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Thursday, February 13, 2025

Loch Ness Hub Pedals Ahead With New Cycling Facilities

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Drumnadrochit’s community-owned Loch Ness Hub is set to expand its cycling services thanks to a grant of £21,761 from Highlands and Islands Enterprise’s (HIE) Cycle Tourism Facilities Fund.

The funding, which contributes towards the total project cost of £43,522, will allow the hub to enhance its bicycle hire service with new storage facilities and a trailer for bike transport.

This initiative builds on the hub’s commitment to sustainable tourism and active travel, offering a boost to both visitors and locals who want to explore the scenic beauty of the area on two wheels.

Launched four years ago by the Glen Urquhart Rural Community Association (GURCA), the Loch Ness Hub transformed a former tourist information centre into a thriving community resource.

The hub currently provides visitor information, e-bike hire, and baggage and shuttle transfers for long-distance trails such as the Great Glen Way, and it has become a popular starting point for exploring the region.

With the new cycling facilities, the hub aims to streamline its bike hire service, improve customer experience, and accommodate growing demand for eco-friendly travel options.

Russell Fraser, managing director of Loch Ness Hub, described the project as a significant step forward in promoting cycling tourism in the region.

“We’re thrilled to launch our new cycle tourism facility, thanks to incredible support from HIE and local charity Soirbheas,” he said.

“This project is all about making Loch Ness and its surroundings more accessible and enjoyable for both the community and visitors.”

Russell highlighted the benefits of cycling tourism, describing it as an ideal way to explore the area’s natural beauty and heritage while supporting sustainable travel.

“Our new facility is designed to provide everything cyclists need, from secure bike storage and maintenance tools to expert local advice and resources,” he said.

Gabbi Armstrong, development manager at HIE’s Inner Moray Firth team, praised the project as a community-driven initiative that strengthens eco-tourism in the region.

“The new cycle tourism infrastructure will encourage more residents and visitors to try e-biking, promoting healthier lifestyles and reducing carbon emissions,” she said.

She added that the development aligns with the wider goal of transitioning to a low-carbon economy, while also enhancing the visitor experience in the Highlands.

The Loch Ness Hub has already earned recognition for its innovative approach to sustainable tourism, recently celebrating a double win at the Scottish Thistle Awards.

The hub won the Innovation in Tourism Award, and Russell Fraser was named Tourism Individual of the Year, reflecting his leadership in transforming the hub since 2021.

In addition to its work on cycling infrastructure, the Loch Ness Hub actively promotes greener travel options, health walks, and other sustainable activities to encourage eco-friendly exploration of the region.

This latest project is another milestone in the hub’s ongoing efforts to position Loch Ness as a premier destination for active travel and cycling tourism.

For visitors and locals alike, the Loch Ness Hub continues to serve as a beacon for sustainable travel, providing the tools and resources needed to enjoy the beauty of the area while leaving a lighter environmental footprint.

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