Highland Explorer trains make bike adventures easy
Rail journeys can take you to amazing biking routes
Some of Scotland’s most epic cycle routes are now more accessible thanks to the ScotRail Highland Explorer – bike-friendly train carriages that run along the stunning West Highland Line from Glasgow Queen Street to Oban.
Already famous as one of the most scenic railway routes in the world, the trains allow passengers to appreciate Argyll’s dramatic scenery, travelling through lush glens, past sparkling lochs and in the shadow of mountains.
Several stations along the route are also great stop-offs for cyclists looking for magical trails of all levels, from easy family or beginner routes to the more challenging – many with access to an obligatory coffee and cake stop!
You don’t need to spend all your time in the saddle, either, as an interactive map makes it easy to plan an adventure, factoring in plenty of other things to see and do along the way, from sightseeing to activities such as wild swimming or paddle-boarding.
Cycling has boomed since the start of the coronavirus pandemic as more of us focus on our mental wellbeing and fitness.
That, coupled with the 2023 UCI Cycling World Championships - bringing all 13 world championships together in one megaevent for the first time – coming to Scotland next year, is helping to cement our reputation as a top cycling hotspot.
Many of our routes, like Sustrans’ Caledonia Way, rival European cycling destinations for jaw-dropping scenery and memorable experiences for all ages and abilities.
Using the train to access the routes also helps reduce carbon emissions so it ticks the responsible-tourism box, too.
With Glasgow as a launch point, Highland Explorer carriages will help more people access all sorts of adventures from family-friendly day trips in Argyll as well as longer sections
of the Caledonia Way that runs 234 miles from Campbeltown to Inverness.
And, with space for 26 bikes on two Highland Explorer services each way every Monday-Saturday and one on Sundays, there’s never been a better time to plan your Scottish cycling adventure.
With help from VisitScotland and Sustrans, read on for information on some great trails to enjoy from stops along the Highland Explorer’s route.