The best cycling routes in Moray

Moray offers a wide selection of touring cycling routes, with over 470 options available. These routes cater to various skill levels, from easy coastal rides to more challenging climbs in the Cairngorms foothills.

The terrain in Moray is diverse, ranging from small B-roads and forest tracks to old railway beds. You'll encounter a mix of paved and unpaved sections, including gravel, sand, and grassy paths, especially on routes like the Moray Way. Coastal trails often follow old railway lines, providing easier, flatter rides.

Yes, Moray has numerous easy routes perfect for beginners or family outings. For instance, the Findhorn Bay loop from Forres is an easy 16-mile (25.8 km) ride with minimal elevation gain. The Moray Coastal Trail also offers sections along old railway lines, providing gentle, scenic rides.

For experienced cyclists seeking a challenge, Moray offers routes with significant climbs and longer distances. Consider Loch Builg and Cock Bridge loop from Tomintoul, a difficult 38-mile (61.4 km) route with over 880 meters of ascent, or The River Avon, River Don & Lecht Ski centre loop from Tomintoul, which covers 23 miles (37.2 km) with over 540 meters of climbing.

Moray's routes offer stunning natural beauty and historical sites. You can cycle along the Moray Firth coastline, known for its dramatic cliffs and opportunities for dolphin spotting. Inland, the Spey Valley winds through whisky country. Routes near the Cairngorms National Park foothills provide views of extensive moorlands and river valleys. Notable landmarks include Bow Fiddle Rock on the coast, and historic castles like Brodie Castle and Duffus Castle.

Yes, many touring cycling routes in Moray are circular, allowing you to start and finish in the same location. The Drumin and Glenlivet loop from Tomintoul is a popular 20.7-mile (33.2 km) circular route exploring the scenic Glenlivet area. Another option is A loop of Findhorn Bay & Brodie Castle from Forres, an easy 20-mile (32.4 km) ride.

The best time for touring cycling in Moray is generally from late spring to early autumn (May to September) when the weather is milder and daylight hours are longer. This period offers the most pleasant conditions for exploring both coastal paths and inland trails. Be aware that Scottish weather can be unpredictable, so always be prepared for changing conditions.

Absolutely. Moray Speyside is world-renowned for its whisky. Routes like The River Spey & Glenn Rinnes loop from Dufftown take you through the heart of whisky country, offering views of the valley where many distilleries are located. The Speyside Way, a long-distance path, also winds past numerous distilleries, many of which offer tours.

The Moray region is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars from over 230 reviews. Cyclists often praise the diverse landscapes, from the stunning coastline to the tranquil river valleys and the dramatic foothills of the Cairngorms. The variety of routes, catering to all abilities, and the rich historical and cultural attractions, including castles and distilleries, are frequently highlighted.

Yes, the Moray Firth coastline provides exceptional cycling experiences. The Kingston on Spey & Lossimouth loop from Elgin is a 32.5-mile (52.2 km) route that leads through coastal areas and river estuaries, offering beautiful sea views and opportunities to spot wildlife. Sections of the Moray Coastal Trail also follow old railway lines, providing easy rides with great coastal scenery.

Yes, Moray's charming fishing villages and towns along the routes offer various options for refreshments and overnight stays. Coastal villages like Cullen, Lossiemouth, Burghead, and Findhorn, as well as inland towns like Dufftown and Tomintoul, provide cafes, pubs, and accommodation. Many routes are designed to pass through or near these amenities, making it convenient for cyclists.

Yes, the southern part of Moray extends into the Cairngorms National Park foothills, offering routes with impressive mountain settings. The Bridge of Avon – Carn Daimh Summit loop from Tomintoul is a challenging 22.4-mile (36.1 km) route that takes you into this dramatic landscape, with significant elevation changes and stunning views.