Scotland the best
Cycling routes
Scotland can boast miles and miles of wheely great cycling routes – so get on yer bike! Forth & Clyde Canal
Glasgow-falkirk Wheel. East out of the city, urban at first then nice in the Kelvin Valley; Kilsyth Hills to the north. Falkirk Wheel and attractions. Start at the Maryhill Locks, Maryhill Rd.
The 7stanes
Ambitious and hugely popular network of bike trails in south of Scotland, different lengths and abilities in each of eight places, which include Glentress/the Tweed Valley, Newcastleton, Forest of Ae, Dalbeattie, Mabie, Glentrool, and Kirroughtree. Routes at all levels. Built by bikers. Many challenges. Good signage throughout.
Edinburgh trails
There is a vast network of cycle and towpaths
especially north of the New Town. Another good run is to Balerno from Union Canal towpath in Lower Gilmore Place. End at Balerno High School.
Nevis Range
Hosts the Mountain Bike World Cup on the Witch’s Trails. For downhill adrenaline junkies take the gondola up. It’s not all hardcore; there are terrains and routes to suit all. Pinemarten Café at car park and Snowgoose Restaurant & Bar 650m up the mountain. Bike hire Nevis Range, Inverlochy.
Glentress Forest
Near Peebles. Meticulously constructed mountain-bike trails. Well signed and well used from two car park starts in this hugely popular national cycling centre, with café, shop (Alpine Bikes) and many facilities, including showers. “Roompods” to stay in. Many food and drink options in Peebles and Innerleithen, especially No.1 Peebles Road Coffee House, a true caff for cyclists. Trails for all levels, flowing descents and drops. Serious downhill stuff nearby at Traquair, where 7Stanes cross-country route also starts.
Peter Irvine is the author of the essential travel guide Scotland the Best published by Collins, priced £15.99