Cycling in Scotland
8 of the best cycling routes in Scotland
Scotland offers a diverse array of cycling routes that cater to various skill levels and preferences.
We have listed 8 cycle routes, some are for an itinerary of a few days, or a full blown cycle holiday and some are slightly shorter.
Scotland offers a diverse array of cycling routes that cater to various skill levels and preferences. Below are ten of the best cycling routes, each featuring departure and finish points, terrain type, distance, approximate cycling times, and additional resources for more information.
North Coast 500
Departure Point: Inverness
Finish Point: Inverness (loop)
Terrain: Mixed; primarily paved roads with some challenging climbs
Distance: 500 miles (819 km)
Approximate Cycle Time: 7 - 10 days
Description: This iconic route circumnavigates the northern Scottish Highlands, offering breathtaking coastal views, rugged landscapes, and a true adventure for long-distance cyclists.
This is another, incredible way of experiencing the NC500, one of the most famous routes in Scotland.
The Caledonia Way (National Cycle Network Route 78)
Departure Point: Campbeltown
Finish Point: Inverness
Terrain: Varied; a mix of dedicated cycle paths, quiet roads, and some off-road sections
Distance: 234 miles (376 km)
Approximate Cycle Time: 5 - 7 days
Description: Stretching from the Kintyre Peninsula to the Highland capital, this route takes riders through some of Scotland’s most scenic landscapes, including the Great Glen and Loch Ness.
You will be challenged with some of this route, and the scenery is breathtaking.
Hebridean Way
Departure Point: Vatersay
Finish Point: Lewis
Terrain: Mainly quiet roads with some off-road sections
Distance: 185 miles (297 km)
Approximate Cycle Time: 4 - 6 days
Description: This route spans ten islands in the Outer Hebrides, connected by causeways and ferries, offering cyclists a unique experience of island hopping amidst stunning coastal scenery.
This will feel like you are cycling through another world. Scotland's paradise.
John Muir Way
Departure Point: Helensburgh
Finish Point: Dunbar
Terrain: A mixture of forest tracks, singletrack, canal towpaths, walking paths, cycling paths, landrover tracks, and sections on roads (some busy)
Distance: 134 miles (212 km)
Approximate Cycle Time: 4 - 6 days
Description: Named after the renowned conservationist, this coast-to-coast route traverses central Scotland, passing through diverse landscapes and historic sites.
You will experience diverse landscapes, from the scenic shores of Loch Lomond to the rolling farmland of the Midlands, passing through historic towns like Linlithgow and Edinburgh.
Loch Lomond and Cowal Way
Departure Point: Portavadie
Finish Point: Inveruglas
Terrain: A mix of footpaths, forestry tracks, and some road sections
Distance: 57 miles (92 km)
Approximate Cycle Time: 2 - 3 days
Description: This route offers a journey through the Cowal Peninsula, showcasing lochs, forests, and mountainous terrains within the Loch Lomond and The Trossachs National Park.
Established in 2000, the Loch Lomond & Cowal Way is Scotland’s most diverse long distance footpath. It runs the length of the Cowal Peninsula, passing through some of the most beautiful and varied landscape in the Highlands.
Dava Way
Departure Point: Grantown-on-Spey
Finish Point: Forres
Terrain: Mainly off-road on the old Highland Railway line
Distance: 24 miles (38 km)
Approximate Cycle Time: 3 - 4 hours
Description: Following a disused railway, this relatively flat route offers an easy ride through the scenic landscapes of the Scottish Highlands.
The Dava Way is recognised as one of Scotland’s Great Trails and is unquestionably one of the country’s finest long-distance walking and off-road cycling routes. It follows the old Highland Railway line for 24 miles (38 km) between the historic towns of Forres and Grantown-on-Spey.
Four Abbeys Cycle Route
Departure Point: Kelso
Finish Point: Kelso (loop)
Terrain: Mostly on quiet country roads
Distance: 55 miles (88 km)
Approximate Cycle Time: 1 day
Description: This circular route connects the historic abbeys of Melrose, Dryburgh, Kelso, and Jedburgh, offering a blend of cultural heritage and picturesque countryside.
Kelso is a fantastic hub for cycling in the Scottish Borders with The full Borderloop, The Tweed Cycle Route, The Kelso to Melrose loop and The Coast and Castles all passing through this beautiful Abbey town
Isle of Arran Circular
Departure Point: Brodick
Finish Point: Brodick (loop)
Terrain: Paved roads with some hilly sections
Distance: 55 miles (88 km)
Approximate Cycle Time: 1 - 2 days
The Island has always been a popular cycle touring destination but it wasn’t until after the Millennium that Arran’s local population started taking to their bikes in any great number. Since then all styles of cycling have become popular with local residents and visitors alike, as a consequence Arran now sees regular weekly riding from mountain bikers, road riders, gravel riders, commuters and ebikers
