Cycling In & Around Oban

Cycling in Oban offers a variety of different routes, suitable for both mountain and road bikes. The abundance of hills, glens and forest trails to explore makes Oban an attractive base for cyclists looking to discover Scotland’s west coast.

Trails like the famous Caledonia Way and more rugged forest trails, such as the Braes of Lorn, offer cyclists the chance to discover beautiful coastlines, castles and culture, in and around Oban. We’ve listed our favourite cycle paths and routes around Oban for your next adventure!  

Caledonia Way

The Caledonia Way is a cycling route from Campbeltown to Inverness which traverses 235 miles of breath-taking landscapes. Influenced by Scotland’s iconic geography, this route boasts historic castles and ruins, set against the stunning backdrop of the west coast. Although this is a long, challenging route there is a large variety of cycling on offer, from on-road hills to long stretches of traffic-free roads, all with magnificent, scenic views.

There are many options to explore different sections of the route and the 120-mile stretch between Campbeltown and Oban offers cyclists the chance to discover Lorn, Knapdale and the spectacular Kintyre Peninsula. As you pedal along, take in the spectacular views of Arran and Jura, and discover many of Scotland’s harbours, castles and abbeys.

The stretch from Oban to Fort William covers a 48 mile leg of the Caledonian Way cycle route, a largely flat road route with the opportunity for adventure seekers to breakaway into the forest trails that branch off from the roadside. Following a former railway line from Connel to Ballachulish, the road runs parallel to the coastline, boasting views of the blue waters off the west coast of Scotland.

The Caledonia Way offers many opportunities for a cycling adventure in Oban, from a relaxing day-trip to longer, scenic cycles!

One of the most exhilarating routes for keen mountain bikers is the adventurous trail from Oban to Taynuilt. The 12-mile link between Oban and Taynuilt takes riders through plush woodlands and around picturesque lochs.

This scenic route boasts quaint cottages and traditional houses with an abundance of woodlands, rivers and acres of land to explore. You may even get the opportunity to befriend some of Scotland’s favourite farm animals like the famous ‘Heilan Coo’. Why not make a day trip out of this adventure and stop for a picnic in Angus’s Garden near Taynuilt, a tranquil spot with stunning views over a mirror-like pond. The nine acres of Angus’s Garden boasts blooming azaleas, rhododendrons, and many other trees and shrubs.

This is a trail for those looking for an adventurous ride with many twists and turns, and rises and falls, but for those who take it on, you are rewarded with magnificent views of the rugged Scottish landscapes along the way. If you are looking to get the adrenaline pumping, this cycle route will not disappoint.

As well as mainland adventure, Oban is a great base for cyclists looking to discover the many islands off the west coast of Scotland on two wheels. The ferries that leave the harbour provide routes to numerous islands including Mull, Coll and Tiree to name a few, making Oban known as Scotland’s ‘Gateway to the Isles’.

Jump on a ferry with your bike to Kerrera, where there are plenty of mountainous trails to explore. With no cars allowed on this island, a visit to Kerrera is a truly unique day out for just you and your bike.

If you’re seeking a more leisurely pace, the island of Lismore is the perfect place to start. Easily accessible from Oban’s harbour, this island is rich in traditional Scottish culture with many old ruins to discover. Take a relaxing cycle around the quiet roads before taking a break to visit the local tearoom and heritage museum.

Whether you want to explore the great roads in Oban or cycle further afield, our Oban Bay Hotel is a great base for your cycling adventure. With plenty of things to do and places to visit nearby, our Oban Bay Hotel allows you to experience the wildlife, beaches and history of Oban and the surrounding islands.

Discover the landscapes that surround our locations and book a break with Crerar Hotels. Find out why you should choose us.

For more Oban holiday inspiration, we’ve listed our top tips to make the most of your west coast adventure. 

• Island hopping to the western isles. 
• Traveling to Iona. 
• Staycation inspiration & things to do in Oban. 
• Beaches to visit on Mull. 
• Go wildlife watching & see the whales which surround Mull.