The best road cycling routes around Pentland Hills Regional Park

Pentland Hills Regional Park offers a wide selection of road cycling routes, with over 700 tours available on komoot. These routes cater to various skill levels, including over 200 easy, 400 moderate, and nearly 70 difficult options.

Yes, the region has over 200 easy road cycling routes. A great option for a relaxed ride is the Roadbike loop from Carlops, which is 20.5 miles (33.0 km) with gentle gradients through rural landscapes.

For those seeking a challenge, Pentland Hills Regional Park features nearly 70 difficult routes and many moderate options with significant elevation. A popular moderate route is the Neidpath Castle – Peebles to Eddleston Bike Path loop from Carlops, spanning 33.5 miles (53.8 km) with moderate climbs.

Many of the road cycling routes in Pentland Hills Regional Park are designed as loops, allowing you to start and finish at the same point. An example is the Battle of Roslin Monument – Rosslyn Chapel loop from Oxgangs, a 13.1-mile (21.1 km) trail that takes you through historical sites.

The routes often pass by stunning natural and historical attractions. You can find viewpoints like View from Allermuir Hill, or enjoy the serene waters of Glencorse Reservoir. Other notable spots include Scald Law Summit and Carnethy Hill.

While specific 'family-friendly' designations for road cycling can vary, many of the easier, shorter loop routes with gentle gradients are suitable for families. Look for routes with lower elevation gain and less traffic, such as the Waterfall and Old Mill – Scenic Walk loop from Carlops, which is an easy 25.4 km ride.

The best time for road cycling in Pentland Hills Regional Park is generally from spring to autumn (April to October) when the weather is milder and daylight hours are longer. Summer offers the warmest temperatures, but spring and autumn provide beautiful scenery with fewer crowds.

Many routes in and around Pentland Hills Regional Park pass through villages or near towns where you can find cafes and refreshment stops. Planning your route to include stops in places like Carlops or near Edinburgh's outskirts can enhance your ride. For example, the Artisan Roast – Barclay Viewforth Church loop from Fairmilehead is a shorter route that starts near urban amenities.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.4 stars from over 400 reviews. Reviewers often praise the diverse landscape of rolling hills, open moorland, and scenic reservoirs, as well as the mix of quiet country roads and varied terrain suitable for different ability levels.

Yes, there are various car parks located around the perimeter of Pentland Hills Regional Park, providing convenient access points for road cyclists. Popular starting points often include areas near Carlops, Flotterstone, or Bonaly, which offer parking facilities.

While some popular routes can see more traffic, the extensive network of over 700 routes means you can often find quieter roads, especially during off-peak hours or by exploring routes slightly further from the main access points. Focusing on routes that venture deeper into the regional park's less frequented areas can offer a more tranquil experience.