Scotland Peter Irvine’s the best
Cycling routes
Saddle up for two-wheeled adventures across Scotland’s stunning countryside
Speyside Way: Craigellachie–ballindalloch
The cycling part of the Way, with great views; it’s flat and there are no cars. Goes past distilleries. Circular by return on minor roads. Start: Craigellachie, by ranger’s office.
Cumbrae
For an island day out, take ferry from Largs to beautiful Cumbrae. Four or five routes around the island, one a stiff pull to a great viewpoint. Others stick to sea level. Consult locally. Circular with extension to Barbay Hill, nine miles. All these roads are quiet.
Drumlanrig, near Thornhill
In the Drumlanrig Estate around the River Nith, lochs and forest. Eight routes from two-nine miles. Bike hub in the stableyard by the castle.
The Trossachs
Many low-level lochside trails and long-distance routes, including the West Loch Lomond Cycle Path and Sustrans Route 7. Good runs are Aberfoyle–callander (12 miles, all off-road) and the Loch Ard Circle from Aberfoyle going west (signed Inversnaid Scenic Route) or Loch Katrine to Callander. Bike hire: Loch Katrine, Callander, Aberfoyle.
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. Start: Maryhill Locks, Maryhill Road, Glasgow.
Glentrool, near Newton Stewart
Two routes from visitor centre. Deep in the forest and well signed. Briefly joins public road. The 7 Stanes sections can be difficult. Also Clatteringshaws: various routes around the loch including the Raiders’ Road. Start: Glentrool visitor centre off A714. Bike hire at Kirroughtree.