28 | Cycling World
Cycle Hire in Scotland
If you aren ’ t bringing your bike to Scotland but you fancy a cycle , then you ’ ll need to hire one !
You will find dedicated cycle shops which offer bike hire in Scotland and specialise in top quality bikes . The staff will be able to sort you out with a suitable bike to meet your needs and adequately prepare you for your cycling adventure .
In Glasgow and Stirling , you can pick up bicycles from nextbike at any time of day - it ’ s easy to arrange your hire via the app , online or by telephone . Bike & Go offer a similar hire scheme at train stations in all of Scotland ’ s cities , as well as in Linlithgow , Largs and Kilmarnock - just sign-up as a member online , hop off the train and get cycling .
Cycling Holidays and Tours
A cycling holiday is a great way to see Scotland and with a choice of dedicated cycle routes around the country , it ’ s more a question of where do you want to start !
Why go on a cycling holiday in Scotland ?
It ’ s an awesome way to see the best of our islands , coast , lochs , countryside , towns and villages , and there are plenty of great points to stop for a breather and a lovely view .
The National Cycle Network makes it easy to get around on quiet roads and traffic-free paths . Many routes are suitable for families .
There ’ s great cycle-friendly accommodation . The VisitScotland Cyclists Welcome scheme recognises establishments which go the extra mile to help make your trip go smoothly , from drying facilities to flexible dinner times .
Scotland has a relatively mild climate ( but bear in mind that the weather can change , so be prepared for a range of conditions !)
One of the best things about any cycle trip is stopping for a well-earned break ! In Scotland , you can stop for a picnic at some truly picturesque places , including beside ancient castles and on the banks of famous lochs .
Fancy a Tour ?
Whether you ’ ve got a couple of hours or a couple of weeks , there are some great companies who can provide you with guided trips or plan a self-led itinerary which will take you across Scotland ’ s regions . Choose from the likes of :
• A pleasant afternoon ’ s cycle from Edin burgh to South Queensferry and the Forth Bridges .
• An island-hopping bike tour along the gentle , quiet roads of the Outer Hebri des . Follow the Hebridean Way Cycle Route which crosses 10 islands .
• A challenging and exhilarating road bike trip through the mountainous landscape of Applecross in the Highlands .
Cycling Events
In Scotland , we really love cycling , so much so that we put on some rather wonderful events to celebrate the joys of being on two wheels .
The festivals serve up a thrilling programme , from events such as cyclo-cross to family ride outs , as well as an exciting social scene . Why not see if any cycling festivals are on whilst you are visiting and join in with the velo action ? For more information on events visit www . visitscotland . com
Cycling for all
There ’ s a great range of paths and trails to suit all ages and abilities , perfect for weaving your way through Scotland ’ s countryside , cities , towns and villages on two wheels .
The Great Outdoors
Outdoor Activities in Scotland
Scotland is the ultimate natural playground . Here you can have a go at all the activities the country is legendary for , as well as some that you may never even have heard off .
Scotland is , after all , The Home of Golf where prestigious and ancient courses
beckon thousands golfers the world over to experience the sport at its most authentic . This is also a land and coast made for exploration and adrenaline-pumping adventures ; from mountain biking down rugged alpine terrain to navigating an aerial assault course across a forest canopy , to scaling the lofty heights of the Cairngorms to gliding long the shoreline of a Hebridean island in sea kayak . From world-class watersports to walking , cycling to aqualining , the possibilites for getting active in Scotland ’ s magnificent great outdoors are endless .
Cycling Routes & Paths in Scotland
Pedal your way around Scotland with ease by following the country ’ s designated National Cycle Network ( NCN ). Whatever your preferred distance , you ’ ll find many cycle routes in Scotland that suit you !
What ’ s the National Cycle Network ?
• 2,100 miles of National Cycle Network routes on country roads and cycle paths .
• Over 500 miles of traffic-free walking and cycling routes on railway paths , canal towpaths and forest trails .
• Signposted with blue cycle route signs with red number patches . In some places , blue stickers with red number patches may be used .