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Visitor Accommodation in north east Scotland
VisitScotland, the national tourism organisation for Scotland, operates a 1-5 star grading scheme where visitor accommodation of all kinds including hotels, guest houses, Bed and Breakfast (B&B), hostels and self catering is assessed. This ensure that each establishment meets the standards set for facilities and service, for comfort and cleanliness, making it easier for you to make the right choice.
Cyclist Welcome Scheme Scotland
In addition to the 1-5 star grading scheme, a number of visitor accommodation providers are members of the Cyclists Welcome Scheme - look out for the logo when booking accommodation. To join this scheme, members must provide additional facilities specific to the needs of road cyclists and mountain bikers.
Cyclists Welcome Scheme members will offer the following in addition to normal services:
For Serviced Accommodation:
- a separate space should be available for drying outdoor clothing and footwear so clothes can dry overnight;
- a lockable covered shed for bike storage;
- details of the nearest cycle specialist;
- a hot drink should be available on arrival;
- a late evening meal (available until 8:00 pm) if there are no other meal providers within one mile. A late night snack should be offered after 8:00 pm;
- early breakfast option from 7:00 am, or for very early leavers a tray the night before;
- a packed lunch should you request one or your flask filled;
- and a supply of local cycling routes information, local public transport and a weather forecast for visitor reference.
For self-catering accommodation and hostels:
- a separate space should be available for drying outdoor clothing and footwear so clothes can dry overnight;
- a lockable covered shed for bike storage;
- details of the nearest cycle specialist;
- information on local cycle routes;
- a telephone number for information on the weather forecast;
- facilities for washing clothes or location of the nearest launderette;
- details of the establishment's Ordnance Survey co-ordinates (if outside a village).
Finding Cycle Friendly Visitor Accommodation in Scotland
Visit the VisitScotland website for a listing of Cyclists Welcome Scheme providers
It is worth noting that not all accommodation providers are members of VisitScotland, in particular some of the larger Aberdeen and Moray hotel chains, and AirBnB accommodation. This doesn't make their accommodation bad, or inferior - it can just makes your decision to use them a wee bit more difficult because they do not work to a common set of standards.
Travelling to North East Scotland
The north east of Scotland may seem remote, but in fact it is very easy to get to Grampian. The region, and Aberdeen in particular, is well served by train, coach, air and ferry. And once here, travelling around is really easy.
The Weather in Grampian
There is an old saying, "If you don't like the Scottish weather, wait 5 minutes - it'll change!". But what is the weather in Grampian truly like? We have looked at the weather files, and noted what you can expect.
Taking Your Bike on a Train
Currently, there are three train companies serving the north east of Scotland, namely: Scotrail, CrossCountry Trains and LNER. Each has slightly different rules and regulations on carrying bikes, so familiarise yourself before you travel.
Cafes, Coffee Shops & Tea Rooms
We have compiled a long list of just some of the popular cafes, coffee shops and tea rooms in Aberdeenshire and Moray.
These are the places who serve great coffee, cake, soups, and sandwiches to the cycling community, and beyond - places you will feel welcome.