Outdoor Odysseys

Unveiling Cycling Wonders: From the South of Scotland to Southern Oregon

Globally, cycling is increasingly popular both as sustainable transport and recreation, supported by growing infrastructure and organisations like Cycling UK and the Adventure Cycling Association. There are many destinations that offer unique attractions and share common commitments to safety, infrastructure development, and environmental preservation, providing remarkable opportunities for cyclists of all levels. Here are a few of them.

The United Kingdom offers an exceptional variety of cycling experiences, with an extensive network of well-documented routes. The iconic Coast to Coast (C2C) presents a compelling 140-mile challenge across England, offering cyclists choice of three western starting points (Whitehaven, St Bees, or Workington) and two eastern finishing points (Tyneside or Roker Marina in Sunderland). Those preferring to ride against tradition can explore alternative east-to-west routes like the Reivers or Hadrian’s Cycleway.

The Way of the Roses extends this cross-country concept through a carefully planned 170-mile journey between Morecambe and Bridlington that passes through the Yorkshire Dales on its way. This route is particularly well-supported with comprehensive information about terrain, accommodation, refreshment stops, and bicycle shops along its length.

For those seeking longer adventures, the West Country Way presents a 250-mile route from Bristol to Padstow, encompassing the Mendip Hills, Exmoor National Park, and the dramatic North Cornwall coast. This eight-day journey can be ridden in either direction, though starting in Cornwall may take advantage of prevailing westerly winds. Ordnance Survey maps prove invaluable for navigation and exploring beyond the waymarked route.

Shropshire adds to Britain’s cycling heritage with its distinctive 185-mile Cycleway circumnavigating the county, while incorporating sections of the National Cycle Network. The county’s market towns serve as starting points for numerous circular routes, making it ideal for day rides.

The ambitious Great North Trail stands as a remarkable achievement in off-road cycling, offering an 825-mile mountain biking adventure from the Peak District to Scotland’s Cape Wrath or John o’ Groats, providing varying challenges across diverse terrains.

Wales has established itself as a premier cycling destination, featuring over 1,200 miles of National Cycle Network routes and world-class mountain biking centres. The country has earned particular recognition as a paradise for gravel riding, whilst also catering admirably to families through its network of accessible trails. The comprehensive range of cycling experiences available makes Wales equally appealing to road cyclists, mountain bikers, and families seeking adventure on two wheels.

Scotland‘s cycling credentials are particularly impressive, featuring 25 world-class mountain biking centres and an extensive National Cycle Network. The country has embraced newer cycling disciplines, with specific provisions for gravel biking, complemented by comprehensive safety guidance through initiatives like ‘Do The Ride Thing’ and the Scottish Outdoor Access Code. The South of Scotland offers particularly well-documented routes, with detailed information about distances, elevation changes, and connecting towns.

Continental Europe offers distinctive cycling experiences, with Corsica standing out as a particularly compelling destination. This mountainous Mediterranean isle presents more than 150 cols for road cyclists to overcome, whilst also accommodating mountain biking enthusiasts. Though many routes prove challenging, the island caters to various abilities through good hybrid or touring bikes, with electric bikes available for those seeking assistance on steeper terrain.

Across the Atlantic, America’s western states provide remarkable cycling opportunities. Bend, Oregon has established itself as a mountain biking haven, offering over 900 miles of single track trails. The region emphasises environmental stewardship, encouraging cyclists to remain on designated trails to protect local ecosystems.

Colorado’s cycling culture is supported by robust advocacy through organisations like Bicycle Colorado, whose efforts have helped establish the state as a premier cycling destination. Their innovative SHIFT Driving™ programme demonstrates a commitment to cyclist safety through driver education.

The Lake Tahoe region presents five iconic cycling areas encompassing over 70 varied trails, from challenging mountain bike routes to leisurely lakeside rides. In Southern Oregon, the Bear Creek Greenway offers an 18-mile paved, multi-use trail through Phoenix, Medford, and Central Point, serving both recreational cyclists and commuters.

Urban cycling finds strong advocacy in San Francisco through its Bicycle Coalition, which focuses on creating a more bike-friendly city environment. Rather than simply promoting recreational cycling, this organisation emphasises practical support for urban cyclists through initiatives including urban cycling classes, detailed city mapping, and comprehensive guidance on security and safety. Their community-based approach to advocacy demonstrates how cycling infrastructure can be enhanced through local action and engagement.

Several themes emerge across these diverse cycling destinations. The emphasis on accessibility and safety is evident through dedicated cycle paths, traffic-free routes, and comprehensive planning resources. Cycling increasingly represents both sustainable transport and recreation, with growing infrastructure supporting both purposes. The activity’s rising popularity is reflected in the availability of bike hire, organised tours, and cycling events across these regions.

Supporting organisations play vital roles in developing and maintaining cycling opportunities. Cycling UK, for instance, provides essential services including route information, advice, and insurance for British cyclists. Similar organisations worldwide advocate for cycling infrastructure improvements and promote cycling culture. For instance, the Adventure Cycling Association is one that serves American cyclists.

Each destination offers unique attractions whilst sharing common commitments to developing and maintaining cycling infrastructure, ensuring safety, and preserving natural environments. Whether seeking challenging mountain bike trails, scenic road routes, or family-friendly paths, these global cycling destinations provide remarkable opportunities for two-wheeled exploration. Cycling is so much more than the equipment you find reviewed by the likes of BikeRadar, as you should have seen here. Being out in the open air, going from place to place, is what it really is about.