How to Plan Your Cycle Tour to the Coast in Edinburgh
If you’re looking to see Edinburgh in a unique and active way, a cycle tour to the coast may be just what you need. With gorgeous panoramic views and stops at historic landmarks, this tour is sure to leave you breathless. In this post, we’ll go through everything you need to know to plan your cycle tour to the coast in Edinburgh.
Experience
The award-winning wee pedal cycle tour is a must-do activity in Edinburgh. You’ll meet your guide and group at the Bridgend Farmhouse, which is a 10-minute car or Uber ride from The Royal Mile. The tour is designed to give you a good workout while providing a fun and rewarding experience.
Highlights
During the tour, you will get to experience the following highlights:
Visit the famous landmark of Holyrood Park
Cycle through Holyrood Park, a stunning natural landmark with Arthur’s Seat, an extinct volcano, in the background. You’ll have plenty of opportunities to stop and take photos.
Witness the oldest pub ever built in Scotland
At Duddingston Village, you’ll visit ‘The Sheep’s Heid Inn,’ which is the oldest surviving pub in Scotland, built-in 1360.
Ride through the Innocent Railway Tunnel
Experience a unique aspect of Edinburgh’s history by riding through the Innocent Railway Tunnel.
Enjoy beautiful panoramic scenery
You’ll experience breathtaking panoramic views of the coastline and surrounding countryside.
Full Description
The tour begins at Bridgend Farmhouse, where you will meet your guide and group. After introductions and a brief safety talk, you will embark on your journey towards Holyrood Park. Enjoy cycling through the peaceful cycle paths while admiring the magnificent views of Edinburgh’s skyline.
Once in Holyrood Park, you’ll take a moment to capture photos with Arthur’s Seat as the backdrop before continuing your journey towards Duddingston Village. During your ride, your expert guide will provide historical and cultural insights about the places you’re visiting.
In Duddingston Village, you’ll visit The Sheep’s Heid Inn, which was built-in 1360 and is the oldest surviving pub in Scotland. Here, you can enjoy a refreshing drink and maybe even some food if you’re hungry.
Afterward, you’ll travel to Portobello Beach on the John Muir Way for a refreshing break. Portobello Beach offers the perfect opportunity to take in the panoramic views of the golden coast, the Firth of Forth, and the surrounding countryside.
Finally, your return journey is through a slightly different route allowing you to experience more of Edinburgh’s stunning scenery. You’ll be accompanied by your guide throughout the tour, who will make sure you have a good time and are safe.
Booking the Tour
If you’re interested in booking the tour, the link below will take you to the GetYourGuide website where you can make your purchase.
Conclusion
A cycle tour to the coast in Edinburgh is a fantastic experience you won’t soon forget. With breathtaking views, historic landmarks, and expert guides leading the way, you’ll enjoy an active and unique way to see the city. By following this guide, you’ll be able to plan your cycle tour with ease and make the most of your time in Edinburgh.
Edinburgh Travel: Most Frequently Asked Questions
Are you planning a trip to Edinburgh? Do you have questions about this stunning capital city of Scotland? This post answers some of the most commonly asked questions about Edinburgh, including things to do, places to see, and where to stay.
What is the best time to visit Edinburgh?
Edinburgh is a great destination to visit all year round but has a particularly bustling atmosphere during the summer season (June-August), when the famous Edinburgh International Festival and Fringe Festival take place. In terms of good weather, May, June, and September are the most reliable months for dry and mild temperatures but be aware that rain can fall unpredictably in Edinburgh, so layers are always advised. Lastly, visiting during the winter months, particularly around the holiday season, can be magical with the famous Edinburgh Christmas Market and Hogmanay (New Year’s Eve) street party.
What are some must-see attractions in Edinburgh?
Edinburgh has a rich history and culture with endless attractions to explore; however, some that should not be missed are:
Edinburgh Castle:
Perched atop a rocky hill in the heart of the city, this famous fortress overlooks the entire city and is home to the Scottish Crown Jewels.
The Royal Mile:
This iconic stretch of road between the Edinburgh Castle and Holyrood Palace is filled with quaint shops, historic buildings and stunning views.
Arthur’s Seat:
The highest point in Edinburgh is a hill that provides exceptional panoramic views of the cityscape.
Palace of Holyroodhouse:
This historic site at the end of The Royal Mile is the official residence of the monarch in Scotland.
National Museum of Scotland:
This fascinating museum showcases the country’s natural history, inventions, culture and art galleries featuring renowned artists.
Where are the best places to stay in Edinburgh?
When choosing the best place to stay in Edinburgh, it ultimately depends on personal preferences and budget. City Center and Old Town are the most popular areas to stay for easy access to most attractions, restaurants, and bars but can be more expensive. For a more local feel, Leith, Stockbridge, and Bruntsfield offer a variety of accommodation options with easy access to attractions.
City Center:
For luxury hotels, boutique apartments, and famous landmarks, the City Center is the perfect choice.
Old Town:
Walking distance to most famous attractions and with a rich history, Old Town offers a vast variety of accommodation options catering to different budgets.
Leith:
This busy port area has undergone significant regeneration in recent years and offers stunning views of the Water of Leith canal.
Stockbridge:
This village in the heart of the city offers charming streets, delicious cafes, and easy access to the Royal Botanic Garden.
Bruntsfield:
This stylish neighborhood features unique shops, trendy bars and cafes, parks, and several independent cinemas.
How do I get around in Edinburgh?
Edinburgh has an excellent public transport system which consists of buses and trams, the easiest way to get around is with a prepaid ticket. Day and week tickets are available and can be purchased at most convenience stores or bus stops. Edinburgh also boasts several bike-sharing services, including Just Eat Cycles, which has multiple pickup locations throughout the city.
What are some local delicacies to try in Edinburgh?
Scottish cuisine is hearty and delicious, and you must try some of these local delicacies while visiting Edinburgh:
Haggis:
A savory pudding with sheep organs and spices that is usually served with neeps and tatties (turnips and potatoes).
Cullen Skink:
A creamy, smoked haddock soup that will warm your heart on a chilly day.
Cranachan:
A delectable dessert made with cream, honey, raspberries, oats, and whiskey – the perfect way to end a meal.
What are some free things to do in Edinburgh?
Edinburgh has many free attractions that visitors can enjoy, including:
National Gallery of Scotland:
Located right in the city center, this gallery features an excellent collection of fine art.
Arthur’s Seat:
A challenging but rewarding hike that offers fantastic views of the city while getting some exercise.
St Giles’ Cathedral:
This Gothic-style church is located on The Royal Mile and is free to visit.
The Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh:
A vast outdoor garden that features different plants and herbs, making it a great place for a peaceful walk.
What are some safety tips for visiting Edinburgh?
Edinburgh is a generally safe city, but as always, it’s best to take some common-sense precautions:
Be alert:
Stay aware of your surroundings, especially after dark.
Keep your valuables safe:
Be sure to keep your wallet, phone, and other valuables close to you at all times.
Stay in well-lit areas:
When walking at night, stick to well-lit streets and avoid unlit or deserted areas.
Use licensed taxis:
Use only licensed taxis or ride-sharing services, such as Uber or Lyft, for transportation at night.
Edinburgh is an exceptional city with endless things to do and see, and this guide aims to have been helpful in answering some of the most frequently asked questions about the city. Don’t forget to bring your camera, comfortable shoes and layers, and prepare for an experience you will never forget.
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