Ten best Scottish cycling routes for spring

Dark winter nights and snow-saturated weekends could well be behind for us for another year as much of the Scottish countryside opens up with the advance of spring.

While this is by no means guaranteed, it pays to be prepared for good weather in a country where sunshine can be at best fleeting.

So with this in mind, we’ve put together a list of our best spring cycles to get you in the mood for those days when venturing out on outdoor activity need not involve dressing like one is about to embark on arctic expedition.

1) KYLE OF SUTHERLAND

The Kyle of Sutherland takes the River Oykel out to sea. This is quiet and remote country where on a sunny day the air really does seem clearer than further south.

You can make a trip round the southern end - a walk over a long footbridge which crosses the Kyle offers great views.

The footbridge allows you to go from Invershin to reach a Culrain before you go south to Ardgay before recrossing, heading back north to the start.

The River Oykel has abundant stocks of Atlantic salmon and is designated as a special area of conversation.

Distance: 9 miles

Time taken: 1.5 hours

Landranger: 21

2) ARCHAEOLOGY TOUR OF ORKNEY - MAINLAND

Orkney is perfect for cycling and for stunning views across the relics of ancient man.

Standing sontes, brochs, and a Neolithic village are all grouped together as if in a theme park, it is no wonder UNESCO designated this a World Heritage Site.

To go in a loop across Orkney’s mainland using part of the National Cycle Network is a long route and you will probably need a full day. For some it may be better to go along the first stretch from Maes Howe and the Stones of Stenness to Skara Brae.

A full circuit, via the Bough of Birsay, Broch of Gurness and Tingwall, is recommended.

Distance: 38 miles

Time taken: 6 hours

Landranger: 6

3) ARRAN

Arran is known as “Scotland in miniature” because of its soaring mountains, peaceful lowlands and varied coastline.

Many routes for cyclists involve hills but on the west coast you can enjoy a relatively level route while looking from the mountainous end of Arran across Kilbrannan Sound to Kintyre.

Starting from the northern end of Arran at Lochranza, the west coast of the island is followed down to picturesque Blackwaterfoot. Look out for seabirds including gannet, eider duck and gullemots. Golden eagles are also a possibility, swiftly swooping down from the surrounding mountains.

Distance: 17.5 miles

Time taken: 3.5 hours

Landranger: 69

4) WEST FIFE CYCLEWAY, DUNFERMLINE

This flat route is ideal for families who want to take it easy yet enjoy the experience of a cycle ride through quiet countryside.