The best traffic-free bike rides around Loch of Forfar

There are over 10 dedicated no traffic road cycling routes around Loch of Forfar, catering to various skill levels. These routes offer a great way to explore the scenic Angus countryside without the worry of heavy vehicle traffic.

Yes, the 4-kilometer (2.5-mile) circular path around the Loch of Forfar is flat, straightforward, and has benefited from recent upgrades, making it ideal for families and casual riders. Beyond this, you can find other easy, mostly paved options suitable for any fitness level, such as the 18-mile "Cycle Ride to Glamis" which starts at the Forfar Loch car park and meanders through the countryside. For a slightly longer, moderate option, consider the The Barrie Box Farm Shop – Waterfall Pools in The Den loop from Forfar.

The routes offer diverse landscapes, from the serene waters of Loch of Forfar to the rolling Angus countryside. You'll encounter picturesque views, especially from elevated points like Balmashanner Hill, which offers commanding vistas. Longer routes can even provide glimpses of the majestic Angus Glens and the distant southern Cairngorms.

Absolutely. The region is rich in history. On the northern side of the loch, you can spot Queen Margaret's Inch, a natural gravel projection with historical significance. Nearby, the 13th-century Restenneth Priory, built upon older Pictish foundations, adds to the historical allure. Some routes, like the "Cycle Ride to Glamis", can lead you towards Glamis Castle, a significant historical landmark.

The Loch of Forfar area is beautiful year-round, but spring and summer offer the most pleasant weather for cycling. During these seasons, you'll also have the best chance to spot ospreys fishing. Autumn brings vibrant colours to the landscape, while winter can be good for spotting migrating wildfowl, though you should be prepared for colder, potentially wetter conditions.

The Forfar Loch car park is a convenient starting point for many routes, including the circular path around the loch and the "Cycle Ride to Glamis". Other routes may have parking available in nearby towns like Forfar, Glamis, or Kirriemuir, depending on your chosen starting point.

Loch of Forfar is a haven for wildlife. You're likely to see a variety of bird species, including swans, geese, coots, ducks, moorhens, and herons. In winter, migrating wildfowl are abundant. Keep an eye out for kingfishers, otters, foxes, and roe deer. Ospreys are frequently spotted fishing during the summer months.

Yes, several routes pass by or near places where you can refuel. For example, the Forfar Driving Range Café loop from Forfar includes a stop at a café. The The Barrie Box Farm Shop – Waterfall Pools in The Den loop from Forfar also offers refreshment opportunities. The towns of Forfar, Glamis, and Kirriemuir, which serve as starting or passing points for many routes, also have various cafes and pubs.

The routes vary in elevation. The immediate lochside path is flat. Other routes range from easy options with minimal elevation gain (up to 500 feet) to more challenging rides that can include up to 1500 feet of elevation gain over longer distances. For instance, the Sinclair's Larder – View of Lundie Castle loop from Milton of Finavon features over 480 meters of elevation gain, offering a good workout.

The komoot community highly rates the road cycling experience around Loch of Forfar, with an average score of 4.45 stars. Reviewers often praise the peaceful, traffic-free nature of the routes, the stunning natural beauty, and the well-maintained paths, especially around the loch itself. The combination of scenic views and historical points of interest is also frequently highlighted.

Forfar is well-connected by local bus services, making it a good base for accessing routes. From Forfar, you can often reach the starting points of various cycling routes, including the Loch of Forfar itself, by cycling a short distance or using public transport where available. It's advisable to check local bus schedules and policies regarding bicycles before planning your trip.

Yes, while many routes are moderate, some offer a greater challenge. For example, the Windsor Terrace – The Den Park loop from Kirriemuir covers over 53 kilometers with more than 400 meters of elevation, providing a substantial ride. These longer routes often venture further into the Angus countryside, offering extended periods of quiet roads and varied terrain.