The best traffic-free bike rides in Pentland Hills

There are over 350 dedicated no-traffic touring cycling routes in the Pentland Hills, offering a wide range of options for all skill levels. This includes 184 easy routes, 110 moderate routes, and 61 difficult routes, ensuring there's something for everyone.

The no-traffic touring routes in the Pentland Hills offer diverse terrain. You'll find many routes on mostly paved surfaces, especially around the reservoirs. However, some more challenging segments may feature unpaved gravel paths or single trails, particularly in areas like Bonaly Forest or around Harlaw and Threipmuir Reservoirs. The landscape includes rolling moorland, hills, and picturesque reservoir paths.

Yes, many of the no-traffic touring routes in the Pentland Hills are circular, allowing you to start and finish at the same point. A popular example is the Glencorse Reservoir – Loganlea Reservoir loop from Easter Howgate, which offers scenic views of two prominent reservoirs over 10.6 km.

The Pentland Hills are rich in natural beauty. Along the no-traffic routes, you can enjoy stunning views from various points. Highlights include the picturesque Glencorse Reservoir and Loganlea Reservoir. Higher elevations like Scald Law, Carnethy Hill, and Allermuir Hill offer expansive panoramas of Edinburgh and the Firth of Forth. You might also encounter diverse habitats such as heathland and peatland, including the internationally important raised bog at Red Moss of Balerno.

Absolutely. The Pentland Hills offer numerous easy no-traffic routes perfect for beginners and families. These often follow gentler gradients around the reservoirs or through woodland areas. For instance, the Torduff Reservoir – Torduff Reservoir loop from Colinton is an easy option, as is the Glencorse Reservoir Overflow – Threipmuir Reservoir loop from Lennox Tower.

The Pentland Hills are enjoyable for touring cycling throughout much of the year. Spring and autumn offer pleasant temperatures and beautiful scenery, with heather blooming in late summer and early autumn. While routes are accessible in winter, be prepared for colder, potentially wetter conditions and shorter daylight hours. Always check local weather forecasts before heading out.

The no-traffic touring routes in the Pentland Hills are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.49 stars from over 1600 ratings. Cyclists frequently praise the tranquil, car-free environment, the stunning reservoir views, and the accessibility of diverse landscapes so close to Edinburgh. The variety of routes, from easy family-friendly paths to more challenging trails, is also a common highlight.

The Pentland Hills Regional Park is well-served by public transport, making it easy to access many no-traffic routes without a car. Several bus routes from Edinburgh reach different entry points of the park. This allows for flexible planning, where you can start a route on one side of the park and finish on another, using public transport for your return journey.

Many of the no-traffic routes in the Pentland Hills are dog-friendly, particularly those on wider paths and tracks. However, as it's a working landscape with livestock, it's essential to keep dogs under close control, preferably on a lead, especially near sheep or cattle. Always follow the Scottish Outdoor Access Code and be mindful of other users and wildlife.

Yes, there are various cafes and pubs located in the villages surrounding the Pentland Hills Regional Park, offering refreshments and meals. Depending on your chosen route, you can find options in places like Balerno, Colinton, or near Easter Howgate, perfect for a break before, during, or after your ride.

Yes, there are several car parks located at key access points around the Pentland Hills Regional Park, providing convenient parking for those wishing to start their no-traffic touring cycling adventure. Popular starting points often have designated parking areas, though these can fill up during peak times.