Cairngorms Winter Bike Rides

Mountain Biking & Cycling

Whether you want to, lycra-clad, whizz along the quiet roads, or scale epic peaks off-road, there is a perfect scenic cycle route for all ages and fitness levels…

The Cairngorms is home to some of the best cycling in Scotland, whether you’re after a challenge or a leisurely pootle. Magic two-wheeled memories are made here, from a tot’s first time on a bike to the intermediate’s mastery of a new trail to the expert setting a personal best.

If you want to explore the stunning Cairngorms National Park, what better way than to cycle through the beautiful backdrop?

Whether you’re a seasoned cyclist with a passion for riding or you’re just looking for a fun way to explore, cycling through the Cairngorms provides an exciting day out with plenty of exercise.

With attractions like the farmer’s markets and a range of restaurants being linked by cycle routes, you can make the most of your break by embracing the great outdoors - safe in the knowledge that a welcome pit stop is never too far away. Whether it’s a romantic break for two, a fun-filled family holiday or solo cycling, in Cairngorms National Park, you can do it all.

From riding along the quiet roads to riding in the spectacular mountain landscape, Cairngorms trails offer a cycling adventure suitable for everyone - and it’s not all easy pedalling.

The Cairngorms National Park is home to some of the best mountain bike routes in Scotland - ideal for challenging the adventurer in you. From discovering the thrill and excitement of biking in the Highlands to braving some of the park’s dynamic tracks, every trip to the Cairngorms packs plenty of adrenaline.

With a variety of specialist bike shops on site, you don’t need to worry if you’ve left your wheels at home.

If you want to enjoy all the excitement of exploring without the exertion, you and your party can hire electric bikes. The Cairngorms National Park has a number of routes for you to follow. An e-bike gives you the chance to hop on and off at your leisure, while taking in everything the beautiful countryside has to offer.

Boasting an impressive 64km of off-road cycle routes, the National Cycle Network allows you to enjoy a peaceful ride through nature at your own pace.

From mountain bike trails to on-the-road cycling routes, cycling in Scotland offers you an opportunity to embrace the sights, sounds and smells of this lush landscape. Whether you’re looking for a cliff-top challenge or a quiet day out in the countryside, the Cairngorms National Park has a cycle route suitable for everyone.

For cycling in Glenlivet, the eagerly awaited Glenlivet Mountain Bike Trail Centre is now open for business and boasts plenty of routes guaranteed to make your cycling holiday as action-packed as possible. In the Southern part of the Cairngorms Laggan Wolftrax is an exciting, purpose-built, singletrack mountain bike centre. If you’re looking for a convenient place to stay, there are plenty of accommodation options in the area that are a part of the Visit Scotland Cyclists Welcome Scheme - which means they’re equipped to cater for all of your biking holiday needs.

Whatever kind of adventure you’re looking for, a cycling holiday in the Cairngorms really does offer the full package.


FAQs:

Where’s the best place to mountain bike for my level?

There is such a range of mountain biking in the Cairngorms National Park that there is something for everyone, at every level. At the beginner / intermediate level, there are many cycle routes throughout the park and ‘ways’ such as Speyside Way or the ‘Old Logging Way’, which offer wide, well maintained tracks, appropriate for tag-alongs and trailers too. But, if you’re an advanced rider looking for thrills and spills, then there are two fantastic, dedicated mountain biking centres in the park: Glenlivet and Laggan Wolftrax. While these also have easier routes, the pro rider will definitely find a challenge if that’s what you’re after!

Where can I hire equipment?

There are excellent bike-hire shops throughout the park with excellent staff who will also be able to advise you on good routes to suit your ability nearby, as well as safety. These shops also sell high quality equipment including clothing, if you really get the cycling bug while you’re in the Cairngorms (which many people do!). Check out listings for details of local shops.

Can you suggest any routes?

You can view lots of brilliant Cairngorms Routes on our this page…

For road biking, check out VisitScotland’s guide here.

Staff at local bike hire shops are also a great source of information when it comes to the best routes to suit your level and the weather / season.


biking at Glenlivet

Glenlivet Mountain Bike Trails

Enjoy fantastic fun packed, flowing trails and stunning views at the heart of the Glenlivet Estate...

Sustrans Cycle Routes in the Cairngorms
An Lochan Uaine & Loch Morlich4 HOURS 19M/31KM 1083FT/330M
The 5 Bridges Loop4 HOURS 33M/53KM 1364FT/416M
Aviemore to Abernethy3.5 HOURS 18M/30KM 682FT/208M
A circuit of Inshriach Forest & Glen Feshie2.5 HOURS 20M/33KM 1234FT/376M
Grantown on Spey Loop3 - 4 HOURS 24M/39.5KM 1446FT/441M
Tomintoul Loop3 - 4 HOURS 20M/32.4KM 1185FT/361M
Linn of Dee & Mar Lodge2 - 2.5 HOURS 12M/20.5KM 652FT/199M
A circuit of Lower Glen Tilt2 HOURS 5M/9.5KM 640FT/194M

#VisitCairngorms to join locals and visitors on their own journey of discovery!

Join our Mailing List

Sign up to get notified of the latest deals, news and all the latest information direct to your inbox.