The best traffic-free bike rides around Crieff

The no-traffic gravel bike trails around Crieff offer a diverse and engaging experience. You'll encounter everything from quiet country lanes and dedicated cycle paths to more challenging sections on drovers' routes and core paths. Many routes traverse dense forests with well-maintained gravel tracks, and some can be wet or boggy, especially in areas like the Rob Roy Way or near Loch Tay. Expect rolling hills, glens, and varied surfaces that make for an authentic Perthshire gravel biking adventure.

While many of the dedicated no-traffic gravel routes around Crieff are rated as difficult, there are options for those seeking a more moderate challenge. For example, the route from Lady Mary’s Walk to The Glenturret Distillery loop offers a moderate difficulty, covering about 20 km with over 400m of elevation gain. This allows beginners to experience the scenic beauty without overly strenuous climbs.

Crieff's 'bonnie and lush' landscape is beautiful year-round, but the best time for gravel biking is typically from spring through autumn. During these seasons, you'll find more predictable weather and drier trail conditions. Some routes, particularly those involving Argo grass track or boggy areas, can be quite wet in winter or after heavy rainfall. Always check local conditions before heading out, especially if planning a winter ride.

Yes, many of the no-traffic gravel bike trails around Crieff are designed as circular routes, allowing you to start and finish at the same point. Examples include the challenging Glenturret Distillery loop, the Comrie Croft Campsite – Lady Mary’s Walk loop, and the Glen Turret Dam loop. These loops offer varied distances and elevations, ensuring a full exploration of the area's natural beauty.

The no-traffic gravel bike trails in Crieff are rich with natural beauty and interesting landmarks. You can ride past picturesque lochs like Loch Monzievaird and Loch Earn, and explore dense forests. Some routes, such as the Glen Turret Dam loop, will take you near the impressive Glen Turret Dam and Loch Turret Reservoir. The region is also known for its rolling hills and glens, offering expansive views. Don't miss the chance to see the stunning Loch Turret East Shore Trail.

While many routes are rated difficult, the concept of 'no traffic' inherently makes some sections more appealing for families. For a family-friendly experience, look for shorter, less elevated sections of the core paths or dedicated cycle paths. Lady Mary's Walk, for instance, offers scenic beauty through picturesque hills and woodlands, and can be enjoyed in shorter segments. Always check the route details for elevation and surface conditions to ensure it matches your family's skill level.

Crieff is a great base for accessing these trails. Many routes, like the Comrie Croft Campsite loop, can start from well-known locations like Comrie Croft, which offers parking and amenities. For other routes, parking is often available in or around Crieff town centre, or at designated trailheads. Public transport options to Crieff are available, but it's advisable to check local bus services for specific stops near trail access points, especially if you're bringing a bike.

The no-traffic gravel bike trails around Crieff are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.78 stars. Reviewers often praise the immersive experience of Perthshire's 'bonnie and lush' landscape, the quiet solitude of the remote routes, and the diverse terrain that keeps rides interesting. The opportunity to explore extensive networks of small roads, drovers' routes, and core paths away from vehicles is a significant draw.

Yes, several routes offer opportunities to refuel. The Glenturret Distillery loop passes by the Glenturret Distillery, which features a cafe and shop. Comrie Croft, a popular starting point for many routes including the Comrie Croft Campsite loop, also has a cafe and accommodation. Planning your route to include these stops can enhance your gravel biking experience.

There are 9 dedicated no-traffic gravel bike trails detailed in this guide around Crieff, offering a range of distances and difficulties. These routes provide excellent opportunities to explore the region's stunning landscapes away from vehicular traffic.

While the Deil's Cauldron Waterfall is a notable natural attraction in the Crieff area, it's not directly on the listed no-traffic gravel bike routes in this guide. However, the region's diverse terrain and extensive network of paths mean you might find smaller cascades or scenic river views, such as those along the River Earn, which is known for its beauty and wildlife.

The longest no-traffic gravel bike route featured in this guide is the Glen Turret Dam – Avenue of Giant Redwoods loop from Crieff, spanning approximately 39.5 km (24.5 miles) with over 550m of elevation gain. This challenging route offers an extensive exploration of the area's natural beauty.