The best cycling routes in Stirling

Embark on a difficult touring cycling adventure with the Loch Katrine & Loch Ard gravel loop from Aberfoyle. This challenging route spans 36.5 miles (58.7 km) and features a significant elevation gain of 2485 feet (757 metres), taking approximately 4 hours and 35 minutes to complete. As you cycle, you will experience varied terrain including gravel tracks, forest paths, and some singletrack, all while winding through the beautiful Queen Elizabeth Forest. Keep an eye out for the tranquil "Narrows" on Loch Ard and the stunning views of Ben Lomond in the distance.

Planning your visit requires good preparation, as this is considered a hard bike ride due to the substantial climbing and rough sections. Aberfoyle, known as "Gravelfoyle," serves as an excellent starting point, offering extensive gravel trails in the area. You will find cafes and facilities at key points along the route, such as the eastern end of Loch Katrine and Stronachlachar, which are perfect for a break. Ensure you are well-equipped and have sufficient fitness for this demanding journey.

This loop offers a unique way to explore the Loch Lomond and The Trossachs National Park, connecting several picturesque lochs including Loch Katrine, Loch Ard, Loch Achray, and Loch Chon. A distinctive feature of the area is the option to take the Sir Walter Scott steamship on Loch Katrine, which allows bikes on board for a different perspective of the landscape. This route provides a memorable gravel experience, combining natural beauty with a rewarding physical challenge.

Embark on the Gravelfoyle - Lomond View, a moderate touring cycling route spanning 18.2 miles (29.2 km) with an elevation gain of 1372 feet (418 metres), typically completed in about 2 hours and 35 minutes. This trail immerses you in the diverse Trossachs landscape, transitioning from wide forest roads to brief sections of narrow singletrack. As you pedal through the Loch Ard forest, you will encounter panoramic vistas of Ben Lomond and Loch Ard, offering stunning natural backdrops for your ride.

Planning your visit is straightforward; the route begins and ends in Aberfoyle, a village well-prepared for gravel riders. You will find ample parking options available in Aberfoyle, making access convenient. This is a shared-use path, and no specific permits or fees are required to enjoy the journey.

The Gravelfoyle - Lomond View is a key part of the popular Gravelfoyle network, offering a rewarding experience for experienced cyclists. While exploring the Loch Ard forest, keep an eye out for local wildlife such as red squirrels, badgers, or deer. This route stands out for its blend of challenging terrain and rich natural environment, providing a memorable adventure in the national park.

The Loch Lubnaig loop from Callander offers a moderate touring bicycle ride through the heart of Loch Lomond and The Trossachs National Park. You will cycle 18.1 miles (29.1 km) with an elevation gain of 772 feet (235 metres), typically completed in about 1 hour and 59 minutes. This route guides you alongside the River Leny through peaceful woodlands before revealing expansive views of Loch Lubnaig and its surrounding mountains. Look for the still waters of Loch Lubnaig, especially from the dedicated viewpoint, where reflections can be superb. An elevated section of the track provides panoramic vistas over the loch, enhancing your cycling experience.

When planning your visit, note that the route primarily uses sections of the National Cycle Network 7. This path is largely traffic-free, following an old railway line, making it a relaxed option for many skill levels. The surface is a mix of paved sections and some gravel, so be prepared for varied terrain. You can find convenient amenities and refreshments in Strathyre village, or stop at The Cabin located at Loch Lubnaig's north car park for a break.

This loop provides a diverse experience within the stunning Scottish Highland scenery of Loch Lomond and The Trossachs National Park. The trail's use of the National Cycle Network 7, built on a former railway line, offers a unique historical context to your ride. It allows you to immerse yourself in the natural beauty of the region on a route known for its accessibility and scenic rewards, making it a notable option for exploring this part of Scotland.

Embark on a challenging touring bicycle adventure with the Loch Tay loop from Killin, a difficult route spanning 34.2 miles (55.1 km). You will climb a significant 1943 feet (592 metres) over approximately 3 hours and 28 minutes, offering a rewarding experience for cyclists with very good fitness. As you pedal, you'll be treated to consistently stunning Scottish Highland scenery, with beautiful views across Loch Tay framed by the impressive Tarmachan and Lawers ranges, especially from the quieter South Loch Tay Road. This journey promises a true test of endurance amidst breathtaking natural beauty.

