Tag: Etape Loch Ness

Want a Chance to See the Loch Ness Monster Up Close? Then Sign up for Scotland’s Etape Lochness Sportive

Nothing steepens a place more in mystery and intrigue than its cultural mythology. And nowhere is that more true than in Scotland, with its story of a monster that lives in Loch Ness, often referred to by locals as “Nessie.” But the story of the monster goes beyond mythology with claims that it has been spotted in the lake.

But Scotland has a lot more to offer than this story. It has the great city of Edinburgh, the Isle of Skye, and the Scottish Highlands. If these are areas you’ve always wanted to explore, and you’re a cyclist consumed with travel to unique locations to ride, then you should take part in the Etape Loch Ness sportive.

Where Is Scotland’s Loch Ness? What Makes It a Place of Interest Besides “Nessie”?

As already mentioned, Loch Ness is in the Scottish Highlands. It is 23 miles south of Inverness and 170 miles North of Edinburgh. It is the second largest Loch next to Loch Lemond but the largest by area and volume of water with a depth of 755 feet.

Of course, Loch Ness’s claim to fame is for a monster named “Nessie” by locals that supposedly lives in the lake. The supposed monster is one of many said to inhabit Scottish lakes, although “Nessie” is the most well-known and was brought to public attention in 1933. That’s due to the fact there are those who claim they’ve seen the monster roaming the Loch.

About the Etape Loch Ness Sportive, The Largest in Scotland

The Etape Loch Ness is considered Scotland’s “largest closed road cycle sportive.” The ride starts in Inverness and covers 66 miles on a loop around the Loch. The ride also concludes in Inverness.

There is a King of Mountain stage that features a 4.8 mile climb that tilts up 380 meters (1,246 feet) with a 12% grade, but there are other climbs along the route.

Even though the route goes around the Loch, it can be quite hilly. Plus, the Etape Loch Ness usually takes place in April, but don’t let that deceive you; the weather conditions can still be quite chilly. Come prepared with your thermal layers!

Cost for The Event Registration Inclusions

Etape Loch Ness is open to anyone 17 and older. The cost to register for the event is 77 pounds ($102). Last year, 2024, was the 10th anniversary of this ride, which started in 2014.

Like most event rides, the Etape Loch Ness includes some benefits when you register for this ride.

  • Unrivalled scenery on closed roads
  • Finisher’s medal
  • Event Giveaway
  • Electronic timing
  • Mechanical support
  • Support stations along the route
  • King of the Mountain split time
  • Downloadable finisher’s certificate

Last Thoughts

The Etape Loch Ness looks like a fun but challenging ride. However, it seems worth it to suffer a little bit amidst such stunning scenery, and then there is the off chance you may see a certain monster. This is a popular ride for locals and for others in England, Ireland, Wales, and others at different points on the globe.

If you want to do this event, I’d say sign up early. The registration fee isn’t bad, the ride is well supported, and how often do you get to ride closed roads in a place like Scotland? Before or after the event, why not take a quick jump over to Inverness or go south and check out Edinburgh? If you have the time, you might even take in the Isle of Skye? It all sounds like a fun way to spend a few days or more.