Secret Destinations
Lochaber: The Scottish Six Days Trial
The first week of May each year sees an event which is not as well known as it deserves to be. The Scottish Six Days Trial is the highlight of the Scottish Trials Riders' year. Motor Cycle Trials Riders from all over the world, and their supporters, congregate in the attractive town of Fort William, nestled at the foot of Ben Nevis, for six gruelling days of riding across Scotland's most challenging countryside and negotiating observed sections requiring precision riding, skill and courage. A different route each day takes the riders throughout the wild mountainous district of Lochaber.
Landowners, farmers and gamekeepers are generous in allowing unique access to the participants for the week of the Scottish Six Days Trial and the riders and spectators ensure that this privilege is not abused. Wildlife is respected, marked routes are followed and no litter is left – only the tyre tracks which quickly disappear as heather and bracken grow.
It is a great opportunity to explore parts of Lochaber that you might not normally venture into. It is hard to say whether the spectacle of the scenery or the excitement of the competition is more breathtaking.
Very often, the weather in the first week of May is sunny and warm, but, in the Scottish Highlands the weather can change very quickly. So a rucksack with hot coffee, warm clothing and waterproofs is essential, and, as you can see from the terrain, you will need stout footwear. Whatever the weather, the camaraderie of riders and spectators and the friendliness of the people of Fort William will warm you.
