The best cycling routes around Methlick
4.8
(29)
340
riders
84
rides
Touring cycling around Methlick offers a network of routes through the Aberdeenshire countryside. The area is characterized by gently rolling hills, open fields, and scattered woodlands, providing varied terrain for cyclists. Routes often follow quiet country roads, passing through small villages and alongside local waterways. The landscape is generally accessible, with moderate elevation changes suitable for touring bicycles.
Best touring cycling routes around Methlick
- The most popular touring cycling route is View of Hayhillock Countryside – Station Hotel loop from…
Last updated: May 13, 2026
5.0
(1)
15
riders
24.2km
02:02
130m
130m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(1)
9
riders
Easy bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
Sign up for free
5.0
(1)
8
riders
38.4km
02:18
240m
240m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
4
riders
47.8km
03:24
360m
360m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(2)
5
riders
46.1km
03:21
320m
320m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
Get access to more routes and recommendations from other explorers.
Sign up for free
Already have an account?
Our route recommendations are based on thousands of hikes, rides, and runs completed by other people on komoot.
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
Login or Signup
Tips from the Community
The gardens are beautiful and well maintained, while there is little left of the original castle. The yew trees in the gardens are at least 500 years old! The gardens can be visited, but it's also worth checking out their special events (markets, apple day, outdoor plays, etc). Check out their website https://www.elloncastlegardens.net/visit-us/
0
0
The Formartine and Buchan railway line connects Dyce in Aberdeen to Fraserburgh and Peterhead. It's a popular path with cyclists, joggers, dog walkers, horse riders etc. Some sections are nice and wide, while others are more single track. There are a number of gates on the route, which are quite narrow. The path is slowly being improved in sections to facilitate better access.
0
0
Maud, formerly known as Brucklay is a quaint village that once served as a crucial junction for the Fraserburgh and Peterhead railway lines. The station, a lasting testament to its historical significance, now houses the Formartine & Buchan Railway Museum. Note that the museum operates seasonally during the summer, so it's advisable to check the opening times before planning your visit.
0
0
This part of the trail passes through a couple of small forests before reaching Maud. It cuts under former railway tunnels along a smooth accessible surfaces, making it suitable for wheelchair users and cyclists as well as hikers. At Maud, you have two choices. Firstly, decide whether to visit the village. The path splits – the left takes you into the village centre, and the right bypasses it. It's worth exploring Maud, where you'll find shops, cafes, a hotel, and the Formartine and Buchan Railway Museum. Secondly, you need to choose whether to continue to Peterhead or take a detour to Fraserburgh. Both stick to the former railway line, and offer fine scenery throughout.
1
0
Here, the Formartine and Buchan Trail cuts through the peaceful Logierieve Wood. The path is accompanied by a display of willows, offering a canopy of shade through this section.
0
0
The old bridge in Ellon was built in 1793 and was the main crossing of the river Ythan up until 1944. It is now only in use for pedestrians. A loop of the town including this bridge and the old railway bridge makes an ideal exploration of Ellon.
0
0
A good and very flat section of the cycle way. Just north of Auchnagatt can be muddy and rockier than other sections of the line, and exposed to the wind. The views across the farmland are good.
1
0
Frequently Asked Questions
How many touring cycling routes are available around Methlick?
There are over 80 touring cycling routes around Methlick, offering a wide range of options for exploring the Aberdeenshire countryside.
Are there easy touring cycling routes suitable for beginners or families in Methlick?
Yes, Methlick offers a good selection of easy touring cycling routes, with 20 trails specifically graded as easy. These routes typically feature gentle terrain and are suitable for beginners or families looking for a relaxed ride. An example is the Platform 5 Café & Sweet Shop – The Old Mart Café loop from Auchnagatt, which is 9.1 miles long.
What is the typical length of touring cycling routes in Methlick?
The touring cycling routes around Methlick vary in length, generally ranging from around 9 miles (14.6 km) for easier loops to nearly 30 miles (48.9 km) for more extensive rides. Most routes fall into the moderate category, offering a good balance of distance and exploration.
Can I find circular touring cycling routes in Methlick?
Many of the touring cycling routes in Methlick are designed as loops, allowing you to start and finish at the same point. Examples include the View of Hayhillock Countryside – Station Hotel loop from Auchnagatt and the Meiklemill Footbridge – Ellon Castle Gardens loop from Tarves, which provide varied scenery without retracing your steps.
What interesting sights or landmarks can I see while cycling around Methlick?
The routes often pass by historical sites and natural features. You can explore places like the Tolquhon Castle Ruins, Gight Castle Ruins, or the impressive Fyvie Castle. The Ellon Castle Ruins are also accessible on some routes, offering glimpses into the region's past.
Are there cafes or places to stop for refreshments along the cycling routes?
Yes, several routes are designed to connect local cafes and villages, providing convenient stops for refreshments. For instance, the Platform 5 Café & Sweet Shop – The Old Mart Café loop from Auchnagatt specifically highlights local eateries. You might also encounter places like The Coffee Apothecary on routes such as the Logierieve Wood – The Coffee Apothecary loop from Tarves.
What is the best time of year to go touring cycling in Methlick?
The best time for touring cycling in Methlick is generally from spring through autumn (April to October) when the weather is milder and the countryside is in full bloom. The quiet country roads are enjoyable during these seasons, offering pleasant conditions for longer rides.
What kind of terrain can I expect on Methlick's touring cycling routes?
Methlick's touring cycling routes feature gently rolling hills, open fields, and scattered woodlands. The terrain is generally accessible with moderate elevation changes, making it suitable for touring bicycles. Routes primarily follow quiet country roads, with some sections potentially on dedicated paths like parts of the Formartine and Buchan Way.
What do other touring cyclists say about the routes in Methlick?
The touring cycling routes in Methlick are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.8 stars from over 30 reviews. Cyclists often praise the peaceful country roads, the scenic views of the Aberdeenshire landscape, and the opportunities to discover local landmarks and cafes.
Are there any routes that offer expansive countryside views?
Yes, many routes provide excellent opportunities for scenic views across the open countryside. The View of Hayhillock Countryside – Station Hotel loop from Auchnagatt is specifically noted for its expansive views of the local landscape, making it a popular choice for those seeking picturesque vistas.
Are there any routes that pass through cultivated landscapes or gardens?
Yes, some routes offer a chance to cycle through cultivated landscapes and past historic gardens. The Meiklemill Footbridge – Ellon Castle Gardens loop from Tarves is a prime example, leading cyclists through varied scenery including the vicinity of Ellon Castle Gardens.
Most popular routes around Methlick
Most popular attractions around Methlick
Get inspired with the komoot mobile app
Explore more
Browse the best Cycling routes in other regions.
