Bikes

The Loch Lomond 4Bs bus has a bike trailer which can carry 12 bikes, giving access to a huge range of cycle and mountain biking routes of all grades…. and when you’re out of puff, just jump back on the 4Bs bus!

The fare for the bus is only £5.00 for a day ticket, and this includes the carriage of your bike. The all day 4Bs bus ticket means you can hop on and off the bus as you wish. Scottish concession travel cards are accepted. 

You can bring your bike on the train or if coming by car, there is free parking at Loch Lomond Shores, Helensburgh and Tarbet. Pay car parks at Arrochar and Luss. The 4Bs bus calls at both Balloch and Tarbet/Arrochar Stations and Loch Lomond Shores.

Bikes are  available to hire from Can You Experience (based at the beach at Loch Lomond  Shores Visitor Centre) 01389 75625. Have a look below for a full description of some of the main bike routes in the area.

From Balloch West Loch Lomond Cycle Path 14.5 miles one-way or 29 miles return. The scenic West Loch Lomond cycle route runs from Balloch in the island-studded south of Loch Lomond to Tarbet in the fiord-like north. This flat cycle route is 14.5 miles long, and is mostly off-road. The 4Bs bus with bike trailer means you can take the bus to Tarbet,

Three Lochs Way – 50k/31 miles to Inveruglas
Running from Balloch to Inveruglas, the Three Lochs Way is a mixed surface mainly low level route linking towns and villages on the shores of Loch Lomond, The Gareloch and Loch Long. The route connects Helensburgh,  Garelochhead, Tarbet and Arrochar and offers lots of attractive and interesting  options for shorter rides as well as some great downhill sections which are a must for the keen mountain biker.  Access to 4Bs Bikebus at Balloch, Inverbeg(via Glen Douglas), Tarbet and Arrochar. Ferry return option to Tarbet from Inveruglas phone Cruise Loch Lomond in advance to arrange pick up – 01301 702356.

Balloch Castle Country Park
3 miles round trip.
The castle is set in a commanding position overlooking the loch. A gentle incline up the main avenue will reward you with panoramic views. Explore the park further to find the site of the original castle at the mouth of the River Leven complete with moat.  The traffic free environment and numerous play areas make the park an ideal venue for families with young children. Allow 1-1.5 hours cycle time.

Balloch to Helensburgh
15 miles (return journey)
A road-side cycle way connecting Loch Lomond to the bustling town of Helensburgh, on the banks of the River Clyde.  When you’re there, take the time to explore the town's beautiful tree lined avenues or visit the Charles Rennie Mackintosh designed ‘The Hill House’ (open 13.30-17.00) considered to be his finest domestic creation. Sitting high above the Clyde, it is home to original Mackintosh furniture and interior design and also has attractive formal gardens designed in the Mackintosh style.  Or why not explore the peaceful backroads of beautiful Glen Fruin with its memorial to Scotland’s last clan battle.  Allow 3 hours to walk or 1 hour to cycle from Balloch to Helensburgh.  Helensburgh and Lomond Footpath map is especially useful & available from local VisitScotland Information Centres.
(Train connections back to Balloch - change at Dalreoch Station)

Balloch to Drymen 21 miles (return journey) Nestling around a traditional market green, this historic village has associations with the famous Rob Roy.  The delightfully scenic, undulating route follows National Cycle Route 7 along quiet back roads through farming country.  The views towards Ben Lomond to the north and the Campsies to the south east are stunning.

Refreshments and meals can be obtained in the villages of Croftamie and Drymen.  Allow four hours for your return trip.

Balloch to Dumbarton Castle
7.5 miles one-way. (A regular train service between Dumbarton East and Balloch means you can return by train).  The route follows the meandering River Leven from it's source (Loch Lomond) to the River Clyde and is traffic free apart from a short section through Dumbarton.  Stunningly situated on a 240ft volcanic crag and boasting a long and colourful history dating as far back as AD, 450 the castle is well worth a visit.  Historic Scotland manage and maintain the castle which is open to the public every day between 9.30 and 5.30 - adults £4.20 children £2.50.


From Arrochar

Argyll Forest Park mountain bike trail network easily accessible. For more information, click here.