The best cycling routes around East Caithness Cliffs Marine Protected Area

There are over 15 touring cycling routes available in the East Caithness Cliffs Marine Protected Area, offering a diverse range of experiences for cyclists.

Yes, the area offers 5 easy touring cycling routes. These routes are generally shorter and have less elevation gain, making them ideal for beginners or those looking for a more relaxed ride. One example is the route around Rumster Forest, which offers a moderate experience through forest and coastal villages.

Absolutely. For experienced cyclists seeking a challenge, there are 2 difficult touring cycling routes. These routes often feature significant elevation changes and longer distances, such as The Crask Road – View of Helmsdale loop from Ord of Caithness, which covers over 54 km with substantial climbing.

Yes, many routes in the area are designed as loops, allowing you to start and finish in the same location. Examples include A loop of Rumster Forest, Lybster & Latheron and Loch Watten & Rumster Forest loop from Lybster, both offering scenic circular rides.

The East Caithness Cliffs Marine Protected Area is renowned for its rich biodiversity, especially seabirds. During breeding season, you can spot vast colonies of black guillemots, razorbills, kittiwakes, fulmars, and common guillemots nesting on the dramatic cliffs. Keep an eye out for these incredible birds, particularly along coastal sections of your ride.

The region is rich in dramatic natural features. You can encounter unique coastal formations like "geos" (cliff inlets) and natural sea arches, particularly at Duncansby Head and the prominent Stack o' Brough. The weathered sandstone cliffs themselves, soaring up to 150 meters at Berriedale, are a spectacular sight.

Yes, the area offers several fascinating historical sites. You can visit the ancient Castle of Old Wick, perched dramatically on a rocky outcrop. Another unique spot is the Whaligoe Steps, 365 stone steps cut into the cliff face, historically used by fishermen. While challenging to navigate with cycling cleats, the views and history are compelling.

The summer months, particularly from late spring to early autumn, generally offer the most favorable weather conditions for touring cycling in East Caithness. This period provides longer daylight hours and milder temperatures, though the coastal weather can be unpredictable. It's also when seabird colonies are most active on the cliffs.

Yes, the region's cycling network includes routes that connect to these well-known locations. For instance, the John O'Groats & Dunnet Bay loop from Wick offers a substantial ride connecting these iconic northern points.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 5.0 stars. Reviewers often praise the dramatic coastal landscapes, the sense of remote grandeur, and the opportunity to witness diverse wildlife, especially the seabird colonies. The mix of quiet roads and varied terrain also contributes to a rewarding touring experience.

Public transport options in this remote region are limited but can include local bus services connecting towns like Wick and Thurso, which might allow for bike transport depending on the service. For longer distances, train services to Wick or Thurso are available, though checking bike carriage policies in advance is recommended. Many cyclists also integrate their routes with the National Cycle Route 1 or the North Coast 500, which are accessible by various means.

While the region is known for its remote beauty, you can find cafes and pubs in the villages and towns along or near the routes, such as Lybster, Wick, and Thurso. It's advisable to plan your stops in advance, especially on longer routes, as services can be spread out.

Yes, there is a route that incorporates this unique historical site. The Whaligoe Steps, Grey Cairns & Loch Watten loop from Wick is a moderate route that allows you to visit the steps as part of your cycling adventure.