With an abundance of natural wonders like scenic lochs, breath-taking peaks and serene countryside views – Scotland is the perfect destination for a cycling holiday. Staying in Glasgow means you’ll be close to the action, whilst also being right by nature’s doorstep.
So, start your active holiday with the right foot! Here’s our guide to the best places to visit in Glasgow and beyond on a bike:
Cycling routes in Glasgow
With over 200 miles of cycle routes in the city alone, Glasgow is certainly one of the most cycle-friendly places. Plus, if you need a bike pronto, then Glasgow is home to the OVO Bikes scheme, where you can hire bikes 24/7 from many locations around the city. Alternatively, you can hire bikes from plenty of specialised shops.
Exploring the city by bike means you’ll get to breeze through as many of Glasgow’s attractions as you please. You can book organised or private bike tours or go sightseeing at your own pace and convenience.
With so many fun things to do in Glasgow, from visiting the historic city centre and cycling along the Forth and Clyde Canal, to taking a pit stop by some of the city’s best pubs – your active holiday in Scotland is bound to be more fun on two wheels!
Ready, set, go! Here’s a list of some of the most scenic cycling routes in Glasgow:
1. Glasgow Botanic Gardens Renfrew Ferry Loop
This easy bike ride will take you through some of the best places to visit in Glasgow. You’ll visit the Botanic Gardens and its incredible glasshouse Kibble Palace; Kelvingrove park, where you can stop by and admire some of the world’s best art at the Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum, and also take a scenic ferry crossing over the river Clyde.
Fitness level: easy
Route length: 14.5 miles
Time: 1 hour 30 min
2. Rouken Glen Park via Pollok Park Loop
If you want to be immersed in nature, then take this intermediate cycling route through some of the city’s best parks. You’ll go through the stunning Pollok Country Park, crowned both Britain’s and Europe’s best park, cycle past the windmill turbines by Whitelee Windfarm and, if you want to wind down and have a picnic, you’ll get the chance to rest by Rouken Glen Park.
Fitness level: intermediate
Route length: 29.6 miles
Time: 3 hours
3. Mugdock Reservoir and Crow Road Loop
If you’re a cycling pro and have plenty of stamina, then ride your way out of Glasgow and discover the Mugdock Reservoir. This route makes for an ideal day trip from Glasgow, taking you on a up and downhill cycling tour of some of the best neighbouring countryside. If you’re looking for longer cycling routes, then use the River
Clyde as your guide, taking you up to Loch Lomond or follow the Forth and Clyde Canal and ride east to the sea.
Fitness level: difficult
Route length: 43.9 miles
Time: 4 hours 35 min
Ready for your cycling trip to Glasgow? Book your Larne to Cairnryan ferry and reach Glasgow in just a 2 hour drive. If you are looking for another cycling trip why not start planning a cycling trip in Ireland?
