Highland Perthshire had its first full time dedicated cycle shop in 'Escape Route' in Pitlochry in 1997. There have been a number of businesses that rented out cycles as in most areas of Scotland.

 The big change to cycling in Highland Perthshire was the introduction of Etape Caledonia, Britain's only closed road event for cyclists. The first Etape Caledonia event was held on Sunday 24th June 2007 amidst quite some considerable opposition. The opposition was against road closures and some of the opponents had grievances with P&K Council over various issues. From a personal perspective I felt the communications about the event had been poor and this is what got many people's backs up.

 The 81 mile Etape Caledonia route starts in Pitlochry, but runs through the communities of Tummel, Rannoch, Fortingall, Dull and Weem near Aberfeldy and back to Pitlochry.

 The event has grown year on year, with the 2011 Etape Caledonia selling out six months early with 5,250 entrants up 750 on the 2010 level. There is no doubt the event attracts many people to Highland Perthshire that would not have otherwise have come here. The stunning scenery along the route leaves many first timers to  the area really impressed.

 One of the outcomes from the event is that a group of businesses and individuals worked to maximise the event for Highland Perthshire. Initially the objective was to ensure as many Highland Perthshire businesses were involved from marshalling, to therapists, catering and of course accommodation. Also to make sure businesses along the closed road route were involved where ever possible.

 This has led to the formation of the Highland Perthshire Cycling Group who now employ someone one day a week all year round to drive cycling in Highland Perthshire, in the schools, to clubs and events and importantly now coordi