Top 5 | The best places to ride in Scotland
After the 2nd round of the 2014 Enduro World Series was hosted in the Tweed Valley, the entire world caught a glimpse of the amazing riding on offer in the knuckle end of the UK. Scotland’s soft heather covered hills, craggy, majestic highlands have been a dream destination for adventure seekers for many generations, but the unforgiving weather can be a challenge! For those who take the chance, and journey over its many corries and bealachs the feeling of remoteness, space and emptiness cannot fail to inspire! We bring you five of our favourite locations to ride in Scotland, let the adventures begin.
1. Tweed Valley
No Scottish trip would be complete without a trip to the ‘Valley of the Bike People’. The legendary trail centres of Glentress and Innerleithen have been attracting riders to the area for years; but there is so much more to the Tweed Valley. Hidden under Larch and Pine, the trails in Caberston woods were once a fiercely guarded secret; but they have now been shown to the world during the 2014 EWS race. Plora Rig woods are also filled with amazing trails if you have an exploratory nature. Some of the trails are still sensitive, and parking can be an issue, but if you want to experience some of Scotland’s finest natural enduro singletrack, Innerleithen is the place. For the full low-down, pop into Alpine Bikes in Innerleithen and ask for Nic or Neil, those lads will get you on the right track. And while you are there be sure to stop by the No1 Cafe on Peebles road, best coffee in the valley!
2. Kinlochleven
Kinlochleven is a small village in Lochaber, in the Scottish Highlands and lies at the eastern end of Loch Leven. Kinlochleven jumped to fame after the popular Dudes of Hazzard Enduro and would make a highlight on any Scottish tour. Most of the trails involve a significant haul out from the village, finishing with a riotous descent to the shores of Loch Leven, the Mamores mountains always dominating the horizon. Kinloch has some incredible rocky, rooty and technical single-track and is probably best for a day trip or a long weekend. If the weather turns nasty, there is always the Ice Factor indoor ice climbing wall to keep you entertained, and do not forget to enjoy a steak and ale pie from the Clachaig Inn Boot Bar.
3. Skye
Skye is certainly one of the most scenic locations in Scotland, with views that will melt your heart. It is blessed with a haunting beauty that works in any weather conditions. If I were to be controversial I would say there is much more engaging riding to be found in other Scottish destinations; however it has always been a pilgrimage for adventuring riders. The Sligachan loop is a true classic, and while low on thrills, it is certainly high on amazing views. Probably best as an out and back from the Sligachan Hotel, you will enjoy some spectacular views of the Cuillin. Another lesser known classic is the Quiraing loop, a trail that hangs precipitously over an exposed cliff band. It is certainly not the most ridable route in the world and will give you the heebeegeebees many times, but if you like Hans-Ray challenges, it is epic.
4. Torridon
Torridon is truly spectacular and offers some classic wilderness riding; the Achnashellach circuit is the highlight of any highlands trips. The haul up onto Bealach Ban is a tough one, and you will be pushing for some of it; but at the top you can enjoy one of the best views anywhere in the UK. After soaking up the incredible views one of the finest single-track descents in the UK lies ahead, charging down to the Coire Lair on a ribbon of rocky trail. As you pass over the glen, the final section of the descent is like a super grippy pump track, the gneiss rock claws at the tyres and you can pull some crazy angles. This is big mountain riding at its most fun.
5. Fort William
Made famous by the infamous World Cup Downhill rounds, Fort William has served as a Mecca for hikers, climbers, bikers and adventure seekers for generations. Lying in the shadow of Ben Nevis; it is the perfect place if you want to find some big mountain action. During the summer you can ride the gondola and take on the legendary DH track; but be warned, the track will ruin your bike. If do end up riding the lift, you will love the Red Trail, snaking down the mountain side it offers a taste of the DH trail with a lot more flow. To finish an epic day, you should take in a lap of the Witches Trail before grabbing a well deserved beer in Fort William.
Scotland offers limitless possibilities for adventure, just make sure you have a good jacket!
Words & Pictures: Trev Worsey