Explore Scotland's Lesser-Known Jewels: Tour Around the Inner Forth
Explore Scotland's Inner Forth Area by Bike with Round the Inner Forth Initiative
The Round the Inner Forth cycling initiative invites you to discover the beauty and history of the Inner Forth area in Scotland. This initiative encourages sustainable and enjoyable cycling experiences, offering both multi-day tours and shorter day trips.
The Round the Inner Forth initiative is a partnership between Climate FORTH and VisitScotland, ensuring a focus on sustainability and tourism promotion. The rides are self-supported and cater to cyclists who enjoy off-road riding and seek new experiences.
One of the key features supporting this initiative is the Inner Forth Bike Bus, a free service running every Sunday between Alloa and the Forth Bridges. This bike bus allows cyclists to hop on and off at various points, making it easier to combine cycling with public transport.
There are several cycling routes available, each offering a unique experience:
- Dunfermline to Culross Loop (Intermediate level, 21.3 miles, 2-3 hours): This route takes you through historic sites in Dunfermline and along the coast to Culross Palace and the Hanging Gardens, offering stunning coastal views.
- Linlithgow, Bo'ness & Blackness Loop (Intermediate level, 15 miles, 2-3 hours): Start your journey at the iconic Kelpies, explore Falkirk's industrial past, and visit the Falkirk Wheel. This route also includes stops at Linlithgow Palace and offers panoramic views of Blackness Castle.
- Beneath the Three Bridges (Intermediate level, 17.4 miles, 2-3 hours): This route offers scenic views of the Forth Bridges as you cycle from Inverkeithing to Stirling.
- The Falkirk Wheel from the Kelpies (Introductory level, 10 miles, 2-2.5 hours): A shorter, introductory route ideal for beginners, starting at the Kelpies and exploring Falkirk's industrial past and the Falkirk Wheel.
- History & Heritage of the Upper Forth Estuary (Challenging level, 38.4 miles, 4.5 - 5 hours): This challenging route takes you on a journey through Scottish history and wildlife sanctuaries around the Upper Forth Estuary.
- Historic Alloa to the Ochil Fault (Introductory level, 14.4 to 19.6 miles): A shorter, introductory level trip that takes you through the historic town of Alloa and the Ochil Fault.
Each route comes with a detailed itinerary and map, available for download. The two-day tour is a 70-mile circular trail following National Cycle Network Route 76.
Cycling is not only good for the environment but also for personal health. By participating in the Round the Inner Forth initiative, you'll not only enjoy Scotland's natural and cultural heritage but also contribute to a sustainable and active travel lifestyle.
So, plan your journey through the beauty and history of the Inner Forth Estuary today and discover Scotland's hidden gems by bike. The Round the Inner Forth initiative is here to make your cycling adventure memorable and enjoyable.
The Round the Inner Forth initiative offers a unique opportunity to explore Scotland's history and scenic landscapes, suitable for both seasoned cyclists and beginners. One can revel in the charm of home-and-garden attractions, like the Hanging Gardens in Culross, while embarking on the Dunfermline to Culross Loop.
This initiative also encourages travelers to embrace a sustainable and active travel lifestyle, promoting eco-friendly exploration of various sports settings, such as the cycling routes within the Inner Forth Estuary.
