4.0
(9)
35
riders
4
rides
Mountain biking around Firth And Stenness offers routes across a gently sloping topography with few significant hills, making it suitable for various skill levels. The terrain features a mix of quiet country roads and unpaved surfaces, often cycling alongside the picturesque Loch of Stenness and Loch of Harray. This landscape, shaped by fertile farmland and red sandstone geology, provides scenic routes through a setting rich in ancient Neolithic sites.
Last updated: May 3, 2026
3.0
(1)
1
riders
56.9km
03:50
510m
510m
Moderate mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Advanced riding skills necessary.
4.4
(5)
15
riders
Easy mountain bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Suitable for all skill levels.

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2
riders
Easy mountain bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Numerous otpions for a tour or just quick tasting in a well-maintained setting
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Here one highlight meets the other. Opposite the town hall is St Magnus Cathedral, and a few meters further on is the Earl's Palace.
1
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A walk through Kirkwall is definitely worth it. There are many small, interesting corners that you don't notice at first glance...
1
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The cathedral is a highlight that you absolutely have to visit...it is worth it
1
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Making the capital a tourist attraction is a bit strange, but oh well.
1
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Inside, the ship's bell of the HMS Royal Oak is on display.
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This old distillery is located directly on Scapa Bay
1
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A beautiful place with a goosebumps story
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There are 4 mountain bike trails documented in Firth And Stenness on komoot. These routes offer a mix of easy and moderate difficulties, catering to various skill levels.
The terrain in Firth And Stenness is characterized by a gently sloping topography with few significant hills, making it accessible for a range of abilities. You'll find a mix of quiet country roads and unpaved surfaces, often cycling alongside the picturesque Loch of Stenness and Loch of Harray. The landscape is shaped by fertile farmland and red sandstone geology, providing scenic routes.
Yes, Firth And Stenness offers 2 easy mountain bike trails, making it suitable for beginners and families. The gentle topography and quiet country roads provide a pleasant riding experience. An example is the Earl's Palace, Kirkwall – St Magnus Cathedral loop from The Pickaquoy Centre, which is 15.4 miles (24.8 km) long and rated easy.
Absolutely. Mountain biking in Firth And Stenness offers a unique opportunity to cycle through a landscape rich in ancient history. Routes frequently incorporate world-renowned Neolithic sites. For instance, the Standing Stones of Stenness – View of Loch of Stenness loop from Mill of Eyrland leads directly through ancient Neolithic sites and offers views of the Loch of Stenness. You can also explore highlights like the Ring of Brodgar and the Standing Stones of Stenness.
Many routes in the area provide picturesque views of the lochs. The Standing Stones of Stenness – View of Loch of Stenness loop from Mill of Eyrland specifically offers continuous scenic views of the Loch of Stenness. The From Stromness to Loch Harray and Skara Brae loop also cycles alongside Loch Harray.
Yes, all the mountain bike routes listed for Firth And Stenness are circular loops. This allows you to start and end your ride at the same point, making logistics easier. Examples include the From Stromness to Loch Harray and Skara Brae loop and the Earl's Palace, Kirkwall – St Magnus Cathedral loop from The Pickaquoy Centre.
The mountain bike routes in Firth And Stenness are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.1 stars from over 8 reviews. Riders often praise the unique blend of accessible, scenic terrain and the opportunity to immerse themselves in a landscape rich with ancient history, cycling past globally significant archaeological sites.
While the 'Orcadian breeze' can be invigorating year-round, the milder months from late spring to early autumn generally offer the most pleasant conditions for mountain biking. During this time, the weather is typically more stable, and the days are longer, allowing for extended rides and better enjoyment of the scenic and historical landscapes.
Beyond the famous Standing Stones of Stenness and the Ring of Brodgar, you can also find other interesting natural and historical highlights. Keep an eye out for The Watch Stone, a magnificent monolith near the Stones of Stenness, or the dramatic coastal formations like Yesnaby Castle Sea Stack and Yesnaby Cliffs, which offer stunning viewpoints.
Orkney, including the Firth and Stenness area, is known for its quiet country roads, which are ideal for cycling and generally offer good accessibility. While specific parking details for each trailhead are best checked locally, the area's gentle topography and well-integrated historical sites mean that many routes are designed to be accessible. For public transport, local bus services connect key towns and villages, but it's advisable to check if bikes are permitted and for specific timetables.
The Firth and Stenness area is part of the Heart of Neolithic Orkney UNESCO World Heritage Site. You can expect to encounter iconic ancient sites such as the Standing Stones of Stenness, one of the oldest stone circles in the British Isles, and the impressive Ring of Brodgar. Many routes are designed to pass directly by these significant archaeological landmarks, offering a unique cultural experience alongside your ride.


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