Tour de France 2027: Why the Scottish Borders Is the Best Place to Stay (With Edinburgh Just a Train Ride Away)

Mark
Jan 16
3 min read

Peloton of cyclists riding through countryside; Tour de France group ride

The announcement that the Tour de France is coming to Scotland in 2027 has put the country firmly on the global cycling map. With world-class riders, dramatic scenery and iconic climbs, this will be a once-in-a-generation sporting event.

While Edinburgh will be a focal point of the Grand Départ, many visitors are already looking beyond the city — to the Scottish Borders — as a smarter, more enjoyable base for their Tour de France trip.

If you’re an outdoor enthusiast who wants to ride, explore and escape the crowds, the Borders offers the perfect balance of access and space.

Why Stay in the Scottish Borders for the Tour de France?

Edinburgh will be vibrant and exciting during the Tour — but also busy, congested and heavily restricted.

Staying in the Scottish Borders allows you to experience the race without the pressure of city crowds, while still remaining close to the action.

Benefits include:

Quiet roads ideal for cycling the route yourself
Hills, valleys and forest trails right outside your door
Easier parking and fewer road restrictions
A relaxed base to return to after active days

For many cycling fans, the Borders isn’t just a convenient alternative to the city — it’s the reason they’re coming

Cycle the Tour de France Route in the Scottish Borders

One of the biggest advantages of staying outside the city is the ability to cycle the same roads as the professionals. The Scottish Borders is a cyclist’s paradise, with quiet country lanes perfect for road cycling or gravel adventures. You’ll find scenic climbs that reward effort with sweeping views, and winding descents that make every turn exhilarating. Whether you’re an experienced rider or just looking for a gentle ride through the countryside, the Borders offers routes that suit all abilities and promise a memorable experience.

Whether you’re planning a training ride, a social cycle with friends, or simply want to experience the landscape that shapes elite racing, basing yourself in the Borders gives you flexibility that city accommodation cannot.

Easy Access to Edinburgh — Without Staying in the City

Staying in the Borders doesn’t mean you’ll miss out on Edinburgh’s culture or atmosphere. With direct trains from Galashiels to the capital taking just over an hour, day trips are simple and stress-free. You can soak up the Tour atmosphere in the city, explore its major attractions and restaurants, and enjoy the celebrations — then return to the calm, open countryside of the Borders. It really is the best of both worlds: city excitement by day, rural tranquility by night.

What’s Known About the Tour de France 2027 Route So Far

Tour de France cyclist riding past a group of roadside spectators with mountain scenery in the background.

At present, only publicly available high-level route information has been released. Detailed spectator locations, timings and road closures are still to be confirmed.

What is clear:

The Scottish Borders will form part of the 2027 Tour experience
Demand for accommodation will be high
Early planners will have the most choice

We’ll continue to update this page as official information becomes available — so it’s worth checking back as plans develop.

Where to Stay in the Scottish Borders for the Tour de France

Stylish boutique serviced accommodation studio room with kingsize bed and dining table and chair at Room in the Borders

At Room in the Borders, we offer accommodation in both Galashiels and Innerleithen, ideally located for Tour de France visitors who want more than just a place to sleep.

Our accommodation is well suited to: