Support Local: Bothy Bikes

Bothy Bikes is an independent, rider-run business in Aviemore which has provided bike repairs and rentals for over 20 years. They guarantee that everything they stock they would use themselves or recommend to family/friends. 

The shop has a number of products for sale including mountain bikes, kids’ bikes, electric bikes, frames, clothing and accessories – but if you’re just looking to hire a bike for a few hours, that’s available too. A full day’s mountain bike hire is £25 for an adult and £12 for a child. And if you want a little help on the up-hill (like us), you can try an e-bike for £50 a day.

We’re surrounded by mountain biking trails here in the Cairngorms National Park and there’s something for everyone, from full-day expeditions, to a gentle ride through the forest. Parking is available outside the Bothy Bikes shop, in Dalfaber, Aviemore, and from there you can head along the Speyside Way. This is a lovely, easy bike ride which will bring you out at local village Boat of Garten – and fortuitously, the beer garden of The Boat Country Inn & Restaurant. If you want something a little more advanced you can head up to High Burnside from the shop, and get your heart pumping on the more difficult trails. 

We’re not going to pretend we’re experts when it comes to bikes, but luckily these guys are. They will be able to advise you on the best equipment and all the trails in the local area. Whether you're an experienced rider or just looking to try something new, drop into Bothy Bikes to support a local business and get exploring.