4.6
(122)
2,765
riders
56
rides
No traffic touring cycling routes around Cromar traverse a lower-lying region in Aberdeenshire, Scotland, characterized by a mix of farming land, commercial forestry, and natural birch woodland. The area is encircled by hills, including the prominent Morven Hill, and features heather moorland on higher ground. This varied terrain provides diverse scenic backdrops for cycling, from gentle country lanes to more challenging routes with elevation.
Last updated: May 10, 2026
12
riders
22.0km
01:44
160m
160m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
5
riders
43.9km
02:54
630m
630m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.

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5
riders
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
3
riders
42.3km
02:42
530m
530m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
1
riders
23.9km
02:24
640m
640m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Popular around Cromar
Great café, serving some brilliant food options. Also a small shop with gifts and home decor.
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Easy to walk with kids. They have a big play park and there's a coffe shop too
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A neolithic stone circle, just off the route and easily accessible. Old Keig is one of the "recumbent" stone circles found only in the northeast of Scotland and characterised by a large recumbents stone and two upright "flankers" forming part of the circle, usually aligned on the midwinter moon. Old Keig is notable in having the largest, heaviest of all the recumbent stones.
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Remains of a vintage car, possibly a race car. A short walk from the Aboyne square car park.
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A great stop for lunch or coffee in Aboyne. Lovely cake selection.
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The base for Tarland Trails Pittendreich. There is a large car park, picnic tables and composting toilets. There are lots of trails here, although if you are a complete beginner, you can head to Drummy Woods on the other side of the village of Tarland first. Route maps on their website: https://www.tarland-trails.com
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There are over 50 dedicated no traffic touring cycling routes around Cromar, offering a wide range of options for peaceful rides away from busy roads. These include quiet country lanes and dedicated cycle paths, ensuring a serene cycling experience.
Yes, Cromar offers several easy routes suitable for families. For a gentle ride, consider The Tarland Way – Southern End – Spider on a Bicycle loop from Tarland, which is a moderate route but offers a relatively flat and scenic experience. The region's quiet country lanes are generally well-suited for family outings.
The Howe of Cromar presents a diverse landscape for touring cyclists. You'll encounter a mix of farming land, commercial forestry plantations, and natural birch woodland. The surrounding higher ground features heather moorland, offering varied visual experiences and potential for more challenging climbs. Routes often follow quiet country lanes and dedicated paths.
Many of the no traffic touring cycling routes in Cromar are designed as circular loops, allowing you to start and finish at the same point. An example is the challenging Queen's View (Deeside) – Tomnaverie Stone Circle loop from Tarland, which offers a rewarding circular journey through the landscape.
Cromar's routes often pass by significant natural and historical sites. You might encounter the ancient Tomnaverie Stone Circle, a recumbent stone circle, or the dramatic Burn O' Vat Waterfall, a unique geological formation. Other highlights include the Pressendye Summit and the Summit of Morven, offering panoramic views.
The komoot community highly rates the touring cycling experience in Cromar, with an average score of 4.6 out of 5 stars from over 100 reviews. Cyclists frequently praise the peaceful, traffic-free nature of the routes, the stunning natural beauty, and the opportunity to explore historical sites and diverse landscapes away from the crowds.
Yes, for advanced touring cyclists seeking a challenge, Cromar offers routes with significant elevation gain. For instance, the Pressendye Summit – Pressendye Summit loop from Leys Reservoir Tarland features over 600 meters of ascent, providing a demanding yet rewarding experience through the region's higher ground.
Absolutely. The diverse natural environment of Cromar, with its birch woodlands and heather moorland, provides excellent opportunities for wildlife spotting. Keep an eye out for red squirrels and pheasants in the lower areas, and you might even spot grouse on the higher moorland sections of your ride.
While Cromar offers cycling opportunities year-round, the spring, summer, and early autumn months (April to October) generally provide the most favorable weather conditions for touring. During these periods, you can expect milder temperatures and longer daylight hours, making for more comfortable and enjoyable rides through the varied landscapes.
Many routes are designed to connect or pass through the principal settlements of Cromar. Tarland, for example, serves as a common starting point for several tours, including The Tarland Way – Southern End – Spider on a Bicycle loop from Tarland. These villages offer opportunities for rest stops and to experience local culture.
Yes, Morven Hill, which dominates the area at 871 meters, provides a dramatic backdrop to many routes. While not all routes directly ascend Morven, several offer stunning views of this prominent landmark as you cycle through the surrounding Howe of Cromar. The Summit of Morven itself is a highlight for those seeking panoramic vistas.


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