Cycling routes Scotland: Seven of the best the country has to offer

The Met Office has said that temperatures in the west of Scotland could reach as high as 25C and it's expected to remain sunny across much of the country throughout the week. 

We’ve had a look across Visit Scotland and Tripadvisor to pull together seven of the best cycle routes across the country.

The Forth and Clyde canal

This route is one of the most popular for those living in and around Glasgow and covers a total distance of 45.4 miles.

It’s described by cycleplan as “easy-to-follow, flat, and largely traffic-free”. It takes cyclists along the Forth and Clyde Canal and ends up at the Falkirk Wheel.

The journey begins in Cowcaddens just outside Glasgow City Centre where you travel northwards up the A81 and A879, eventually ending up at the iconic landmark where you can enjoy some stunning views.

Kinnoull Hill

Located partly in Perth and partly in Kinfauns, this route is suitable for those looking to do a bit of mountain biking and can be walked as well.

On a list of the top 10 biking trails across Scotland on Tripadvisor, Kinnoull Hill comes in at number one.

From the car park to the top it’s around a two kilometre walk although some comments on Tripadvisor did point out that it’s a steep climb.

Devilla Forest

Like Tripadvisor, Visit Scotland has also compiled a list of the best cycling routes across Scotland.

Among the many routes is Devilla Forest in Fife which has “hundreds of forest cycle trails”. It’s located less than an hour from Edinburgh and is home to an abundance of creatures, including red squirrels.

Formartine and Buchan Way

For those looking for something a bit more challenging, this journey through the north east countryside away from the hustle and bustle of road traffic can take between four and six hours one way.

It begins at Dyce train station and continues for 25 miles through the heart of rural Aberdeenshire to Maud where it splits.

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The route ends in either Fraserburgh or Peterhead which both boast beaches for you to enjoy.

Assynt Achiltibuie Circular trail

Another one for those seeking a challenge. This stunning route loops in the north west of Scotland and travels through some of its wildest landscapes.

You can take in famous mountains such as Sula Bheinn, Cùl Mòr and Stac Pollaidh as well as many peaceful beaches and lochs.

According to Visit Scotland, it’s one of the best experiences for cycling through the Highlands.

It’s one for those with a bit more experience though as it takes around seven hours to complete the 70-mile journey.

Ayrshire coast cycle way

This route is slightly shorter than the previous two, beginning in Irvine and ending in Ayr.

It takes around two hours and is mostly off-road although there are some sections which are on-road.

It runs along Ayrshire’s coast and takes in some of its most picturesque scenery, which includes views out to the Isle of Arran (above) and goes through the woodland of two Scottish wildlife reserves.

In total, the route is 19 miles long.

Four abbeys

Another route courtesy of Visit Scotland, this is one for those travelling to or living in the Scottish Borders.

As the name suggests, the route takes in four famous abbeys – Melrose, Dryburgh, Kelso, and Jedburgh.

It’s a scenic route but also a demanding one, taking between five and six hours in total across 55 miles.

The departure or end point is flexible though – there’s no need to take in all four in one go!