Cycling

Gartmore is on the south side of "Gravelfoyle", an area just outside Aberfoyle which has devceloped a reputation for the UK's finest gravel bike riding. Within just a 12km radius of the village there are over 200km of gravel roads, trails and paths to explore. In addition to this there is the new addition of 3 waymarked routes that give riders of all abilities the opportunity to take part and explore the beautiful surroundings of the Loch Lomond and Trossachs National Park.

Download Route Map

Faerie Loop

Ideal for: Active families and beginners
Distance: 10km
Estimated time: 1 to 1.5 hours
Elevation gain: 164m
Hardest climb: 2km, 2.5% average with <100m at 10%

A fantastic undulating ride through the southside of Queen Elizabeth Forest. Gradually winding through the forest where sightings of red squirrels, badgers and deer are not uncommon. The route returns into Aberfoyle past Doon Hill which is home to the renowned ‘Faerie Tree’ that sits right at the summit and just a short hike from the trail.

The route follows 100% wide forest roads with some gentle slopes. There are a variety of surfaces, potholes, bridges without handrails and in wet conditions some stretches can be damp. Mid-way there is a long but gentle climb of 500m distance.

Aqueduct Loop

Ideal for: E-bike exploring and recreational cyclists
Distance: 20km
Estimated time: 1.5 to 2 hours.
Elevation gain: 294m
Hardest climb: 3km, 4% average, with <50m at 9%

A stunning, challenging ride taking in some of the Trossachs’ most incredible views. The trail heads west of Aberfoyle taking riders deep into the forest discovering wonderful feats of Victorian engineering. The return delivers beautiful panoramic views of Loch Ard. Keep an eye out for a wide range of wildlife along the way.

The route is mixture of wide forest roads combined with some short sections of narrow singletrack. Surfaces range from smooth gravel to some rougher sections with potholes. There are some moderate climbs of up to 500m in length. Watch out for traffic and a busy section of trail around Milton Public Car Park at 16km distance.

Lomond View

Ideal for: More experienced cyclists and E-bikers
Distance: 30km
Estimated time: 1.5 to 2.5 hours
Elevation gain: 494m
Hardest climb: 1km, 6% average with < 50m at 12%

An extension of the Aqueduct Loop this delivers riders a longer route and rewards them with breath-taking views of Ben Lomond and Loch Ard. Head towards Ben Lomond through some wild expanses before turning back towards Loch Ard and an exhilarating ride along the old ‘Statute Labour Road.’

The route combines a mixture of wide forest roads with some short sections of narrow singletrack. There are some steep climbs of up to 1km along with a variety of gravel surfaces from smooth gravel to some rougher, loose sections with potholes. Watch out for traffic and a busy section of trail around Milton Public Car Park at 26km distance.

Bike Hire

No bike? No problem. You can hire at Aberfoyle Bike Hire and if you let them know that you are staying at the Black Bull, they will drop off and collect the bikes from us rather than you venturing into Aberfoyle.

And if Gravelfoyle isn't enough to keep you busy, here are some further afield options, all accessible from the Black Bull :

Image & content credits : Gravelfoyle, Dirt School, National Park