The best gravel rides around Forest Of Alyth
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Gravel biking around Forest Of Alyth offers routes through a landscape characterized by rolling hills, rural roads, and sections of open countryside. The area features varied terrain, including both moderate and more challenging ascents, with elevations reaching over 200 meters on some trails. This region provides a mix of quiet lanes and unpaved tracks suitable for gravel cycling.
Best gravel bike trails around Forest Of Alyth
- The most popular gravel bike trail is Glenisla Kirk – Glenisla Hotel loop from…
Last updated: May 21, 2026
5.0
(2)
3
riders
Hard gravel ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
1
riders
13.8km
00:52
210m
210m
Moderate gravel ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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3.0
(1)
2
riders
68.5km
04:31
1,060m
1,060m
Hard gravel ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
Glenisla Kirk, a small Gothic church built in 1821, is located at the west end of Kirkton of Glenisla on the B951. Originally part of a religious site dating back to the 13th century, it was first gifted to the Abbey of Cambuskenneth by King William the Lion and later transferred to the Abbey of Coupar Angus in 1311. After numerous repairs, the original church was replaced with the current structure. Now owned by the Glenisla Church Trust, it continues to serve the community with monthly informal evening services (April to December) and a Christmas Eve Watch Night Service. It also offers a venue for weddings and funerals, with local venues providing additional support.
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Kirkton of Glenisla, an ancient farming community with Bronze Age and Pictish remains, has a deep ecclesiastical heritage reflected in its name, meaning "church town." From the 14th to 16th centuries, it was part of the lands of Coupar Angus Abbey, which influenced the area's farming development. After the Reformation, the lands were feued to the Ogilvy family, later Earls of Airlie, with Forter Castle remaining as a historical landmark. In the 19th century, the area became a romantic destination, attracting Queen Victoria and Prince Albert. Glenisla also saw the construction of Brackny Bridge in 1824, designed by John Justice, marking a significant moment in the area's architectural history.
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Glenisla, planted in 1949, is a productive forest mainly consisting of Sitka Spruce, a species known for its rapid growth and high-quality timber. Introduced to Scotland in 1831 by David Douglas, Sitka Spruce originates from the fog-belt of western North America, where it had various uses such as in basketry and boat caulking. Plans to establish native riparian woodlands are underway, though deer management is crucial to protect young trees. The forest is served by three main burns—Glen Taitney, Finlet, and Muckle—which supply water to the Backwater Reservoir and local rivers, benefiting nearby towns in Angus and Dundee.
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Quiet road through Glen Isla with views towards Glenshee
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What a magnificent building. I'd love to stay here if became a hotel... and i just found... Dr. David John Johnston has been restoring it since 2021, and some rooms are available. https://www.balintorecastle.com/
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This is on right as you ride in, it's comprehensively stocked with all sorts from fine foods to woollen clothing, to art and fancy soda pop.
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Lovely little cafe/restaurant with good food and coffee. Shop selling all sorts of gifts as well as clothes and furniture/antiques.
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The only potential refreshment stop around here that I know of.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many gravel bike trails are available in Forest Of Alyth?
Forest Of Alyth offers a selection of gravel bike trails, with 3 routes currently available on komoot. These routes cater to various skill levels, from moderate loops to more challenging long-distance rides.
Are there any family-friendly gravel biking routes in Forest Of Alyth?
While the region features varied terrain, the most accessible route for families or those seeking a moderate ride is the Glenisla Kirk – Glenisla Hotel loop from Kirkton of Glenisla. This 8.6-mile (13.8 km) trail offers a pleasant experience through the local countryside.
What are the options for advanced gravel bikers in Forest Of Alyth?
Experienced gravel bikers will find challenging options in Forest Of Alyth. Consider the Wee Bear Cafe – Peel Farm Café and Farm Shop loop from Kirkton of Glenisla, a difficult 35.6-mile (57.3 km) path with significant elevation gain, or the even longer Peel Farm Café and Farm Shop – Wee Bear Cafe loop from Kirkton of Glenisla, which spans 42.9 miles (69.0 km) and includes over 1000 meters of climbing.
Are there circular gravel bike trails in Forest Of Alyth?
Yes, all the gravel bike routes listed for Forest Of Alyth are circular, allowing you to start and finish at the same point. This includes the moderate Glenisla Kirk – Glenisla Hotel loop from Kirkton of Glenisla and the more challenging long-distance loops.
What is the best time of year for gravel biking in Forest Of Alyth?
The region's rolling hills and rural roads are generally enjoyable from spring through autumn. During these seasons, you can expect more favorable weather conditions for exploring the open countryside. Always check local weather forecasts before heading out.
Are there any cafes or places to stop for refreshments along the gravel routes?
Several routes are named after local establishments, indicating potential stops. For example, the longer routes like the Wee Bear Cafe – Peel Farm Café and Farm Shop loop from Kirkton of Glenisla suggest that these cafes are points of interest or starting/ending points, offering opportunities for refreshments.
What kind of terrain can I expect on gravel bike trails in Forest Of Alyth?
The terrain around Forest Of Alyth is characterized by rolling hills, quiet rural roads, and sections of open countryside. You'll encounter varied surfaces, including unpaved tracks, and both moderate and more challenging ascents, with some trails reaching over 200 meters in elevation.
What do other gravel bikers enjoy most about gravel biking in Forest Of Alyth?
The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.0 stars from 3 reviews. Reviewers often praise the varied terrain and the mix of quiet lanes and unpaved tracks suitable for gravel cycling, offering options for different ability levels.
What are the typical lengths of gravel bike trails in Forest Of Alyth?
Gravel bike trails in Forest Of Alyth vary significantly in length. You can find shorter, moderate loops around 8.6 miles (13.8 km), such as the Glenisla Kirk – Glenisla Hotel loop, up to much longer and more challenging routes like the 42.9-mile (69.0 km) Peel Farm Café and Farm Shop – Wee Bear Cafe loop.
Is parking available near the gravel bike trails in Forest Of Alyth?
While specific parking locations are not detailed for each route, the trails often start and end in or near villages like Kirkton of Glenisla, where public parking is typically available. It's advisable to check local amenities for parking options before your ride.
Can I expect to see any wildlife while gravel biking in Forest Of Alyth?
Given the region's character of open countryside and rural landscapes, there's a good chance to spot local wildlife, especially birds and small mammals, particularly on quieter sections of the trails. Maintaining a respectful distance and quiet approach will enhance your chances.
Most popular routes around Forest Of Alyth
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