Five of the Most Beautiful Cycle Routes in Scotland
Looking for the best places to ride your bike in Scotland? Check out our ideas and get cycling!
- 1. Peebles to Innerleithen, Scottish Borders
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Distance: 7.3 miles
Grade: Easy
Formerly the Tweed Valley railway, the flat, now tarmac path, offers a traffic-free route ideal for new cyclists. The path is a mix of picturesque off-road paths and quiet roads, with the added bonus that it’s near Glentress - a favourite haunt for mountain bikers.
- 2. Falkirk Canal Loop - Stirling
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Distance: 6.7 miles
Grade: Easy
A delightful and easy route, taking in two icons of contemporary Scotland - the Falkirk Wheel and the dramatic Kelpies. The world’s largest horse sculptures are found in the beautiful Helix Park, where you can also enjoy a well-earned lunch at the Plaza Café.
- 3. Glasgow - Loch Lomond
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Distance: 20 miles
Grade: Moderate
This varied ride leads from the banks of the River Clyde in the heart of Glasgow city, to the village of Balloch on the ‘Bonny Banks o’ Loch Lomond’ - made famous in the traditional Scottish song.
- 4. Aberdeen to Banchory, Aberdeenshire
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Distance: 18.9miles
Grade: Moderate
This incredibly scenic route follows the old Deeside Railway. Upon leaving the city the landscape transforms into beautiful green countryside, with wonderful views of heather-covered Highlands. Plus, there lots of perfect places to stop for a picnic in the sunshine.
- 5. Fort William - Fort Augustus
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Distance: 31.2 miles
Grade: Challenging
The Scottish backdrop of mountains and loch make a stunning but slightly more challenging ride through the Great Glen in the Highlands. Starting at the outdoor capital of the UK, Fort William, the route takes you past Scotland’s tallest mountain Ben Nevis, towards the world-famous Loch Ness.
Top tip: Mobile phone batteries have a habit of running out very quickly, so it’s always a good idea to take a map with you so you don’t get lost. The Sustrans shop has all of the cycle maps and guides.
Further information
Lots of these routes are part of the National Cycle Network, which is co-ordinated and promoted by sustainable transport charity Sustrans. For cycle routes near you, simply enter your postcode in Sustrans interactive map and you can find your own favourite route.