The best road cycling routes around Muirhouse/Salvesen

There are over 500 road cycling routes in the Muirhouse/Salvesen area, offering a wide range of options for different skill levels. This includes 173 easy routes, 299 moderate routes, and 64 more challenging options.

The routes around Muirhouse/Salvesen feature a mix of quiet roads, dedicated cycle paths, and canal towpaths. While generally suitable for road bikes, some sections, particularly on broader routes like the John Muir Way, might include varied terrain that could be more suited to hybrid or gravel bikes.

Yes, there are many easy routes. An example is the Gasholder 1 loop from Granton, which is a shorter 5.6-mile (9.0 km) trail leading through urban and coastal areas, often completed in about 22 minutes. Another accessible option is the Cramond Village Climb loop from Blackhall, an easy 9.8-mile (15.7 km) route.

Many routes offer views of the Firth of Forth. For panoramic city views, you can cycle towards landmarks like Arthur's Seat or Corstorphine Hill Tower. The Arthur's Seat Climb – Arthur's Seat loop from Muirhouse is an easy 15-mile (24.2 km) route that takes you close to this iconic landmark.

Yes, for those seeking a longer ride, the Cramond Brig – Elizabeth Yard Climb loop from Murrayfield Stadium is a popular moderate route, covering 19.6 miles (31.6 km) with moderate climbs. The area also connects to sections of the John Muir Way, offering potential for longer excursions.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.4 stars from over 380 reviews. Reviewers often praise the variety of routes, the combination of urban fringes with green spaces, and the scenic coastal stretches.

Many of the road cycling routes around Muirhouse/Salvesen are designed as circular loops, making it convenient to start and end your ride at the same point. For example, the Old Almond Bridge – Cramond Brig loop from Blackhall is a moderate 14.5-mile (23.3 km) path that explores bridges and coastal sections in a loop.

Muirhouse/Salvesen is part of the Edinburgh region, which generally has good public transport links. Many routes start from areas accessible by bus or train, allowing cyclists to reach starting points without a car. The John Muir Way, for instance, has train stations conveniently located along its path for easier planning.

Beyond the natural viewpoints, the broader Edinburgh area offers numerous historical and cultural landmarks. While cycling, you might pass by significant sites like St Giles' Cathedral or the Scott Monument, depending on your chosen route.

Scotland's climate supports diverse planting and natural features throughout the year. While cycling is possible year-round, spring and summer generally offer milder weather and longer daylight hours, making them ideal for exploring the varied landscapes and coastal paths.

Yes, Muirhouse/Salvesen's location provides good access to sections of the John Muir Way. Cyclists can plan day trips along this extensive route, which incorporates canal towpaths, quiet roads, and dedicated cycle paths. For more information on day trips along the John Muir Way, you can visit visiteastlothian.org.