The best cycling routes in Inverclyde

Inverclyde offers a wide selection of touring cycling routes, with over 80 options available on komoot. These routes cater to various skill levels, including 13 easy, 51 moderate, and 16 difficult trails.

Yes, Inverclyde has several family-friendly options. The The Kelly Cut – Loch Thom loop from Greenock Central is a moderate route that offers scenic views and is suitable for families. The Greenock Cut itself, within Clyde Muirshiel Regional Park, is known for its mostly flat, traffic-free sections and historical interest, making it a great choice for a family outing, though robust tires are recommended.

Inverclyde's touring cycling routes offer diverse terrain. You can expect scenic coastal paths along the Firth of Clyde, such as the Cloch Lighthouse – Lunderston Bay loop from Greenock West, as well as more challenging climbs and descents in the hills and moorlands, particularly within the Clyde Muirshiel Regional Park. Routes like the Loch Thom loop from Gourock provide a mix of varied terrain.

Many touring cycling routes in Inverclyde are circular, allowing you to start and end at the same point. Examples include the popular Loch Thom loop from Gourock and the coastal Lunderston Bay – Cloch Lighthouse loop from Wemyss Bay.

Along Inverclyde's cycling routes, you can discover several interesting landmarks and natural features. The picturesque Cloch Lighthouse is a prominent coastal landmark. You can also visit Lunderston Bay, known for its views and as a picnic spot. Inland, the historic Greenock Cut aqueduct system and the serene Loch Thom offer unique sights within Clyde Muirshiel Regional Park.

Yes, many routes are accessible via public transport. Towns like Greenock, Gourock, and Wemyss Bay, which serve as starting points for several routes, have train stations with connections. For instance, the Ashton Esplanade – View of the loch at Dunoon loop from Greenock West starts near a train station, making it convenient for cyclists arriving by rail.

For experienced touring cyclists seeking a challenge, Inverclyde offers several difficult routes. The Isle of Arran East Coast Road – Portavadie Ferry Terminal loop from Wemyss Bay is a demanding 178 km route, accessible by ferry, requiring good fitness. Another challenging option is the Loch Tarsan Dam – View of the Kyles of Bute loop from Gourock, which features significant elevation gain.

The komoot community highly rates touring cycling in Inverclyde, with an average score of 4.3 stars from over 57 reviews. Cyclists often praise the stunning coastal views, the varied terrain that caters to different abilities, and the well-maintained paths, especially those within Clyde Muirshiel Regional Park.

Yes, e-bike hire is available in Inverclyde, which can make some of the hiller sections of routes more accessible. The Inverclyde Bothy, located at Gourock train station, provides resources including e-bike try-outs and information on routes.

Inverclyde is rich in scenic viewpoints. The Brisbane Glen Road offers elevated perspectives. Routes along the Firth of Clyde coastline, such as the Lunderston Bay – View of Loch Riddon loop from Gourock, provide expansive views across the water and towards the islands. The Greenock Cut also boasts impressive vistas across the Firth of Clyde and into the Trossachs.

Yes, several routes in Inverclyde feature lakes and reservoirs. The prominent Loch Thom is a central feature for many routes, including the Brisbane Glen Road – Loch Thom loop from Inverkip. The historic Greenock Cut aqueduct system also winds around reservoirs, offering unique waterside cycling experiences.