7 stunning locations on the John O’Groats to Land's End cycling challenge
John O’Groats to Land's end, an iconic cycling challenge that involves traversing the full length of Great Britain, a journey of more than 1000 miles!
Formidable it may be, but it's also a fantastic way to see some of the most beautiful British countryside and landmarks.
From breathtaking lochs, scenic forests and soaring peaks, to rolling countryside, charming, postcard-like villages, and stunning stretches of coastline, this world-famous route encompasses the full spectrum of spectacular scenery that Britain has to offer.
Read on to discover 7 stunning locations on the John O’Groats to Land's End cycling challenge
Loch Ness
Known the world over, Loch Ness might be synonymous with the eponymous mythical monster that is said to lurk in its depths, but Scotland's most famous lake also boasts incredible natural beauty: a vast expanse of ultramarine water, framed by the rugged landscapes of the Scottish Highlands.
Fort William & Ben Nevis
Ben Nevis, the tallest mountain in all of the UK, is a striking sight, its 1,345 metre-high peak, standing proudly above the highland landscapes of western Scotland.
Situated on the fringes of Fort William (a popular stop-off point on the challenge), the mountain is, without doubt, one of the most striking sights in all of the country, whilst the surrounding scenery provides all manner of picture-perfect vistas!
Loch Lomond and The Trossachs National Park
Another one of Scotland's most iconic locations that you'll pass through along your journey, Loch Lomond and The Trossachs National Park encapsulates the country's rugged natural beauty!
The meeting point of the highlands and lowlands, the area is home to all manner of picturesque scenery, from numerous lochs (including Loch Lomond, the largest in the country and the park's eponym), to soaring peaks, rolling hills, and scenic forests, which host a diversity of fascinating wildlife!
The Lake District
Not long after departing Scotland, you'll arrive in one of England's most treasured locations: The Lake District, a tapestry of lakes, rivers, and verdant peaks, recognised for its beauty by UNESCO, who made it a World Heritage Site back in 2017.
Take in the breathtaking beauty of England's largest national park as you navigate winding country lanes and mountain roads, passing through villages and scenic woodland stopping occasionally to admire the stunning views along the way.
The Cotswolds
Rolling hills, picturesque woodland, flower-filled meadows, and charming, honey-hued villages, the Cotswolds encapsulate the quaint beauty of rural England quite like nowhere else!
Straddling six different counties, and encompassing almost 800 square miles, it is the largest 'Area of Outstanding National Beauty (AONB)' in all of the UK, and navigating its winding country lanes and greenways on a bicycle is the perfect way to discover its unique charm!
The Mendip Hills
It might not boast the reputation of the Cotswolds, but Somerset's Mendip Hills is also an 'Area of Outstanding National Beauty (AONB)', and without doubt one of the most picturesque locations along the John O' Groats to Land's End route.
Comprised of steep verdant slopes and undulating plateau, striking gorges, and otherworldly rocky outcrops, and home to a litany of fascinating ancient monuments, and a diversity of flora and fauna, the area is one of the most scenic, and interesting in all of England, and your fleeting visit is sure to leave you wanting more!
The Cornish coastline and Land's End
The final stretch of your journey encompasses what is undoubtedly one of the UK's most alluring areas, the north Cornish coastline.
With its white-sand beaches and turquoise waters, at times, you'll swear you've been transported to some far-flung paradise, though the delicious scent of fish and chips as you pass through coastal towns and villages is unmistakably British!
At its southerly tip, you'll reach your destination, the legendary Land's End, a place that has captivated the imagination of travellers since ancient times when the Greeks called it ‘Belerion’ (Place of the Sun).
Perch on the coastal cliffs and enjoy a well deserved beer whilst you gaze out over the stunning ocean panorama, marvelling at its incredible beauty and revelling in the incredible euphoria of completing your epic journey!
