The best cycling routes in Argyll and Bute

Embark on a challenging touring cycling adventure around the Isle of Mull with the Duart Castle, Loch Scridain, and Loch na Keal loop. This difficult route spans 52.3 miles (84.1 km) and features a significant 2522 feet (769 metres) of elevation gain, typically taking around 5 hours and 13 minutes to complete. You will navigate winding single-track roads, experience demanding climbs, and enjoy stunning descents with marvelous views. The trail offers mesmerizing ocean vistas along the 15-kilometer sea loch of Loch Scridain, coastal scenery, and the dramatic wilderness under the shadow of Ben More, Mull's highest peak. Cycling along Loch na Keal, a National Scenic Area, you will find yourself on a narrow road tucked between the loch's edge and towering mountains.

This popular loop from Salen requires a very good level of fitness, and you should be prepared for varied elevations. While mostly on paved surfaces, some segments might require you to push your bike, especially on unpaved or difficult sections. The primary climb, part of the "Scenic Route to Salen" along Loch Scridain, is steady and challenging. Be aware that single-track roads with passing places, common on Mull, require careful navigation with other road users.

The route is celebrated for its profound wilderness experience, particularly on remote sections where traffic is minimal and nature dominates. You can expect to spot wildlife, such as golden eagles soaring overhead, especially near Ben More. Duart Castle, the ancient seat of Clan Maclean, provides a significant historical point of interest, offering insights into over 600 years of clan history and commanding views over the Sound of Mull.

Embark on the Kilberry Stones loop from Tarbet, a challenging touring bicycle route spanning 39.5 miles (63.5 km) with a significant 2448 feet (746 metres) of elevation gain. This difficult loop, estimated to take around 4 hours, offers a dynamic ride with short, sharp climbs and sweeping descents, some of which may be unpaved. As you cycle, you'll be treated to panoramic coastal views, looking out over the Sound of Jura to the west and the picturesque Loch Fyne to the east, with West Loch Tarbert connecting them in the south. You can also spot the distant islands of Jura, Islay, and Gigha, and ride along the shores of Loch Caolisport.

To tackle this route, you will need very good fitness due to its demanding nature and considerable climbing. While the research does not specify trailhead access or parking details, Tarbert serves as the starting point, a well-known village in Argyll and Bute. Always check local conditions before you go, especially regarding any unpaved sections, and ensure your bicycle is suitable for varied terrain. Given the coastal exposure, be prepared for changing weather conditions.

This loop is a firm favorite among local cyclists, including members of the Mid Argyll Triathlon & Cycle Club, and forms the basis for the annual Kilberry Loop Sportive. The route's name hints at the historical Kilberry Sculptured Stones, which offer a cultural point of interest nearby and are open year-round. The Kintyre Peninsula, which you will traverse, is known for its wild coastlines, sandy beaches, and sea lochs, making this a truly memorable and rewarding experience for experienced touring cyclists.

Embark on the Glen Fruin loop from Helensburgh, a moderate touring cycling route that takes you through a landscape of splendid isolation. You will cover 15.3 miles (24.6 km) and gain 859 feet (262 metres) in elevation, typically completing the ride in about 1 hour and 35 minutes. The route offers a unique atmosphere as you cycle mostly on single-track roads with very little traffic, passing scattered farms and enjoying the quiet of the glen. As you climb out of the glen, you are rewarded with expansive views of The Cobbler, the Arrochar Alps, and even an overlook of the Clyde Naval Base.

To plan your visit, consider starting from Helensburgh, where parking is generally available, making it a convenient base for your ride. The route is predominantly paved, which makes it suitable for touring cyclists. You can easily combine your cycling trip with a visit to Charles Rennie Mackintosh's 'The Hill House' in Helensburgh, adding a cultural element to your day. This loop is a great option if you are looking for a scenic ride without heavy traffic.

This touring cycling route stands out for its journey through Glen Fruin, a place known for its diverse and scenic experience within Loch Lomond & The Trossachs National Park. The glen provides a sense of remoteness and a slightly eery charm, setting it apart from more bustling routes. It offers a chance to connect with the natural environment and enjoy the quiet beauty of the Scottish landscape. The challenging climb is well worth the effort for the panoramic vistas you will encounter.

