Bikepacking in Argyll & the Isles
Scotland's Bikepacking CoastArgyll & the Isles is unique in catering to all types of cycling, terrain and ability. With good public transport via ScotRail’s Highland Explorer and ever-changing scenery, it is easy to understand why Argyll & the Isles is a first choice in Scotland for cycling adventures.
Bikepacking combines all-terrain cycling and backpacking, giving you the freedom to explore off the beaten track and cover large distances with everything you need strapped to your bike.
Explore like a local on two routes in Argyll designed by bikepacking trail designer Markus Stitz. Choose the 655 km Wild About Argyll Bikepacking Trail for a mainland circuit through places including Loch Lomond, Kintyre, Oban and Cowal, or explore the islands trail across Mull, Jura, Islay and Bute. GPX files and individual route sections are available below.
Travel light, wild camp, stay in a bothy or book local accommodation along the way. Add freshly roasted coffee, local food and drink, island hopping, wildlife, sunsets and starry skies, and you have an unforgettable adventure just a hop and a skip from Glasgow.
What is bikepacking?
Bikepacking usually refers to multi-day off-road bicycle travel with overnight camping.
Trips can range from an overnight ride to a longer, multi-day journey. The best bike will depend on your chosen route, but gravel and mountain bikes are well suited to Argyll’s mixture of forest roads, gravel tracks, quiet roads and rougher off-road sections.
Your kit can be carried in bags attached to your handlebars, frame or saddle, in traditional panniers, or in whichever combination works best for your bike and route.
Where you stay is part of the adventure. You might wild camp responsibly, book local accommodation or spend the night in a bothy. Bothies are simple shelters in remote locations, offering a memorable place to stop for riders who enjoy getting away from it all.
You do not need lots of specialist equipment to begin. Start with a shorter route and get used to the way your bike handles with the extra weight. Bikepacking is all about appreciating the simple life: space is limited, so you strip back to basics and pack only what you need.
Why Go Bikepacking in Argyll & the Isles?
Bikepacking lets you travel at your own pace, explore beyond the main roads and experience Argyll & the Isles’ landscapes up close. One day might take you through forests and mountain passes; the next could include a ferry crossing, an island gravel trail or a ride beside a sea loch.
The region offers plenty of flexibility, whatever kind of adventure you prefer. Take on a complete multi-day trail, combine cycling with island hopping, choose an individual section for a weekend adventure or plan a shorter ride from a railway station.
It is a simple and rewarding way to travel: carry less, slow down and make the journey as memorable as the destination.
The Route
Starting in Helensburgh, the route takes in some of Argyll's most stunning locations including Loch Lomond, Loch Fyne, Loch Awe, Oban, Knapdale, Kintyre and Cowal.
Highlights include the views from the highest point at Allt Dearg Community Wind Farm and the descent to Achahoish, cycling across the raised bog at Moine Mhor National Nature Reserve and through the woodlands at Glen Nant National Nature Reserve and exploring the forest roads around Loch Awe and the Avich Falls.
Description
The route is circular and can be picked up at any point including a number of the stations on the West Highland Line served by ScotRail’s Highland Explorer carriage.
The route crosses Loch Fyne at Portavadie exploring part of the stunning Kintyre peninsula, the heavily wooded landscape of Knapdale and heritage rich Kilmartin Glen.
At Oban, a ferry ride takes the route across to Lismore, back to the mainland at Appin, back south to Connel following parts of the Caledonia Way and around the southern shores of Loch Awe and across the forested hills to Inveraray.
It skirts the north end of Loch Fyne and south into Argyll Forest Park then across the hills and down the old ‘Rest and Be Thankful’ track in Glen Croe. It returns to Helensburgh following the bonnie banks of Loch Lomond and across the hills to the Clyde.
Full Route and GPX Files
These are the individual sections. Please click on the links, where you will find the GPX files to download and a detailed route description:
The Route
Starting and finishing in Glasgow, the islands route takes in the beautiful islands of Mull, Jura, Islay and Bute with opportunities to visit the smaller islands along the way – Lismore, Kerrera, Seil, Luing and, further to the south, Gigha.
The different islands are connected by gravel routes on the mainland and joined up by regular car and passenger ferries.
