The best traffic-free bike rides around Peterhead

There are 12 dedicated no-traffic touring cycling routes around Peterhead listed in this guide. These routes offer a variety of experiences, from coastal views to tranquil countryside paths.

The routes around Peterhead cater to various skill levels. This guide features 4 easy routes, 7 moderate routes, and 1 difficult route, ensuring options for both beginners and experienced touring cyclists.

Yes, a major highlight for touring cyclists is the Formartine and Buchan Way. This traffic-free path, built on a former railway line, extends for 53 miles. One branch leads east for 13 miles to Peterhead, offering a flat and accessible ride. You can find more information about this route on Wikipedia.

Yes, several routes are designed as loops, allowing you to start and finish in the same location. For example, the Pitfour Lake – Pitfour Lake loop from Peterhead offers a moderate 45.6 km ride, while the Auchlee Bridge and Tunnel – Inverugie Castle Ruins loop from Peterhead is a moderate 33.5 km option.

The Peterhead area boasts dramatic coastal scenery and historic sites. You can cycle past the ruins of New Slains Castle, a clifftop fortress believed to have inspired Bram Stoker's *Dracula*. Further south, the Bullers of Buchan — Sea Cliffs and Rock Arch offers a spectacular natural chasm and is a haven for seabirds. The Buchan Coastal Path: Slains Castle to Dunbuy Island also provides breathtaking views.

Absolutely. This guide includes 4 easy routes perfect for beginners or those seeking a relaxed ride. An excellent option is the Auchlee Bridge and Tunnel loop from Inverugie, which is 20.7 km long with minimal elevation gain.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.875 stars from 10 ratings. Reviewers often praise the peaceful, traffic-free nature of the routes, the diverse coastal and rural scenery, and the opportunity to explore historic landmarks and natural features away from busy roads.

While specific amenities vary by route, the Formartine and Buchan Way, a key traffic-free path, passes through or near several towns and villages where you can find cafes, pubs, and other services. For example, the Hackley Bay – Platform 5 Café & Sweet Shop loop from Peterhead specifically mentions a cafe, indicating opportunities for refreshments.

Yes, many routes have accessible parking. For instance, if you plan to explore the coastal path or Slains Castle area, there is a dedicated Slains Castle Car Park. For other routes, starting points in towns or villages often have public parking facilities, though it's always good to check local signage.

The spring, summer, and early autumn months (April to October) generally offer the most pleasant weather for cycling in Peterhead. During these periods, you'll experience milder temperatures and longer daylight hours. However, due to the coastal proximity, wind can be a factor at any time of year, so it's always advisable to check the local forecast before heading out.

Many routes offer glimpses of the region's rich history and natural beauty. The Auchlee Bridge and Tunnel – Odeta loop from Peterhead, for example, takes you past interesting historical infrastructure. The coastal routes, in particular, provide views of dramatic cliffs, sea arches like Dunbuy Island Sea Arch, and the iconic New Slains Castle.