The best cycling routes around Kingside Loch

There are 6 touring cycling routes available around Kingside Loch, offering a variety of experiences for different skill levels. These routes are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 3.0 stars.

The terrain around Kingside Loch is quite varied, featuring a mix of forest tracks, old Roman roads, drove roads, and quiet country lanes. You'll encounter rolling, heather-covered hills, ancient woodlands, and serene loch views, particularly within Craik Forest. This diversity provides a constantly changing visual and physical experience for touring cyclists.

While the guide primarily features moderate to difficult routes, the region's quiet country lanes and forest tracks can offer gentler sections. For a moderate option, consider the Bike loop from Craik, which is 8.8 miles (14.2 km) long and takes about 1 hour 13 minutes, offering moderate climbs through varied terrain near Craik Forest. Always check the route details to ensure it matches your family's fitness and experience.

Cycling around Kingside Loch offers picturesque loch views, especially within Craik Forest. Routes often traverse areas with heather-covered hills and ancient woodlands, characteristic of the Scottish Borders. The region is celebrated for its 'glittering lochs' and 'dense woodlands', providing a scenic backdrop for your ride.

Yes, several routes are designed as loops. For example, the Bike loop from High Seat is a moderate 8.5 miles (13.7 km) path offering scenic views. Another option is the Alemoor Loch – B711 Scenic Road loop from Cacra Hill, a more challenging 28.9 miles (46.4 km) route that leads through rolling hills and past Alemoor Loch.

The Scottish Borders, including the Kingside Loch area, can be enjoyed throughout much of the year. Spring and autumn offer beautiful colours and often milder weather, though conditions can change rapidly. Summer provides longer daylight hours. Always check local weather forecasts before heading out, and be prepared for varied conditions, especially in autumn when appropriate cycling gear is essential.

Yes, the region has historical significance. A notable route is the Romans and Reivers Route, an 84 km multi-use trail that incorporates old Roman roads and passes through historical 'Reivers country.' A section of this route, the 'Girnwood Loch Loop,' passes through Craik Forest and features loch views, including the site of a Roman signal station on Craik Cross Hill. Further afield, near Eskdalemuir, you can find the unique Samye Ling Tibetan Monastery, which welcomes visitors.

While specific parking areas for each route are not detailed here, the Kingside Loch area and Craik Forest are generally accessible. Many routes start from villages or designated forest parking areas. It's advisable to check the starting points of individual routes on komoot for more precise parking information.

Many outdoor areas in the Scottish Borders are dog-friendly, especially on public rights of way and forest trails. However, it's crucial to keep dogs under control, particularly when cycling through farmland with livestock or near wildlife. Always follow the Scottish Outdoor Access Code, which advises keeping dogs on a lead or under close control. Specific route details on komoot may offer more guidance on dog-friendliness.

The Kingside Loch area offers a remote and peaceful environment, meaning villages with amenities might be sparse directly along some routes. However, nearby towns and villages in the wider Scottish Borders will offer cafes, pubs, and accommodation. It's recommended to plan your route and check for facilities in advance, especially for longer rides like the B711 Scenic Road – Alemoor Loch loop from Ettrick, which is 57.7 miles (93 km).

Touring cycling in Kingside Loch offers a unique blend of diverse terrain, historical routes, and a remote, peaceful environment. Cyclists can explore everything from forest tracks and old Roman roads to quiet country lanes, all set against a backdrop of rolling, heather-covered hills and serene lochs. The sense of being 'in the middle of nowhere' provides an immersive experience, distinct from more urban cycling destinations.

The longest touring cycling route featured in this guide is the B711 Scenic Road – Alemoor Loch loop from Ettrick. This challenging route covers a distance of 57.7 miles (93 km) and typically takes around 3 hours 32 minutes to complete, offering extensive views and varied terrain.