Killin serves as an excellent starting point for your ride, providing convenient access to the route and necessary amenities. Be prepared for varying road surfaces, as some of the quieter tracks you encounter might not be perfectly smooth. This loop is rated as difficult due to the substantial elevation changes, particularly along the south shore, so plan your visit when you are ready for a demanding ride. Always check local conditions before you set out, ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience.

This route takes you through the heart of Loch Lomond & The Trossachs National Park, an area renowned for its dramatic landscapes. A highlight not to be missed is the dramatic Falls of Dochart in Killin, where the water cascades powerfully around the ancient burial grounds of the Islands of Inchbuie. The challenging nature of the ride, combined with the spectacular views and historical landmarks, makes this loop a notable and memorable touring cycling experience in the region.

Embark on a moderate touring bicycle adventure through the stunning Loch Lomond & The Trossachs National Park. This 20.4-mile (32.8 km) loop from Callander takes you past the serene waters of Loch Venachar, Loch Drunkie, and Loch Achray, offering continuous views of the water and surrounding rolling hills. You will experience a varied terrain, with sections of paved road giving way to hard-packed gravel, especially along the scenic Three Lochs Forest Drive, making for an engaging ride through beautiful woodlands. With an elevation gain of 1188 feet (362 metres), you can expect to complete this journey in about 2 hours and 43 minutes.

Planning your ride is straightforward, as Callander serves as an excellent starting point, providing amenities and even bike hire services if you need them. A significant portion of the route is traffic-free, including parts of the National Cycle Network (NCN 7), which enhances your safety and enjoyment. Along the Three Lochs Forest Drive, you will find convenient facilities like toilets, ensuring a comfortable experience throughout your tour.

This route stands out for its immersive journey through the heart of Loch Lomond & The Trossachs National Park, showcasing the region's iconic loch landscapes and diverse forest environments. The blend of paved and gravel surfaces offers a dynamic cycling experience, allowing you to truly connect with the natural beauty of the Scottish Highlands. It's a perfect way to explore the area's unique blend of water features and forested hills, providing a memorable outing for any touring cyclist.

Embark on the Callander & Glen Artney loop from Dunblane, a difficult touring cycling route that takes you deep into the remote and beautiful scenery of Glen Artney. This challenging 41.6-mile (67.0 km) ride features a substantial 2453 feet (747 metres) of elevation gain, promising a rewarding experience over an estimated 4 hours and 34 minutes. As you cycle, you will enjoy expansive views of Munros, lochs, and glens, with a particularly striking vista north towards Ben Vorlich through pine trees.

Planning your ride requires some preparation, as the route features mixed surfaces. About 14% of the trail is unpaved, including land rover tracks, grassy paths, and some easy single track. A specific 6-mile section between Callander and Comrie is known for loose gravel and rougher conditions, so you should consider using a mountain bike or a gravel bike for optimal comfort and control. Parking is available in Dunblane if you are starting your loop from there.

This route offers a true sense of getting away from it all, immersing you in the natural beauty of Loch Lomond and The Trossachs National Park. Beyond the stunning landscapes, you can also spot historic landmarks along the way, such as the impressive Doune Castle and the picturesque Water of Ruchill Bridge at Dalclathick. It is an ideal choice if you are seeking a demanding cycling adventure with both natural grandeur and historical interest.

Embark on a moderate touring bicycle adventure around Loch Earn, a 15.3-mile (24.6 km) loop from Lochearnhead. This route, typically taking about 1 hour and 47 minutes, offers diverse scenery within Loch Lomond & the Trossachs National Park. You will cycle through wooded slopes and open hillsides, with the dramatic Ben Vorlich mountain often in view, and enjoy picturesque vistas of the freshwater loch. The trail features a total elevation gain of 641 feet (195 metres).

While much of the route follows paved lochside roads, be prepared for varied terrain. Sections along the old railway line can be rough, muddy, and unpaved, making them more suitable for gravel or mountain bikes. You will encounter a demanding zig-zag climb when leaving Lochearnhead, gaining 330 feet in just one mile with a peak gradient of 12%. The South Loch Earn Road, however, offers a gentler, undulating ride along the quieter side of the loch.

This loop is notable for integrating parts of the unique BLiSS Trail, an art trail featuring ornamental sculptures. You can also explore sections of a historic railway line being developed into a dedicated cycle path, including the memorable Glen Ogle Viaduct. Along the way, you will pass historic sites such as Edinample Castle and Ardvorlich House, adding a cultural dimension to your scenic ride.