Why Skinny Tyres?
At Skinny Tyres, we care
We care about people. We care about the environment. We care about the local economy. And we care about our beautiful country, Scotland.
When you choose one of our guided road cycling tours, we care that every pedal stroke, every turn in the road, and every view along the way helps make it the very best holiday possible.
Our background
Guided by passion, grounded in place
A trusted, family-run company, we’re Scottish cyclists through and through and deeply connected to the landscapes and communities that shape our tours. We strive to share that connection with you, giving riders of all ages and abilities the chance to discover Scotland at its most authentic.
With over 15 years’ experience, our team blends deep cycling knowledge with genuine local insight to deliver journeys you won’t forget in a hurry.
Every itinerary we craft is steeped in passion for our country, so you don’t just ride through Scotland, you experience its heart and soul.
Our ethos
Care, connection, community
We built Skinny Tyres on the belief that cycling in Scotland should be for everyone, and we offer a warm welcome to riders of all backgrounds, abilities, and identities.
Joining a group can feel daunting, so we focus on creating an environment where everyone feels supported, included, and part of the adventure.
Sustainable tourism is also close to our hearts. We travel responsibly, supporting fragile local economies by choosing local hotels, cafés, and small businesses. This ensures your holiday gives back to the places that make it so special.
Our service
Pedal easy, we’ve got you covered
At Skinny Tyres, we specialise exclusively in road cycling holidays in Scotland which means every detail of your tour, from route planning to rest stops, has been refined by cyclists, for cyclists.
Every route we offer has been carefully considered and road-tested to strike the perfect balance of challenge, scenery, and Highland hospitality.
Your dedicated Skinny Tyres guide meets you at strategic points each day with our customised support van, always fully equipped with tools, spares, snacks, and everything you might need on the road. We’ll carry your day bag too, so you can easily grab your personal bits and bobs whenever you need them.
It’s your holiday. With full backup and friendly assistance never far away, you’re free to ride at your own pace and enjoy your adventure, your way.
Meet the team
The friendly faces of Skinny Tyres
We’re cycling enthusiasts who are passionate about supporting local communities and sharing with you all that the Scottish Highlands and Western Isles have to offer.
Cyclist, guide and founder
Scot Tares
Since then, I have been organising and leading cycling holidays in Scotland. I have a number of coaching qualifications from MTB, track cycling and road, and I still coach at schools around Perth and Kinross.
Over the last 15 years, I have had the good fortune to be involved in various high-profile charity events, including BBC Children in Need’s Rickshaw Challenge and Comic Relief televised events.
During that time, I’ve ridden alongside Matt Baker, Zoe Ball, Sara Cox and Tom Daley, to name a few. These events have also allowed me to ride in many spectacular and unusual locations, such as through the Channel Tunnel.
My enthusiasm for Scotland and its landscapes is why I started Skinny Tyres, and it is still that passion that continues to shape every Skinny Tyres adventure.
“The only thing I love more than cycling in Scotland is supporting other people cycling in Scotland.”
Jacci of all trades
Jacci Wilkie
Over a couple of seasons, I discovered that much of what Scot dislikes dealing with are things I feel I was born to do. Thus, thanks to a throw-away comment at the top of the Tourmalet, Scot asked me to become his admin support person in 2024.
My official title is nebulous as I am tasked with diverse projects, the most important of which is to keep the pedals perpetually spinning in the office.
I am a travelling Scot, currently based in perennial TdF terrain in the south of France. However, I am extremely proud of my roots and of Scotland’s natural beauty and splendour, so being part of the Skinny Tyres team fills me with a deep sense of joy .
Spreadsheet wizard
Kirsteen Tares
If it involves numbers, logistics, or a good river fact, I’m your girl!
Working quietly in the background, I keep the wheels turning – both on the spreadsheets and out on the road, as I occasionally join a Skinny Tyres trip.
When not crunching numbers or deep in river data, you might find me up in the air, quite literally, practicing aerial circus.
The Skinny Tyres dogs
Liath and Tess
The Skinny Tyres dogs
Liath and Tess