The best traffic-free bike rides around Faldonside Loch
4.5
(186)
2,852
riders
21
rides
No traffic touring cycling routes around Faldonside Loch are set within a landscape characterized by rolling hills, tranquil waters, and mature woodlands. The loch itself sits at 176 meters, surrounded by diverse habitats and offering views of distant hills. The area features a mix of woodland tracks and loch-side paths, with the nearby River Tweed adding riparian woodlands to the scenery. This region provides a serene environment for touring cyclists seeking quiet routes.
Best no traffic touring cycling routes around…
Last updated: July 5, 2026
3
riders
14.4km
01:13
220m
220m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
9
riders
9.48km
00:35
60m
60m
Easy bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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7
riders
12.7km
01:00
90m
90m
Easy bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
5
riders
10.6km
00:39
90m
90m
Easy bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
8
riders
27.2km
02:17
510m
510m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Popular around Faldonside Loch
Tips from the Community
For Goethe, Walter Scott's books were "the best things ever written in the world." With his historical novels, such as the one about the knight Ivanhoe, the Scottish author, born 250 years ago, was one of the most famous authors of his time. Quote from Walter Scott: "I have read enough books to know that the most profound utterances come from the lips of poor and uneducated women and men. Things often come to light there that are perhaps more sublime and moving only in the Bible. Even the poet will only fulfill his true calling if he recognizes everything as vain and worthless that is not a true inner cultivation of the heart." (Text from https://www.deutschlandfunk.de/250-geburtstag-des-schriftstellers-wie-sir-walter-scott-den-100.html ) From the spot marked here as a highlight, passersby can only see it from a distance, but the property itself is of course also included in the koomot system, see => https://www.komoot.com/de-de/highlight/4525502
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The River Tweed flows for 97 miles (156km) across the Scottish Borders. This section in Montrose is also part of the Southern Uplands Way and the Borders Abbeys Way, both long distance footpaths.
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Located at Burgh Chambers, Galashiels town centre, the statue is a 17th Century mounted Border Reiver soldier
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A small loch, wooded on its north shore and a great habitat for birdlife. Folklore records that the loch is home to a bogle in the shape of a 'water bull'.
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Newark Castle is a large ruined tower. It was first mentioned in 1423 and was packed back to the Crown in 1445 from the Earls of Douglas, and became one of only two royal castles in the Middle March. In 1645, after the Battle of Philiphaugh, one hundred prisoners were killed in the courtyard here, and Cromwell's troops occupied it in 1650. There's quite a lot of history here!
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This is a busy bridge (A707), but there are great views of Ettrick Water from up here.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many no traffic touring cycling routes are available around Faldonside Loch?
There are over 20 dedicated no traffic touring cycling routes around Faldonside Loch, offering a variety of distances and difficulties to suit different preferences.
What kind of terrain can I expect on these no traffic touring routes?
The routes around Faldonside Loch feature a mix of serene landscapes, including rolling hills, mature woodlands, and tranquil loch-side paths. You'll find quiet country roads and repurposed traffic-free paths, such as the Redbridge Viaduct, which offers a smooth cycling experience.
Are there easy no traffic touring routes suitable for beginners or families?
Yes, Faldonside Loch offers 3 easy no traffic touring routes perfect for beginners or families. A great option is the View of Abbotsford House – Redbridge Viaduct loop from Tweedbank, which is just over 12 km and features minimal elevation gain, allowing for a relaxed ride.
Are there more challenging no traffic touring routes for experienced cyclists?
For experienced cyclists seeking a challenge, there are 6 difficult no traffic touring routes. The Red Score Nick Pass – View of the Three Brethren loop from Scottish Borders, for example, covers over 21 km with significant elevation changes, offering a rewarding workout and stunning views.
What are the best times of year to cycle these no traffic routes?
The Scottish Borders, including Faldonside Loch, is beautiful throughout the year. Spring and autumn offer pleasant temperatures and vibrant scenery, while summer provides longer daylight hours. Even in winter, the area is important for wildfowl, making it a unique experience, though some paths might be more challenging.
What do other touring cyclists enjoy most about cycling in Faldonside Loch?
The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars. Reviewers often praise the peaceful, traffic-free nature of the routes, the stunning natural beauty, and the opportunity to spot wildlife like roe deer and various bird species.
Are there any circular no traffic touring routes around Faldonside Loch?
Many of the no traffic touring routes around Faldonside Loch are designed as loops, allowing you to start and end at the same point without retracing your steps. For instance, the River Tweed – River Tweed South Bank loop from Tweedbank is a moderate 14 km circular route offering scenic views along the river.
Can I bring my dog on these no traffic touring cycling routes?
Many of the woodland tracks and loch-side paths are suitable for dogs, especially if kept on a lead to protect local wildlife and livestock. Always check local signage for specific restrictions, particularly in nature reserves or areas with ground-nesting birds.
Are there any interesting landmarks or attractions along these no traffic routes?
Yes, the region is rich in history and natural beauty. While cycling, you can enjoy views of the Eildon Hills and the River Tweed. Nearby attractions include Melrose Abbey, the burial place of Robert the Bruce's heart, and Abbotsford House, the former home of Sir Walter Scott. The Redbridge Viaduct – Tweedbank Station loop from Galashiels offers a glimpse of the repurposed railway infrastructure.
Where can I find parking for these no traffic touring routes?
Parking is generally available in nearby towns like Tweedbank, Galashiels, and Melrose, which serve as common starting points for many routes. Specific parking details can often be found on individual route descriptions on komoot.
Is public transport available to access these no traffic cycling routes?
Yes, the Borders Railway connects Edinburgh to Tweedbank, making it convenient to access many of the no traffic routes around Faldonside Loch. Tweedbank Station is a popular starting point, with routes like the Tweedbank Station – Redbridge Viaduct loop beginning directly from there.
Most popular routes around Faldonside Loch
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