The best traffic-free bike rides around Great Glen

There are 9 dedicated traffic-free touring cycling routes in the Great Glen region featured in this guide. These routes offer a range of difficulties, with 1 easy, 5 moderate, and 3 difficult options to choose from.

The best time to cycle in Great Glen is typically between March and October. May and September are often recommended as they offer quieter trails and fewer midges, making for a more pleasant experience.

Yes, there is one easy traffic-free touring cycling route in this guide: the Church of St Peter – Bridleway Through Open Fields loop from Great Glen. This route is approximately 19 km long and takes around 1 hour and 12 minutes to complete, offering a gentle introduction to the region's scenic paths.

The Great Glen Way, which forms the backbone of many routes, primarily follows canal towpaths, forest tracks, and some quiet roads. While much of it is easygoing, some sections involve mixed terrain including gravel fire roads and stony single tracks. A mountain bike or a hardtail electric mountain bike with chunky tires is often recommended for comfort and capability.

Yes, all the routes listed in this guide are circular, allowing you to start and end at the same point. For example, the Bridleway Through Open Fields – Eyebrook Reservoir loop from Great Glen offers a challenging 59 km circular ride, while the Wistow Rural Café – Bridleway Through Open Fields loop from Great Glen provides a moderate 24 km option.

While cycling the traffic-free routes, you can explore various points of interest. Notable attractions in the wider Great Glen area include the historic Foxton Locks, the serene Foxton Locks Basin, and the architectural Friars Mill. The region is also rich in natural beauty, with majestic lochs like Loch Ness and the impressive Caledonian Canal.

The Great Glen region is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.65 out of 5 stars from 192 ratings. Reviewers often praise the stunning natural landscapes, the sense of tranquility on the traffic-free paths, and the well-maintained sections of the Great Glen Way that make for an enjoyable touring experience.

Many sections of the Great Glen Way, which these routes utilize, are suitable for families, especially the canal towpaths and forest tracks. For an easier family-friendly option, consider the Church of St Peter – Bridleway Through Open Fields loop from Great Glen, which is rated as easy and avoids heavy traffic.

The Great Glen Way passes through several towns and villages where you can find amenities. Fort William and Inverness at either end, and Fort Augustus in the middle, are key hubs with cafes, pubs, and accommodation options. Smaller villages along the route also offer services. For example, the Wistow Rural Café – Bridleway Through Open Fields loop from Great Glen specifically highlights a rural cafe along its path.

Yes, the Great Glen is well-served by public transport, particularly at its northern and southern ends. Fort William and Inverness have train stations and bus services, making it possible to access the start and end points of the Great Glen Way. Local bus services also connect some of the smaller communities along the route, which can be useful for shorter sections or if you need to cut a ride short.

Parking is generally available in the main towns and villages along the Great Glen, such as Fort William, Fort Augustus, and Inverness. Many of these locations offer designated car parks, some of which may be paid. It's advisable to check local council websites or visitor information for specific parking facilities and any associated costs before your trip.

Many of the traffic-free paths, especially the canal towpaths and forest tracks, are dog-friendly. However, it is crucial to keep dogs under close control, preferably on a lead, to protect local wildlife and livestock, and to ensure the safety and enjoyment of other path users. Always follow the Scottish Outdoor Access Code.