Family cycling trips in Scotland
Keen to get on your bike? Need to find routes to suit everyone else too? Scotland's west coast is a perfect destination for cyclists of all abilities, offering you the chance to get on two wheels, and see some of the most beautiful parts of the country at the same time.
Island of a thousand bicycles
As its unofficial title suggests, Cumbrae is a fantastic destination for a cycling adventure suitable for all ages and skills. In summer, bikes will often outnumber cars on the island. The 10-mile circuit around the island delivers magnificent views of the Firth of Clyde, and it's just ten minutes ferry ride away with Caledonian MacBrayne.
The younger ones in your party will feel accomplished to complete the circuit - and any one of the cafes on route will provide the best bribery / reward, depending what stage of your journey you're at. While you're on the island, visit the Museum of the Cumbraes for tales about 18th Century smugglers and the Robertson Museum and Aquarium will tell you all you need to know about the island's wildlife.
Bute is a Beaut
At 23 miles long, the Isle of Bute is a slightly longer route - doable in a summer day trip or as part of a longer stay. It's one of the most accessible islands, just 35 minutes by Caledonian MacBrayne ferry from Wemyss Bay, or less than five minutes if travelling Colintraive-Rhubodach.
The roads are relatively quiet, and the scenery really delivers - it's undoubtedly the best way to see the island. Keep the momentum up with the promise of lots to see along the way - from beaches to Mount Stuart.
If you do need something shorter, you can do the route in stages, or complete a stage of the route - Rothesay to beautiful Ettrick Bay is just ten miles long - with a beach and café to enjoy at the end. Port Bannatyne to Scalpsie Bay is a part offroad option, following a section of tramline. The bay itself is home to a seal colony at various times of the year. Or, if you're inspired by the hill climbers and racers, take on the Serpentine - 14 hairpin bends, and a category 2 climb. No bother! Maybe?
Lismore
The tiny island of Lismore is just 50 minutes from Oban by Caledonian MacBrayne ferry. Bring your bike along to explore this stunning and verdant isle or hire one on the island. On the route, you'll pass Castle Coeffin, built on the site of a Viking fortress in the 13th Century, and the 2,000 year old Tirfuir Broch - built when the prehistoric community of Lismore was at its height.
Getting you and your bike from here to there
Bikes are carried free of charge on Caledonian MacBrayne ferries. If you're a foot passenger travelling with your bike, or if you're travelling with a vehicle and a bike / roof rack, just make sure to let us know you're bringing one when you book your ferry ticket(s).
Find out more on travelling with a bicycle!
Treat yourself
Book your cycling adventure today. And, when you've completed your adventure, remember to reward yourself with our Cinq Bateaux sweatshirt, or tee - a unique design, created in Scotland for the best cycling and island fans.
