The best cycling routes in the Southern Uplands Mountains

There are over 330 touring cycling routes available in the Southern Uplands Mountains, catering to various skill levels. You'll find a diverse range of options, from moderate paths to challenging multi-day adventures.

The Southern Uplands Mountains are characterized by glaciated terrain, rolling hills, and remote stretches. While summits are generally lower than in the Highlands, routes often feature significant climbing, offering rewarding challenges and incredible views. For example, the Moffat to Drumlanrigg Castle gravel loop via Glenlieth Fell includes over 1600 meters of elevation gain.

Yes, the region is home to the dramatic Grey Mare's Tail waterfall, one of the UK's highest. You can experience this natural wonder on routes like the Annandale & Grey Mare Tail waterfall loop from Moffat. Other notable waterfalls include Crichope Linn Gorge and Waterfall and the Woods of Cree Waterfalls.

Yes, many touring cycling routes in the Southern Uplands Mountains are circular, allowing you to start and finish in the same location. Examples include the scenic St Mary's Loch & Megget Water loop from Peebles and the Clatteringshaws Loch loop from Newton Stewart – Galloway Forest Park.

The routes in the Southern Uplands Mountains are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars from over 100 reviews. More than 8,000 touring cyclists have used komoot to explore the varied terrain, often praising the remote beauty and challenging climbs.

While many routes in the Southern Uplands offer significant challenges, there are also easier options suitable for families. The region has 36 easy routes, such as the Peebles to Innerleithen loop, which is a moderate 24.8 km ride with less elevation, making it more accessible for a family outing.

Beyond waterfalls, the Southern Uplands are rich in natural beauty. You can cycle past numerous lochs like Loch Trool, St Mary's Loch, and Loch of the Lowes. The Galloway Forest Park, a designated Dark Sky Park, also offers extensive forest roads and a sense of remote wilderness.

The Southern Upland Way is Scotland's only official Coast to Coast long-distance trail. While sections of the original footpath can be challenging, a dedicated Southern Upland Way Road Cycle Route allows road cyclists to experience much of the same scenic beauty on quieter back roads. It offers a significant challenge with considerable climbing, so appropriate gearing is recommended.

The Southern Uplands Mountains can be enjoyed throughout the warmer months. Spring and autumn offer pleasant temperatures and beautiful scenery, while summer provides longer daylight hours. Be prepared for changeable weather conditions typical of Scotland, regardless of the season.

Yes, many routes pass through or near charming towns and villages, providing opportunities for resupply, accommodation, and experiencing local culture. While specific cafes and pubs vary by route, places like Peebles, Moffat, and Newton Stewart offer amenities. For example, the No. 1 Peebles Road Café loop from Innerleithen is designed with a cafe stop in mind.

Many outdoor areas in the Southern Uplands are dog-friendly, but it's essential to keep dogs under close control, especially near livestock or in nature reserves. Always check local signage and respect the Scottish Outdoor Access Code. Some routes, particularly those on quieter roads or forest tracks, may be suitable for cycling with a well-behaved dog.

Parking is generally available in the towns and villages that serve as starting points for many routes, such as Peebles, Moffat, and Newton Stewart. For routes within areas like Galloway Forest Park, designated visitor centers like the Kirroughtree Visitor Centre often provide parking facilities for cyclists.

Generally, no specific permits are required for cycling on public roads, bridleways, or designated cycle paths in the Southern Uplands Mountains. However, if you plan to cycle on private land or within specific managed estates, it's always advisable to check for any local access restrictions or requirements.