The best cycling routes around Pentland Hills Regional Park

There are nearly 950 touring cycling routes available in Pentland Hills Regional Park. This extensive network offers a wide variety of experiences for cyclists of all levels.

Yes, Pentland Hills Regional Park offers numerous options for beginners and families. Over 390 easy routes are available, many of which are described as 'easy road rides' suitable for any fitness level. These often follow well-maintained paths around the park's scenic reservoirs or through woodland areas.

The terrain in Pentland Hills Regional Park is diverse, featuring rolling hills, tranquil burns, and moorlands. You'll find a mix of both paved and unpaved sections, including firm gravel tracks and hill paths. Some routes are challenging, while others are gentle, offering varied experiences across the park's 10,000 hectares.

Yes, many touring cycling routes in the Pentland Hills are circular, allowing you to start and finish at the same point. An example is the Torduff Reservoir – Torduff Reservoir loop from Colinton, which is an easy 9.2 km ride.

The park is rich in natural beauty, with numerous reservoirs like Glencorse, Loganlea, Harlaw, and Threipmuir, which often feature in touring cycling routes. You can also enjoy panoramic views from higher elevations across Edinburgh and the Firth of Forth. Notable highlights include Scald Law Summit, Carnethy Hill, and the View from Allermuir Hill.

Yes, public transport options are available, making it convenient to access the park's touring cycling routes. This flexibility allows you to plan tours that might start at one side of the park and finish at another, without needing to loop back to your starting point by bike.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars from over 1,500 reviews. Reviewers often praise the diverse landscapes, the tranquility of the burns and moorlands, and the variety of routes that cater to different skill levels, from easy reservoir loops to more challenging gravel tracks.

Yes, for those seeking a more challenging experience, there are over 220 difficult routes available. An example of a longer, more demanding route is the Toxside Moss Gravel Track – Penicuik Pond loop from Easter Howgate, which covers 54.1 km with significant elevation gain.

Yes, some routes offer pleasant rides through woodland. A popular choice among local touring cyclists is the Mortonhall Woodland Trail – Buck Stane loop from Oxgangs, an easy 11.6 km path that winds through wooded sections.

The Pentland Hills offer cycling opportunities year-round. However, for the most comfortable experience, spring to autumn generally provides milder weather and drier paths. During wet conditions, it's advisable to avoid ridge paths to prevent erosion. The park's diverse landscapes are beautiful in all seasons, from lush summer greenery to the heather-clad moorlands in late summer.

The Pentland Hills Regional Park has visitor centers to provide information and assistance. You can visit the Harlaw House Visitor Centre or the Flotterstone Information Centre for advice and displays about the park. Harlaw Wildlife Garden, next to Harlaw House, is also a pleasant spot.