Embark on the Oban to Port Appin loop via Castle Stalker, a challenging touring bicycle route through the Scottish Highlands. This 46.7-mile (75.2 km) journey takes you along coastal and loch-side paths, offering views of Loch Creran and Loch Linnhe. You will cycle through woodlands and glens, with sections on paved roads and parts of the traffic-free Caledonia Way. The route includes some unpaved or gravel segments, and you can expect hills and dips, especially between Oban and Connel Ferry. The highlight is the dramatic Castle Stalker, standing on its island in Loch Laich, a perfect photo opportunity. With 2317 feet (706 metres) of elevation gain, this difficult ride typically takes around 4 hours and 48 minutes to complete.

This loop is rated as difficult, requiring good to very good fitness due to its length and elevation. While some parts on old railway lines offer easy cycling, be prepared for varied terrain, including some steep sections where you might need to push your bike. The trail is accessible from Oban, a well-known starting point for exploring the region. Remember that midges can be a nuisance, so consider bringing appropriate protection, especially during warmer months.

The route incorporates sections of the Sustrans National Cycle Route 78, also known as the Caledonia Way, which often follows disused railway lines. This provides a unique cycling experience with quiet roads, particularly around Port Appin and North Shian. Keep an eye out for wildlife, as otters are sometimes spotted along the shores of Loch Creran. Castle Stalker, a medieval fortress, is a notable landmark, famously featured in *Monty Python and the Holy Grail*.

Embark on the Lochgoilhead, Glen Croe Woods & Ardgartan loop for a difficult touring bicycle adventure, covering 20.6 miles (33.2 km) with a significant 2566 feet (782 metres) of elevation gain. This route, typically taking around 3 hours and 21 minutes, offers a challenging mix of forestry roads, single track, and gravel fire roads, including unpaved segments and steep ascents. You will experience continuous climbs, like the one up Gleann Mhor, followed by exhilarating downhills, all set against the backdrop of stunning Scottish Highland scenery. Expect panoramic views over Loch Long, Loch Goil, and the Firth of Clyde, with the majestic Arrochar Alps, including Ben Lomond and The Cobbler, dominating the horizon.

This demanding loop requires very good fitness and stamina, as you will encounter sustained climbs, with some sections potentially requiring you to push your bike. The Ardgartan Peninsula Circuit, which forms part of this route, is known for its challenging nature. It is often recommended to ride the loop in a clockwise direction when starting from Lochgoilhead, allowing you to tackle the climbs effectively. Be prepared for diverse terrain that transitions from wide tracks to more remote single track as you wind through the countryside.

Beyond the physical challenge, the trail immerses you in ancient woodlands and the rugged Ardgartan Peninsula, providing opportunities to spot wildlife such as red squirrels, roe deer, and various birds. You can also discover Corran Lochan, a remote small lochan nestled among towering hills. A notable feature on the return to Lochgoilhead is the Duke's Path or Pass, characterized by its single-track riding with short ascents and longer descents, adding to the unique character of this rewarding journey.

Embark on the Bute Cycle Network Trail, a moderate touring cycling route that spans 17.5 miles (28.2 km) and includes a total elevation gain of 730 feet (223 metres). You can expect to complete this journey in about 1 hours and 42 minutes, making it a rewarding ride for a morning or afternoon. As you pedal, you will encounter magnificent coastal views, varied terrain shaped by the Highland Boundary Fault, and pass through extensive moorland, low hills, and stretches of woods. Keep an eye out at Scalpsie Bay, where you might spot a seal colony, adding a unique wildlife encounter to your ride.

Planning your visit to the Isle of Bute is straightforward; a 45-minute ferry journey from Wemyss Bay will get you there, and bikes travel free. The A844 road forms a significant part of the island's cycling routes and is known for being relatively traffic-free, offering a pleasant riding experience. While there are no specific warnings about permits or seasonal closures mentioned, it is always a good idea to check local conditions before you head out. This ensures you have the most up-to-date information for your trip.

This route is an integral part of the wider network of Isle of Bute cycling routes, offering diverse experiences for touring cyclists. Beyond the immediate trail, you can enjoy glorious vistas of the Kyles of Bute and the distant Isle of Arran, providing a stunning backdrop to your adventure. The island's unique geology and natural beauty make this trail a notable option for those looking to explore Scotland's west coast by bike.

