to the Auld Smiddy Inn for a pint and a meal.

Saturday was my main day of cycling, with a route around Loch Tummel then up and over via Trinafour to Blair Atholl.

The day was damp with mist rolling over the hills in dribs and drabs. After leaving Pitlochry and crossing the Garry Bridge the route left the B8019 on the north side of Loch Tummel and via some singletrack crossed the Coronation Bridge to the Foss Road on the south side.

The Foss Road was quiet, peaceful, and had a lot of Autumn colours. The sun occasionally peaked through. If I was coming back to the area for a day ride or walk with the family I’d certainly consider this route again.

At the end of the loch I turned right to Tummel Bridge, and then started the grind up and over the Bohespic Road.

After dipping down at Trinafour there was another climb back over to the A9. The views back were great.

I stopped at the Bothy Bar at the Athol Arms Hotel for a coffee, then cycled back to Pitlochry via Blair Atholl. I enjoyed this section a little less as the road was busier and it was getting darker. Still, the whole route was a great day out. I grabbed dinner from McKays Fish and Chips.

On the Sunday I needed to get back to Edinburgh fairly promptly, so didn’t cycle. I took a walk aroud the town, over the dam (saw the fish ladder), and then back to the train station. If you are taking the train make sure to book your bike tickets in advance. Space is limited and facilities are poor and cramped for cyclists!

I have no doubt I’ll be back to Pitlochry again as it’s an easy getaway from Edinburgh and a beautiful location.