The best cycling routes around Balerno

Balerno's touring cycling routes offer a varied experience, ranging from paved roads to unpaved paths. You'll find trails following disused railway lines, such as sections of the Water of Leith Walkway, and paths winding around picturesque reservoirs like Harlaw and Threipmuir. The area is on the edge of the Pentland Hills, so some routes may include climbs with elevation gain, while others are more relaxed.

There are 19 touring cycling routes around Balerno listed on komoot. These routes cater to various fitness levels, with 10 easy, 4 moderate, and 5 difficult options to explore.

Yes, Balerno offers several easy routes suitable for beginners or families. For instance, the Glencorse Reservoir Overflow – Threipmuir Reservoir loop from Lennox Tower is an easy 6.7 km path that winds around reservoirs. The Water of Leith Walkway, accessible from Balerno, also provides many traffic-free sections ideal for a relaxed ride.

Balerno is a gateway to the Pentland Hills Regional Park, offering stunning views. You can cycle past the scenic Threipmuir Reservoir and Glencorse Reservoir. The Water of Leith Walkway provides a route along the river, and the unique Red Moss of Balerno, a raised bog with a boardwalk, is also nearby.

Many routes in the area are designed as loops, allowing you to start and finish in the same location. An example is the Balerno Hill Summit – Riggs Climb loop from Balerno, an easy 13.3 km trail offering views of the surrounding hills.

Yes, you can cycle from Balerno into Edinburgh. The Water of Leith Walkway starts in Balerno and provides an 18-mile (29 km) traffic-free route that leads directly into Edinburgh's urban areas, passing attractions like the Colinton Tunnel.

For those seeking a more challenging ride, Balerno has difficult routes with varied terrain and elevation gain. The Threipmuir Reservoir – Glencorse Reservoir Overflow loop from Lennox Tower is a difficult 9.5 km path that winds around reservoirs and presents some significant climbs.

Balerno village itself offers amenities and parking options. Additionally, many popular starting points for routes, especially those near the Pentland Hills Regional Park or reservoirs, often have designated parking areas. It's advisable to check specific route details for the most convenient parking.

Balerno village has cafes where you can take a break before or after your ride. Along some routes, particularly those closer to populated areas or popular attractions, you might find additional refreshment stops. The Water of Leith Walkway, for example, passes through areas with various amenities as it approaches Edinburgh.

The touring cycling routes around Balerno are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 5.0 stars. Cyclists often praise the diverse terrain, the stunning views of the Pentland Hills, and the peaceful atmosphere around the reservoirs and along the Water of Leith Walkway.

While cycling around Balerno, you can explore areas with historical significance. Nearby attractions include Castlelaw Fort and Earth House and the ruins of Cairns Castle. Malleny Garden, a National Trust for Scotland property with ancient yew trees, is also located in Balerno and makes for a pleasant stop.

Balerno is well-connected by public transport, particularly buses from Edinburgh, making it accessible for cyclists. Its location at the start of the Water of Leith Walkway also means it's a convenient hub for starting rides without needing a car.