The best road cycling routes around Southside

Southside offers a wide variety of road cycling routes, with over 570 options available. These routes cater to different skill levels, from easy loops to more challenging rides.

Road cycling in Southside, primarily centered around Edinburgh, features a diverse landscape. You'll encounter a mix of urban roads, scenic coastal paths along the Firth of Forth, and routes that ascend into rolling hills and moorland. The terrain varies from flat promenades to moderate climbs, with prominent features like Arthur's Seat and the Braid Hills.

Yes, Southside has plenty of options for beginners. There are over 180 easy road cycling routes. A great example is the Braid Hills loop from Edinburgh, which is an 8.4-mile (13.5 km) trail leading through rolling hills and urban parkland.

Many routes offer stunning views and pass by notable landmarks. You can cycle past iconic spots like Arthur's Seat, offering panoramic views, or explore historical sites such as Holyrood Palace. Other routes might take you past viewpoints like Corstorphine Hill Tower or offer vistas from Allermuir Hill.

Yes, Southside offers several longer routes for those looking for a more extensive ride. The Portobello Promenade and Beach – Nungate Bridge loop from Edinburgh Waverley is a substantial 76.6 km (47.6 miles) route, and the Edinburgh to West Linton loop via Moor Road covers 62.6 km (38.9 miles).

Absolutely. Many of Southside's road cycling routes are designed as loops, allowing you to start and finish in the same location. Popular circular routes include the Arthur’s Seat and Portobello Promenade loop from Edinburgh and the Braid Hills loop from Edinburgh.

The best time for road cycling in Southside is generally from spring through autumn (April to October) when the weather is milder and daylight hours are longer. While cycling is possible year-round, winter can bring colder temperatures, shorter days, and potentially more challenging conditions on some of the higher moorland roads.

While the guide focuses on road cycling, many routes in Southside offer sections suitable for families, especially those on flatter urban roads or coastal promenades. For dedicated family-friendly, traffic-free options, you might find sections of trails that are part of broader networks, similar to the Southside Trail in Pittsburgh which is wide and allows no motor traffic.

Given Southside's proximity to Edinburgh, many routes are easily accessible by public transport, particularly those starting from or passing through urban areas. Edinburgh has a comprehensive bus network, and some routes may be reachable via train stations, allowing you to combine cycling with public transport for longer excursions.

Parking availability varies by route. For routes starting within Edinburgh, public car parks are available, though they may incur charges. For routes venturing into more rural areas or parklands, look for designated parking areas near trailheads or local amenities. It's always advisable to check specific starting points for parking information.

The road cycling routes in Southside are highly regarded by the komoot community, with an impressive average score of 4.4 stars from over 400 reviews. Over 21,000 road cyclists have used komoot to explore the area, often praising the varied terrain, scenic coastal views, and the mix of urban and rural cycling experiences.

Yes, experienced road cyclists will find challenging options in Southside. While many routes offer moderate climbs, some, particularly those traversing moorland roads or ascending hills like Arthur's Seat, provide significant elevation gain. There are 68 difficult routes available for those seeking a more strenuous ride.

Given the mix of urban and coastal routes, you'll find numerous opportunities for refreshments. Routes passing through Edinburgh's urban areas or along the Portobello Promenade offer access to many cafes, pubs, and restaurants. Even on longer routes like the Edinburgh to West Linton loop, you'll pass through towns where you can find places to refuel.