BLOGGER KATHI WON OVER BY E-BIKE EXPERIENCE
Rail travel is enjoyable way to reach great cycling routes
Supported by Sustrans, award-winning travel blogger Kathi Kamleitner (@ WatchMeSee) joined round-the-world adventure cyclist Jenny Graham (@ JennyGrahamIs_) to travel on the Highland Explorer from Glasgow to Taynuilt before exploring the Caledonia Way. Here are Kathi’s highlights:
I was impressed by how easy it was to take the e-bike on the train and find a cycle route that allowed us to connect to the train line multiple times.
I felt proud when I cycled from Oban to Connel
Bridge. I was a bit worried about the more hilly stretches but it was really manageable on an e-bike.
I loved cycling towards Connel because the route follows a quiet single track road with almost no traffic. All I could see were fields, sheep and mountains in the distance. It was pure bliss cycling down that road.
The e-bike made this trip possible for me. It allowed me to focus on the enjoyable parts of the journey – the views, wind in my hair – rather than worrying about the physical challenge. I could also keep up with Jenny.
Nothing beats a good meal at the end of a day of two-wheeled adventures. I was impressed by the food at the Pierhouse Hotel, which is on Wild About Argyll’s Vegan Taste of Place Trail. I’d go again just for the food.
I love how easy it is to explore the west coast by bike. You get the flexibility to explore you’d normally only have by car, but it’s a much more sustainable way to travel. And it’s such fun.
If you are keen to explore Scotland, a bike is easily one of the best ways to travel.
At pedalling speed, you are quickly immersed in amazing landscapes, witness nature and wildlife up close and learn firsthand stories of history and culture.
By bike, you can go at a pace to suit you, on your own or as part of a group, and take stops whenever you want at a panoramic viewpoint, a visitor attraction or to eat out.
For some people, the cycling is the main pursuit, while for others it’s an enjoyable and healthy part of a weekend away or longer holiday, perhaps combining the ride with a wild swim, paddleboarding, kayaking or a hill walk.
And as more people choose to be responsible visitors, cycling is a fun, healthy and environmentally friendly choice.
It’s no wonder then that two-wheeled travel is on the up – and to meet demand, ScotRail has launched new train carriages specifically for active travellers.
The cleverly designed
Highland Explorer carriages, each with 20 bike racks and seating for 24 people, have been added to the West Highland Line between Glasgow and Oban on the west coast.
Escaping the city for a cycling adventure couldn’t be simpler on this famous railway and, as well as enjoying fabulous views from the Highland Explorer, there are plenty of great routes as soon as you step out of the station.
The West Highland Line is a gateway to biking adventures in Argyll - an area renowned for its unspoilt beauty and seclusion.
There are good links from rail stations to Sustrans’ National Cycle Network. Whether you are keen to cycle a few miles with your family, take advantage of an e-bike to pedal further, or if you are looking for an epic challenge in the saddle, there are stunning routes for all ages and abilities.
For example, you could disembark the Highland Explorer with your bike at Helensburgh for a 15-mile loop through stunning Glen Fruin or alight at Taynuilt for a 12-mile familyfriendly gravel cycle route in Fearnoch Forest.
Another great option is the iconic Caledonia Way, which stretches 234 miles from Campbeltown to Inverness. From Oban, follow this iconic route to peaceful Appin, where you can catch the passenger ferry from Port Appin to explore the beautiful island of Lismore.
With the summer season on the horizon, where will you be choosing to rail and ride?