The best road cycling routes in North Lanarkshire

North Lanarkshire offers a wide selection of road cycling routes, with over 280 tours available. These routes cater to various skill levels, including approximately 80 easy routes, over 180 moderate routes, and around 20 difficult routes for experienced cyclists.

Road cycling in North Lanarkshire features diverse terrain, from the rolling hills of the Kilsyth Hills, which offer challenging ascents, to tranquil routes alongside waterways like the Forth and Clyde Canal and the River Clyde. You'll find a mix of rural and semi-rural settings, with some routes providing significant elevation gains and others offering gentler, well-paved paths.

Yes, North Lanarkshire has numerous easy road cycling routes perfect for beginners or those seeking a relaxed ride. An excellent option is the Railway Track View – Caldercruix Cycleway loop from Airdrie, which is 28.8 miles (46.3 km) long and leads through the scenic Caldercruix Cycleway.

For cyclists seeking a challenge, North Lanarkshire offers routes with notable elevation gains, particularly around the Kilsyth Hills and the Carron Valley Reservoir. The Carron Valley Reservoir – View of Glasgow from Crow Road loop from Bellshill is a difficult route covering 79.5 km with over 940 meters of ascent, incorporating the well-known Crow Road climb.

Many routes in North Lanarkshire pass by significant natural features and historical landmarks. You can cycle past the scenic Carron Valley Reservoir, Strathclyde Loch, and along the Forth and Clyde Canal. Historic sites like the Croy Hill Roman Fort offer historical interest, while Colzium Waterfall provides a beautiful natural stop. The Lochend Loch in Drumpellier Park is also a tranquil spot.

Yes, many road cycling routes in North Lanarkshire are designed as loops, allowing you to start and finish at the same point. Examples include the popular Carron Valley Reservoir – Carron Valley Reservoir loop from Greenfaulds and the Quiet Backroad – Black Loch loop from Drumgelloch.

The komoot community highly rates road cycling in North Lanarkshire, with an average score of 4.6 stars from over 40 reviews. Cyclists often praise the region's diverse landscapes, ranging from challenging hills to tranquil canal paths, and the variety of routes suitable for all abilities. Over 3,100 road cyclists have used komoot to explore the area.

Yes, some routes connect significant landmarks and offer a mix of scenery. The Stockingfield Bridge – Falkirk Wheel loop from Greenfaulds is a moderate 75 km path that links notable attractions and provides a blend of urban and canal-side cycling experiences.

While specific cafes on every route aren't detailed, many routes pass through or near towns and villages where you can find refreshments. For example, the Auchinstarry Quarry – Café Sonas Bistro loop from Cumbernauld is a longer route that specifically mentions a bistro, suggesting opportunities for stops.

North Lanarkshire offers cycling opportunities throughout the year, but the best time is generally from spring to autumn (April to October) when the weather is milder and daylight hours are longer. During these months, you can fully appreciate the scenic landscapes and natural features without the challenges of winter conditions.

Yes, some routes provide excellent viewpoints. The Lochend Loch – View of Glasgow from Crow Road loop from Bellshill is a moderate route that includes sections with panoramic views, including vistas towards Glasgow, especially from higher elevations like the Crow Road.

Yes, North Lanarkshire is integrated into the National Cycle Network. Several routes, including parts of Route 75, pass through the area, utilizing scenic landscapes, parks, and waterways. These routes often provide traffic-free or low-traffic options for cyclists.