The best traffic-free bike rides in Perth and Kinross

Perth and Kinross offers a wide selection of no-traffic touring cycling routes, with over 270 options available. These range from easy, family-friendly paths to more challenging long-distance tours.

Yes, Perth and Kinross has over 60 easy, traffic-free touring cycling routes perfect for beginners or families. A popular choice is the Loch Leven Heritage Trail, an easy 13.5-mile loop offering views of Loch Leven and its historic castle. Another gentle option is the Perth Bridge – Banks of the River Almond loop from McDiarmid Park.

The no-traffic routes in Perth and Kinross traverse a diverse range of stunning natural landscapes. You'll encounter tranquil lochs like Loch Tay, Loch Tummel, and Loch Rannoch, verdant glens such as Glen Lyon, and picturesque river systems including the River Tay. Many routes also offer views of rolling hills and woodlands, providing a captivating blend of scenery.

Yes, many no-traffic touring cycling routes in Perth and Kinross are circular, allowing you to start and finish at the same point. The Loch Leven Heritage Trail is a well-known circular route. For a more challenging option, consider the Dunkeld Cathedral – Loch Ordie loop from Dunkeld.

Many routes pass by or near significant landmarks and natural attractions. You might cycle past historic sites like Scone Palace or through charming villages such as Dunkeld and Pitlochry. Natural highlights include the iconic Queen's View near Loch Tummel, offering breathtaking panoramas, and the Birks of Aberfeldy with its scenic woodland and waterfalls. You can also find highlights like Mill Dam Lochan or the South Loch Tay Road.

The best time for touring cycling in Perth and Kinross is generally from spring through autumn (April to October). Spring offers vibrant wildflowers, including the spectacular bluebells at Kinclaven Bluebell Wood, while autumn provides stunning foliage, particularly around Queen's View. Summer offers longer daylight hours and generally warmer weather, ideal for longer tours.

Yes, Perth and Kinross is home to dramatic glens and scenic waterfalls. Glen Lyon offers stunning scenery, and the Birks of Aberfeldy features a beautiful woodland walk with waterfalls. While specific no-traffic routes may not go directly through every glen, many offer views or access points to these natural wonders.

Yes, many no-traffic routes pass through or near charming towns and villages like Pitlochry, Dunkeld, and Kenmore. These locations offer a variety of cafes, pubs, and accommodation options, making it convenient to refuel, rest, or extend your trip. Planning your route with komoot allows you to easily identify such points of interest.

The komoot community highly rates the touring cycling experience in Perth and Kinross, with an average score of 4.5 stars from over 500 reviews. Cyclists frequently praise the region's stunning and varied scenery, the tranquility of the traffic-free paths, and the opportunity to explore charming villages and historic sites at a relaxed pace.

While many routes are shorter, the region's network of quiet roads and dedicated paths allows for longer, car-free touring experiences. The National Cycle Network (NCN) routes, such as NCN77 ('The Salmon Run') which follows the River Tay, offer extended sections on quiet roads, providing opportunities for longer, low-traffic journeys.

Many popular cycling routes in Perth and Kinross are accessible by public transport, particularly those starting or ending in larger towns like Perth, Pitlochry, or Dunkeld, which have train stations or bus links. Ample parking is also available in these towns and at key trailheads, making it convenient to start your no-traffic cycling adventure.