The best gravel rides around Southside

There are over 80 gravel bike routes in the Southside area, offering a wide range of options for different skill levels and preferences. The komoot community has explored 89 routes in total.

Southside offers a mix of routes suitable for various abilities. You'll find 11 easy routes, 45 moderate routes, and 33 difficult routes, ensuring there's a challenge for every gravel biker.

Gravel biking in Southside, near Edinburgh, is characterized by its blend of urban fringes, historic estates, and natural areas. Routes often traverse rolling terrain with varied surfaces, including paved paths and gravel tracks, and incorporate sections of former railway lines and reservoir paths.

The spring and autumn months generally offer the most pleasant conditions for gravel biking in Southside, with milder temperatures and beautiful scenery. Summer can also be great, but be prepared for potentially busier trails. Winter riding is possible, but conditions can be wet and muddy, requiring appropriate gear.

While many routes in Southside are moderate to difficult, some sections of former railway lines or paths around reservoirs can be suitable for families, offering flatter and more stable surfaces. Look for routes with lower elevation gain and shorter distances if riding with children.

Yes, many routes in Southside are easily accessible by public transport, particularly those starting from central Edinburgh locations like Edinburgh Waverley. For example, the Dalkeith Palace and Gazebo – The Innocent Railway loop from Edinburgh Waverley and the Colinton Tunnel Mural – Threipmuir Reservoir loop from Edinburgh Waverley both begin from this convenient hub.

Many routes offer stunning vistas. You might encounter highlights such as the View of Edinburgh and the Firth of Forth, or the Corstorphine Hill Tower. The View of the Firth of Forth – Forth Bridge loop from Edinburgh Waverley specifically highlights coastal views.

Absolutely. Gravel routes often pass by significant landmarks. You could cycle past the historic Arthur's Seat, the impressive Scott Monument, or the architectural beauty of St Giles' Cathedral. Some routes also feature the unique Victoria Street.

Yes, several routes incorporate beautiful reservoirs. The Colinton Tunnel Mural – Glencorse Reservoir loop from Edinburgh Waverley takes you past Glencorse Reservoir, and other routes may pass by Torduff Reservoir or Dunsapie Loch.

Many of the gravel bike routes in Southside are designed as loops, allowing you to start and finish at the same point. Examples include the Dalkeith Palace and Gazebo – The Innocent Railway loop from Edinburgh Waverley and the Colinton Tunnel Mural – Threipmuir Reservoir loop from Edinburgh Waverley.

The gravel biking trails in Southside are highly regarded by the komoot community, boasting an average rating of 4.6 stars from over 120 reviews. Riders often praise the diverse terrain, the mix of urban and natural landscapes, and the well-maintained paths that make for an enjoyable experience.