Scotland Coast to Coast: Lochs, Historic Towns and Gravel
Culross
Scotland Coast to Coast
Distance: 110 miles
Scotland’s coast-to-coast route from Culross to Kilcreggan links the Firth of Forth on the east with the Firth of Clyde on the west. Covering roughly 177 kilometers (110 miles), the route covers quiet roads, forest tracks, gravel paths, and lochside riding.
The ride begins in Culross, a small historic town. Early miles follow shared paths and rural lanes near Dunblane and Bridge of Allan. These opening sections are marked by gentle grades and steady surfaces. Furthur along, Callander has food options, lodging, and supplies, making it a good place to stop and regroup before heading into more remote terrain.
Beyond Callander, gravel tracks appear near Loch Venachar, and the surroundings become more wooded as the ride moves west. Forest roads wind through rolling ground, offering long, quiet stretches broken up by occasional climbs. The surfaces here are generally firm, though weather can influence conditions quickly. Riders often note how these sections feel removed from nearby towns, even though services are never too far away.
As the route approaches Aberfoyle, gravel riding becomes more frequent. This area is often considered one of the gateways to Scotland’s gravel network, and it shows. From here, the route enters the heart of the Trossachs, passing a series of interesting lochs.
Lochs Ard, Chon, and Arklet sit among rolling hills and forested slopes, and the riding between them alternates between open views and enclosed corridors. Clear days bring long views across water and hills, while mist and rain can make things quieter and the views less appealing. This stretch tends to feel like the most remote part of the route.
Rather than riding the full length of Loch Lomond, the route includes a water taxi crossing between Inversnaid and Inveruglas, typically operating from spring through autumn. The ferry provides a chance to take in the expanse of the loch from the water. It also divides the ride into two distinct geographic halves.
On the western side of Loch Lomond, the route turns toward the Rosneath Peninsula. The riding opens up, with coastal roads and gravel lanes offering wide views over Gare Loch and surrounding hills. Traffic remains light, and the terrain rolls steadily rather than climbing sharply. The final miles into Kilcreggan feel unhurried, with the sense that the journey is winding down.
One of the attractions of this coast-to-coast route is how accessible it is. Public transport links situated near both ends, combined with the ferry crossing, make planning easy. Many riders complete the route over two or three days, allowing time to enjoy the changes in landscape without rushing. With the right preparation and a flexible schedule, this ride delivers a satisfying cross-section of Scotland’s interior and coastline in a single journey.
Recommended Gear
Hydration
INOXTO 20L Hydration Backpack
Storage
ROCKBROS Frame Bag
Lighting
Fenix BC05R V2.0 Rear Light
Comfort
Pearl iZUMi Gel Cycling Gloves
Headgear
Cycling in Scotland: Churches, castles and lots of lochs.
Your guide to great gravel cycling in Scotland!
Scotland Coast to Coast
Distance: 110 miles
Scotland’s coast-to-coast route from Culross to Kilcreggan links the Firth of Forth on the east with the Firth of Clyde on the west. Covering roughly 177 kilometers (110 miles), the route covers quiet roads, forest tracks, gravel paths, and lochside riding.
The ride begins in Culross, a small historic town. Early miles follow shared paths and rural lanes near Dunblane and Bridge of Allan. These opening sections are marked by gentle grades and steady surfaces. Furthur along, Callander has food options, lodging, and supplies, making it a good place to stop and regroup before heading into more remote terrain.
Beyond Callander, gravel tracks appear near Loch Venachar, and the surroundings become more wooded as the ride moves west. Forest roads wind through rolling ground, offering long, quiet stretches broken up by occasional climbs. The surfaces here are generally firm, though weather can influence conditions quickly. Riders often note how these sections feel removed from nearby towns, even though services are never too far away.
As the route approaches Aberfoyle, gravel riding becomes more frequent. This area is often considered one of the gateways to Scotland’s gravel network, and it shows. From here, the route enters the heart of the Trossachs, passing a series of interesting lochs.
Lochs Ard, Chon, and Arklet sit among rolling hills and forested slopes, and the riding between them alternates between open views and enclosed corridors. Clear days bring long views across water and hills, while mist and rain can make things quieter and the views less appealing. This stretch tends to feel like the most remote part of the route.
Rather than riding the full length of Loch Lomond, the route includes a water taxi crossing between Inversnaid and Inveruglas, typically operating from spring through autumn. The ferry provides a chance to take in the expanse of the loch from the water. It also divides the ride into two distinct geographic halves.
On the western side of Loch Lomond, the route turns toward the Rosneath Peninsula. The riding opens up, with coastal roads and gravel lanes offering wide views over Gare Loch and surrounding hills. Traffic remains light, and the terrain rolls steadily rather than climbing sharply. The final miles into Kilcreggan feel unhurried, with the sense that the journey is winding down.
One of the attractions of this coast-to-coast route is how accessible it is. Public transport links situated near both ends, combined with the ferry crossing, make planning easy. Many riders complete the route over two or three days, allowing time to enjoy the changes in landscape without rushing. With the right preparation and a flexible schedule, this ride delivers a satisfying cross-section of Scotland’s interior and coastline in a single journey.
Recommended Gear
Hydration
INOXTO 20L Hydration Backpack
Storage
ROCKBROS Frame Bag
Lighting
Fenix BC05R V2.0 Rear Light
Comfort
Pearl iZUMi Gel Cycling Gloves
Headgear
Cycling in Scotland: Churches, castles and lots of lochs.
Your guide to great gravel cycling in Scotland!
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