St Mary's Loch & Megget Water loop from Peebles
St Mary's Loch & Megget Water loop from Peebles
5.0
(5)
175
riders
St Mary's Loch & Megget Water loop from Peebles
04:53
79.0km
740m
Cycling
Embark on a difficult touring bicycle journey through the Scottish Borders with the St Mary's Loch & Megget Water loop from Peebles. This challenging route spans 49.1 miles (79.0 km) and involves a significant elevation gain of 2434 feet (742 metres), typically taking around 4 hours and 53 minutes to complete. As you pedal, you will discover a remote and beautiful landscape, characterized by rolling hills and tranquil valleys. The reflective waters of St Mary's Loch offer a serene visual anchor, providing expansive views as you cycle along the A708. Prepare for an experience that combines demanding climbs with moments of profound natural beauty, making you feel truly immersed in the wilderness.
Planning your visit requires a good level of fitness, as this is a hard bike ride with substantial elevation changes. You should be ready for a 20% gradient climb after Megget Reservoir, which will test your endurance. While the route primarily follows quiet paved roads, be aware that some sections may have rougher surfaces, potholes, or loose gravel, potentially requiring you to push your bike. The remote nature of the area means you will encounter minimal traffic, enhancing the sense of escape and solitude on your ride.
This loop offers more than just a physical challenge; it provides a unique opportunity to connect with the untouched natural environment of the Scottish Borders. The area around Megget Reservoir is particularly stunning, making it an ideal spot for a picnic stop where you can soak in the peaceful surroundings. The trail's remoteness is a defining feature, allowing you to feel isolated from the rest of the world and fully appreciate the vastness of the landscape. It stands out as a rewarding option for those seeking a demanding yet incredibly scenic touring bicycle adventure.
Last updated: April 23, 2026
Tips
Includes a segment that goes up or down a series of steps
You may need to carry your bike.
After 72.5 km for 15 m
Waypoints
Start point
Parking
Get Directions
27.9 km
View of St Mary’s Loch from the A708
Highlight • Viewpoint
The loch takes its name from the chapel that once stood on the northern shore. The chapel has gone, but the graveyard remains.
Tip by
32.1 km
Megget Reservoir
Highlight (Segment) • Lake
Tip by
78.4 km
Peebles Clock Tower and Old Bridge
Highlight • Monument
The town is also well known for its creative residents, hosting an annual art festival, as well as multiple galleries and museums to visit. Well worth a visit if you're in the Borderlands or for a day trip from Edinburgh.
Don't miss the impressive 15th-century stone bridge near the centre, once known as the main crossing of the River Tweed.
Tip by
79.0 km
End point
Parking
Way Types & Surfaces
Way Types
51.1 km
18.7 km
4.75 km
2.68 km
1.52 km
267 m
Surfaces
69.3 km
7.02 km
2.17 km
283 m
< 100 m
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Elevation
Highest point (450 m)
Lowest point (150 m)
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Weather
Powered by Foreca
Thursday 9 July
24°C
12°C
0 %
Additional weather tips
Max wind speed: 12.0 km/h
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This route was planned by komoot.
Frequently Asked Questions
How challenging is the St Mary's Loch & Megget Water loop from Peebles?
This is considered a difficult touring bicycle route, requiring very good fitness levels. You'll encounter significant elevation changes, including gradual and medium-gradient uphills, and some notably steep sections like a 20% gradient climb after Megget Reservoir. Even descents can be challenging due to headwinds.
What is the terrain like on this cycling route?
The route primarily uses quiet paved roads, single-track country roads, and minor roads. Be prepared for some sections with rougher surfaces, potholes, or stony and loose gravel, which might occasionally require you to push your bike.
What are the main points of interest or scenic views along the way?
You'll experience amazing, semi-remote scenery throughout. Key highlights include stunning views of St Mary’s Loch from the A708, the tranquil waters of Megget Reservoir, and the charming Peebles Clock Tower and Old Bridge at the start/end. The area offers a sense of isolation and beautiful rolling hills and valleys.
Where can I park to start this cycling loop?
The route starts in Peebles, a popular market town. You should be able to find parking within Peebles to begin your ride. Specific parking locations are not detailed, but public parking is generally available in the town.
What is the best time of year to cycle this route?
The Scottish Borders can be enjoyed in various seasons, but for touring cycling, late spring to early autumn (May to September) generally offers the most favorable weather conditions. Be prepared for changeable weather at any time of year.
Is this cycling route dog-friendly?
While the route uses public roads, it's generally not recommended for dogs to accompany cyclists on such a long and challenging touring bicycle route, especially given the potential for traffic and the remote nature of some sections. If you do bring a dog, ensure they are safely secured and able to handle the distance and terrain.
Do I need any permits or pay entrance fees for this route?
No, there are no specific permits or entrance fees required to cycle this loop. It utilizes public roads and access is free.
Are there any places to stop for refreshments or food along the route?
Yes, the Glen Cafe at St Mary's Loch is a popular stop for cyclists. Peebles, your starting point, also offers various cafes, pubs, and shops for refreshments before or after your ride.
Does this route connect with other cycling paths?
Yes, this route incorporates sections of several other cycling paths. Notably, it covers a significant portion of the Border Loop (71%) and also intersects with the Tweed Cycleway (23%) and the Innerleithen Purple Route (81%).
Is this cycling route suitable for families or beginners?
Due to its 'difficult' grading, significant elevation changes, and long distance (nearly 79 km), this route is not suitable for beginners or young families. It requires very good fitness and experience with touring cycling.
What should I bring for this touring bicycle loop?
Given the route's difficulty and remote sections, you should bring appropriate touring bicycle gear, including repair kits, plenty of water, snacks, and layers of clothing suitable for changeable Scottish weather. A fully charged phone and navigation device are also highly recommended.
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