The best cycling routes around Loch of Forfar

There are over 60 touring cycling routes around Loch of Forfar, offering a diverse range of options for cyclists. These include routes of varying difficulty, from easy to difficult, ensuring there's something for every skill level.

Yes, Loch of Forfar offers several easy touring cycling routes. The flat, 4-kilometer (2.5-mile) circular path around the loch is particularly suitable for all abilities and families. Additionally, there are 15 easy routes in the wider area, such as the Airlie Arms House loop from Forfar, which is 14.5 miles (23.3 km) long with moderate elevation.

The terrain around Loch of Forfar is quite varied. You'll find accessible paths, including the flat, paved circular path around the loch. Beyond that, routes extend into Montreathmont Forest with wide forest tracks, ideal for touring or gravel bikes. Some routes also feature hilly climbs, such as those leading to Balmashanner Hill, and a mix of paved and unpaved segments.

Absolutely. For experienced cyclists seeking a challenge, there are 21 difficult routes available. One such route is the Kinnordy House – Airlie Arms House loop from Forfar, which is 30.0 miles (48.2 km) long and features significant elevation gain. Another demanding option is the Glen Clova Hotel – Forfar Witches Memorial loop from Forfar, covering 43.6 miles (70.2 km) with over 550 meters of ascent.

Many routes offer scenic views and natural features. The loch itself is the centerpiece of Forfar Loch Country Park, providing tranquil freshwater views. You can also find routes that take you through Montreathmont Forest, a large area of coniferous trees. For elevated views, consider routes that include Balmashanner Hill, offering vistas from the war memorial at its summit. The Angus Glens, while a short drive away, also provide stunning landscapes for further exploration.

Loch of Forfar and its surrounding Country Park are rich in wildlife. You might spot kingfishers, otters, foxes, and roe deer. During summer, ospreys are visible, and in winter, the loch is a haven for migrating wildfowl. Swans, geese, coots, ducks, moorhens, and herons are present year-round. In Montreathmont Forest, there's a chance to spot rare capercaillie.

Yes, the area is home to interesting landmarks. On the northern side of the loch is Queen Margaret's Inch, a historical site where a crannog and chapel once stood. You can also explore routes that pass by the historic Aberlemno Stones, such as the Aberlemno Stones – Aberlemno Sculptured Stones loop from Forfar. Forfar town centre, a short walk from the loch, also offers local history and amenities.

The Loch of Forfar area is enjoyable for cycling throughout the year, but each season offers a different experience. Summer provides opportunities to see ospreys and enjoy longer daylight hours. Winter brings migrating wildfowl to the loch. The paths are generally accessible, but checking local weather conditions is always advisable, especially for routes with unpaved segments.

Yes, the loch's proximity to Forfar town centre means you're just a short walk away from various facilities. You'll find supermarkets, restaurants, coffee shops, and bakeries in town, perfect for a break or to refuel after your ride.

Yes, parking is available at Forfar Loch Country Park, which serves as a central hub for recreation and leisure activities, including cycling. This makes it convenient to start your touring cycling adventures directly from the lochside.

Forfar is well-connected by public transport, with bus services reaching the town. From Forfar town centre, the Loch of Forfar and its Country Park are within easy walking distance, making it accessible to start your cycling routes even without a car.

The touring cycling routes around Loch of Forfar are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 stars from around 10 reviews. Cyclists often praise the diverse terrain, from the accessible lochside paths to the challenging forest tracks and hilly climbs, catering to various fitness levels.

Yes, a prominent feature is the flat, 4-kilometer (2.5-mile) circular path directly around the loch, which is suitable for all abilities. Beyond this, many of the longer touring routes, such as the Aberlemno, the Montreathmont Forest & Dunnichen loop from Forfar, are designed as circular paths, bringing you back to your starting point.