Etape Loch Ness luxury accommodation
Since 2014, the Etape Loch Ness has provided a cycling challenge that takes in the very best of our Highlands scenery. It follows a 66 mile route firstly along the northern side of the loch to Fort Augustus, before heading back to Inverness along the south side. It’s a demanding yet worthwhile ride, and participants can rest up afterwards in one of our unique self catering apartments at Abbey Holidays.
What is the Etape Loch Ness?
Offering cyclists a chance to cycle empty roads around Loch Ness is one of the highlights of Etape Loch Ness. It’s an opportunity to focus on the joy of cycling and the scenery, as well as to raise money for charity. Although the official charity is Macmillan Cancer Support, participants can aim to raise money for any charity they choose.
The route is stunning. Starting in Inverness, it takes riders along the north side of the loch, past Drumnadrochit and Invergordon before turning at Fort Augustus. Then, everyone returns back to Inverness via a route including Foyers and Dores.
Along the way of Etape Loch Ness is the infamous King of the Mountain. Just after leaving Fort Augustus, cyclists are met with a 4.8 mile (7.72km) climb which gains 380m in height. The gradient in some places reaches 12%. Completing just this one section is no mean feat, especially as it comes after the halfway mark!
Staying in self catering accommodation during Etape Loch Ness
The cycle route might be tough, but you living conditions can be luxurious. Relax after a hard day of riding around Loch Ness by staying with us in one of our unique and historical apartments. Stay in one, two or three bedroom apartments, all of which are within the historical St. Benedict’s Abbey by the shores of Loch Ness in Fort Augustus.
Our self catering apartments all contain aspects of the original building within their decor. From arches to columns, you can touch the history when you stay here. You can even look out the same windows that monks hundreds of years ago would look out, enjoying the stunning Highland views.
Annual sporting breaks near Loch Ness
Great Glen Ultra Marathon
This is 42 mile foot race between Fort Augustus and Inverness which follows the path of the Great Glen Way. It is a solo runner event, and runners can look forward to experience exceptionally beautiful surroundings. The route begins in Fort Augustus Village Hall, making us a perfect base for preparing for the race, as well as somewhere beautiful to stay after you have completed it. Find out more about the Great Glen Ultra Marathon race here.
Loch Ness Marathon
As you can expect in this area, the Loch Ness Marathon is a stunning one. It starts not far from our accommodation, making us a great place to stay for the event. The run continues along the southern side of Loch Ness and finishes in Inverness. Book your place for this September and prepare for a stunningly beautiful time.
Loch Ness 24
The Loch Ness 24 is an epic 24hr running trail to do on your own or as part of a relay team. Get as many 7km laps as you can along the beautiful banks of Loch Ness. This endurance challenge takes runners through ancient Scots pine forest and is a friendly event. Find out more about Loch Ness 24 here.
Base yourself in Fort Augustus
If you are coming with friends and family, it’s the perfect way to ensure everyone has the perfect time whilst here. We offer a bookable swimming room and kids’ play area, as well as a board games and a snooker table if there is still some competitive spirit you need to deal with! Should you wish to see the loch from yet another angle, we have a boathouse nearby to help you get onto the water.
Book your stay now and enjoy Etape Loch Ness in luxury. Take a look at some of our stunning properties, and get dreaming…