BETA: The search and map are new features with further enhancements planned. VisitScotland is not responsible for the content of external links and accepts no liability for any reliance on these.
There are over 1,600 miles of designated cycle routes in Scotland to explore. The National Cycle Network offers a collection of signposted walking and cycling paths connecting Scotland's cities, towns, and countryside.
Inner Forth Cycle route - Blackness Castle
© Inner Forth Futures/This Way Up Media
Ruthven Barracks
Scotland’s network of routes takes in country roads and cycle paths – over 500 miles of which are on traffic-free routes and along railway paths, canal towpaths, and forest trails.
They're all signposted by either blue cycle route signs or stickers with red number patches so they're easy to follow. There's an amazing network of world-class bike trails to discover too.
Stockingfield Bridge, an active travel bridge over the Forth & Clyde Canal
© VisitScotland / Kenny Lam
This traffic-free, flat route follows the Union and Forth & Clyde Canals from Edinburgh to Glasgow. Along the way you can admire two of Scotland’s bustling and most popular cities, as well as passing by some incredible attractions. Take the time to stop off at The Falkirk Wheel, the world’s only rotating boat lift, and head to The Kelpies, the world’s largest equine sculptures, for a great day out with the family.
Cyclists on the Deeside Way, Ballater
Explore Aberdeenshire along 41 miles of traffic-free path between Aberdeen and Ballater. Popular amongst cyclists, walkers, and horse riders, the Deeside Way takes in the Old Royal Deeside Railway tracks, alongside incredible scenery and views. Ballater is located in the Cairngorms National Park – an ideal destination for the avid cyclists and outdoor enthusiasts. Enjoy the city sights of Aberdeen, with a detailed history, and maritime heritage to explore too.
Laggan Locks
Stretching from rural Campbeltown on the Kintyre peninsula to the Highland capital of Inverness, The Caledonia Way is a popular long-distance route. Taking in the iconic banks of Loch Ness, the Outdoor Capital of Fort William, and the coastal town of Oban, there are plenty of great spots to stop off at along the route.
Inner Forth Cycle route - Culross
© Inner Forth Futures/This Way Up Media
Explore the Firth of Forth on two wheels with this route encompassing the three iconic bridges, Queensferry Crossing, Forth Bridge, and the Forth Road Bridge, as well as nearby sights and attractions. Pedal across the Kincardine Bridge, enjoy the sights of the Kingdom of Fife, explore parts of the Fife Coastal Path, and discover striking attractions such as Hopetoun House and Blackness Castle.
John O’ Groats signpost
The only NCN route over 1,000 miles long, it stretches from the south of England to the north of Shetland. Journey through the northern landscapes of Scotland, from Inverness to John o’Groats, with incredible untouched scenery sounding you at every turn. If you fancy extending your trip further, hop on a ferry to Orkney and beyond to Shetland, passing extensive heritage and historic sites enroute.
Dundee Cycle Hub
Bike hire in Scotland is an easy and efficient way of getting around. It’s fun and cheap, too. If you don’t bring your own bike, you can hire one from one of the many bike hire operators across Scotland. There are also eBike hire schemes in our cities, such as Voi eBike in Edinburgh and Glasgow, that allow you to pick up and drop off bikes at various points across the city.
You can also find bike repair shops across the country too, so even when you're exploring our most remote and rual corners, you won't be far from a helping hand.
Get Scotland inspiration direct to your inbox. Don't miss the inside track from our Scotland experts on exciting trip ideas, unique attractions and hidden gems loved by locals.