The best traffic-free bike rides around Gilmerton/Inch

There are 5 curated no-traffic touring cycling routes around Gilmerton/Inch, with 4 of them rated as easy and 1 as moderate. These routes are designed to keep you away from busy roads, offering a peaceful cycling experience.

Yes, many of the no-traffic routes in Gilmerton/Inch are suitable for families. Routes utilizing former railway paths, like sections of the Innocent Railway, are generally flatter and separated from traffic, making them ideal for cycling with children. An easy option is the Barklay Park Railway Path loop from Gilmerton, which offers a gentle ride.

The routes around Gilmerton/Inch offer a diverse range of landscapes. You'll cycle through accessible woodlands, past natural features like Straiton Pond, and along former railway paths. Some routes provide scenic views of iconic landmarks such as Arthur's Seat and the Pentland Hills. For example, the View of Arthur's Seat – Portobello Promenade and Beach loop from Liberton offers coastal views and glimpses of the ancient volcano.

Yes, several of the no-traffic routes in Gilmerton/Inch are circular, allowing you to start and end at the same point. An example is the St Margaret's Loch – The Innocent Railway loop from Moredun, which provides a varied circular experience.

You can discover a variety of interesting places. The region is rich in historical sites and natural beauty. Highlights include the impressive Arthur's Seat, the historic Holyrood Palace, and the mysterious Gilmerton Cove. You might also pass by the spectacular Bilston Viaduct or enjoy views of various lochs and reservoirs like Glencorse Reservoir.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 stars from 40 ratings. Reviewers often praise the peaceful nature of the routes, the separation from traffic, and the scenic variety, from urban green spaces to glimpses of the Pentland Hills and the Firth of Forth.

Absolutely. Many routes provide stunning vistas. For instance, the View from Blackford Hill – Buckstone Snab Summit loop from Burdiehouse offers panoramic views, including the city skyline and the Firth of Forth. You'll also find routes that pass by or offer views of Arthur's Seat.

Gilmerton/Inch is a suburb of Edinburgh, and many routes are accessible via local bus services from the city center. The network of former railway paths, including the Innocent Railway, often has entry points close to residential areas and public transport links, making it convenient to start your ride without a car.

Parking options vary depending on the specific starting point of your chosen route. Many routes begin near residential areas or local parks where street parking might be available. For routes connecting to larger trail networks like the Innocent Railway, look for designated parking areas at trailheads or nearby public facilities.

While the routes themselves focus on traffic-free paths, many pass through or near local communities like Gilmerton, Liberton, or Portobello, where you can find cafes, pubs, and other amenities. For example, the View of Arthur's Seat – Portobello Promenade and Beach loop from Liberton takes you close to the vibrant Portobello Promenade, which has numerous options for refreshments.

The terrain is generally varied but leans towards accessible. Many routes utilize former railway lines, which are typically flat or have gentle gradients. Surfaces can range from paved cycle paths to well-maintained gravel tracks through woodlands and parks. The Hermitage of Braid House – Braid Burn Path loop from Craigmillar, for instance, combines different surfaces through a natural setting.