The best gravel rides around Loch of the Lowes

The region offers a diverse mix of terrain, transitioning from rolling farmland to rugged Highland foothills. You'll encounter dirt paths, gravel tracks through forests and moorland, and riverside paths along the River Tay. Some routes also feature a good balance of paved and unpaved surfaces.

Yes, several routes are suitable for families. The area's varied terrain includes gentler paths, and the Mill Dam Lochan – Dunkeld Town Centre loop from Dunkeld and Birnam is a moderate option that offers lochside scenery and connections to the nearby town. The Loch of the Lowes Visitor Centre also provides interactive activities for children, making it a great stop during a family ride.

Loch of the Lowes is a rich wildlife reserve. From April to August, you might spot ospreys, especially near the visitor centre. Throughout the year, the reserve is home to red squirrels, beavers (visible from April to September), deer, woodpeckers, and various wildfowl. Otters are also present, and migratory birds visit in autumn and winter.

Yes, many of the gravel routes around Loch of the Lowes are circular. For example, the Mill Dam Lochan – Loch Ordie loop from Dunkeld is a popular moderate circular path that takes you through varied terrain. Another option is the Mill Dam Lochan – Dunkeld Town Centre loop from Dunkeld and Birnam.

The area is enjoyable for gravel biking for much of the year. Spring (April-May) and autumn (September-October) offer pleasant temperatures and beautiful scenery. Spring is ideal for spotting ospreys and beavers, while autumn brings vibrant foliage. Winter biking is possible, but conditions can be more challenging due to weather.

Bike parking facilities are available in the area. You can access the reserve via the A923 from Dunkeld, and parking is typically found at trailheads or near the Loch of the Lowes Visitor Centre.

Yes, for more experienced riders seeking a challenge, the Logierait Viaduct – General Wade's Bridge loop from Dunkeld is a difficult 56.6 km trail that leads through riverside landscapes and past historical bridges, typically taking around 3 hours 40 minutes to complete.

The gravel biking routes around Loch of the Lowes are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.7 stars. Reviewers often praise the diverse landscapes, from tranquil woodlands to rugged moorland, and the opportunity to combine cycling with world-class wildlife viewing, especially the ospreys.

The Loch of the Lowes Visitor Centre offers refreshments, making it a convenient stop. Additionally, the nearby villages of Dunkeld and Birnam provide cafes, pubs, and accommodation options for cyclists.

While specific public transport details for trailheads vary, Dunkeld is well-connected and serves as a good base. From Dunkeld, you can access the reserve via the A923, which is a short diversion from National Cycle Network route 77.

Beyond Loch of the Lowes itself, which is a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI), you'll encounter diverse landscapes ranging from rolling farmland to Highland foothills. Keep an eye out for the extensive woodlands, the Lunan Burn connecting the Lunan Lochs, and the historic General Wade's Bridge near Dunkeld.

There are several gravel bike routes available around Loch of the Lowes, offering options for various skill levels. Komoot lists a handful of curated tours, including moderate and difficult options, to help you explore the region.