Scotland Peter Irvine’s the best
Mountain biking
Whether you’re a self-confessed adrenalin junkie, or prefer a more sedate pace, fantastic trails await
7 Stanes
Ambitious and hugely popular network of bike trails in the south of Scotland. Different lengths and abilities in each of eight places, which include Glentress/tweed Valley, Newcastleton, Forest of Ae, Dalbeattie, Mabie, Glentrool and Kirroughtree. Routes at all levels. Built by bikers. Many challenges. Good signage throughout.
Cathkin Braes Country Park
Host of the Glasgow 2014 Commonwealth Games mountain bike competition. Car park at the top of the park is a good starting point to the trails, which offer technical biking and great views.
Nevis Range
Near Fort William. For downhill adrenalin
junkies take the gondola up. But there are terrains and routes to suit all.
Glen Tanar
Good way to encounter this beautiful Aberdeenshire glen in the shadow of Mount Keen. Quite difficult in places.
Glenfernate-blair Atholl
Beautiful Highland trail that takes in forests, lochs and Glen Tilt. Mainly rough track. Follow directions from tourist information centre leaflets.
Glentress Forest
Meticulously constructed mountain-bike trails near Peebles. Well signed and well used from two car park starts in this hugely popular national cycling centre, with café, shop and many facilities, including showers. “Roompods” to stay in. Many food and drink options in Peebles and Innerleithen. Trails for all levels, plenty of flowing descents and drops. The serious downhill stuff is nearby at Traquair, where the 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