PG6 – Meldons tarmac and gravel circuit

The Meldon Hills Loop

Escape the everyday on this peaceful 30km loop through the heart of the Scottish Borders.

Leaving the historic market town of Peebles, you immediately dive into the past by skirting the base of Cademuir Hill, home to ancient Iron Age hillforts above you as you pedal past.  The route then winds through the serene Manor Valley, passing an 15th-century peel tower on a section of gravel track.

The landscape opens up dramatically as you climb on an easy gradient into the Meldon Hills. Riding between Black and White Meldon, you are rewarded with  breathtaking views.  You will ride along a short section of the Old Post Road (a historic Drove road/mail coach road that linked Moffat and Edinburgh)

Enjoy the lovely descent on tarmac into the quiet village of Eddleston and a  perfect timing for a coffee stop.

Return on a traffic-free cruise from Eddleston-back to-Peebles on the multi use path,

• Distance: 30km
• Elevation gain: 290m
• Fitness rating: 3/5
• Terrain: Approx 80% tarmac 20% gravel
• Great for: A scenic ride on some quiet tarmac with some easy gravel sections. An easy return from Eddleston on the new multi use path. Links nicely to and from Innerleithen along the railway path. ( 6 miles each way.) Also makes a great ride for those new to gravel riding.
• Watch out for: Take the opportunity for a visit to the Polish Map of Scotland behind the Barony Hotel and do not miss options for refreshments in Eddleston. (See Map in download.) A short section of track can have puddles in winter and the odd muddy section.