The Best Cycling Routes in the Cairngorms
Photo by Eilis Garvey
Be ready! You will now be introduced to the best cycling routes in Cairngorms. So, are you ready?
Here are 4 routes you can cycle whilst touring the Cairngorms:
- The Snow Roads
- Loch an Eilein Circuit
- Kincraig & Aviemore Loop
- Aboyne to Ballater on the Deeside Way
64 KM of Cycling in the Cairngorms National Park
Photo by Milada Vigerova
Aside from Scotland’s best skiing centres, the Cairngorms National Park is also home to 64 kilometers of cycling adventure. Information on the park’s routes can be found at bike shops and online.
Let’s jump right in.
Cycling the Cairngorms’ Famous Snow Roads
Photo by Léonie Lejon
People talk about driving the Snow Roads but cycling it can off you a story of your own that you will surely be eager to talk about. It’s the kind of cycling route that keeps on giving because of two reasons:
- You’ll go through multiple towns
- And one stunning view after another
The towns you’ll visit while riding are Braemar, Pitlochry, Ballater, Tomintoul, and Aviemore. Along the way, you can check in to cosy cottages like the one we have here in Ballater.
An Easy Cycle Around Loch an Eilein- Cairngorms
Photo by lukemills90
This is also the most beautiful part of the Cairngorms I have ever been to. The beach at Loch an Eilein is world famous probably because from there one can see the Cairngorms Mountains’ best side. Found within the Rothiemurchus Estate, you get the best of both worlds at Loch an Eilein as one can enjoy the high surrounding peaks while cycling on a pretty flat route which makes it popular among families.
The Cairngorms National Park’s official website recommends riding to Loch Gamhna if you fancy adding more kilometers to your cycle.
The Kincraig and Aviemore Road Loop
Photo by Katja Nemec
This loop is great for short rides and for those who are learning to cycle. You’ll get to visit Loch Alvie and the Duke of Gordon’s monument as you cycle this route. Loch an Eilean is also accessible through a short detour.
Cycling The Deeside Way from Aboyne to Ballater
Photo by Hendrik Morkel
Cycling in the Scottish Highlands isn’t just beautiful, it’s culturally rich too. A great example is the Deeside Way which will take you from Aberdeen to Ballater. Ballater is known for Balmoral Castle where the Royals visit during the holidays around which can be found prestigious hunting estates. If you’ve got kids then this could be a good choice as the 18 kilometer route is mostly flat.
One more thing before you go...
Photo by Katja Nemec
So, there you have it. Cycle routes for across the whole of the Cairngorms. Additionally, you can check out this blog post that will help you plan your cycling route in Scotland.
And lastly, here’s a video from Cairngorms National Park to help you visualise the adventure you could have. See you on the roads!
