The best cycling routes around Crathes, Drumoak And Durris

The region offers a diverse mix of terrain. You'll find routes utilizing former railway lines, such as sections of the Deeside Way, which provide largely traffic-free paths. There are also extensive woodlands, like Durris Forest, with networks of trails suitable for touring or gravel bikes, offering off-asphalt excursions. Many routes feature paved surfaces, while others include unpaved segments and significant elevation gains, particularly around hills like Cairn-mon-earn.

Yes, there are several easy routes. For instance, the Park Shop – BDLN Coffee House, Banchory loop from Drumoak is an easy 20.1 km path primarily on paved surfaces. Crathes Castle, Garden & Estate also offers waymarked and clearly signposted trails suitable for all ages and abilities, with most being relatively flat.

For a more challenging ride, Durris Forest is an excellent choice. The Durris Forest – Cairn Mon Earn Summit loop from Craigie Daff Wood is a difficult 25.5 km trail with substantial elevation gain towards Cairn-mon-earn hill. Another demanding option is the Wind Farm loop from Spyhill, which covers over 40 km with significant climbing.

The region is rich in natural beauty and historical sites. You can cycle along the scenic River Dee, explore the woodlands around Crathes, or venture into Durris Forest, which encompasses the Cairn Mon Earn Summit. Other notable features include the shallow, reedy Loch of Drum in Drumoak and the historic Midmar Stone Circle.

Absolutely. You can cycle to the vicinity of Crathes Castle, Garden & Estate, a 16th-century tower house with extensive grounds. In Drumoak, Drum Castle offers historic grounds and woodland walks. Durris Forest also contains the site of the Raedykes Roman Camp, adding a historical layer to your ride.

There are over 35 touring cycling routes available in Crathes, Drumoak, and Durris, catering to various skill levels. This includes 7 easy routes, 24 moderate routes, and 7 difficult routes, ensuring options for every cyclist.

The routes in Crathes, Drumoak, and Durris are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 3.9 stars from over 30 reviews. Cyclists often praise the varied terrain, from traffic-free paths like the Deeside Way to challenging climbs in Durris Forest, and the scenic beauty of the River Dee valley and woodlands.

Yes, many routes in the area are designed as loops. For example, the Forest – Cairn Mon Earn Summit loop from Lochtonhouse is a moderate 27.9 km circular route through Durris Forest. The region's network of trails often allows for creating circular journeys through woodlands and along riverbanks.

Yes, the Deeside Way is a significant feature for touring cyclists. It's a magnificent 41-mile, largely traffic-free cycle path following a former railway line. A popular moderate route, the Old Deeside Railway Line – Deeside Way — Edge of Aberdeen loop from Coalford, utilizes a section of this path, offering a pleasant ride through the landscape.

The woodlands and natural areas around Crathes, Drumoak, and Durris are home to various wildlife. Keep an eye out for red squirrels, woodpeckers, and herons, particularly in the peaceful woodlands and along the River Dee.

Yes, the region offers several scenic viewpoints. The Cairn Mon Earn Summit provides expansive views, and many routes through the woodlands offer glimpses over the Dee Valley. The Brimmond Hill Summit is another notable viewpoint in the wider area.