The best traffic-free bike rides around Loch of the Lowes

There are several dedicated no-traffic gravel bike trails around Loch of the Lowes, offering a peaceful cycling experience. This guide features three distinct routes, all rated as moderate difficulty, perfect for exploring the region's quiet woodlands and lochs.

The terrain on these no-traffic gravel trails is varied, ranging from forest tracks and quiet cycling paths to some sections that might include more challenging singletrack. You can expect a mix of rugged beauty, rolling farmland, mixed woodlands, and moorland, characteristic of the Perthshire region.

The region is beautiful year-round, but spring (April-May) and autumn (September-October) offer particularly pleasant conditions with vibrant foliage or blooming nature, and generally milder weather. Summer (June-August) is also popular, especially for wildlife spotting like ospreys, though trails can be busier. Winter riding is possible but be prepared for colder, potentially wetter conditions.

While the routes in this guide are generally rated as 'moderate' due to distance and elevation, many sections are on quiet forest tracks and paths, making them enjoyable for families with some cycling experience. For example, the Mill Dam Lochan – Dunkeld Town Centre loop from Dunkeld and Birnam offers a good introduction to the area's gravel paths.

Many of the trails around Loch of the Lowes are dog-friendly, especially those on public rights of way or within forestry land. However, always keep dogs under close control, particularly near livestock or wildlife reserves. Be aware that the Loch of the Lowes Visitor Centre and Wildlife Reserve has specific rules regarding dogs to protect nesting birds and other animals.

Yes, all the routes featured in this guide are circular, allowing you to start and finish at the same point. Examples include the Mill Dam Lochan – Loch Ordie loop from Dunkeld and the Loch Ordie – Mill Dam Lochan loop from Dowally, providing convenient options for your ride.

Parking is generally available in nearby towns like Dunkeld and Birnam, which serve as common starting points for many routes. Specific car parks are often signposted near trailheads or popular access points. Always check local signage for parking restrictions and fees.

Dunkeld & Birnam train station provides good public transport access to the area, making it possible to reach many trailheads without a car. From the station, you can often cycle directly onto quiet roads or designated paths that connect to the wider gravel network.

The region is rich in wildlife. The Loch of the Lowes Visitor Centre and Wildlife Reserve is famous for its breeding ospreys (April-August), red squirrels, beavers (April-September), woodpeckers, and various wildfowl and deer. While cycling, keep an eye out for these species, especially in quieter woodland sections.

Absolutely! The region is dotted with natural and historical landmarks. You might encounter the ancient Birnam Oak, mentioned in Shakespeare's Macbeth, or the historic Dunkeld Cathedral. The Hermitage, with its towering Douglas firs and the Black Linn Falls, is another notable attraction often accessible from nearby routes like the Mill Dam Lochan – Dunkeld Town Centre loop from Dunkeld and Birnam.

The nearby town of Dunkeld is an excellent hub for refreshments, offering a selection of cafes, pubs, and restaurants. It's a popular starting and finishing point for many routes, making it convenient to grab a coffee or a meal before or after your ride.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.7 stars. Reviewers often praise the peaceful, traffic-free nature of the trails, the stunning natural beauty, and the opportunity for wildlife spotting. The varied terrain and well-maintained paths also receive frequent positive mentions.