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Home > Scotland > Things to do in Fife Scotland > Walking, Cycling, and Riding in Fife

Walking, Cycling, and Riding in Fife

Fife is a dream for anyone who loves the outdoors. Whether you’re on two wheels, two feet, or horseback, the “Kingdom” is criss-crossed with routes that range from gentle seaside strolls to forest adventures.

The Fife Coastal Path
This is the “crown jewel” of walking in the area. It stretches for over 100 miles, but you can easily dip in and out for a day trip.

  • The Route: It’s a linear path, so you’ll usually walk one way and either walk back or hop on a local bus. The surface varies from paved promenades and old railway lines to narrow, grassy cliff-top paths and sandy beaches.
  • Popular Section (Leven to Elie): This is a roughly 10-mile stretch. It’s fairly level as you leave Leven, taking you along the golden sands of Lundin Links.
  • What to See: Look out for the statue of Alexander Selkirk (the inspiration for Robinson Crusoe) in Lower Largo. As you get closer to Elie, the path gets a bit more rugged with great views from the cliffs.
  • Refreshments: You’re never far from a tea room or a pub in the little fishing villages like St Monans or Pittenweem.

Loch Leven Heritage Trail
If you prefer a circular route that is completely level and off-road, this is the one for you.

  • The Route: A 13-mile loop around the edge of Loch Leven. The surface is mostly smooth gravel, making it perfect for families with buggies, cyclists, and those who want an easy, flat ride or walk.
  • What to Enjoy: It’s a huge nature reserve, so it’s brilliant for spotting ospreys or ducks. You’ll pass the Loch Leven Larder, which is a famous spot for a high-quality lunch or a traybake.
  • Points of Interest: You can see Lochleven Castle on its island in the middle of the water—where Mary Queen of Scots was once imprisoned!

Devilla Forest (Red Squirrel Trail)
For cyclists and riders who like a bit of woodland shade, Devilla Forest near Kincardine is excellent.

  • The Route: There are several loop options, but the Red Squirrel Trail is a popular 1.5-mile loop. It’s mostly level with wide, firm forest tracks.
  • The Experience: It’s very peaceful and, as the name suggests, it’s one of the best places in Fife to see rare red squirrels. There are four different lochs tucked away in the trees which are great spots to stop for a break.

Best For and Time Spent

  • Best For: Families love the Loch Leven loop because it’s safe and flat. Serious walkers and photographers usually head for the Coastal Path.
  • Duration: You can spend anything from an hour on a short loop to a full day (5–7 hours) if you’re tackling a long section of the coast.

Helpful Tips

  • Parking: Most major trailheads (like Lochore Meadows or the starts of the coastal path sections) have car parks. Some are free, while those in the middle of popular towns like St Andrews can be pricey.
  • Tide Times: If you’re walking the Coastal Path, some sections (like near Elie) have “low tide” options where you can walk on the beach. Always check the tide before you go so you don’t get stuck!
  • Surface: While much of the cycle network is on “quiet roads” or old railways, some coastal sections have steps or very narrow tracks that aren’t suitable for bikes or horses. Stick to the National Cycle Network Route 1 signs for the best bike paths.

More Places Nearby

3 Day ‘Best of Fife’ trip Aberdour Castle Adventure Golf Island – Dunfermline Anstruther Pleasure Boat Trips Beach & Coastal Fun Best for a Rainy Day Broughty Castle Museum Burntisland Cairnie Fruit Farm and Maize Maze Cambo Gardens Cluny Activities (Clunys Clays) Craigluscar Activities Craigtoun Country Park Culross Deep Sea World – North Queensferry Devilla Forest Red Squirrel Trail Dunfermline Palace and Abbey East Sands Leisure Centre – St Andrews Falkland Palace and Garden Fife Coastal Path Hill of Tarvit Mansion History & Photography Gems Inchcolm Island Boat Trips Isle of May Kellie Castle and Garden Lochore Meadows Country Park Lomond Hills Regional Park Pittencrieff Park Ravenscraig Castle Relaxed & Scenic Outings Scotland’s Secret Nuclear Bunker St Andrews Aquarium St Andrews Castle Ruins St Andrews Old Course St Bridget’s Kirk Tenpin (formerly Bowlplex) – Dunfermline The “Active & High Energy” Day The Forth Bridge The Scottish Deer Centre and Wildlife Park West Sands Beach
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