This is an updated version of a previous route which I cycled (on a conventional bicycle) from Bell's Bridge in Glasgow to the CalMac Ferry Terminal in Ardrossan.
It has been redesignated (for the most part) the EuroVelo 1 - Atlantic Coast Route and covers just over 61km.
Bell's Bridge is only a matter of 3km from Glasgow Central Rail Station. Rather than take a short train journey of one stop (involving having to access the Low Level Rail Platforms), it is only a matter to head about 300m south from the station to the River Clyde, turn right and continue along the riverside cycle path. Bell's Bridge is just beyond the Finnieston Crane which is an unmistakable landmark by the Armadillo and Hydro Concert venues.
Crossing the Bell's Bridge, the first part of the route is mainly through quiet urban streets. Care should be taken when sharing with traffic and at road junctions / crossings / traffic controls. Signage is generally good and there are no difficulties with regards major gradients. (If viewing the route profile on the Bikemap App it should be pointed out that the linear scale exaggerated any gradients).
Paisley Canal Street Rail Station marks the terminus of the Rail Line from Glasgow Central Rail Station but it signals an opportunity for a refreshment stop before embarking on the next stage of the route.
With the exception of a short stretch of a shared road near Elderslie, the EuroVelo 1 next follows a former rail line. This designated cycle path gives easy gradients out into the Renfrewshire countryside by way of Castle Semple Loch, Barr Loch and Kilbirnie Loch. After the town of Glengarnock, the route continues by quiet, and at times fairly undulating and at times short, steep country roads to Kilwinning. The hilly nature of this stage of the route gives some lovely views over the Firth of Clyde.
For the inclined, it is possible to omit this stretch of the EuroVelo 1 by taking the train from Glengarnock Rail Station to Kilbirnie Rail Station, and continuing the route from there to Ardrossan Ferrry Terminal. (the really lazy could continue by train all the way to Ardrossan Harbour Rail Station!)
Beyond Kilwinning, care should be taken to follow the NCN National Route 73 where it turns right away from the EuroVelo 1 - Altalntic Coast Route. The NCN 73 is signposted Stevenston, Saltcoats and Ardrossan. The EuroVelo 1 continues south to Irvine, Prestwick and Ayr..
The last 10km to the CalMac Terminal at Ardossan Harbour is by way of cycle paths and quiet streets with fine views over the Firth of Clyde to the Isle of Arran.
