The best traffic-free bike rides around Bennachie Forest

There are nearly 60 dedicated no-traffic touring cycling routes around Bennachie Forest, offering a variety of experiences away from busy roads. These include quiet country lanes and dedicated cycle paths, with options ranging from easy to difficult.

The no-traffic routes in Bennachie Forest feature diverse terrain. You'll find lower slopes covered in woodlands, transitioning to heather moorland and distinctive granite tors in the upper areas. While some routes are mostly paved, others include unpaved segments, forest roads, earthy paths that can be muddy, and rough sections with rocks, roots, and steps, catering to different cycling preferences.

Yes, Bennachie Forest offers several family-friendly cycling options. Routes like the Colony Trail (a 4km circular route) and the Discovery Trail (a 1km circular trail with gentle slopes) are particularly suitable for families and younger riders, providing safe and enjoyable car-free experiences.

Along the no-traffic touring cycling routes, you can encounter several interesting landmarks. The Bennachie Visitor Centre is a great starting point, offering facilities and information. You might also pass the iconic My Lord’s Throat Road (River Don Climb), or find scenic spots like the Stone Bench with View of the Don Valley. The region also features historical sites like old stone quarries and remnants of a crofting community.

Yes, many of the no-traffic touring cycling routes in Bennachie Forest are circular, allowing you to start and end at the same point. An example is the moderate difficulty route, Bennachie Visitor Centre – Picnic Area by the Pond loop from Dr Danny Gordon's Widdie, which covers over 13 km.

Bennachie Forest is enjoyable for touring cycling throughout much of the year. Spring and autumn offer pleasant temperatures and beautiful scenery with changing foliage. Summer provides longer daylight hours. While cycling is possible in winter, be prepared for colder temperatures and potentially muddy or icy conditions on unpaved sections.

The Bennachie Visitor Centre serves as an ideal starting point and provides parking facilities. Many routes also begin or pass through areas with designated parking, making it convenient to access the car-free trails.

The komoot community highly rates the touring cycling experience in Bennachie Forest, with an average score of 4.8 stars. Reviewers often praise the peacefulness of the car-free routes, the stunning panoramic views from higher elevations, and the diverse landscapes that make each ride unique.

Yes, for more experienced touring cyclists seeking a challenge, there are difficult-grade no-traffic routes. An example is the Picnic Area by the Pond – Bennachie Visitor Centre loop from Dr Danny Gordon's Widdie, which spans over 22 km with significant elevation gain, offering a rewarding ride through varied terrain.

Yes, the Bennachie Visitor Centre is a key amenity, offering toilets, snacks, and information. Some routes also pass by or are close to local tearooms or villages where you can find refreshments. For instance, the Old Post Office Tearoom – Bennachie Visitor Centre loop from Broadsea Farmhouse route highlights a local tearoom.

The no-traffic touring cycling routes vary significantly in length and elevation. You can find shorter, easier routes, but many moderate to difficult options range from 13 km to over 24 km. Elevation gains can be substantial, with some routes featuring over 400 meters of ascent, providing a good workout amidst scenic surroundings.