Sonder's Epic Rides: Scotland's cycling stories

Scotland's landscapes, with their ancient castles, misty lochs, and rugged highlands, set the stage for unforgettable cycling adventures. We celebrate these journeys through "Epic Rides," a collection of stories from cyclists who've explored Scotland's beauty on two wheels. These tales, contributed by our community and sponsored riders, reflect the diverse and inspiring experiences Scotland offers to cyclists.

With "Everyone has a story, what's yours?" Sonder invites you to share your Scottish cycling adventures. Whether it's getting lost in the wild Highlands, finding tranquility on a coastal path, or experiencing the warmth of a small village, your story is a unique testament to the magic of cycling in Scotland.

"Epic Rides" aims to capture the essence of cycling here— the personal triumphs, the shared moments of camaraderie, and the deep connection with Scotland's breathtaking nature.

Mountain Biking: Conquer the Highlands

Scotland's Highlands are a mountain biker's dream, offering trails that range from gentle forest paths to challenging singletracks. The Fort William area, known for hosting the UCI Mountain Bike World Cup, features routes for all skill levels, with breathtaking views of Ben Nevis, the UK's highest peak. Spring brings a burst of life to these trails, with wildflowers and budding trees adding to the scenic beauty. Don't miss the opportunity to ride the Torridon and the 7stanes centres, where the trails are as thrilling as the landscapes are stunning.

Road Biking: Pedal Through Picturesque Landscapes

Scotland's road biking is unparalleled, with quiet country lanes and scenic coastal roads offering peaceful rides through historic landscapes. The North Coast 500 route is a must-do for any road biking enthusiast, providing 500 miles of stunning vistas, from rugged cliffs to tranquil beaches. Springtime's clearer skies and cooler temperatures make for ideal conditions to tackle this epic journey or any of the country's other scenic routes, like the Lochs and Glens North route from Glasgow to Inverness.

Gravel Biking: Adventure Off the Beaten Path

Gravel biking in Scotland allows you to explore the less-trodden paths, combining the thrill of mountain biking with the endurance of road cycling. The Cairngorms National Park offers expansive gravel trails that meander through ancient forests, alongside rivers, and across moorlands, all while offering a good chance of spotting wildlife. The arrival of spring awakens the park's flora and fauna, making it a vibrant time to explore these gravel paths.

Cycle Touring: Explore Scotland at Your Own Pace

Cycle touring is the perfect way to immerse yourself in Scotland's natural beauty and rich cultural heritage. With a network of quiet roads and dedicated cycle paths, you can plan a multi-day journey that takes you through historic towns, alongside famous lochs, and into the heart of the Scottish wilderness. The Caledonia Way and the Hebridean Way are excellent choices for spring adventures, offering a mix of coastal views, mountain landscapes, and opportunities to taste Scotland's famous hospitality.

Bikepacking: The Ultimate Adventure

Bikepacking combines cycling with minimalist camping, allowing you to travel further and experience Scotland's wild places up close. The Great North Trail is an epic bikepacking route that offers a mix of off-road tracks, forest paths, and remote trails, leading you through some of Scotland's most remote and beautiful areas. In spring, these landscapes burst into life, making it an ideal time to embark on a bikepacking adventure.

Spring into Action

Spring in Scotland offers an unparalleled opportunity to experience the thrill of adventure cycling, whether you're tearing down mountain trails, gliding along serene roads, navigating gravel paths, touring scenic routes, or bikepacking through the wilderness. So, why wait? Dust off your bike, gear up, and set off on a Scottish cycling adventure.