Trans Alba Race

Has anyone taken part in the Trans Alba Race? I am considering giving it a go and keen to hear whether it's worth a go

I’ve not done it but I’m signed up to give it a go next year. I’m Edinburgh based so it seems rude not to.

Same here, home soil, should really do it before im really fat.

Im surprised its not more of a big deal given that Scotland is world class for all cycling disciplines and it looks bloody hard.

How's preparation going for you both @Stoo61 and @hollow__legs?

I've signed up but also worried I've bitten off more than I can chew...

I'm having a go just the taster mind. 400 miles will be plenty. I'm not a mental.

My prep is drinking strong beer whilst looking at pictures of bikes and kit on the internet so that'll be fine.

@Gustav I’m sure you’ll be fine!

I’ve just been plodding around my RRTY’s over winter. Aiming to complete my SR series by the end of May. Might pop some clip-on aero bars on the bike. That’s probably it.

@Merak This also sounds like a good plan.

Actually, I did a bit of recon over the weekend on a rainy three day cycling trip around the highlands including an overnight stay in a bothy.

I’m always taken aback by the beauty of the highlands, even when it’s cold, wet and miserable. At least the weather can’t be any worse come June.

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I am not envious. I am not envious. I am not envious. I am not envious. I am not envious.

the weather can’t be any worse come June.

You say that..

Was going great guns then went to America for 2 weeks sans bike so trying to get back into the swing. Should be grand. Just a very long ride innit. Hoping for no knee issues.

Keep the updates coming...the photos are inspiring and motivating @hollow__legs

I've done plenty of longer tours but never done anything with a time cut so this is something new. Have signed up for the longer of the two figuring it's a great opportunity to see Scotland. I'm Edinburgh born but only lived there for 6 weeks before moving on so feel like a plastic Scotsman.

Been doing 100km+ rides most weekends but figure I'll have to lift this a bit and also do some riding mid week

I plan on camping but not taking cooking gear...am hoping I won't be in so much of a rush that i won't be able to sample some tasty local fare (do post recommendations for food stops along the route).

In terms of gear, frame bag and seat pack is the plan.

Looks like a lovely ride - I’ve ridden lots of this route over the years and it certainly is stunning (when the rain stops). But £315! Ouch

I'd agree it's not small change but keen to try something more structured after doing my own thing for many years.

This misanthrope may find it all a bit much but it might well be fun having people heading in the same direction for a change. I'd also add that I've been interested in audaxes but any event I've been interested in joining has been sold out by the time I've gone to sign up

The most worrying thing is still the midges. I've slept in bus stops before and it was horrible enough without them. A good midge net packs up small.

One of the joys of cycle touring is the opportunity to explore new corners. Please do chip in on recommendations for sights enroute?

The other thing I love about cycle touring is the ability to eat anything and everything that comes your way. One concern with the whole race thing is i get all my calories from service stations rather than decent local cafes so I'm trying to do some research and find places worth braking for.

I asked a friend whose done a fair bit of cycle touring (Rebecca 👋) and she's given the following suggestions but keen to add to it, particularly from those who've passed through the area

Pie in Innerleithen
Mhor Bread & Store, Callander
Oban Seafood Hut
Little Bespoke Bakery, Isle of Mull
An Tobar, Isle of Mull
Bakehouse & Crannog Mallaig
Kishorn Seafood Bar,
Seafood Shack Ullapool
Bothy Cafe, Ullapool
Pizza @ Oak & Grain Ullapool
KJ's Bothy Bakery

I've always enjoyed the food at the Kylesku hotel.

I'm pretty sure the route will pass by Lochinver and there is a pie shop there that is well regarded

Has anyone got the route for this year yet?

If it's the same as last year and does a mini tour of East Lothian, The Borders and West Lothian at the start, then I can add these audax favourites on to the list. Some are quite close to the start but you may be tempted to stop.

Bostock Bakery, East Linton
The Lantern Rouge, Gifford
Old School Cafe, Eskdalemuir
Apple Pie Bakery, Carnwath

https://ridewithgps.com/routes/42130829

No bit up to Durness this year?

No link to the shorter route?