The best traffic-free bike rides around Backwater Reservoir
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No traffic road cycling routes around Backwater Reservoir are situated within Glen Isla, characterized by green mountains, tranquil woodlands, and open hilly landscapes. The area features a man-made loch, approximately 2 miles (3 km) in length, with quiet tarmac roads along its perimeter. Cyclists encounter varied terrain, including minor roads and tracks with notable elevation changes, offering views across the Angus countryside. The region provides a mix of quiet tarmac roads and tracks, suitable for road cycling.
Best no traffic…
Last updated: July 12, 2026
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Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
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Easy road ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
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5.0
(2)
6
riders
Easy road ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
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Popular around Backwater Reservoir
Tips from the Community
This is on right as you ride in, it's comprehensively stocked with all sorts from fine foods to woollen clothing, to art and fancy soda pop.
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Lovely little cafe/restaurant with good food and coffee. Shop selling all sorts of gifts as well as clothes and furniture/antiques.
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Often difficult to see the loch from the road due to the trees; so take the opportunity when available.
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Coffee and cake - no further excuse for a stop required. Also toilets.
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This local nature reserve managed by the Scottish Wildlife Trust is an important habitat for birdlife. In the summer it's home to breeding songbirds and during the winter it's an important stop off for wintering birds including Greylag Geese. There are two wildlife hides around the loch. You can ride all around the loch on the road loop.
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Peel Farm has an excellent cafe serving great coffee, homemade cakes and light meals. It's open every day but with seasonal opening times. May to Sep: 9:00 - 17:00 Oct to April: 9:00 - 16:00 There is also a farm shop where you can grab supplies if you don't fancy a cafe stop.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What makes Backwater Reservoir ideal for no-traffic road cycling?
Backwater Reservoir, nestled in Glen Isla, offers a serene environment with quiet tarmac roads, making it perfect for road cycling away from vehicle traffic. The area is known for its stunning green mountains, tranquil woodlands, and open hilly landscapes, providing a picturesque backdrop for your ride.
How many no-traffic road cycling routes are available around Backwater Reservoir?
There are currently 3 dedicated no-traffic road cycling routes around Backwater Reservoir featured in this guide. These include options for both easy and moderate rides, ensuring there's something for various fitness levels.
Are there any easy, family-friendly no-traffic road cycling routes?
Yes, there are two easy routes perfect for beginners or families looking for a relaxed ride. The Peel Farm Café and Farm Shop – Wee Bear Cafe loop from Bridgend of Lintrathen and the Loch of Lintrathen – Wee Bear Cafe loop from Bridgend of Lintrathen are both short, easy loops with minimal elevation gain.
Are there any more challenging no-traffic road cycling routes?
For those seeking a longer, more moderate challenge, the Peel Farm Café and Farm Shop – Wee Bear Cafe loop from Bridge of Craigisla offers a substantial 55.8 km ride with over 760 meters of elevation gain, providing extensive views across the Angus countryside.
What natural features or landmarks can I see along these routes?
You'll encounter stunning natural beauty, including the expansive Backwater Reservoir itself and the picturesque Glen Isla. Some routes offer views of Balintore Castle in the distance, and the nearby Reekie Linn Waterfall is a short walk from some biking routes, offering a natural attraction for a break.
Are there places to stop for refreshments or food along the no-traffic routes?
Yes, you can find convenient stops. Peel Farm, located at the southern end of Loch of Lintrathen, is a popular coffee stop for cyclists. Additionally, the 17th-century Glenisla Hotel offers a bar and restaurant with a good menu for a more substantial meal.
Are the no-traffic road cycling routes circular?
Yes, all the no-traffic road cycling routes featured in this guide are designed as loops, allowing you to start and finish at the same point without retracing your steps.
What kind of wildlife might I encounter while cycling?
The Backwater Reservoir area is a haven for wildlife. Keep an eye out for various bird species, including white-tailed eagles and ospreys, which are known to frequent the tranquil waters and surrounding natural environment.
What do other cyclists enjoy most about road cycling here?
The komoot community highly rates the road cycling experience around Backwater Reservoir, with an average score of 5.0 stars from 7 ratings. Reviewers often praise the quiet tarmac roads, the stunning scenery of Glen Isla, and the peaceful, traffic-free environment.
When is the best time of year to cycle these routes?
The area is beautiful year-round, but spring through autumn generally offers the most pleasant conditions for road cycling, with milder weather and vibrant landscapes. Always check local weather forecasts before heading out.
Where can I find parking for these no-traffic road cycling routes?
While specific parking locations vary by route starting point, general parking is available near the Backwater Reservoir dam and at various points around Glen Isla. It's advisable to check the route details on komoot for the most convenient parking options for your chosen ride.
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