The best traffic-free bike rides around Westhill And Elrick

There are 8 dedicated no traffic road cycling routes around Westhill and Elrick featured in this guide. These include 5 easy routes and 3 moderate routes, ensuring options for various fitness levels.

The region offers a mix of rolling hills and quiet country lanes. While focusing on no traffic, routes can range from mostly paved paths to those with some unpaved sections, especially if incorporating parts of the Deeside Way. You'll find varied terrain suitable for different abilities, from gentle rides to more strenuous options with elevation gains.

Yes, many of the no traffic routes are suitable for families, especially the easier ones. The nearby Deeside Way, a traffic-free path, is an excellent option for a family outing, though some sections might be unpaved. Routes like the Deeside Way — Edge of Aberdeen – Cullerlie Stone Circle loop from Westhill offer a good balance of distance and manageable terrain.

You can enjoy several natural and historical landmarks. Many routes incorporate the scenic Loch of Skene, offering magnificent views. The ancient Cullerlie Stone Circle is also a feature on several local cycling routes, such as the View of Loch of Skene – Cullerlie Stone Circle loop from Westhill. You might also spot red squirrels in the woodlands around Elrick Hill.

Yes, many of the routes are designed as loops, allowing you to start and end in the same location. Examples include the View of Loch of Skene loop from Westhill and the Cullerlie Stone Circle – View of Loch of Skene loop from Westhill, which are both circular and offer peaceful cycling experiences.

The spring, summer, and early autumn months generally offer the most pleasant conditions for cycling in Westhill and Elrick, with milder weather and longer daylight hours. While routes are accessible year-round, be prepared for potentially muddy sections on unpaved paths during wetter periods, especially in winter.

The komoot community highly rates the no traffic road cycling experience in Westhill and Elrick, with an average score of 4.7 out of 5 stars. Reviewers often praise the tranquility of the quiet country lanes, the scenic views of the rolling hills and lochs, and the opportunity to explore the Aberdeenshire countryside away from busy roads.

For those seeking a longer, moderate challenge, the Chloe's Kitchen Creations – Bridge Over the River Don loop from Westhill is an excellent option. This route covers over 82 km with significant elevation gain, providing a more strenuous ride while still focusing on quieter roads.

Westhill and Elrick serve as excellent starting points, and parking is generally available in and around these towns. Many routes start from accessible locations, making it convenient to park your vehicle before heading out on your ride. Specific parking details may vary by route start point.

Westhill is well-connected by local bus services from Aberdeen, making it possible to reach the starting points of many routes via public transport. Some routes also connect to the Deeside Way, which has access points that can be reached from various towns along its length, potentially via public transport links.

While specific cafes directly on every no traffic route might be limited, many routes pass through or near villages and towns where you can find cafes, pubs, or shops for refreshments. The local cycling community often incorporates coffee and cake stops into their rides, suggesting options are available within reasonable distances.