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Book review, Bikepacking Scotland by Markus Stitz

Back in 2015, Markus set off from the UK and headed east on his singlespeed Surly Ogre and nearly 12 months later became the first person to cycle singlespeed around the world. So with that, you could say he knows how to plot a route!

Since his return, Markus has been busy riding the lesser-known roads and open access tracks around the stunning landscapes of Scotland to found https://bikepackingscotland.com/

In his second book, Markus has mapped out 20 detailed routes which will tempt every cyclist. Markus states that ‘Bikepacking is one of the purest ways to discover Scotland off the beaten track, leaving no other trace than a few tyre marks’.

The routes range from 38 miles up to an adventurous 774 miles, however as with any route I’m pretty sure adaptions can be made to suit personal abilities.

The book is extremely well illustrated as he is not only good at plotting routes but Markus is a fine photographer which adds to the tease of the book.

The Introduction is blessed with 15 detailed pages letting you know how to use the book, the historic routes, what kit to take, what to wear and even links for other routes in Scotland.

Each of the 20 routes start and finish at some form of public transport facility which opens the routes up to everyone, regardless of having your own transport.

There’s a detailed descriptions of the routes and colourful maps also have interesting facts along the way. There’s other sources of information too, such as, local bike shops, accommodation, eateries and a few QR codes that point you to some fantastic films about the route.

I must say that I’ve not cycled any of the routes in the book but I have cycles some parts of them over the years and the one thing you will be guaranteed of is remarkable Scottish views whatever the route you choose.

Markus Stitz book Bikepacking Scotland is published by Vertebrate Publishing

Paperback ISBN: 9781839811937

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