Tour of the Standing Stones from Lochgilphead

The Tour of the Standing Stones from Lochgilphead is a moderate 42.1 km route that generally takes around 2 hours and 40 minutes to complete by touring bicycle. Your actual time may vary depending on your pace, stops at historical sites, and weather conditions.

The route primarily consists of mostly paved surfaces, making it well-suited for touring bikes. You'll find a particularly nice long straight road running for about 4 km through the Móine Mhòr National Nature Reserve, connecting Kilmartin and the Crinan Canal. Sections of the National Cycle Network (NCN) Route 78 also pass through the reserve, indicating designated cycling paths.

This tour is rich in both history and nature. You'll encounter significant Neolithic and Bronze Age monuments in Kilmartin Glen, including the Standing Stones Near Carnasserie Castle and the Temple Wood stone circle. The route also passes through the unique Móine Mhòr National Nature Reserve, a lowland raised bog ecosystem. You'll also cross the Islandadd Bridge.

Classified as a 'moderate bike ride,' this route is generally suitable for cyclists with good fitness. While the main route is largely on paved surfaces, families with younger children might prefer shorter, traffic-free sections, such as those along the Crinan Canal or within the Móine Mhòr Nature Reserve on NCN Route 78.

The Móine Mhòr National Nature Reserve is a diverse habitat supporting various wildlife. Keep an eye out for dragonflies, graceful hen harriers, and the rare marsh fritillary butterfly. The reserve's unique bogland ecosystem also hosts a variety of other species adapted to its hummocks, hollows, and pools.

While specific parking details for the start in Lochgilphead are not provided, Lochgilphead is a town with amenities, so parking options would typically be available within the town or near the trailhead. For accessing the Móine Mhòr National Nature Reserve directly, there may be designated parking areas, particularly near sections of NCN Route 78 or visitor centers in the Kilmartin Glen area.

Generally, there are no specific permits or entrance fees required to cycle this route or to access the Móine Mhòr National Nature Reserve. However, some specific historical sites within Kilmartin Glen might have their own access fees or operating hours, so it's advisable to check individual site information if you plan to enter them.

While cycling routes themselves don't typically restrict dogs, it's important to consider the safety and comfort of your dog, especially on a 42.1 km touring bicycle route. If you bring a dog, ensure it is well-behaved, on a leash where required (especially near livestock or wildlife in the nature reserve), and that you carry enough water for both of you. Always follow the Scottish Outdoor Access Code.

The best time to cycle this route is typically during the spring (April-May) and autumn (September-October) when the weather is often milder, and the landscapes are vibrant. Summer (June-August) can also be pleasant, but be prepared for potentially more midges and busier trails. Winter cycling is possible but can be challenging due to shorter daylight hours and colder, wetter conditions.

Yes, the route passes through sections of the Lochan Buic Cycle Trail. Additionally, the Kilmartin to Bellanoch section of the National Cycle Network (NCN) Route 78 passes through the Móine Mhòr National Nature Reserve, offering connections to a wider network of cycling paths in the region.

Lochgilphead, being the starting point, offers various amenities including cafes, pubs, and accommodation options. Kilmartin village, located centrally within the glen, also has facilities for visitors. It's advisable to check opening times, especially in smaller villages, before you set out.