North East Scotland Outdoor Adventures by Mountain Bike or Road Cycle

North East Scotland Outdoor Adventures on a Mountain Bike or Road Cycle

Cycling has long been a popular sport and leisure activity. But did you know that as a sport it officially began on May 31, 1868, with a 1,200-metre (1,312-yard) race between the fountains and the entrance of Saint-Cloud Park (near Paris). The winner was James Moore, an 18-year-old expatriate Englishman from Paris.

The North East of Scotland could easily be described as an outdoor adventure playground due to the number of outdoor activities you can do, should you wish too.

Take you pick from skiing, hiking, snowboarding, mountain-climbing,
gliding, mountain-biking, fishing, golfing, gorge walking, off road driving, kayaking, kiteboarding, white water rafting, surfing, boating, riding, ziplining and the list goes on and on…

Cycling is a very popular past time and growing sport in the area. The region offers many opportunities for enjoying the great outdoors, from simple easy routes for families to thrill seeking and the adrenaline rush if that’s what you are looking for.

2021 Tour of Britain Sunday 12th September

The Tour of Britain, the UK’s most prestigious cycle race, takes place between Sunday 5 – 12 September 2021 and will be the 17th edition of the UK’s biggest bike race,
From Penzance to Aberdeen, over an eight-day route that measures 1320 kilometres and features nearly 20,000m of climbing!

Aberdeen and Aberdeenshire will host the final stage of the 2021 Tour of Britain on Sunday 12 September, marking the furthest north the race has ever visited.

Stage Eight of the competition will be Stonehaven to Aberdeen. Starting in Stonehaven, the race will take in the Cairn O Mount and Queens View, which should prove to be both a scenic and challenging route. The tour will culminate in a grand finish in the city of Aberdeen, as the overall winner is crowned in this historic city centre.

Which Cycling Trail Will You Choose in North East Scotland?

Aberdeen & Aberdeenshire

The Deeside Way route follows the line of the Old Royal Deeside Railway from Aberdeen to Ballater, total distance 41 miles. Most of the route is off road with gradual gradients making for easy going particularly suitable for family cycling although there are some short steeper sections giving more of a challenge.

The Formartine and Buchan Way is a safe, long distance shared cycle path suitable for cyclists of all ability. It starts at Dyce Railway station, and continues for 25 miles through Aberdeenshire to Maud where it divides. North – 15 miles goes to Fraserburgh, whilst East – 13 miles takes you to Peterhead. The cycle route is entirely off road, and is built on the former Formartine and Buchan railway route. The Buchan Way, as it is commonly known, takes you past many places of local historical interest and make ideal rest stops.

Moray and Speyside

With many miles of quiet country roads and paths and trails, Moray offers tailor-made routes for cyclists of all ages and abilities. The Speyside Way long distance footpath has some section that can be cycled, but throughout Moray there are ample opportunities for people to get out and about on their bikes. A number of trails have also been created for mountain biking enthusiasts. Check out the following Bike Glenlivet and Moray Monster Trails For further details of paths and trail read more HERE

Cairngorms National Park

Cycling and biking in and around the Cairngorms National Park is one of the best ways to explore and discover the sights, nature and wildlife in the Park. With something for everyone from gentle family rides to testing mountain trails. It has a wealth of paths and trails and has four mountain bike centres Glenlivet, Laggan, the Lecht, and Tarland. Why not explore with Ride in Peace Adventures

Angus

Has many popular cycle routes which allows you to experience the heart of Angus on two wheels. Follow the cycling and mountain bike trails through Angus, taking in the panoramic views and scenery which stretch for miles. The routes also highlight places to stop for a well earned rest and affa fine piece! Learn more HERE

Northern Perthshire

Cycling combines physical exercise with being outdoors & exploring new views around local estates such as Atholl Estate With dozens of waymarked walks & paths to suit everyone. Over 90 routes to choose from so if you want some inspiration whilst visiting then check out more trails HERE

Other Useful Info :

Ballater Crathie Mountain Bike Festival 2022 dates TBA

Off-Road Cycling: good practice advice read more HERE

Find a route on the National Cycle Network HERE

The Northern HighLights Pass helps you to create a bespoke itinerary for your short break or longer Scottish holiday in the North East of Scotland. Purchasing a Northern HighLights Pass enables you to plan ahead, know before you go, plus, there are big savings to be had on entrance fees to the many excellent visitor attractions across the region. Visit the best for less!

Your Northern Highlights Pass is available as a digital pass and can be easily downloaded straight onto your smart phone. Alternatively, you can purchase a hard copy pass and this will be mailed out to you

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So if you are interested to know more, remember to follow us on the Northern Highlights Pass social channels and also sign up to the “North East Blether” if you have not already done so.

Ready to start exploring? Northern Highlights visitors pass enables you to visit the best – for less. Buy your pass and start your adventure!

So whatever you choose to do in the next few weeks and months please do remember to stay safe and continue to follow the Guidance To Protect The Environment, yourself and all our local communities.

#RespectProtectEnjoy #RediscoverAbdn #MajesticABDN