The best cycling routes around Birsay

There are over 20 touring cycling routes around Birsay, offering a variety of experiences. These include 2 easy routes, 14 moderate routes, and 5 difficult routes, catering to different skill levels.

Birsay offers a diverse cycling landscape. You'll find routes along the wild Atlantic coastline with dramatic sea cliffs and secluded bays, as well as paths through open coastal heath. Inland, the terrain transitions to freshwater lochs and moorland, providing varied scenery and elevation changes.

The touring cycling routes in Birsay are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.8 stars from more than 10 reviews. Over 200 touring cyclists have explored the area with komoot, often praising the dramatic coastal landscapes and rich historical sites.

Yes, Birsay offers a couple of easy touring cycling routes perfect for beginners or those looking for a relaxed ride. These routes typically feature less challenging terrain and shorter distances.

Absolutely. For experienced cyclists seeking a challenge, Birsay has 5 difficult touring cycling routes. One such route is the North Sea Cycle Route: Orkney Prehistory Loop, which is 40.7 miles (65.6 km) long and features significant elevation changes.

Birsay is rich in history. You can cycle to sites like the Ring of Brodgar and the Standing Stones of Stenness. The Kirkwall Highlights – Earl's Palace, Kirkwall loop from Finstown route, for example, takes you past historical sites including the Earl's Palace ruins. The Seal Beach – Blackhammer Chambered Cairn loop from Tingwall also offers views of ancient chambered cairns.

Yes, Birsay boasts stunning natural beauty. You can find dramatic sea cliffs, secluded bays, and open coastal heath. Notable natural landmarks include Skipi Geo, known for its rugged beauty and wildlife, and the Yesnaby Cliffs and Yesnaby Castle Sea Stack, offering panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean.

The Brough of Birsay is an uninhabited tidal island accessible by a causeway at low tide. While you can cycle to the causeway, the island itself is best explored on foot due to its archaeological remains and rugged terrain. It's a fantastic stop to explore Pictish, Norse, and medieval ruins. Always check tide times before visiting. More information can be found on the Historic Environment Scotland website.

Many of the touring cycling routes around Birsay are designed as loops, allowing you to start and end at the same point. Examples include the Seal Beach – Blackhammer Chambered Cairn loop from Tingwall and the Kirkwall Highlights – Earl's Palace, Kirkwall loop from Finstown.

The best season for touring cycling in Birsay is generally spring through autumn (April to October). During these months, the weather is milder, and daylight hours are longer. The coastal paths and moorlands are particularly beautiful in late spring and summer, though Orkney weather can be unpredictable, so always be prepared for changing conditions.

While specific 'family-friendly' routes are not explicitly detailed, the presence of easy routes suggests options for families. The quieter roads and scenic coastal paths can be enjoyable for families, especially those with older children. Always check the route difficulty and distance to ensure it's suitable for your family's abilities.

Parking is generally available at key starting points for many routes, especially near popular attractions or villages. While specific parking locations aren't listed for every route, areas like Finstown, which serves as a starting point for routes such as Kirkwall Highlights – Highland Park Distillery loop, typically offer parking facilities.

While Birsay itself is a smaller area, the wider Orkney Mainland offers various cafes and pubs. Routes that pass through or near larger settlements like Kirkwall, such as the Kirkwall Highlights – Highland Park Distillery loop from Finstown, will provide opportunities for refreshments. It's advisable to carry snacks and water, especially on longer or more remote sections.