You’ll ride both inland and along the coast. Highlights include the views towards the mountains at Loch Beg and Loch Scridain on Mull, remote off-road riding below the Paps of Jura, traditional white distilleries and the stunning Machir Bay on Islay and the Serpentine Road on Bute - one of the most iconic road climbs in Scotland.
Safety First
Bikepacking is a wonderful way to explore but it’s not without risk. Keep safe by following these bikepacking safety tips.
- Keep your bike roadworthy – maintain it well and check it is in good working order. Carry essential tools and spares.
- Familiarise yourself with cycling with a bikepacking bag and get a feel for distances you can cover.
- Start with a short trip, preferably on an official trail. Consider your fitness levels, the terrain and weather forecast etc.
- Know your navigation. Plan your route and carry a map and compass or GPS. Don’t forget your mobile phone and a charged power bank.
- Check for forestry operations, route diversions and severe-weather warnings before setting out, and obey all closure signs.
- Be seen – check your lights are working and wear high vis clothing.
- Wear a helmet.
- Pack a basic first aid and survival kit.
- Pack for all weather including lightweight waterproofs, insect repellent and sun cream.
- Tell someone where you are going and when you expect to return. Know how to summon help if you need it.
Connecting with local bikepackers
Bikepacking Scotland – a Facebook group founded by Round the World Singlespeed cyclist & bikepacking trail designer Markus Stitz is your go-to resource for all things bikepacking in Scotland.
Share your bikepacking adventure
We love to see people bikepacking in Argyll and the Isles. Share your photos with us on social media and inspire others by tagging us @wildaboutargyll.
Bikepacking FAQs
What types of bikes can be used for bikepacking?
In theory, you can use any type of bike. Suitability will depend on the terrain. Gravel bikes, touring bikes and mountain bikes are popular choices. The idea is to get off the beaten track so road bikes are not recommended.
Can I cycle and camp anywhere in Scotland?
Generally, yes. Scotland’s “right to roam” gives everyone access to most land for responsible outdoor recreation, including cycling and lightweight wild camping. If you’re new to bikepacking, it’s sensible to start with a recognised trail. Keep your camp small, stay for no more than two or three nights in one place, camp well away from buildings and roads, and always follow the Scottish Outdoor Access Code. In some parts of Loch Lomond & The Trossachs National Park, seasonal camping byelaws apply and you’ll need to use a campsite or obtain a permit.
Is bikepacking safe?
No cycling activity is 100% safe and you should always take sensible measures to protect yourself and others. It is important to check the local weather forecast and be aware of forestry operations or route closures. These should be signposted, but riders should check current notices before setting out.
What to pack for bikepacking?
For a short trip on a planned route, you just need a gravel bike, helmet, high vis clothing, map and compass / GPS and plenty of water. For a longer trip, it would be useful to have a basic bicycle repair and first aid kit, sun cream and a waterproof jacket (it is unpredictable Scotland!), insect repellent and plenty to eat and drink. Always carry cash as cards may not be accepted in remote places.
How do I find out about public transport?
Scotrail's Highland Explorer train is specially designed for cyclists and runs on the West Highland Line between Glasgow and Oban. It has 20 bike racks and seating for 24 passengers. Cycle reservations are mandatory on West Highland Line services and should be made when booking your ticket.
West Coast Motors operates local bus services throughout Argyll and Bute. Its buses do not currently have bike racks. A bike may sometimes be carried at the driver’s discretion, but this is not guaranteed, so contact the operator before relying on a bus connection.
What sort of bikepacking bag(s) do I need?
It depends on your planned route requirements and personal preferences. Whatever you choose, you will need to travel light. Most people start with a large saddlebag / seatpack – they go up to 20 litres capacity. Frame packs are good for heavier items and handlebar bags or rolls are best for lighter pieces of kit such as your sleeping bag. Top tube bags are good for snacks as they provide easy access. Consider how you will keep your kit dry. Most bags are water-resistant so you may want to invest in some drybags to keep the essentials nice and dry.
Can I hire bikepacking kit?
Bikepacking is a relatively new activity and whilst you can hire the full kit, it is not yet widely available in Argyll and the Isles. We recommend that you bring your own kit, or book your equipment hire well in advance. Also be sure to check that the bike and equipment you will be using are suitable for your planned route.
More Bikepacking Inspiration
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