The best road cycling routes around Edgelaw Reservoir

There are over 110 road cycling routes in the Edgelaw Reservoir area, offering a wide range of options for different skill levels and preferences.

The Edgelaw Reservoir area features a mix of road cycling routes. You'll find approximately 29 easy routes, 70 moderate routes, and 15 more challenging options, catering to various fitness levels.

Yes, beginners can find suitable routes. For example, the Roadbike loop from Gladhouse Reservoir is an easy 23.8 km route with moderate elevation gain, perfect for those starting out.

Absolutely. The region offers routes with significant climbs and longer distances. The Arthur's Seat Climb – Arthur's Seat loop from Rosewell, for instance, includes a notable ascent towards Arthur's Seat, providing a good challenge and panoramic views.

Route lengths vary significantly. You can find shorter loops around 20-25 km, such as the easy Roadbike loop from Gladhouse Reservoir, up to longer excursions like The Meldons Road – Moor Road – Scottish Borders loop from Gladhouse Reservoir, which covers over 58 km.

Spring through autumn (roughly April to October) generally offers the most pleasant conditions for road cycling, with milder temperatures and less chance of adverse weather. However, the scenic glens and reservoir views are enjoyable year-round, weather permitting.

Road cycling around Edgelaw Reservoir is characterized by rolling hills, reservoir vistas, and scenic glens. Routes often pass through open countryside and offer views of landmarks like Roslin Glen Country Park and the iconic Arthur's Seat.

Yes, many routes in the area are loops, allowing you to start and finish at the same point. Examples include the popular Roslin Glen Country Park – Roslin Glen Country Park loop from Midlothian and the Gladhouse Reservoir – Langlaw Climb loop from Rosewell.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars from over 40 reviews. Reviewers often praise the diverse terrain, the beautiful reservoir landscapes, and the mix of moderate climbs and descents that provide varied riding experiences.

While specific parking details vary by starting point, many routes begin from villages or areas with public parking facilities. It's advisable to check the route details on komoot for specific parking recommendations near your chosen starting point.

Many of the starting points for routes, such as Midlothian or Rosewell, are accessible by local bus services from larger towns like Edinburgh. Planning your journey in advance with public transport providers is recommended.

While the routes often pass through rural areas, many villages and towns along the way, such as Rosewell or near Gladhouse Reservoir, offer cafes, pubs, or small shops where you can refuel and take a break. It's a good idea to check for specific amenities on your chosen route.