5.0
(2)
207
riders
8
rides
Road cycling around Akermoor Loch, nestled in the Scottish Borders, offers routes through a landscape characterized by remote uplands, quiet roads, and rolling hills. The region features a mix of acid grassland, heath, and timber plantations, with routes often providing significant elevation gains. Cyclists can expect to navigate mostly paved surfaces, with views of the surrounding lochs and forests.
Last updated: June 29, 2026
47
riders
89.4km
04:13
950m
950m
Hard road ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
24
riders
37.2km
01:38
280m
280m
Easy road ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.

Sign up for free
6
riders
33.0km
01:39
430m
430m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
7
riders
32.2km
01:37
370m
370m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
6
riders
46.7km
02:13
490m
490m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
Get access to more routes and recommendations from other explorers.
Sign up for free
Already have an account?
Our route recommendations are based on thousands of hikes, rides, and runs completed by other people on komoot.
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
Login or Signup
Fantastic pies, I had a macaroni and jalapeño pie which was fantastic. They also topped up my flask with tea which was very kind. Good local bakery, with good products.
0
0
Can fly along this car free section as long as you keep an eye on the surface. Beautiful old bridges at either end.
0
0
River Ettrick is noted for its salmon and trout fishing
0
0
Newark Castle near Selkirk is on the Bowhill Estate and is clearly visible from estate roads that are publicly accessible. Consisting of a 15th century great tower erected for the Earl of Douglas, it is derelict and locked up with no public access – and is an excellent example of the type. It is built at the top of a steep riverbank and has remnants of a courtyard adjacent, but is otherwise not particularly defensively sited. The castle dates to 1423, and was perhaps damaged during the suppression of the Douglases mid century, when it was repossessed by the Crown. Repeatedly needing repairs, it was held by the Homes for the Crown, and then by the Scotts who remain owners today. It was attacked in the 16th and 17th centuries and redesigned, but was abandoned after Cromwells troops occupied it , and robbed of masonry and fittings in the 18th century, the Scotts moving to Dalkeith House instead.
0
0
This is a busy bridge (A707), but there are great views of Ettrick Water from up here.
1
0
Ale Water flows here into Alemoor Reservoir, and B711 here is a causeway that divides the reservoir into two parts. Very beautiful views straight from the road. Spot Alemoor Hill on the wooded slopes, north-west of the road.
1
0
The road cycling routes around Akermoor Loch primarily feature mostly paved surfaces. You'll encounter a landscape characterized by remote uplands, quiet roads, and rolling hills, with a mix of acid grassland, heath, and timber plantations. Many routes include significant elevation gains, offering scenic views of the surrounding lochs and forests.
Yes, there are routes suitable for beginners. For an easier ride, consider the Old Tweed Bridge – River Ettrick loop from Bowhill House. This 37.2 km path follows river valleys, crosses historic bridges, and offers picturesque views of the Scottish Borders countryside with a more gentle elevation profile.
For experienced cyclists seeking a challenge, the Alemoor Loch – Berry Knowe Climb loop from Ettrickbridge is a difficult route. This 89.4 km trail features a notable climb and offers extensive scenic views of Alemoor Loch and the surrounding uplands, with significant elevation gains.
Yes, many of the routes in the area are circular. For example, the challenging Alemoor Loch – Berry Knowe Climb loop from Ettrickbridge is a circular route. Another option is the moderate Jammy Coo Café loop from Philiphaugh, which also forms a loop through the scenic landscape.
The routes offer picturesque views of the uplands and forests. You'll often cycle alongside lochs, such as Alemoor Loch, which is known for its scenic beauty. The region is characterized by rolling mountains and quiet roads, providing stunning backdrops for your rides. Akermoor Loch itself is a remote upland lochan, and the surrounding area provides a sense of peace and quiet.
Yes, some routes are designed to pass by local establishments. For instance, the Three Hills Coffee Co. – Jammy Coo Café loop from Bowhill House is a moderate trail that leads through rolling hills and rural landscapes, offering opportunities to stop at cafes mentioned in its name.
The Scottish Borders region is generally good for cycling during milder months. While specific seasonal advice for Akermoor Loch isn't detailed, the quiet roads and scenic hills are best enjoyed when weather conditions are favorable, typically from spring through autumn. Winter conditions can be challenging due to elevation and potential for adverse weather.
There are 8 road cycling routes available around Akermoor Loch, catering to various skill levels. These include 1 easy route, 6 moderate routes, and 1 difficult route, ensuring options for most cyclists.
The routes in Akermoor Loch are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 5.0 stars from a few reviews. Over 200 road cyclists have used komoot to explore the varied terrain, often praising the quiet roads, scenic hills, and expansive upland views.
The Scottish Borders region is rich in history. While cycling, you might pass by sites like the Old Tweed Bridge, as featured in the Old Tweed Bridge – River Ettrick loop from Bowhill House. The wider region also includes historical sites such as Newark Castle Ruins near Bowhill House, offering glimpses into the past.
While specific parking locations directly at Akermoor Loch are not detailed, many routes start from towns or established points like Bowhill House or Ettrickbridge, where parking facilities are generally available. It's advisable to check the starting point of your chosen route for specific parking information.
Road cycling routes around Akermoor Loch often feature significant elevation gains. For example, the difficult Alemoor Loch – Berry Knowe Climb loop from Ettrickbridge involves an elevation gain of over 940 meters, providing a challenging workout amidst the rolling hills of the Scottish Borders.


Browse the best Road cycling routes in other regions.