Cyclists from across the country will descend on Deeside later this year for the inaugural Etape Royale.
The event will take cyclists on a 102-mile closed-road circular route through Aberdeenshire and Moray, starting and finishing in Ballater.
The cycle will be held on September 27, and entries are now being taken.
The route will take participants through Tarland, Muir of Fowlis, Bridge of Alford and Rhynie before heading west into Moray, over the Lecht and through Corgarff.
It has been organised by Scottish company WildFox Events, which has raised more than £30million for charity causes through outdoor challenges. Funds raised at this event will be put towards local causes.
There will also be a number of spaces available for charities.
Managing director of the firm, adventurer David Fox-Pitt, said: “The route of the Etape Royale has been designed specifically to allow cyclists to take in some of the most breath-taking scenery in Scotland, right through the heart of whisky country.
“We want those living on and around the route to feel a sense of ownership and pride in their involvement with the event making it a long-term success for all involved.”
A number of roads in the area will be closed for the event on a rolling basis, allowing for 15 minutes before the first rider and 15 minutes after the last one leaves. Full details will be released closer to the time.
Mr Fox-Pitt added: “We see the potential to attract thousands of cyclists to the event, which will have a significant economic impact on tourism for the surrounding area. This part of Scotland will appeal to any cyclist and the opportunity to participate in a 100-mile closed-roads challenge in the Cairngorms is one we expect to be very popular.”
To find out more, or to enter, visit www.etaperoyale.com or to find out about charity assured places, e-mail info@wildfoxevents.com