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The 6 Best Motorcycle Routes in Scotland
The thrill and experience of riding past the most beautiful places in Scotland is like discovering a new world that you never knew of.
Apart from the scenic views, the rush of the entire ride is different from cycling (Best Cycling Routes Scotland) or driving (Scotland Best Drives) because it’s more exhilarating.
Get ready to buckle up for a ride of a lifetime as we zoom through the best motorcycle routes in Scotland!
1. North Coast 500
Level of Difficulty: Challenging
Length: 516 miles
Start and End Point: Inverness
Known as one of the most scenic routes in Scotland, the North Coast starts and ends at Inverness that’s 516 miles long. This was once an initiative by the local tourism board to boost the popularity of the Northern Highlands in 2015 and well, it worked wonders.
But now, it’s mainly known for its long and challenging pathways, particularly the infamous Applecross pass with its single-track roads. Apart from that, you’ll pass by various castles, lochs and other beautiful tourist attractions along the way.
Pro tip:
Since this route is quite famous, it can get crowded during the middle of the day so it’s best to start your journey as early as you can.
One of the best stops on this route is the Bealach Na Ba View Point where you’ll see a sea of clouds over the notorious Applecross pass.
2. The Duke’s Pass
Level of Difficulty: Intermediate
Length: 10 miles
Start and End Point: Aberfoyle to Loch Katrine
Although it’s only around 10 miles long, the route through the Duke’s Pass on A821 starting at Aberfoyle to Loch Katrine is famous among motorbikers for being a moderately challenging trail.
It has long straight paths with a few Alpine-style switchbacks. But the best part is the spectacular views of the Great Trossachs Forest.
Pro tip:
If you want a quiet road with no traffic, ride around 6 PM to 8 PM where everyone is mostly lounging inside their homes having tea or taking a break.
3. 3 Pistes Challenge
Level of Difficulty: Challenging
Length: 450 miles
Start and End Point: Lect to Glencoe
The 3 Pistes Challenge is perfect for all experts who want a long turn around the country from Lect to Glencoe with an amazing mix of roads from rough to smooth terrains.
There are also long and fast sweeping bends where you can turn up to the third gear, especially around Eilean Donan Castle. But rest assured these roads have great visibility and are well-maintained.
Pro tip:
If you want to meet fellow bikers and tourists, make a pit stop at Green Welly where you’ll meet those who are going to or from Glencoe. It has a large park and a café where you can take a break before going back to the road again.
4. A702, A701 & A708
Level of Difficulty: Easy
Length: 91 miles
Start and End Point: St. John’s Town of Dalry to Moffat
If you want an easy and quick motorcycle ride, the A702, A701 and A708 are the perfect roads to traverse even if you’re a beginner. Not only does it have straight well-paved roads; it also has impressive countryside views from St. John’s Town of Dalry to Moffat.
The best highlights of this route include the Dumfries Museum, Dock Park, Robert Burns House and Threave Garden among others.
Pro tip:
If you want to pump up the challenge a bit, take a sharp left at the signposted Talla Fruid. It’s very easy to miss so keep your eyes peeled on the road at all times.
This has a narrow road as you go up the Talla reservoir and ends at the side of St Mary’s Loch.
But if you’re not ready for that, you can choose to go straight to Moffat with no detours – either way, you’re bound to have a great time!
5. A836 & B9176
Level of Difficulty: Intermediate
Length: 130 miles
Start and End Point: John O’Groats to Evanton
The A836 and B9176 route starting from John O’Groats to Evanton is a great alternative to doing the entire NC500 trail. It’s shorter but still has spectacular views of the west coast.
You can even ride past various beaches at Melvich, Strarthy and Armadale with crystal clear waters and fresh air. Then, you’ll storm through a vast wilderness towards Altnaharra before you eventually reach the end point at Evanton.
Pro tip:
The different things you can do on this route include taking a selfie at John O’Groats Signpost, enjoying the scenery at Duncansby Stacks and visiting the Laidhay Croft Museum.
6. A87
Level of Difficulty: Easy
Length: 100 miles
Start and End Point: Invergarry to Uig
The A87 road is a perfect combination of scenic views and well-paved roads that are fun and easy to ride in, even if it’s your first time. But fair warning, there are a few climbs on this route that’ll pump your adrenaline.
Trust us, the striking views of various mountains and lochs in the area are worth it!
Pro tip:
Visit various tourist attractions along the way like the Invergarry Castle, Attadale Gardens and Otter Hide to make the most of your trip.
