The best cycling routes around Inverkip And Wemyss Bay

There are over 15 touring cycling routes around Inverkip And Wemyss Bay, offering a diverse range of experiences. These include 4 easy routes, 8 moderate routes, and 6 difficult routes, catering to various skill levels.

The region is enjoyable for touring cycling throughout the year, but spring and summer offer the most pleasant weather for coastal rides and exploring woodlands. In spring, you can witness the bluebells in Ardgowan Woods, while summer provides longer daylight hours for extended tours. Even in winter, some routes remain accessible, though conditions may vary.

Yes, the area offers several family-friendly options. The dedicated cycle track connecting Wemyss Bay to Inverkip, part of National Cycle Network route 753, provides a safe and scenic ride. An excellent easy route is the McInroy's Point Ferry Terminal – Gourock Waterfront loop from Lunderston Bay, which is mostly paved and covers 7.9 miles (12.8 km) along the coastline.

Touring cycling routes in Inverkip And Wemyss Bay are renowned for breathtaking views of the Firth of Clyde towards the Argyll Hills and Scottish Highlands. You can also explore Lunderston Bay, Glasgow's closest sandy beach, and the ancient Ardgowan Woods. The Inverclyde Coastal Path offers seaside vistas and stretches of woodland, where you might spot local wildlife.

Absolutely. Many routes pass by significant landmarks. You can cycle past the historic Cloch Lighthouse, dating back to 1797. The Lunderston Bay – Cloch Lighthouse loop from Wemyss Bay is a moderate route that includes this landmark. Further afield, you can find the Magnus the Viking Statue and the remains of Ardgowan Castle.

Yes, some routes venture inland to include beautiful water features. The Brisbane Glen Road – Loch Thom loop from Inverkip is a challenging 28.9 miles (46.6 km) trail that leads through hills and woodlands, passing by Loch Thom. The Greenock Cut, a 7-mile path, is also accessible via the Cornalees nature trail and offers spectacular views.

Yes, many of the touring cycling routes in the area are designed as loops, allowing you to start and end at the same point. Examples include the McInroy's Point Ferry Terminal – Gourock Waterfront loop from Lunderston Bay and the Cloch Lighthouse – Lunderston Bay loop from Inverkip.

Parking is generally available at key starting points for many routes. For instance, Lunderston Bay is a popular spot with parking facilities, serving as a convenient base for coastal rides. Wemyss Bay also offers parking options, particularly near the ferry terminal, which can be a starting point for tours.

The touring cycling routes in Inverkip And Wemyss Bay are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars from over 70 reviews. Cyclists frequently praise the stunning coastal views, the variety of terrain from gentle paths to challenging climbs, and the well-maintained sections of dedicated cycle tracks like those along the Inverclyde Coastal Path.

For experienced cyclists seeking a challenge, the region offers several difficult routes. The Isle of Arran East Coast Road – Portavadie Ferry Terminal loop from Wemyss Bay is a demanding 110.8 miles (178 km) route with significant elevation gain, including a ferry journey. Another challenging option is the Brisbane Glen Road – Loch Thom loop from Inverkip, covering 28.9 miles (46.6 km) through hills and woodlands.

While specific bike-friendly pubs aren't listed in the route data, the towns of Inverkip and Wemyss Bay, as well as nearby Gourock, offer various cafes, shops, and pubs where cyclists can stop for refreshments. Coastal routes often pass through or near these settlements, providing convenient breaks.