Record 6500 Riders took to the Highlands for Epic Ride and Unforgettable Views

April 26, 2026

Thousands of cyclists completed the iconic Loch Ness route in sold-out cycling spectacular

Inverness, Sunday 26 April 2026: 6,500 cyclists took to the Scottish Highlands today for the 12th edition of Etape Loch Ness, completing the spectacular 66-mile route around the world-famous loch in a landmark year for the UK’s largest closed-road sportive.

The sold-out event welcomed riders from across the UK and around the globe, with a record number travelling from outside Scotland, underlining the growing national and international appeal of this bucket-list cycling experience. From first-time riders to seasoned cyclists, participants were united by the challenge, the breathtaking scenery, and the unique atmosphere of riding closed roads through the Highlands.

More than 1,000 cyclists took part in support of Macmillan Cancer Support, the event’s official charity partner, continuing a long-standing 12-year partnership to support people living with cancer across the UK. With donations still being counted, the event is on track to raise more than £300,000 from today’s ride.

Malcolm Sutherland, CEO of Caledonian Concepts said: “Etape Loch Ness is always a special day, and 2026 has been our biggest and most exciting event yet. To see 6,500 riders take on this incredible route – including a record number travelling from outside Scotland – is a testament to the unique appeal of this event. From the energy at the start line to the celebrations in Inverness, the atmosphere has been truly unforgettable. We’d also like to extend our heartfelt thanks to the local community and our incredible team of volunteers whose support, encouragement and hard work make this event possible each year. We’re also incredibly proud of the continued support for Macmillan Cancer Support, with riders once again raising significant funds for such an important cause.”

Lucy Matthews, Challenge Events Programme Manager for Macmillan Cancer Support said: “ We are hugely grateful to every rider who took on the 66 miles at Etape Loch Ness in support of Macmillan, they should all be immensely proud of what they have achieved. It’s thanks to the incredible efforts, and amazing fundraising, that we can continue to do whatever it takes to support the 3.5 million people living with cancer in the UK. To everyone who rode, donated, or showed support to our fantastic Team Macmillan riders – thank you. You’ve made a real difference”.

Provost Glynis Campbell-Sinclair said: “It has been fantastic to once again welcome Etape Loch Ness back to Inverness and the Highlands. Seeing a record number of riders take on this iconic route, alongside the hundreds of spectators who came out to support them, has created an incredible atmosphere across the city and surrounding communities. Events like this not only showcase the breathtaking beauty of our Highland landscape to visitors from across the UK and beyond, but also highlight the warmth, community spirit and hospitality that Inverness is known for. Congratulations to everyone who took part, and a huge thank you to the organisers, volunteers and local residents who helped make the event such a success.”

Cyclists tackled 900 metres of elevation, including the iconic King and Queen of the Mountain climb from Fort Augustus, a challenging 4.8-mile ascent with gradients reaching up to 12%, testing riders as they made their way around the loch.

Hundreds of spectators lined the route, creating a vibrant and supportive atmosphere that has become synonymous with the event, while Inverness once again played host to a world-class mass participation sporting occasion.

As well as individual riders, the event continues to attract cycling clubs and groups and charity fundraisers, all drawn by the unique combination of challenge, scenery and camaraderie that defines the Etape Loch Ness experience.

With another record-breaking year complete, plans are already underway for 2027, as demand for places is expected to remain high following the event’s continued growth.

Priority entry registration is now open for the 2027 Etape Loch Ness on 25 April 2027 here.