The best cycling routes around Mount Blair

There are 11 touring cycling routes available around Mount Blair, offering a diverse range of experiences for cyclists.

The terrain around Mount Blair is quite varied, featuring heather-clad slopes and moorland, with some rough and craggy grit on lower sections. You'll find a mix of paved surfaces and unpaved sections, especially as you explore the picturesque Glen Shee and Glen Isla. This blend offers characteristic Highland and Lowland sceneries.

The touring cycling routes around Mount Blair cater to various skill levels. You'll find 8 moderate routes and 3 difficult routes, ensuring options for both experienced cyclists and those looking for a significant challenge.

Mount Blair offers exceptional 360-degree panoramic views from its summit, which can be a rewarding part of a cycling tour. On a clear day, you can see the higher hills of the Cairngorm National Park to the north, expansive lowlands to the south, and even distant landmarks like Montrose, Ben Lawers, and many Munros. The summit also features a toposcope to help identify these landmarks.

Yes, several popular touring cycling routes around Mount Blair are circular. For instance, you can enjoy the challenging Balmoral Bridge – Lecht Ski Centre Summit loop from Spittal of Glenshee, or the scenic View of Pitlochry – Kirkmichael Village loop from Kirkmichael. Another option is the Glenisla Hotel – Alyth Packhorse Bridge loop from Finegand, which takes you through Glenisla.

While cycling, you can explore various natural features and landmarks. Notable peaks in the area include Ben Vrackie summit, Cairnwell Summit, and Glas Maol summit. You might also encounter impressive gorges and waterfalls, such as Soldier's Leap and the Linn of Dee Waterfall and Bridge.

Yes, the Mount Blair area is rich in history. Beyond the natural beauty, you can find prehistoric sites and legends of healing wells. Specific historical points of interest include Soldier's Leap and Cargill's Leap. The summit of Mount Blair itself holds a somber historical attraction, a suicide's grave beneath the cairn.

While specific parking facilities aren't detailed for every route, the area is generally accessible. Cyclists often find parking options in villages like Spittal of Glenshee or Kirkmichael, which serve as starting points for many tours. For routes like the Spittal of Glenshee – Glenshee Ski Centre loop, parking in Spittal of Glenshee would be a convenient option.

The heather-clad slopes of Mount Blair are particularly beautiful when in bloom, typically in late summer (August to September), which fills the air with a honey scent. However, cycling is enjoyable throughout the warmer months, from spring to autumn, offering varied scenery. Always check local weather conditions, as Scotland's weather can be unpredictable.

The routes around Mount Blair range from moderate to difficult. While some sections might be challenging for younger children or less experienced family members due to elevation and distance, there are moderate options available. For example, the Drumore Loch – View of Dalnaglar Castle loop from Over Craig is a moderate route that might be more suitable for families with some cycling experience.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars from over 100 reviews. Reviewers often praise the stunning panoramic views, the diverse blend of Highland and Lowland scenery, and the rewarding challenge of the routes. The sense of achievement from reaching viewpoints and exploring picturesque glens like Glen Shee and Glen Isla is frequently highlighted.

Yes, you'll find various amenities in the villages surrounding Mount Blair. Places like Spittal of Glenshee, Kirkmichael, and Glenisla offer cafes, pubs, and accommodation options, providing convenient stops for refreshments or overnight stays during your cycling tour.