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

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.

Find cyclist-friendly accommodation in Scotland

Find your perfect stay during your next cycling adventure.

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.

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.

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

Sandhaven, Aberdeenshire
© Discover Fraserburgh / Damian Shields

Bike parks

Tarland Trails – the original set of purpose-made trails at Drummy Woods are great for beginners up to intermediate, while the new set of trails sweep around Pittenderich and are ideal for taking your riding to the next level.

Aboyne Bike Park – a community project with two short downhill tracks, a jump park and pump track.

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 Aberdeenshire

Getting to Aberdeenshire

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

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

Tweedlove Family Fun Ride Event, Peebles

Find a cycling event in Scotland

From family events and long-distance races, to hosting some of the largest events in the world, Scotland has lots of cycling events to get involved in as a cyclist or just a fan.

See all cycling events

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

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

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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