Location: Crosshill, Fife

Map: OS Landranger 58

Distance: 3.5 miles (5.5km)

Time: 1 hour

Terrain: almost all flat; cyclepath

Enjoy a relaxing circuit of the island-studded Loch Ore in Fife, where cyclists can follow a wide hard-packed track after the old unpassable path got a major upgrade. There are also a couple of MTB skills loops at the country park, though these have been ravaged by the elements.

Cycle past an outdoor education centre following green arrows to cross a bridge. Blue arrows then lead right by the southern lochshore. There is just one small hill to contend with before you enter woods.

Divert right at a red arrow for 100m to a viewpoint: Whaup and Moss islands lie ahead. The tranquil scene is testament to a highly successful land reclamation project. Back in the late 18th century an attempt was made to create agricultural meadows when the loch was drained. Subsequently, the area was extensively mined, causing subsidence and the return of the water.

Continue, following the blue arrows, to cross a bridge and join an access road. At a barrier go right to rejoin the lochshore path which leads by Tod Point – now managed as a wildflower meadow. The Mary Pit operated here until 1966 and was one of several local collieries. Its winding tower stands as a monument to the men who toiled day in and day out.