The best traffic-free bike rides around Harlaw Reservoir

There are over 30 dedicated no-traffic road cycling routes around Harlaw Reservoir, offering a variety of experiences for different skill levels. These routes are specifically curated to provide quiet, paved surfaces away from heavy vehicle traffic.

Yes, Harlaw Reservoir offers a good selection of easy, no-traffic road cycling routes perfect for beginners or families. For example, the Riggs Climb loop from Balerno is an easy option, providing a gentle introduction to the area's scenic beauty on quiet roads.

The no-traffic road cycling routes around Harlaw Reservoir offer stunning views of the Pentland Hills, including peaks like Black Hill and West Kip. You'll also cycle past picturesque tree-lined avenues, tranquil waters of Harlaw and Threipmuir Reservoirs, and enjoy the natural beauty of the regional park.

Many of the no-traffic road cycling routes in the area are designed as loops, allowing you to start and finish at the same point. For instance, the Long Dalmahoy Road – Kirkgate Hill loop from Curriehill offers a circular experience on quiet roads.

Parking is generally available at various points around the Pentland Hills Regional Park, which encompasses Harlaw Reservoir. The Harlaw House Visitor Centre is a common starting point and often has parking facilities. You can also find parking in nearby towns like Balerno or Currie, which serve as excellent access points for many routes.

Spring, summer, and early autumn generally offer the most pleasant conditions for road cycling around Harlaw Reservoir, with milder weather and longer daylight hours. The vibrant greenery of spring and the rich colours of autumn provide particularly scenic rides. While winter cycling is possible, be prepared for colder temperatures and potentially icy conditions on some roads.

While the routes themselves focus on quiet roads, the Harlaw House Visitor Centre often has amenities, including a local van selling refreshments on weekends. Additionally, nearby towns like Balerno and Currie offer various cafes and shops where you can refuel before or after your ride.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.36 stars. Reviewers often praise the peaceful, traffic-free nature of the roads, the stunning views of the Pentland Hills, and the variety of routes suitable for different fitness levels.

Yes, while many routes are easy to moderate, you can combine segments or explore longer loops for a more challenging experience. Routes like the Long Dalmahoy Road – Kirkgate Hill loop from Curriehill offer a good distance, and the wider network allows for extended rides with moderate elevation gains into the Pentland Hills.

Komoot provides detailed maps and turn-by-turn navigation for all the routes listed, including those around Harlaw Reservoir. You can access these routes directly through the komoot app or website, which allows you to download them for offline use and follow along on your device.

Beyond the immediate vicinity of Harlaw Reservoir, the broader Pentland Hills Regional Park and surrounding areas offer many quiet, paved roads suitable for road cycling. Routes that incorporate sections of the Water of Leith Walkway, such as the Torduff Reservoir – Water of Leith Walkway loop from Curriehill, provide excellent alternative no-traffic options.