The best gravel rides in Pentland Hills

Yes, Pentland Hills offers several easy gravel bike trails perfect for beginners. For instance, the Stables Bar Courtyard – Buck Stane loop from Fairmilehead is a shorter, less challenging route that provides a great introduction to gravel biking in the area.

Gravel biking in Pentland Hills caters to a range of abilities. While there are 15 easy routes, the majority of the 116 available tours are moderate (54 routes) or difficult (47 routes). Routes like the Balerno Hill Summit – The Red Road, Pentland Hills loop from Carlops feature significant climbs and are considered difficult.

Parking is available at various access points around Pentland Hills Regional Park. Popular starting points for gravel routes, such as Carlops and Fairmilehead, often have designated car parks or roadside parking options. It's advisable to check local signage for any restrictions.

Yes, Pentland Hills is well-served by public transport, particularly from Edinburgh. Several bus routes connect the city to different entry points of the Regional Park, making it convenient for cyclists to access the trails without a car.

Absolutely. For families, we recommend looking for shorter, less strenuous routes, especially those that avoid significant elevation gains. The Stables Bar Courtyard – Buck Stane loop from Fairmilehead is a good example of a shorter, easier trail that could be suitable for families.

The best time for gravel biking in Pentland Hills is generally from spring through autumn (April to October). During these months, the weather is milder, and the trails are less likely to be muddy or icy, offering more enjoyable riding conditions. Always check the local weather forecast before heading out.

Given the varied terrain and potential for changeable weather, it's wise to pack layers of clothing, waterproofs, sufficient water and snacks, a repair kit, and a first-aid kit. A fully charged phone and a reliable navigation device (like komoot) are also highly recommended.

Yes, you'll find a few options for refreshments. Some routes, like the Olde Toll Tea House – Old Drove Road Path loop from Carlops, start or pass by establishments like the Olde Toll Tea House, offering a chance to refuel. Other villages surrounding the park also provide amenities.

Pentland Hills offers numerous scenic viewpoints. Highlights include the View from Allermuir Hill and Caerketton Hill, which provide expansive vistas over Edinburgh and the surrounding landscape. Many routes traverse open moorland, offering continuous panoramic views.

Many of the gravel bike routes in Pentland Hills are designed as circular loops, allowing you to start and finish at the same point. Examples include the Yellow Brick Road MTB track – Balerno Hill Summit loop from Balerno and the Torduff Reservoir – Torduff Reservoir loop from Currie.

The Pentland Hills are rich in natural beauty. Along the trails, you can encounter several reservoirs such as Glencorse Reservoir and Loganlea Reservoir. You'll also pass by significant hills like Scald Law Summit and Carnethy Hill, offering impressive natural landscapes.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars from over 80 reviews. Reviewers often praise the diverse landscape, which includes rolling hills, open moorland, and scenic reservoirs, as well as the well-maintained network of trails suitable for gravel bikes.