Embark on a moderate touring bicycle loop from Tarbet, covering 14.7 miles (23.6 km) with an elevation gain of 1075 feet (328 metres). This route typically takes around 1 hour and 47 minutes to complete. As you cycle, you will enjoy continuous lochside views along the western shore of Loch Lomond, passing through ancient oak woods near Firkin Point where you might spot wildlife like woodpeckers. You will also see prominent landmarks such as Conic Hill and Ben Lomond across the water, with picturesque villages like Luss offering charming stopping points.

Planning your visit is straightforward, as the path is generally well-signposted. Both Tarbet and Balloch have train stations, providing convenient access if you are using public transport. During summer months, waterbus services are also available from Tarbet, offering alternative ways to explore the loch. Along the way, Luss provides cafes, pubs, and picnic areas, while Firkin Point is another excellent spot for a break.

This trail is notable for its mostly traffic-free nature, making it a safe and enjoyable experience for touring cyclists. The route follows historic landscapes once used by drovers, adding a layer of cultural interest to your ride. You can also extend your trip by exploring nearby attractions such as Loch Lomond Shores and Balloch Castle Country Park, making it a great option for a day out in the national park.

Embark on the Ostel Bay beach loop from Kames, a moderate touring bicycle ride that takes you through Argyll's "Secret Coast". This 11.3-mile (18.2 km) route, with 604 feet (184 metres) of elevation gain, offers a mix of quiet coastal roads and some unpaved sections, typically taking around 1 hour and 20 minutes to complete. You will cycle along the Ardlamont Peninsula, enjoying expansive views over the Kyles of Bute, with the Isle of Arran and Kintyre visible on the horizon. The highlight is Ostel Bay itself, a stunning crescent-shaped sweep of sand often described as the jewel of the Secret Coast. While mostly paved, be aware that the track leading down to Ostel Bay from Kilbride Farm is better suited for off-road bikes, and you might need to walk this part if you are on a road bike.

This loop starts and ends in Kames, a village that provides convenient access to the Ardlamont Peninsula. The route primarily follows quiet coastal roads, making for a peaceful cycling experience with minimal traffic. You can find provisions at the Kames Village Store before you set off. For refreshments along the way, consider stopping at establishments like Botanica at The Barn in Millhouse or a coffee bar at Kilbride Farm. Remember that a specific 1.5-kilometre section of steep rocky path north of Kames is impassable with a bike if you try to cycle along the shore.

The Ostel Bay beach loop is part of the wider Ardlamont Peninsula, an area renowned for its outstanding views and diverse cycling opportunities. Ostel Bay itself is a huge beach that often remains deserted, even in summer, providing a perfect spot for relaxation or a picnic. The tranquil, single-track coastal roads are a key appeal for touring cyclists seeking a serene journey. This route offers a chance to explore the natural beauty of Argyll's "Secret Coast," making it a notable choice for those looking for a scenic and accessible ride.

The Oban to Kilchrenan loop is a difficult touring bicycle route, stretching 35.5 miles (57.2 km) with a significant elevation gain of 2369 feet (722 metres). This challenging ride typically takes around 4 hours and 8 minutes to complete, winding through varied Scottish landscapes. You will experience dramatic coastlines, serene glens, and picturesque lochs, with particularly rewarding views across Oban Bay and towards the Atlantic Islands. Expect mostly paved surfaces, though some sections may have rough tarmac, potholes, or even unpaved segments where you might need to push your bike.

Planning your ride, you should be aware that this route requires very good fitness due to its length and elevation. A recommended on-road path takes you from Oban to Taynuilt via Glen Lonan, then along the B845 to Kilchrenan, before following the quieter west side of Loch Awe. This section is known for its tiring ups and downs. While mostly paved, be prepared for some rough gravel, but generally no large obstacles that would require a mountain bike.

This loop is a favorite among local touring cyclists for its blend of challenge and beauty, offering diverse scenery characteristic of Scotland's west coast. It forms part of a broader network of highly-rated cycling routes in the Oban area. As you cycle, you might spot Highland cattle in Glen Lonan and pass through lush woodlands and around picturesque lochs, featuring quaint cottages and traditional houses.