Glen Clova & Loch Wharral loop from Kirriemuir

This route is classified as a hard bike ride, demanding very good fitness. It covers approximately 52.9 km (33 miles) with an elevation gain of 810 meters (2,657 feet). While much of the surface is paved, some segments may be unpaved and difficult to ride, potentially requiring you to push your bike.

The route features winding circular roads through picturesque mountain scenery. As you approach Glen Clova, the landscape shifts from farmland to dramatic southern Cairngorms. The road into Glen Clova has twists, turns, and forested sections. Higher sections around Loch Wharral involve rough grass and eroded peat, with less obvious paths that can be boggy after wet weather. Lower paths often follow rivers like the South Esk.

The Glen Clova & Loch Wharral loop typically takes around 3 hours and 45 minutes to complete for touring cyclists, depending on your pace and stops.

You'll experience the dramatic glaciated landscape of Glen Clova, including spectacular corries like the one holding Loch Wharral. The route also passes through the scenic B955 Glen Clova Loop. You might also spot Clova Kirk, a charming sandstone and granite church, and the Gella Bridge picnic site.

Yes, the Glen Clova Hotel serves as a potential stop for refreshments and accommodation along the route.

The route is best enjoyed during drier periods, typically from late spring to early autumn. Be prepared for exposed conditions in the higher sections, even during summer, as the weather in the Cairngorms can change rapidly. Wet weather can make some unpaved sections boggy.

While dogs are generally welcome in the Cairngorms National Park, it's important to keep them under close control, especially during lambing season (spring) and ground-nesting bird season (spring/early summer). Always follow the Scottish Outdoor Access Code, which advises keeping dogs on a short lead or under close control around livestock and wildlife.

No, there are no specific permits or entrance fees required to cycle this route or to access the general areas of Cairngorms National Park. However, always respect private land and follow the Scottish Outdoor Access Code.

This specific Komoot route starts from Kirriemuir. Parking is generally available in Kirriemuir, though specific trailhead parking for this loop isn't detailed. It's advisable to check local parking options in Kirriemuir before your visit.

Yes, the route also passes through sections of the Airlie Monument, Kirrie Hill, Caddam Wood, Minister's Path, Kirrie Den, River Esk and Sawmill Walk, Trout Loch Path, Anderson Terrace, Park Terrace, St Mary's Close, Hillbank Terrace, Wellgate, Hill Road, Seceders' Close, Ogilvy's Close, Croft Terrace Gardens, Crofthead, Jamieson's Close, Loch Brandy Trail, Roger's Close, St Colme's Close, Cumberland Close, Manse Close, and Pierhead.

The region is rich in wildlife, offering opportunities to spot red deer, mountain hares, red grouse, and various birds of prey, especially in the more remote sections of the glen and around the loch.