Your ultimate guide to cycling in Scotland

There are many ways to explore but cycling in Scotland is one of the best as you take in the scenery all in a climate-friendly way. Your next cycling holiday could include our amazing long-distance routes, or the purpose-built trails at one of 25 world-class mountain biking centres.

Explore Scotland's national cycle routes

Scotland is home to railway paths, canal towpaths, forest roads, shared-use paths and cycle lanes which allow you to safely explore the country.

The National Cycle Network is made up of signposted cycle and walking routes that connect towns, cities and the great outdoors. There is also a handy Sustrans map for you to see where routes start and end, what cities, towns and attractions are nearby, how difficult the route is and more.

Here are some route suggestions to get you started:

Hebridean Way Cycling Route - following part of NCN 780, this terrific, long-distance route spans the length of the enchanting Outer Hebrides island chain.
Ayrshire Coast Cycle Way - this beautiful linear route takes in some of Ayrshire's most picturesque scenery, from the glittering coastline with views out to the Isle of Arran to the thriving marshland and woodland of two Scottish wildlife reserves.
4 Abbeys - tour the Scottish Borders' four famous abbeys on this scenic (but fairly demanding) route through the glorious Borders countryside.
Lochs and Glens Way - connecting Glasgow and Inverness, this is a spectacular route through the very heart of Scotland taking in both of the country’s National Parks.
Round the Inner Forth – easily accessible from Edinburgh, embark on a two-day cycling adventure and discover some of Scotland’s rich history and industrial heritage.

See our map of Sustrans cycling routes and day trips

Our cycle route recommendations

Whatever you want - coastal views, long distance routes or beginner-friendly trails - check out our recommendations.

Montrose Basin route - cycle around this stunning tidal estuary and soak up beautiful views of this wildlife haven. Look out for summer highlights such as osprey and kingfishers.
Edinburgh city centre to the Shore – explore the capital on two wheels as you soak in the cityscape and ride down to the Shore in Leith. The city boasts a range of continuous, traffic-free routes to follow.
Lerwick to Scalloway – our islands are some of the best places to explore on two wheels. Soak in the jaw-dropping scenery, visit the ancient capital of Scalloway, and enjoy island life as you roam across Shetland.

Enjoy 11 of the best cycle routes in Scotland

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Did you know that in 2023 the South of Scotland was awarded the UCI Bike Region Label?

Strathkelvin Railway Path – an easy out-and-back route that takes you past delightful villages and through scenic countryside north of Glasgow, and all framed by the majestic Campsie Fells.
Linlithgow to Blackness Loop – this characterful area of West Calder takes in the stunning sight of Linlithgow Palace, the pretty village of Blackness and boasts a great day out not far from the city.
Logierait to Dunkeld Loop – explore Perthshire, often known as Big Tree Country, on this leafy route running alongside Scotland's longest river.

Explore more cycle routes for beginners

You can also get to grips with Scotland’s trails and pathways with day trips out on your bike. These short rides are ideal for beginners, days out with the family, or even for those just looking for a leisurely cycle, and you’ve got plenty to choose from.

Practical information

Before you set off on your two wheels it’s important to make sure you’re organised and have all you need planned out.

Bike hire in Scotland

Get on your bike and find out all you need to know about cycle hire in Scotland.

Cycling Tours in Scotland

Find guided trips and tours or get help to plan a self-led itinerary. Options can include luggage transfer and assistance vehicles.

Inner Forth Bike Bus

Explore the wonderful landscape of the Inner Forth area by bus between April and October. Good news, it's free of charge!

Top destinations for cycling

Scotland is home to many regions that boast the ideal terrain, accommodation, biking centres and more that are perfect for cycling pros and beginners alike. Each season we'll be covering a new region for you to explore on two wheels, so stay tuned for more inspiration.

Cyclist at Kelvingrove Park
© VisitScotland / Kenny Lam

Glasgow

Cycling in Glasgow includes routes through impressive city streets, historic corners of Scotland’s largest city, lush green spaces and out to the vast surrounding parks, valleys, and stunning west coast scenery. In 2019, Glasgow was awarded a UCI (Union Cycliste Internationale) Bike City status - an accolade that is one of only 28 bike cities or regions around the world.

