Inspired by an adventurous bikepacking trip undertaken by his grandpa thirty years ago, Loek Luijbregts and a crack team from Fatpigeon.cc decided to head for the Scottish Highlands in search of adventures of their own. They sent in a stunning black & white photo essay of their trip - prepare to be wowed.
Image courtesy of Damien Raes
Back in the '90s, my grandpa, Piet, was the family explorer, always on his bike, unbothered by weather. One of his legendary journeys was a three-week bikepacking odyssey through the Scottish Highlands. Fast forward to 2023 and it was time for our own version of this adventure with the Fatpigeon.cc crew and friends.
Inspired by grandpa's tales, Mark, Toby, Maks and I set out on a gravel escapade through the Scottish Highlands. But it was not just the four of us. Behind the camera, our adventure was documented as a film and in photos. Producer Nol, photographer Damien and videographer Jeffrey embarked on the same demanding route so you can enjoy it as well from the comfort of your couch.
Our journey took us on the Drovers Trail, a four-day expedition through the Cairngorms National Park, blending stunning gravel roads, narrow paths, river crossings and challenging climbs. Riding on our trusty Ridley Kanzo Adventure bikes, we faced steep hills, swamps and unpredictable trails, all while enjoying the camaraderie of good friends.
Starting from Pitlochry, our hostel marked the beginning of a rugged path through fields and stone walls, bidding adieu to civilisation for at least 48 hours. With rising spirits and gravel roads leading us deeper into the national park, the Scottish Highlands unfolded their raw beauty.
We spent one of our nights in a bothie, which is a basic shelter and is free for anyone to use. Sharing these cosy spaces with fellow adventurers from Hong Kong and Slovenia added to the charm of our wild expedition.
Through the challenges of steep gradients, wild rivers and unpredictable trails, we laughed, supported each other and experienced every moment, even when the rain poured. The Ridley Kanzo Adventure bikes, with their wide (29x2.3’) mountain bike tyres, proved to be our reliable companions on this unforgettable journey.
From camping under the Scottish sky to enjoying fish and chips in an unpronounceable town, our adventure was a celebration of shared laughter and stories that will resonate through the Highlands.
So, if you're ready for your own gravel adventure in Scotland, get inspired by our adventure, because stories are best told on gravel roads with good company.
Image courtesy of Damien Raes
Image courtesy of Damien Raes
Image courtesy of Damien Raes
Image courtesy of Damien Raes
Image courtesy of Damien Raes
Image courtesy of Damien Raes
Image courtesy of Damien Raes
Image courtesy of Damien Raes
Image courtesy of Damien Raes
Image courtesy of Damien Raes
Image courtesy of Damien Raes
Image courtesy of Damien Raes
Image courtesy of Damien Raes
Image courtesy of Damien Raes
Image courtesy of Damien Raes
Image courtesy of Damien Raes
Images courtesy of Fatpigeon.cc except where credited