Tourists venturing round the North Coast 500 are to benefit from three additional tours as part of a new business partnership.
The iconic tourist route has joined forces with the award-winning Aviemore adventure tour operator Wilderness Scotland to create three new guided and supported road cycling tours along the Highland route.
The tours will provide tourists with an insight into the region’s wildlife and natural landscape, whilst providing them the opportunity to absorb the countries ever changing landscape.
Tom Campbell, Managing Director of the North Coast 500, said: “We are delighted to be in partnership with Europe’s leading adventure tour company, Wilderness Scotland.
“They have an impressive track record of delivering class-leading tours and understand Scotland and the Highlands in particular so well.
“We wanted to find a partner who brought exceptional expertise and customer service to what they do, and we have found it.
“We believe that they will add value to the North Coast 500 in terms of offering cycling experiences that match the incredible sea and landscapes that make up the NC500.”
Paul Easto, Founder of Wilderness Scotland, said: “We’re excited to partner with North Coast 500 to offer this new and inspiring range of guided cycle tours. Despite its rising popularity, the route provides genuine opportunities to slow down and enjoy the iconic Highland landscapes and local fare.
“Riders can take on the challenge of three guided tour options between 7-11 days in length and ranging in difficulty. If you like the idea of the journey but want to save your legs, we’ve added e-bikes as a hire option this year, alongside our existing road and hybrid hire bikes.
“When people think of Scotland, it’s this landscape that immediately comes to mind. Exploring it by bike awakens your senses and offers you time to take it all in. It’s that sense of connectedness that we look forward to sharing.”
The iconic tourist route has been credited for helping to boost the local economy in the north by 20% to 25% each year, extending the season to 10 months and increasing visitor spend by millions each year.