Your ultimate guide to cycling in Scotland

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. 

Read more about cycling routes and see our suggestions

See our map of Sustrans cycling routes and day trips

• 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

Aberdeenshire

Cycling in Aberdeenshire includes routes through impressive estates and ancient forests, past extraordinary Munros, rolling farmland and wide sandy beaches.

Great for:

• Challenging ascents
• Cycling events

Cycle Routes

• Deeside Way – Aberdeen to Ballater for 41 miles
• Aberdour Bay Circular – New Aberdour for 13 miles (moderate)
• Insch to Oyne – for 19 miles (family-friendly)
• Inverbervie to Johnshaven loop – for 10 miles (family-friendly)

Find more long-distance cycle routes

Buy an Aberdeenshire cycle route map

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

Cathkin Braes Pump Track, Glasgow

Situated in the south-east of Glasgow, Cathkin Braes is home to 9 km of trails. Take on its Red Circuit route with lots of tables, doubles and gaps in store to hone your skills. There are also plenty of blue and green trails aimed at beginner and intermediate riders. The park’s 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, that includes competition MTB cross country trails, skills trails and a jump track. Cathkin Braes is free to use and open all-year round.

Find out more about Cathkin Braes

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.