The best traffic-free bike rides around Feughside

Feughside offers a selection of 15 dedicated no traffic touring cycling routes. These range from moderate to difficult, providing options for various fitness levels.

You'll find a diverse range of terrain, from gentle riverside paths along the River Dee to challenging hill climbs through ancient woodlands and heather-covered hills. Routes often traverse through varied landscapes including farmlands and forests, ensuring a scenic experience.

Yes, several routes offer access to notable natural features. For instance, the Knockburn Loch – Falls of Feugh loop from Strachan will take you past the picturesque Falls of Feugh, famous for salmon leaping. You can also explore routes near the distinctive Clachnaben Summit and Granite Tor, which offers panoramic views.

The spring, summer, and early autumn months (April to October) generally offer the most pleasant conditions for touring cycling in Feughside, with milder weather and longer daylight hours. If you're hoping to see salmon leaping at the Falls of Feugh, aim for September to November or February to March.

Absolutely. Feughside is home to 9 difficult touring cycling routes without traffic. A challenging option is the Cairn O' Mount Pass loop from Silver Ladies Caravan Park, which covers over 32 km with significant elevation gain. Another demanding route is the Knockburn Loch – Durris Forest loop from Knockburn Loch, spanning over 41 km with nearly 800 meters of ascent.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.85 stars. Reviewers often praise the region's diverse and quiet landscapes, the opportunity to discover hidden gems, and the rewarding views from summits like Cairn Mon Earn Summit.

Yes, many of the no traffic touring routes in Feughside are circular, allowing you to start and finish at the same point. Examples include the Charr Bothy – Clachnaben Rocky Outcrop loop from Smithy Wood and the Curvy Forest Trail – Slewdrum Forest loop from Hill of Tillybath.

Beyond the natural beauty, you can discover various points of interest. These include historical sites like the Cullerlie Stone Circle, impressive viewpoints such as Hill of Fare Summit Cairn, and unique structures like Scolty Tower. Some routes also pass by bothies, like Charr Bothy.

Yes, Feughside offers 6 moderate no traffic touring cycling routes. A good option for a less strenuous but still rewarding ride is the Knockburn Loch – Falls of Feugh loop from Strachan, which is approximately 21 km long with a manageable elevation gain.

While the routes themselves focus on quiet, traffic-free areas, towns like Banchory, a key hub in the region, are easily accessible and offer cafes and pubs where you can stop for refreshments and a break during your touring cycling adventure.