Great for:

Family-friendly routes
Scenic city escapes
National Cycle Network cycleways

Cycle routes

Glasgow to Balloch (39 miles) - intermediate
Kelvin Walkway (7.7 miles) - family-friendly
Pollok Park Loop (12.4 miles) - easy
Glasgow to Bothwell Loop (20.4 miles) - intermediate with good fitness required

Bike parks

Cathkin Braes – situated in the south-east of Glasgow, Cathkin Braes is home to 9 km of trails, featuring plenty of red, blue, and green trails aimed at beginner, intermediate and expert riders. The star attraction is the Vesolutions pump track – one of the largest in the UK. Suitable for riders of all wheel types, it’s part of the wider mountain bike trail centre, which includes competition MTB cross country trails, skills, trails, and a jump track. Cathkin Braes is free to use and open all-year round.

Mugdock Park – situated in East Dunbartonshire, just north of Glasgow, Mugdock Park offers up a range of terrain and routes for all abilities. Although the park is largely flat, the routes feature many meanders and dips creating the perfect outdoor experience for a day on the trails.

Accommodation

Many accommodation options are cyclist-friendly and will have lockable sheds or outbuildings where you can safely secure your bikes overnight.

Find cycle-friendly accommodation in Glasgow

Getting to Glasgow

Travel to Glasgow by bus or train easily with a variety of public transport options.

Find out more about Glasgow including travel options and things to do

What's new in cycling

New routes

Scotland’s cycling scene always has new things to try out and add to your to-do list, from new trails, enticing events, family-friendly activities, and even a chance to meet big name cyclists and athletes too.

Parks, trails and centres to explore

From urban jungles to the quiet countryside, take your pick from Scotland's range of bike parks and trail centres to suit all abilities.

Laggan Wolftrax Mountain Biking Trail Centre, Laggan

Laggan Wolftrax trails range from an easy-going green route for a shorter and flatter ride, to white-knuckle red, black and orange routes which are more technical. Test yourself with the skills area at the trailhead so you know what to expect out in the forest. Pop into The Bike Bothy Laggan for all your cycling needs, including service and repairs, bike hire and essential accessories for your ride. There is also a café, toilets and shower facilities too.

Find out more about Laggan Wolftrax

Cyclists at Comrie Croft
© Perth and Kinross Council / Fred Murray

Comrie Croft, Perthshire

At Comrie Croft you’ll find over 16 km of pump, berms and rollers along its graded blue, red and black trails. Each grade has a series of interlinking loops which you can do all at once or pick your favourite. Comrie Croft Bikes are on hand to help with any trail questions, bike repairs and have a range of bikes available to hire. Facilities include hot showers (small fee required), a bike cleaning station and toilets. There is also a small skate park just on the outskirts.

Find out more about Comrie Croft

Glentress Forest
© VisitScotland / Ian Rutherford

Glentress Mountain Biking Centre, Scottish Borders

Located just outside of Peebles in the Scottish Borders, Glentress is a popular spot for both mountain biking beginners and experts alike. This award-winning centre is nestled amongst dense woodland and forest and features a range of walking and mountain biking trails to enjoy. With a range of trails to suit all abilities, the whole family can get involved on a day out on the trails. There is also a dedicated skills area where you can get to grips on two wheels and perfect your technique.

Find out more about Glentress

Highland Wildcat Trails
© @cairn_hill_agriculture

Highland Wildcat Trails, Golspie

Highland Wildcat Trails are designed for everyone. Intermediate riders can reach the summit of ‘the Ben’ from the blue trail, while experienced riders can seek more of a thrill along the red and black single-track routes. The riding is generally fast-paced and undulating to keep you on your toes but make sure not to go too fast as hikers and runners regularly use these trails. Families who wish to take it easy and enjoy a cycle along the lush forests can follow Pict’s Path.

Find out more about Highland Wildcat Trails

Spotlight on gravel biking

What is it?

A gravel bike bridges the gap between smooth tarmac road cycling and all but the gnarliest mountain biking trails. It has drop handlebars, disc brakes, chunky tyres and a robust frame. Electric or e-gravel bikes are also available for those that want to go further or make things a bit easier.

Gravel biking routes

A route might typically start from a railway station or directly from your holiday lodgings and take you along quiet country roads, before heading off-road for hinterland adventures. Bikepacking Scotland offers a great selection of gravel biking and bike-packing routes if you’re looking for more inspiration.

Make sure you follow the Scottish Outdoor Access Code and read Developing Mountain Biking in Scotland’s ‘Do The Ride Thing’ guide before heading out.

Find experiences

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