Scotland might not be the first place you think of for cycling, as the country is often seen as rugged and a bit too wet or too windy. While that can be true (sometimes), it really depends on the kind of cycling you’re after. If you enjoy being out in nature, taking on some rough terrain, and embracing adventure, then you’re certainly in the right place. Bikepacking in Scotland often means riding a mix of roads and narrow trails over several days, with options to camp, stay in hostels, or book hotels – and, needless to say, Scotland delivers on all fronts.  

Below is a growing selection of routes, sometimes including GPX files for convenience.  

One note of caution: if you’re from a country with dedicated cycle paths (like my home turf The Netherlands), be prepared for a very different and often more challenging experience. Many routes are far from smooth, and some sections may be shared with motor traffic, so stay alert!

750 km / Start: Thurso / Finish: Edinburgh

A challenging 750 km (!) mixed-surface bikepacking route (no waymarking!) linking Dunnet Head with Edinburgh. The trail traverses Scotland’s ancient Pictish kingdoms, weaving between the present and the past, the mountains and the coast. The terrain is varied, with everything from quiet lanes to mellow riverside singletrack, high passes in the Cairngorms and remote gravel sections in the far northern Flow Country. Do prepare for the lack of accommodation (especially in the most northern part of this trail) and bring your tent and food with you.

Additional information: HOME | The Pictish Trail

Bikepacking the North Coast 500

318 km / Start & Finish: Inverness

The route doesn’t have any 'impossible' sections, but you might need to walk alongside or push your bike on some uphill or downhill stretches. Occasionally, you may come across gates that, if closed, could require lifting your bike over them.

Additional information: UKH News - FRI NIGHT VID: Where Roads End

Cairngorms National Park Loop

266 km / Start & Finish: Aviemore

Smooth gravel paths, singletrack trails, and mostly quiet roads define the area. Although the Cairngorms boast four of Scotland’s five highest mountains, there are no extreme climbs or descents, and some sections of the route make for excellent day trips.

Additional information: Markus Stitz Cairngorms Bikepacking - 360 degree loop

Coast to Coast

177 km / Start: Culross & Finish: Kilcreggan

While this route can be quite challenging, the scenery is absolutely worth it, with vast woodlands, beautiful lochs, and excellent gravel paths. Along the way, you’ll come across impressive tall tower houses from the late 14th and 15th centuries, charming towns, Roman hillforts, and plenty of spots to pause and soak it all in. With several points accessible by public transport, it’s easy to break the route into a few rides, though the boat trips will need some advance planning!

Additional information: The 177 km Bikepacking Route Coast to Coast Across Scotland

The John Muir Way

212 km / Start: Helensburgh & Finish: Dunbar

The route passes through Scotland’s first national park, Loch Lomond & The Trossachs, and offers a journey of contrasts. and the chance to connect with nature, taking advantage of the green spaces that link coasts, villages, towns and even the capital city, Edinburgh. It offers good transport links and plentiful accommodation. It can be completed either in one or various journeys.

Additional information: Great Rides: John Muir Way | Cycling UK

The trail is perfect for families, microadventures or a long day ride. The route, designed by round the world cyclist Markus Stitz, features quiet roads, gravel tracks, singletrack, walking and cycle paths.

Additional information: Go East Lothian Trail - Bikepacking Scotland

This circular multi-day bikepacking route offers a fun off-road adventure rich in history, winding through diverse Scottish landscapes and charming market towns and villages. Starting and ending in Pitlochry, it takes in the remote, scenic glens of the Cairngorms National Park. It’s a challenge for seasoned riders, with hike-a-bike sections, rugged terrain, steps to carry your bike, and the occasional busy road.

Additional information: UKH Articles - Bikepacking the John Muir Way and Perthshire's New Drovers Trail