The best traffic-free bike rides around Altyre Woods

There are 19 dedicated no-traffic gravel bike trails around Altyre Woods featured in this guide. These routes offer a range of distances and difficulties, ensuring there's something for every gravel cyclist looking for peaceful rides.

The terrain in Altyre Woods is diverse, ranging from well-maintained forest tracks to more natural gravel paths. You'll encounter a mix of surfaces, including sections along old railway lines like the Dava Way, which provide relatively flat and smooth riding. The area's 'dramatic contours' also mean some routes will feature varied topography and elevation changes, adding to the challenge and interest.

Yes, Altyre Woods offers several routes suitable for families. While specific 'family-friendly' routes aren't explicitly tagged, the guide includes 5 easy-rated tours. For example, the route to Brodie Castle – Pathway to Brodie Castle loop from Forres is rated easy and offers a pleasant ride with minimal elevation gain, making it a good option for a family outing.

The trails around Altyre Woods cater to various skill levels. This guide features 5 easy routes, 6 moderate routes, and 8 difficult routes. This variety ensures that both beginners and experienced gravel cyclists can find suitable no-traffic options.

Altyre Woods is rich in natural beauty and historical points of interest. You can expect to see extensive woodlands, the scenic River Findhorn, and the Altyre Burn. Some routes pass by the Dallas Dhu Distillery, and you might spot an old ivy-covered tower or the simple wooden Altyre Estate Chapel. Loch Romach also offers additional scenic beauty with tracks running beside it.

Many of the routes in this guide are designed as loops, allowing you to start and finish at the same point. For instance, The Dava Way – Dava Summit 1052 loop from Forres and Sanquhar Loch – Dallas Dhu Distillery loop from Forres are excellent examples of circular routes that keep you off busy roads.

While specific parking areas for each route are not detailed here, Altyre Estate generally provides visitor parking. For routes starting near Forres, you can often find parking within the town or at designated trailheads. It's advisable to check local signage upon arrival for the most current parking information.

The best time for gravel biking in Altyre Woods is generally from spring through autumn, when the weather is milder and trail conditions are typically drier. However, the sheltered nature of the woodlands can make for pleasant riding even on cooler or slightly damp days. Winter riding is possible, but be prepared for potentially muddier conditions and shorter daylight hours.

Altyre Woods is generally dog-friendly, with many trails suitable for walks with dogs. When cycling, ensure your dog is well-behaved and under control, especially around wildlife and other trail users. Always follow the Scottish Outdoor Access Code, which encourages responsible access with dogs.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.9 stars. Reviewers often praise the peaceful, traffic-free nature of the routes, the stunning woodland scenery, and the variety of terrain that makes for engaging gravel biking experiences. The opportunity to explore natural features like the River Findhorn and historical landmarks is also frequently highlighted.

While the trails themselves are designed to be away from traffic, the nearby town of Forres offers a selection of cafes and pubs where you can refuel before or after your ride. Some routes, like the one passing the Dallas Dhu Distillery, might offer opportunities for a stop, though it's always best to check opening times in advance.