Scotland's 'Wee County' by Cycle
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Clackmannanshire is historically, Scotland's smallest country both in terms of area (61 square miles) and population (50,000) and was revived as a local authority in the 1996 local government reorganisation.
Although small, there is plenty to see and, starting in Stirling, our ride will take in the Hillfoots - a group of towns dwarfed by the Ochil Hills to the north - including Menstie, Alva, Tillicountry and Dollar, before returning via Forest Mill and the Sustrans route 76 cycle path through Clackmannan and Alloa.
The total distance covered will be around 32 miles (52 km) with a few short and moderate hills - the steepest being a climb to just over 100m out of Dollar.
A map of the route can be found at: https://ridewithgps.com/routes/29026200
The route is very much weather dependent and may be curtailed or postponed in the event of adverse weather, snow or icy conditions.
What to bring
Bike: a road bike, hybrid or mountain bike (please note. If you are on a mountain bike much of the route will be on tarmac)
Helmet: OutdoorLads requires you to wear one
Clothing: lightweight and layered, colourful and/or reflective clothing will make you more visible to other road users
Footwear: suitable for your bike and pedals
Gloves: cycle gloves help avoid blisters, and are good in the cold
Punctures: spare inner tube, bike tyre pump and tyre levers
Tools: any special tools that your bike needs
Small snacks: such as chocolate or energy bars
Plenty of water: in bottle/s on your bike or in a daysack/bladder
Medicines: if you have hay fever, diabetes, minor ailments etc.
Eye protection: avoid getting grit or insects in your eyes, sunglasses are OK if they are not made of glass and not too shaded
Sun cream: take care, even on overcast days
Bike lights: be seen and safe (small front and rear "day" lights are advisable)
Storage: small day-sack or a bag on your bike
Mobile Phone: keep it in a waterproof bag for use in emergencies
Food & drink
It is planned to stop at a pub or cafe (probably in Dollar) for lunch, but please carry some snacks, spare food and plenty of water.