A CYCLE route which takes in landmarks such as Alloa and Clackmannan towers has been re-launched this month with a fresh coat of paint.

It is hoped the newly-branded National Cycle Network route around the Inner Forth will encourage more visitors to travel sustainably in the area after launching on March 18.

The 70-mile Round the Inner Forth route is a circular trail which follows National Cycle Network Route 76 along the shores of the river.

Starting at the Forth bridges, it travels through impressive landscapes and takes in the likes of Clackmannan and Alloa towers, Cambus and much more.

A colourful new logo and signage, which alludes to the rich built and natural heritage of the Inner Forth, has been created as part of the initiative.

In addition to the new branding, visitors can access a two-day tour itinerary and six meticulously crafted day trips, complete with accompanying maps.

The rebrand has been led by Climate FORTH (Furthering Our Resilience Through Heritage) in conjunction with Sustrans Scotland, one of the organisations making up the Inner Forth Futures partnership.

James Stead, project manager for Climate FORTH, said: “It’s an exciting time in the Climate FORTH project to see the launch of the Round the Inner Forth route - benefitting local communities, visitors to the area and local businesses.

“The new identity of the route allows cyclists and walkers many opportunities to explore what the Inner Forth has to offer, in a sustainable way.

“We look forward to hearing how people have explored the lesser-known heritage of the region through this route and our biggest thanks to The National Lottery Heritage Fund, players of the National Lottery and to Sustrans Scotland for providing vital funding to make this vision become a reality.”

It is hoped the route will encourage visitors and residents alike to get on their bikes and explore hidden gems in the region.

With a variety of day trips tailored to different ages and abilities, there is plenty to explore, from breath taking wildlife and scenic green spaces to historical treasures and industrial relics.

In addition, there are a number of welcoming cafes and restaurants located on the route, offering somewhere to stop and refuel.

During the rebranding process, a group of representatives from the area's tourism industry came together at a series of workshops, run by Braw Talent, to co-design the logo and brand identity, which appears on signage along the route.

Caroline Warburton, destination development director at VisitScotland, added: “The Round the Inner Forth Route is a fantastic way for cyclists of all abilities to explore the dramatic views and interesting towns and villages of the Firth of Forth, and to do this at their own pace.

“Cycling has always been a popular activity for visitors and our hosting of the 2023 UCI Cycling World Championships has brought further global attention to Scotland as a leading cycling destination.

“Routes like this help us support our sustainable tourism ambitions and we hope the rebranding will encourage cyclists to take the journey and support those local businesses on the way.”