Durris Forest & Netherley loop from Stonehaven

The loop starts and ends in Stonehaven, which offers various parking options. For specific trailhead parking, it's best to check local Stonehaven parking facilities, as the route itself doesn't specify a dedicated parking area within Durris Forest for this particular loop.

The route features a mix of surfaces. You'll find mostly paved roads, but there are significant unpaved sections within Durris Forest, consisting of forest trails, tracks, and forest roads. These unpaved parts can be steep and sometimes difficult to ride, potentially requiring you to dismount and push your bike. A notable climb is Ashentilly Hill, which is quite steep.

Given the mix of paved and unpaved forest tracks, a touring bicycle or a gravel bike is ideal. These bikes are well-suited to handle both the smoother road sections and the rougher forest trails within Durris Forest.

This is considered a 'difficult' bike ride, requiring very good fitness. It covers over 42 kilometers with an elevation gain of about 515 meters. The combination of significant climbs, like Ashentilly Hill, and varied terrain, including unpaved sections, contributes to its challenging classification.

You'll experience diverse scenery, from the coastal charm of Stonehaven to the wooded expanses of Durris Forest. The route offers superb panoramic views of the Aberdeenshire countryside from higher points. Notable highlights include Durris Forest itself, Ashentilly Hill, and the historic Stonehaven Harbour. Durris Forest also contains Cairn-mon-earn hill with a neolithic cairn and the ancient drovers' route of Elsick Mounth.

Yes, sections of this route overlap with other established trails. You'll find it intersects with parts of the EuroVelo 12 - North Sea Cycle Route - part United Kingdom 7 and NCN 1 Dundee to Tain.

The trail can be enjoyed during most seasons, but spring through autumn generally offers the most favorable weather conditions for cycling, especially considering the unpaved sections which could be muddy in wet weather. Recent felling and thinning in Durris Forest have opened up views, which can be particularly pleasant on clear days.

While Durris Forest itself is generally accessible, this specific route is designed for touring bicycles and includes significant road sections and challenging terrain. If cycling with a dog, ensure it is well-trained and capable of keeping pace, or consider alternative, more dedicated dog-friendly walking trails within the forest.

Durris Forest is a commercial forest managed by Forestry Commission Scotland, with input from the Friends of Durris Forests for leisure use. There are no specific permits or entrance fees required for cycling on the public access trails within the forest.

The loop starts and ends in Stonehaven, which offers a good selection of cafes, pubs, and accommodation suitable for cyclists. While the route passes through rural areas and Durris Forest, direct amenities along the forest sections are limited, so it's advisable to plan for refreshments in Stonehaven.

No, this route is officially rated as 'difficult' and requires 'very good fitness' due to its length, significant elevation gain, and varied terrain including steep, unpaved sections. It is not recommended for beginners or young families looking for a leisurely ride.