The best cycling routes around Threipmuir Reservoir

The routes around Threipmuir Reservoir offer a diverse range of terrain. You'll find everything from easy, mostly paved surfaces to gravel paths and single trails. As you climb into the Pentland Hills, routes can become more challenging with unpaved segments and significant elevation gains, requiring good or very good fitness.

Yes, there are over 260 touring cycling routes around Threipmuir Reservoir. This includes a good mix of difficulties, with approximately 90 easy routes, over 100 moderate routes, and nearly 70 more challenging options, ensuring there's something for every skill level.

The area is rich in natural beauty. You can cycle along the tranquil shorelines of Threipmuir and Harlaw Reservoirs, explore adjacent woodlands, and traverse open moorland. A notable feature is the Threipmuir Reservoir itself, and the unique Red Moss Nature Reserve, which is Edinburgh's only raised bog. The routes also offer wider views of the surrounding Pentland Hills, especially when the heather blooms in summer and autumn.

Yes, there are many family-friendly options. The area offers easy loops with mostly paved surfaces suitable for all skill levels. For example, the Threipmuir Reservoir – Glencorse Reservoir Overflow loop from Balerno is an easy 5.3 km route that takes about 22 minutes to complete and offers pleasant reservoir views.

Many of the touring cycling routes in the area are designed as loops, allowing you to start and end at the same point. Examples include the easy Glencorse Reservoir Overflow – Threipmuir Reservoir loop from Lennox Tower, which is about 6.7 km long, or the more challenging Threipmuir Reservoir – Glencorse Reservoir Overflow loop from Lennox Tower, covering about 9.5 km.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.38 stars from over 280 reviews. Cyclists often praise the diverse landscapes, from tranquil reservoir shorelines and woodlands to the open moorland of the Pentland Hills. The variety of routes, catering to different fitness levels, and the scenic views are frequently highlighted.

Beyond the natural beauty, you can encounter several points of interest. The routes often pass by the Threipmuir Reservoir itself, and you might spot the Forest Track Beside Harlaw Reservoir or the historic Redford Bridge. The Pentland Hills themselves, with their ancient geological history, serve as a stunning backdrop to many rides.

The Pentland Hills, where Threipmuir Reservoir is located, are particularly picturesque in summer and autumn when the thick dark heather blooms in blankets of pink and purple. This makes these seasons ideal for scenic rides. However, the diverse routes are enjoyable year-round, with conditions varying depending on the weather.

Yes, for experienced touring cyclists seeking a challenge, there are routes with significant elevation gains and varied terrain. The The Red Road, Pentland Hills – Balerno Hill Summit loop from Red Moss of Balerno Wildlife Reserve is a moderate 17.5 km path that traverses the Pentland Hills, offering elevated views and requiring good fitness. Another challenging option is the Glencorse Reservoir Overflow – Threipmuir Reservoir loop from Red Moss of Balerno Wildlife Reserve, an 8.5 km route with notable climbs.

Many routes are easily accessible, with convenient starting points. You can begin your touring cycling adventure from locations like Balerno or Haymarket, making it straightforward to reach the area and embark on your chosen route.

Absolutely. Beyond cycling, Threipmuir Reservoir is also a popular spot for hiking, with numerous trails crisscrossing the Pentland Hills. For those interested, open water swimming is also an option, with a small beach providing access to the water.