The best traffic-free bike rides around Fetteresso Forest

Fetteresso Forest offers a wide selection of traffic-free gravel bike trails, with over 25 routes available. These range from easy to difficult, ensuring there's something for every skill level.

You can expect a diverse range of terrain, from well-maintained forest tracks and dirt roads to more challenging gravel paths. The forest's location within the Mounth range of the Grampian Mountains means routes often feature rolling hills, offering both rewarding climbs and descents.

Yes, Fetteresso Forest has trails suitable for families. While the guide focuses on no-traffic routes, many forest tracks are wide and less technical, making them ideal for a family outing. For a moderate option that's not too long, consider the Durris Forest loop from Slug Wood, which covers about 12.7 km.

Yes, Fetteresso Forest is generally dog-friendly. Many of the forest tracks and gravel roads are suitable for cycling with a well-behaved dog on a leash. Always be mindful of wildlife, other trail users, and local signage regarding dog control.

While cycling through Fetteresso Forest, you'll encounter extensive woodlands and occasional clearings offering views of the picturesque surrounding countryside. Some routes, like the longer View of Stonehaven – Stonehaven Harbour loop from Stonehaven, can offer glimpses of the coast and nearby towns. The forest itself is home to diverse wildlife and is historically connected to nearby Fetteresso Castle.

Many of the gravel bike trails in Fetteresso Forest are designed as circular loops, allowing you to start and finish at the same point. Examples include the Wind Farm – Mid Hill Wind Farm Plateau loop from Tewel, a challenging 49.5 km ride, or the moderate Wind Farm loop from Mergie, which is around 11.8 km.

The best time for gravel biking in Fetteresso Forest is typically from spring through autumn. During these seasons, the weather is generally milder, and the trails are less likely to be muddy or icy. Summer offers longer daylight hours, while autumn provides stunning foliage. Always check local weather forecasts before heading out.

There are various parking options around Fetteresso Forest, often near trailheads or access points. Specific parking areas will depend on your chosen starting point. For example, routes like the Durris Forest – Forest Climb loop from Kirkton of Durris suggest starting from Kirkton of Durris, where local parking may be available.

The komoot community highly rates Fetteresso Forest for gravel biking, with an average score of 4.6 stars. Reviewers often praise the extensive network of quiet forest tracks, the beautiful natural scenery, and the sense of escape offered by the vast woodlands. The varied terrain also provides a good mix of challenge and enjoyment.

While Fetteresso Forest itself is a natural area, you'll find cafes, pubs, and other amenities in nearby towns like Stonehaven. These are excellent places to refuel before or after your ride. Some longer routes, such as the View of Stonehaven – Stonehaven Harbour loop from Stonehaven, even pass through or near these towns.

Fetteresso Forest offers a range of difficulty levels for gravel biking. You'll find easy forest tracks suitable for beginners, moderate routes with some climbs and varied surfaces, and more difficult trails featuring significant elevation gain and longer distances. Out of the 29 available routes, 12 are moderate and 16 are considered difficult, with only 1 easy option, so be sure to check the route details before you go.