The best road cycling routes around Earn

The Earn region offers a diverse selection of 16 road cycling routes. These routes cater to various skill levels, with 7 easy and 9 moderate options available for exploration.

Road cycling routes around Earn feature a varied landscape. You'll encounter well-paved roads along lochsides, scenic paths through river valleys, and routes with significant elevation gain as you traverse the surrounding hills and glens. While most are paved, some longer or more challenging routes might include short unpaved or difficult segments.

Yes, the Earn area has several easy road cycling routes perfect for beginners or those looking for a relaxed ride. For example, the View of Perth from Rhynd Road – Earn Coffee Shop loop from Bridge of Earn is a gentle 10-mile ride through the River Earn valley, typically completed in under an hour. Another easy option is the Earn Coffee Shop – South Inch Park loop from Bridge of Earn.

Absolutely. For cyclists seeking a challenge, the Earn region offers moderate routes with substantial elevation gain. The Kinkell Bridge – Glen Devon (A823) loop from Forgandenny, for instance, is a 41.9-mile route with over 2,300 feet of climbing, requiring good fitness. Another moderate option is the Path of Condie Country Road – Burleigh Castle loop from Bridge of Earn, which includes over 2,700 feet of elevation gain over 32 miles.

The Earn region is rich in natural beauty. You'll cycle alongside the tranquil waters of Loch Earn, through scenic glens like Glen Devon, and along the River Earn valley. The wider Perthshire area is known for its extensive forests and woodlands. Keep an eye out for local wildlife such as red squirrels, various bird species including buzzards and red kites, and even deer. In the hills, you might spot mountain hares and wild goats.

Yes, several routes offer views of notable landmarks and natural monuments. You might pass by historic sites like Burleigh Castle on the Path of Condie Country Road loop. Other attractions in the broader area include the picturesque West Lomond Summit, the Bishop's Hill Summit Cairn, and the Moredun Top Hillfort. You can also enjoy views of Perth from routes like the View of Perth from Rhynd Road loop.

While many road cycling routes in Earn are designed for moderate fitness, some easier, shorter loops can be suitable for families with older children or those comfortable with road cycling. The View of Perth from Rhynd Road – Earn Coffee Shop loop is a shorter, less strenuous option. For dedicated family-friendly paths, consider sections of the National Cycle Network like the Loch Earn Railway Path or Glen Ogle Trail, which are excellent for cycling and walking, though they may include off-road sections.

Many of the road cycling routes in the Earn region are designed as circular loops, allowing you to start and finish at the same point. This includes popular routes like the Kinkell Bridge – Glen Devon (A823) loop and the Path of Condie Country Road – Burleigh Castle loop, making planning easier.

The best time for road cycling in Earn is generally from spring through autumn (April to October). During these months, the weather is typically milder, with longer daylight hours and less chance of snow or ice, especially in the higher elevations. Summer offers the warmest temperatures, but spring and autumn provide beautiful scenery with fewer crowds.

The road cycling routes in Earn are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.7 stars from over 50 reviews. Cyclists frequently praise the region's diverse landscapes, from tranquil lochside roads to challenging climbs through scenic glens, and the overall quality of the routes. Over 2,700 road cyclists have used komoot to explore Earn's varied terrain, highlighting its appeal.

Yes, you'll find opportunities for refreshments. Villages like Lochearnhead and St Fillans, particularly at the eastern end of Loch Earn, offer cafes and pubs. Some routes, like the View of Perth from Rhynd Road – Earn Coffee Shop loop, even incorporate a coffee shop into their name, indicating convenient stops for cyclists.

Yes, some routes offer unique points of interest beyond natural beauty. For example, the Lindores Abbey Distillery – Abernethy Round Tower loop from Earn Car Park provides an opportunity to cycle past the historic Lindores Abbey Distillery and the Abernethy Round Tower, combining cycling with cultural exploration.