Border Loop Self-Guided: Stages, Accommodations & Map 2026
The Border Loop is a circular tour through the Scottish Borders, starting and finishing in Melrose and linking places like Duns, St Abbs, Eyemouth, Coldstream, Kelso and Hawick. You tie together inland riding, a coastal section and border towns in one loop.
The Border Loop is a circular ride through the Scottish Borders. Officially, the route is 305 km long; the total distance used in this description is 433,1 km, with start and finish in Melrose. On the way you’ll pass through places like Duns, St Abbs, Eyemouth, Coldstream, Kelso, Hawick, Innerleithen and Broughton. What makes it work is the constant change of scenery: first the inland around Melrose with views to the Eildon Hills, then a detour to the coast at St Abbs and Eyemouth, and later back inland via border towns like Coldstream and Kelso. The route gets described as moderate, but it does throw in a few steep sections; with 5.045 m of climbing and descending, this isn’t a route for just spinning along. It suits experienced touring riders who are used to long days and plenty of elevation; for families, kids and total beginners it only makes sense with a lot of tweaking. Planning your trip yourself? Work off the GPX track and break the loop up so you’ve actually got time for towns and proper stops.
Route Profile
| Distance | 433 km |
| Difficulty | Moderate |
| Best Season | Spring, Summer, Autumn |
| Signage | unknown |
| Suitable For | Experienced cyclists, Athletes, E-bike |
| Surface | Mixed |
Border Loop Map
BikeTouri Tip: View the complete route on a map in BikeTouri – with all accommodations and supply points. Also available offline.
The Most Beautiful Section on the Border Loop
For me, the section around Melrose by the Eildon Hills hits hardest: right near the start/finish you get a clear sense of what the Borders landscape is about before you roll deeper into the loop. Highlight: the coastal hook via St Abbs to Eyemouth — mainly because the route visibly breaks away from the inland towns there and you get a proper change of perspective.
Highlights on the Border Loop
- The Eildon Hills near Melrose as a bold opening right by the start/finish.
- The coastal section at St Abbs as a clear contrast to the inland riding.
- Eyemouth as a stage town on the official list of places.
- Kelso as a border-town stop on the way back inland.
- Hawick as another bigger town on the loop.
Accommodations on the Border Loop
Along the Border Loop you'll find numerous accommodation options – from hotels and guesthouses to campsites and small tent meadows.
Campsites & Tent Options
Along the Border Loop there are numerous places to camp – from large campsites to small tent meadows on farms. Campsites usually don't need to be booked in advance.
Hotels & Guesthouses
Numerous accommodations along the route – from hostels and guesthouses to hotels. Important for cycle tourists: secure bike storage and no minimum stay requirements.
BikeTouri Tip: BikeTouri shows you all accommodations along the route – with prices, amenities, and reviews from cycle tourists. Also available offline.
Planning Your Border Loop Trip
What should you book in advance?
During peak season (June-August), it's recommended to book accommodations in popular stops 1-2 days ahead. Outside peak season, spontaneous booking is usually possible.
What can you decide spontaneously?
Daily distances, rest stops, restaurant visits, and detours to attractions can all be decided on the day based on weather and how you're feeling.
Typical daily costs
Practical Information
Getting There & Away
The route is well connected by train at both start and end points. Most regional trains accept bicycles, though reservations may be required during peak season.
Shopping Along the Way
Supermarkets and grocery stores can be found in most towns along the route. Plan for longer stretches in rural areas where shops may be limited.
Bike Shops & Repairs
Bicycle repair shops are available in larger towns. Carry basic tools and a spare tube for emergencies between service points.
More Information
Conclusion
The big positives are the quiet-road routing as a loop, and the clear variety between Melrose/Eildon Hills, the coast at St Abbs/Eyemouth, and the border towns. The catch: with 5.045 m of elevation and a few steep ramps, you’ll need fitness and sensible stage planning. Use the GPX track, break it up realistically, and it turns into a really strong self-guided loop.
Why BikeTouri?
We don't just show the big campsites – but also small tent meadows, farms, and cyclist-friendly guesthouses. With prices, reviews from cycle tourists, and offline maps.