The best traffic-free bike rides around St Cyrus National Nature Reserve

There are 8 dedicated no traffic road cycling routes around St Cyrus National Nature Reserve featured in this guide. These routes offer a mix of easy and moderate options, ensuring a suitable ride for various fitness levels.

The routes around St Cyrus National Nature Reserve offer a diverse cycling experience. You'll find a mix of flat sections, particularly near the coast, and gentle ascents further inland. Routes traverse coastal roads with stunning North Sea views and wind through picturesque rural and agricultural landscapes, providing varied scenery and challenges.

Yes, there are easy options available. For instance, the Premier News – Saint Palladius Church loop from Laurencekirk is an easy 28.5 km route, perfect for those looking for a less strenuous ride while still enjoying the scenic surroundings.

Cyclists can enjoy a variety of natural and historical sights. You might spot wildlife like peregrine falcons, seals, or even dolphins offshore. Notable attractions include the dramatic volcanic cliffs, expansive sandy beaches, and vibrant grasslands. You can also explore historical sites like Ecclesgreig Old Church and Nether Kirkyard, or natural features such as Woodston Burn Waterfall and Rocks and St Cyrus Waterfall.

Many of the routes are designed as loops, offering a convenient circular experience. An example is the View of Lunan Bay – Lunan Bay Cafe loop from Hillside, which is a moderate 51.2 km ride, allowing you to start and finish at the same point.

Spring and summer are ideal for observing breeding birds and wildflowers, making for a vibrant cycling experience. The weather is generally milder, perfect for enjoying the coastal and rural landscapes. Winter offers opportunities to spot wading birds, but conditions can be colder and windier.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 26 reviews. Cyclists often praise the stunning coastal views, the tranquility of the no traffic routes, and the diverse natural beauty, from dramatic cliffs to expansive beaches and rich wildlife.

Yes, for those seeking a longer challenge, routes like the St Vigeans Historic Village – Lunan Bay loop from Montrose offer a substantial ride of 65.0 km with moderate difficulty, providing ample distance to explore the region's beauty.

While specific parking details for each route vary, the St Cyrus National Nature Reserve itself has a visitor center, which typically offers parking facilities. Many routes also start from towns like Montrose or Laurencekirk, where public parking options are available.

While not explicitly listed in the guide's routes, the region research indicates that routes like the North Water Viaduct – Charleton Fruit Farm loop from St Cyrus are popular, offering views of this landmark. For a route that includes a similar experience, consider the Montrose Parkrun – Charleton Fruit Farm loop from Montrose, which explores the rural areas nearby.

Absolutely. The St Cyrus National Nature Reserve is a haven for wildlife. While cycling, keep an eye out for peregrine falcons overhead, common and grey seals on sandbanks, and even dolphins or porpoises offshore. The reserve's grasslands are also home to numerous butterflies, moths, and grasshopper species, especially vibrant in spring and summer.