Walking and Cycling
If there’s one thing you won’t be short of finding in Stirling, it’s adventure!
Whether you fancy a short amble, ride with the kids or a more challenging long-distance trek or cycle, you won’t be disappointed.
Stunning countryside and forest walks await in Queen Elizabeth Forest Park. Begin your visit at The Lodge Forest Visitor Centre near Aberfoyle and choose from the various trails to suit all levels, starting from the centre.
Further into the forest park, you can follow the Three Lochs Forest Drive to the lovely Loch Drunkie for scenic routes along the water. Heading north still, a visit to Loch Katrine has trails suitable for wheelchairs, buggies and is also perfect for cyclists. If you fancy a different view of Loch Katrine, you can book a cruise on one of the two cruise ships ‘Lady of the Lake’ or ‘Rob Roy III’. Soon you will be able to book to go on board of the famous Sir Walter Scott steamship too.
Many of Scotland’s famous long-distance trails pass through rural Stirling, you can sample a short section of these celebrated routes, or take on the full challenge over a number of days.
West Highland Way
The largest stretch of the West Highland Way passes through Stirling. As Scotland’s first official long-distance route, the 154km (96miles) spans from Milngavie to Fort William. Unforgettable scenic views over Loch Lomond, ancient wooded areas filled with wildflowers, scenic glens, mountain ranges and the vast Rannoch Moor, one of the few remaining wildernesses in Europe – it’s best to take your time and soak it all in!
John Muir Way
By contrast, Scotland’s newest established long-distance route, the John Muir Way passes to the south of rural Stirling. An ambitious 215km (134 miles) in total, the route passes from coast to coast, Helensburgh to Dunbar, taking in picturesque villages, canal networks and peaceful countryside. Best enjoyed over 9-11 days and is also a fantastic cycle route.
John Muir Way, taken by the Green Action Trust
Rob Roy Way
The Rob Roy Way takes you along the path networks used in the 17th and 18th centuries by Scotland’s most notorious outlaw, Rob Roy MacGregor. Starting in Drymen the walk passes by spectacular lochs of rural Stirling Loch Venachar, Loch Lubnaig and the rural towns of Strathyre, Callander and Killin before finishing at Aberfoyle.
If you prefer to take in a bit of Stirling’s royal history, then take a walk up The Back Walk. Scotland’s oldest maintained road this walk takes you round Stirling Castle. The way is lined with wooden carvings depicting some of Stirling’s stories and legends.
Superb Cycling Amongst Breathtaking Scenery!
If cycling is more appealing, there is a wealth of routes for cyclists. From beginners cycle routes, family friendly paths, gravel riding on forest tracks or challenging mountain trails and tough terrain there’s something for all abilities. You can hire bikes from many locations such as Callander, Aberfoyle, or Loch Katrine. Taking your bike on the boat cruise on Loch Katrine and cycling back is a fabulous experience for all the family!
Cycling in the Trossachs
Cycling is a fantastic way to explore the stunning beauty of the Loch Lomond and Trossachs National Park. One of the Highlights is Lochs and Glens Way (NCN7). This route can be broken down in to shorter day trip sections and the Callander to Strathyre or Killin sections are a delight. Off-road cycling following the old railway line, past shimmering lochs, magical forests and dramatic mountains. With plenty of café’s along the way, it makes for a fabulous family day out.
Stirling City Cycling; There are great cycle routes around Stirling City too, made easier with The Stirling Cycle Hub who are dedicated to helping people get around Stirling on two wheels. For inspiration on cycling routes, view our Cycling in Stirling article.
e-biking is an increasingly popular and fun way to explore further by bike. The #ebike smile is becoming more and more familiar on routes all over Scotland. Find out more about this the exciting new way of cycling
There are loads of day trips locally. Why not download this e-biking in the Trossachs Route Map?
Electric bike tours of the Trossachs! You can also enjoy a guided electric bike tour of the stunning Trossachs with friendly local guides.
Why not see what you can discover using the Explore Stirling mobile app, with over 25 walking cycling and driving routes and over 600 points of interest you’re sure to find something to suit you.
