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6500 Riders take on the UK’s biggest closed-road sportive this weekend

April 20, 2026

Event week is here with the news that 6,500 cyclists will descend on the Highlands for the 2026 Etape Loch Ness on Sunday 26 April. 

Now in its 12th year, the UK’s largest closed-road sportive will once again transform the iconic roads around Loch Ness into a celebration of cycling, welcoming riders of all abilities to take on the breathtaking 66-mile (106km) route. Participants will experience panoramic Highland scenery, a vibrant event atmosphere, and the unforgettable challenge of the legendary King and Queen of the Mountain climb.

With entries selling out months in advance, this year’s event is set to be the biggest in its history, underlining its reputation as a bucket-list ride for cyclists across the UK and beyond. From first-time riders to seasoned cyclists, thousands will come together not just for the challenge, but to be part of a unique community event that celebrates the spirit of cycling.

More than 1,000 participants will also be riding in support of Macmillan Cancer Support, continuing a long-standing partnership that has raised over £2.6 million for people living with cancer across the UK since 2014.

Malcolm Sutherland, CEO of Caledonian Concepts, said: “With just a week to go, the excitement is really building for what promises to be our biggest and most memorable Etape Loch Ness yet. Seeing thousands of riders come together to take on this incredible route – whether for personal challenge, charity, or simply the joy of riding – is what makes this event so special. We’re also incredibly proud of the continued support for Macmillan Cancer Support, with riders once again raising significant funds to help people living with cancer across the UK.” 

Spectators are encouraged to come out and support riders along the route, helping to create the electric atmosphere that has become synonymous with the Etape Loch Ness.

As a closed-road event, there will be a number of road closures in place around Inverness and the Loch Ness area on Sunday 26 April to ensure the safety of participants and other road users. Full details can be found here

ERDINGER Alkoholfrei – Your ritual after sport!

Isotonic refreshment that refuels your body with B-vitamins and minerals, what could be better after a sportive or training ride?

Make @erdinger.alkoholfrei.uk your new ritual and grab a case now!

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Open post by etapelochness with ID 18083266331526249
ERDINGER Alkoholfrei – Your ritual after sport! Isotonic refreshment that refuels your body with B-vitamins and minerals, what could be better after a sportive or training ride? Make @erdinger.alkoholfrei.uk your new ritual and grab a case now!

Every event tells a story!

An @itabofficial medal insert will truly complete your Etape Loch Ness experience with your name and finish line engraved onto the back of your finisher medal.

Thanks to those who have pre-ordered an iTAB medal insert. Your name and time have been supplied to the iTAB team so simply sit back and wait for it to pop through your door!

If you missed out when entering but have since decided you’d like an iTAB, you can still place an order.

https://www.itab.us.com/product/etape-loch-ness/

#etapelochness #ridelochness #etapelochness2026

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Open post by etapelochness with ID 18093000478920058
Every event tells a story! An @itabofficial medal insert will truly complete your Etape Loch Ness experience with your name and finish line engraved onto the back of your finisher medal. Thanks to those who have pre-ordered an iTAB medal insert. Your name and time have been supplied to the iTAB team so simply sit back and wait for it to pop through your door! If you missed out when entering but have since decided you’d like an iTAB, you can still place an order. https://www.itab.us.com/product/etape-loch-ness/ #etapelochness #ridelochness #etapelochness2026

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