Community-owned centre in Drumnadrochit boosts cycling facilities

The initiative is made possible by a grant of £21,761 from Highlands and Islands Enterprise’s (HIE) Cycle Tourism Facilities Fund towards the total project costs of £43,522.

Loch Ness Hub was launched as a community benefit company four years ago by Glen Urquhart Rural Community Association (GURCA).

Following the closure of the tourist information centre in Drumnadrochit, the community saw an opportunity to revitalise the building and develop expanded services that would benefit both visitors and local residents.

The hub offers a variety of services rooted in sustainability and promotion of the local area including visitor information, e-bike hire and baggage and shuttle transfers for long-distance trails such as the Great Glen Way. 

This project will further enhance the bicycle hire service by investing in additional storage capacity and a trailer for bicycle transport. As well as increasing the space, these facilities will enable the hub to provide a more efficient customer service. 

Loch Ness Hub promotes greener modes of transport, including health walks, cycling and active travel and it also received funding from local charity, Soirbheas towards this project. Loch Ness Hub recently celebrated a double win at the Scottish Thistle Awards receiving the Innovation in Tourism Award. Additionally, managing director Russell Fraser was named Tourism Individual of the Year, recognising his role in transforming the hub into a model of sustainable tourism since taking the helm in 2021.

Gabbi Armstrong, development manager at HIE’s Inner Moray Firth team, said: “This is a great example of a community-led initiative to improve visitor activities and strengthen the local eco-tourism industry that we are pleased to support.

"The increase in cycle tourism infrastructure will encourage more residents and visitors to try e-biking. This supports a reduction in carbon emissions and promotes a healthier community through greater uptake of active travel. It also promotes greener transport locally and contributes to the wider transition to a low-carbon region.”

Russell said: “We are thrilled to announce the launch of our new cycle tourism facility at Loch Ness Hub, made possible through the incredible support of HIE and also local social enterprise, Soirbheas. This project marks an exciting milestone in our mission to make Loch Ness and its surrounding areas more accessible and enjoyable for both community and visitors alike.

“Cycling tourism is a fantastic way to experience the breathtaking beauty and heritage of our region, and this new facility is designed to provide everything cyclists need for a memorable journey - from secure bike storage and maintenance tools to expert local advice and resources.

“By supporting sustainable and active travel, we aim to not only enhance the visitor experience but also contribute to the economic and environmental sustainability of our community. We’re proud to play our part in promoting Loch Ness as a top destination for cyclists from near and far.”