Cycling

The chance to explore the magnificent  Loch Lomond and theTrossachs National Park by bike from Callander is a must for those who love cycling. There are off-road trails to suit all levels of mountain biking, and stunning road rides that can be as challenging or leisurely as you desire.

Wherever you cycle in the National Park you can be sure to pass through some of the most spectacular scenery Scotland has to offer. Whether you’re on a short bike ride with the family along purpose made cycle tracks, or undertaking a challenging ascent up one of the bens, be sure to enjoy the views of the lochs, rivers and hills along the way.

Here we have included some of the more well-known rides to be enjoyed during your stay in Callander but the list is far from exhaustive. With the aid of a good map you may prefer to plan your own exciting cycle routes.

Bike Hire

There are two bike hire specialists in Callander and one at Loch Katrine. 

Bike Storage

If you are bringing your own bike, remember to ask your accommodation provider if secure bike storage is available on site. Most bed & breakfast and self-catering accommodation businesses offer this service free of charge.

Bike Safety

Before you embark on your two-wheeled journey, be sure your bike is in good roadworthy condition and that you have a suitable cycling helmet, puncture repair outfit, bicycle pump, water and a map of the route you are using. A mobile phone would also be desirable along with enough food to keep you going for the length of your trip. 

Cycle routes from Callander

Callander to Strathyre

Distance: 9 miles
Difficulty: Easy
Time : 1-1.5 hours (one way)
Access: Traffic free
Surface: Mixed but not rough

The Sustrans National Route 7 cycle path passes through Callander on its way from Sunderland to Inverness.
 The section from Callander to Strathyre is a particularly picturesque  9 mile off-road route that should take about 1.5 hours.

Start

Head North out of Callander on National Route 7, which can be joined at Callander Meadows, or a little further on,  just past The Lade Inn on the A821.

The route follows the old railway line to Oban and runs alongside the River Leny (Look out for the Falls of Leny – particularly impressive when the river is high) and continues through a woodland until it reaches Loch Lubnaig.

The route then uses a quiet access road towards Strathyre Forest Cabins and continues for 4 miles of flat, easy cycling along the foot of Ben Ledi,  until you reach some small hills and a steep zig-zag which require a bit more effort.

The final stage is very leisurely and a perfect end to the trip. Time for some refreshments at Strathyre before turning back to Callander.

Callander to Killin

Distance: 24 miles
Difficulty: Challenging
Time: 2-4 hours
Access: Various
Surface: Mixed

Start

Head North out of Callander on National Route 7, which can be joined at Callander Meadows, or a little further on,  just past The Lade Inn on the A821.

The route follows the old railway line to Oban and runs alongside the River Leny and continues through a woodland until it reaches Loch Lubnaig.

The route then uses a quiet access and continues for 4 miles of flat, easy cycling along the foot of Ben Ledi, until you reach some small hills and a steep zig-zag which require a bit more effort.

Strathyre is the next little town you pass through and from here you cycle for 3 miles along a minor road towards the  village of Balquhidder,  where you can visit the grave of Scotland’s most infamous outlaw, Rob Roy MacGregor.

From Balquhidder, the route goes onwards towards Kingshouse and continues through the magnificent Glen Ogle, where the mountains loom large – this is where the route becomes hilly and challenging.

At the top of Glen Ogle, cross the A85 and make the final downhill ride into Killin through Acharn Forest. At Killin you’ll be rewarded with the sight of the Falls of Dochart in the centre of the town and a good selection of shops, cafes and pubs to enjoy.