sustrans blogger natalie martin gives top tips on planning a family bike packing adventure
travel by train
The ScotRail Highland Explorer offers the chance to take your cycle on one of the most scenic train journeys in the world, the spectacular West Highland Line. The trains pass through some of Scotland’s most dramatic scenery, travelling through lush glens, alongside sparkling lochs, over ancient viaducts and in the shadows of mountains. As well as having seating for 24 people, the Highland Explorer carriages have been especially designed to support active travel by providing the space and storage needed to transport 20 cycles, skis and other large items of sporting equipment. You’ll be able to immediately spot the Highland Explorer carriage as it has an eye-catching livery, depicting iconic views from the West Highland Line.
if you’re keen to catch the highland explorer, we would recommend the glasgow to oban section for the family friendly train times. there are many daily journeys on scotrails standard carragies to and securing your bike reservation has become much easier with the ‘bike capacity’ being added to the scotrail and trainline apps. of course there is always the super helpful team on scotrails reservation line who will reserve your bikes on your chosen journey for free. you dont even need to book your own ticket at this stage.
for more info and links to scotrails booking line see https://www.scotrail.co.uk/plan-your-journey/cycling
west highland line maphttps://www.scotrail.co.uk/media/3634/download?inline
railway network map https://www.scotrail.co.uk/media/3641/download?inline
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