Stirling
7 Stunning Stirling Bike Trails You Won't Want to Miss!
7 Stunning Stirling Bike Trails You Won't Want to Miss!
Dunblane, Doune and Callander Railway by Richard Webb under license CC BY-SA 4.0
Are you looking for an unforgettable experience to explore the great outdoors? Then visiting Stirling should be your first choice. Aside from its stunning landscape, near to the city offers incredible cycling routes that are perfect for adventurers of all levels. Whether your goal is a leisurely afternoon ride or some intense hill-climbing excitement on your mountain bike, there is something special just around the corner waiting to be explored!
You can cycle all the way from Doune to Dunblane taking in the scenery shown on the 'Outlander' series, see the famous Rob Roy MacGregor's grave on the Loch Katrine route or take in the 8km's of mountain bike trails at the Carron Valley!
Once you've read up on the cycle routes to try on your visit to Stirling, why not have a look at our blog posts for the activities that are available to do here. You can find them on the following buttons below:
The table above lists all the best cycle routes near Stirling. Click on each name to be taken straight to the part of the blog post for that route.
Plan a Stirling bike ride, get inspired and have fun!
Central Scotland has many places to explore from the saddle and near to Stirling is some of the best cycle paths and mountain biking trails. Have a look below at the cycle routes listed on the interactive map and click on the buttons below the map for each route, for further information before you travel. The purple icons on the map indicate some local bike hire places. Check them out for prices on their website before you rent.
Doune to Dunblane
If you're looking for an enjoyable outdoor activity that will help make your visit to Stirling unforgettable, why not consider taking a cycling trip from Doune to Dunblane along the cycle path that connects these two towns? This easy, traffic-free, 4 mile route is especially perfect for a leisurely day trip taking the family out on a bike ride. Enjoy the lush countryside with its rolling green hills and open farmland as you peddle along the old railway track. The journey takes approximately 30 mins and is relatively flat, so it's suitable for novice cyclists.
Strathkelvin Railway Path
This 10 kilometre route takes riders through some of the area’s most beautiful scenery, with plenty of opportunity for stopping along the way. You can take in views to the Campsie Fells and Strathblane Hills, so be sure to pack your camera! A stretch of the path has been resurfaced in 2022 and is of good quality so you can cruise along without any concern, just admiring your majestic surroundings.
Callander to Strathyre Cycle Route by Iain Thompson under license CC BY-SA 4.0
Callander to Strathyre
There is no better way to spend a day trip from Stirling than by setting off on a cycle trip from Callander to Strathyre. With plenty of stunning viewpoints and easy terrain, the 12 kilometre route is suitable for all levels of fitness. Take in the breathtaking views of Loch Lubnaig, admire the stunning wildlife and experience the fresh air of the rolling hills that make up this serene landscape.
Loch Katrine
If you're looking for a stunning outdoor experience, then a cycle round Loch Katrine should be at the top of your to-do list on your next trip to Stirling. This popular route takes you on a journey around the large loch with some remarkable sights of the Trossachs National Park. You’ll pass by the famous Robert Roy MacGregor’s birthplace on the 21 kilometre route and you can take the ferry back to your starting point to save your legs a few miles after the long ride!
Mountain bike trail, Carron Valley by Richard Webb under license CC BY-SA 4.0
MTB: Carron Valley
Carron Valley is one of the most beautiful places to visit, and the perfect spot for a mountain biking adventure. Visitors are sure to be enchanted by the stunning landscapes, offering breathtaking views of rolling hills and the reservoir below. The 8 kilometre red grade route is well-suited for experienced cyclists who want an action-packed ride, as it winds through vast natural woodlands and takes riders over tricky terrain. Various viewpoints ensure stunning scenery throughout the entire trip and make frequent stops necessary.
MTB: Callendar Estate
Not only does the estate offer stunning views of the rolling hills and nearby countryside, but the trails offer a unique challenge. Navigate your way through the natural forestry, and you'll get to experience some of Scotland's most beautiful sites. With 5 heritage trails available you’re sure to be challenged on a route that suits your ability.
MTB: Loch Ard
The stunning lochside routes run along the side of the loch and offer incredible surroundings of lush woodlands and rugged hills. With 3 cycle routes to choose from, you can choose one that suits your difficulty level, so it is suitable for those with all levels of mountain biking experience. The sights, sounds and smells of the area make it an unparalleled experience that must be felt first hand!
Conclusion
In this blog post, we have shared some of the best Stirling bike routes. To find out more about things to do in this area, click on the buttons below:
Please note...
All outdoor activities including cycling involve a degree of risk. The routes are recommended due to the well known features of each route but this may change over time and further research is required before undertaking any activity. The weather can also impact the surface and general conditions of each route so please keep yourself updated with the weather forecast before setting off to enjoy your cycle!
Crown Copyright, courtesy Forestry Commission (28/12/22) licensed under the Open Government License.