Exploring the world by bike is one of the simplest and purest forms of travel, and in recent times people have been combining cycling with camping to create a budget-friendly way of getting around. Additionally, 'bikepacking', as it's called, is also one of — if not, the — most eco-friendly ways of travelling.
The term ‘bikepacking’ is currently undergoing a surge in interest with an average of 3,500 searches per month in 2022, compared to 1,032 in 2016, according to a popular search monitoring tool. In Scotland, data from Google Trends suggests the country is the home of the outdoor trend with searches for ‘bikepacking’ in Scotland having been 31% higher than in Wales and 38% more than in England.
With that in mind the cycling experts at ProBikeKit have recently conducted some research into the most popular 'bikepacking' routes in Scotland – and they've picked out five of the best.
Read more: The Scots locations named best for couples and best for family camping
Scotland’s Best Bikepacking Routes
1. The Badger Divide
ProBikeKit said: "Claiming Victory as Scotland’s best bikepacking route is The Badger Divide . Starting in Inverness and finishing in the city of Glasgow this route offers spectacular scenery across the Scottish Highlands. At 212 miles long this route is best enjoyed over a week or so; though if you really want to test yourself it can be tackled with only an overnight stop."
2. The Faultline Trail
"The Faultline Trail in Scotland takes fourth place. Beginning at the Mull of Galloway in southern Scotland finishing at Dunnet Head, 730 miles north, this route reaches almost 800 metres above sea level The combination of the distance and climbing make this challenging but also rewarding route."
3. Wild About Argyll
"Third place goes to Wild About Argyll trail. This 419-mile long-distance route is not for the faint of heart. Covering gravel tracks, forest roads, cycle paths and singletrack there’s something for everyone. Skirting around a multitude of lochs, you’ll never be too far from a waterside view."
4. John Muir Way
"John Muir Way comes in fourth place. Totalling around 134 miles from coast to coast, this trail is best enjoyed over two or three days. Explore the spectacular Loch and city of Edinburgh before heading down to the coastline to end of the route."
5. West Highland Way
"Fifth place goes to the 95 mile iconic route, West Highland Way . Most known by hikers this route is one of the most beautiful and challenging walks in the British isles. Starting from the hustle and bustle of Glasgow to the village of Crianlarich this trail is paradise for bikepackers."
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