Speyside Challenge returns for 2026 with new Strava integration and great local prizes
Residents across Speyside are being encouraged to get active, travel sustainably and explore more of the area as the Speyside Challenge returns this September.
Celebrating its fifth year, the popular challenge will run from 1 to 30 September 2026, encouraging people to walk, wheel and cycle their everyday journeys between Craigellachie and Cragganmore while earning the chance to win fantastic prizes. Information and registration are available at www.speysidechallenge.com.
Organisers are introducing a new feature for 2026, allowing participants to connect their Strava account and import eligible walks, runs and cycle rides directly into the Speyside Challenge website. Participants can also continue to log journeys manually if they prefer.
The free challenge is open to everyone using the Craigellachie to Cragganmore stretch of the Speyside Way, and aims to promote healthier lifestyles, reduce carbon emissions and encourage people to discover more of Speyside by choosing active travel for everyday journeys. Participants can take part at their own pace, whether travelling to work, school, the shops or simply getting out and about in their local community.
As well as the health and environmental benefits, there are plenty of incentives to get involved. Prizes are available across walking and cycling categories, alongside Moray Loves Local Gift Cards.
This year’s special challenge prize includes two £500 vouchers for Skedaddle Speyside in Fochabers. To be entered into the draw, participants simply need to log 10 journeys and upload a photo during the challenge. Please note photos uploaded may be used for publicity purposes.
Moray Council leader, Cllr Kathleen Robertson, said of the challenge: “The Speyside Challenge has become a fantastic annual event that encourages people to make active travel part of their everyday lives while enjoying everything our beautiful area has to offer. As we celebrate five years of the challenge, it's wonderful to see how many people have embraced walking, wheeling and cycling for local journeys."
“Whether you're looking to improve your health and wellbeing, reduce your carbon footprint or simply explore more of Speyside, the challenge offers a fun and rewarding way to get involved. With free registration, exciting prizes and the new Strava integration making it even easier to take part, I would encourage everyone to sign up and give it a go this September.”
Sally Bruce from Skedaddle Speyside added: “We’re so pleased to have been asked to be a part of the Speyside Challenge again this year. Having a personal love and connection to the Speyside area, it’s important we never take for granted how lucky we are to have such incredible trails and landscapes right on our doorstep.
“Whether you regularly walk the Speyside Way, you’re just starting your running journey, you enjoy exploring gravel tracks by bike, or you’re simply looking for an excuse to spend more time outdoors, the Speyside Challenge is for everyone.”
Anyone interested in taking part can register now by visiting: www.speysidechallenge.com.