Highlight • Cafe
The Bothy Café Ballater
Cycling
4.8
(27)
This Highlight is in a protected area
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Tips
January 31, 2020
Cycling
October 28, 2020
Cycling
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Nearby routes
Best routes near The Bothy Café Ballater
5.0
(3)
59
riders
36.6km
02:39
280m
270m
Embark on a moderate touring cycling adventure with the Deeside Way & Aboyne loop from Ballater, covering 22.8 miles (36.6 km) with 902 feet (275 metres) of elevation gain. This route typically takes around 2 hours and 39 minutes to complete. You'll cycle through a diverse landscape of forests, farmland, and moorland, enjoying views over the River Dee and glimpses of the Cairngorm Mountains. The terrain varies from unsealed tracks and gravel paths to tarmac, often following the gentle gradients of the old Royal Deeside Railway line, though some sections may involve country roads.
As you plan your visit, consider starting from Ballater, where the Old Royal Station now serves as a visitor centre. The trail is part of National Cycle Network Route 195, making it well-integrated for cyclists. Be aware that while much of the route is off-road, you will encounter short sections on country roads or narrow pavements where you need to be mindful of traffic. Along the way, you'll pass by the Muir of Dinnet National Nature Reserve and might even spot gliders near the Deeside Gliding Club in Aboyne.
This loop offers a rich blend of history and natural beauty, tracing the path of the Old Royal Deeside Railway, which once served Queen Victoria on her journeys to Balmoral. You can pause at the picturesque Cambus o'May Suspension Bridge over the River Dee, a popular spot for a break. The route also takes you past Tullich Kirk, an ancient church with roots dating back to around 1400, adding a layer of historical depth to your ride through this scenic part of Aberdeenshire and the Cairngorms National Park.
4.7
(3)
36
riders
34.0km
02:14
490m
490m
Embark on the Ballater to Gairnshiel Circular, a difficult touring cycling route that takes you through the stunning landscapes of Cairngorms National Park. This challenging loop covers 21.2 miles (34.0 km) and involves a significant climb, gaining 1616 feet (492 metres) in elevation. You can expect to complete the ride in about 2 hours and 13 minutes, enjoying views across the River Dee and towards the distant Cairngorm Mountains as you cycle through dense forests and expansive empty hills.
Be ready for a demanding ride, especially a notable climb shortly after leaving the River Dee valley. Some parts of the route may feature unpaved surfaces or gravel, so a good to very good level of fitness is essential for this adventure. You will briefly join the A93 before turning onto the road that leads towards Tomintoul, so stay alert for traffic during that section.
This route offers a rewarding experience for experienced cyclists who appreciate the iconic Scottish Highland scenery. As you make your way around the loop, be sure to pause at the historic Gairnshiel Bridge, a picturesque landmark that provides a great photo opportunity. The trail showcases the natural beauty of Royal Deeside, making it a memorable journey for those seeking a robust cycling challenge.
4.4
(5)
24
riders
Embark on a moderate touring bicycle loop through the Cairngorms National Park, covering 15.1 miles (24.3 km) with 528 feet (161 metres) of elevation gain. This route typically takes around 1 hour and 42 minutes to complete. You'll experience a mix of paved roads, unpaved forest tracks, and lakeside paths, including sections of the Deeside Way. The trail offers tranquil lochside views around Loch Kinord, passes through ancient Caledonian Pine forests, and provides glimpses of the River Dee from the historic Cambus O’ May Bridge. Be prepared for varied terrain, as some unpaved segments may feature roots and rocks.
While cycling this route, you can find convenient stops for refreshments near cafes in Cambus O' May and Dinnet. The trail is generally classified as a moderate bike ride, requiring good fitness, especially for the more challenging unpaved sections. If you plan to cross the Cambus O' May Bridge, be aware that the turnstiles at both ends can make access difficult if you are pushing your bike. This loop is suitable for touring cyclists looking for a diverse and scenic experience in the region.
This trail takes you through the Muir of Dinnet National Nature Reserve, home to Loch Kinord, where you can explore varied ecosystems and potentially spot wildlife like osprey. The loch itself holds a crannog, an artificial island with the remains of an Iron Age dwelling. Portions of the loop utilize the Deeside Way, a multi-use path built on an old railway line, offering a generally wide and firm cycling surface. The combination of lochs, woodlands, and historic structures makes this loop a notable journey in the Cairngorms.
Details
Informations
Elevation 200 m
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Wednesday 23 September
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Max wind speed: 24.0 km/h
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