The best MTB trails around Orphir

There are 4 mountain bike trails available around Orphir, offering a mix of easy and moderate routes. These trails allow you to explore the dramatic landscapes and coastal scenery of the Orkney Mainland.

The mountain bike trails around Orphir feature varied terrain, including coastal paths, wild heather hills, and tracks that traverse the Orkney Mainland. You can expect expansive views, including the historically significant Scapa Flow, and a mix of surfaces suitable for mountain biking.

Yes, there are easy mountain bike trails around Orphir. For example, the Earl's Palace, Kirkwall – St Magnus Cathedral loop from The Pickaquoy Centre is an easy 15.4-mile (24.8 km) route that takes about 1 hour 25 minutes to complete, leading through the Kirkwall area.

While there are no trails explicitly rated as 'difficult' in the immediate Orphir area, you can find moderate routes that offer a good challenge. The From Stromness to Loch Harray and Skara Brae loop is a moderate 35.3-mile (56.9 km) trail with significant elevation gain, offering views of the Orkney Mainland and coastal paths.

Many trails in the wider Orkney area pass by significant historical sites. For instance, the Earl's Palace, Kirkwall – St Magnus Cathedral loop from The Pickaquoy Centre explores the area around Kirkwall, passing landmarks like St Magnus Cathedral and Earl's Palace, Kirkwall. Other routes might bring you close to ancient sites such as the Ring of Brodgar or the Standing Stones of Stenness.

Yes, several routes around Orphir are designed as loops. For example, the Standing Stones of Stenness – View of Loch of Stenness loop from Mill of Eyrland is an easy 15.4-mile (24.7 km) circular route that offers views of the Loch of Stenness.

The mountain biking experience around Orphir is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.1 stars from 8 reviews. Riders often praise the dramatic landscapes, coastal paths, and wild heather hills, as well as the variety of routes suitable for different ability levels.

Orphir and the broader Orkney Islands offer routes suitable for families, particularly those looking for easier, less technical rides. The region's scenic coastal paths and less challenging tracks can be enjoyable for family outings, though specific dedicated 'family trails' may vary.

While many outdoor areas in Orkney are dog-friendly, it's always recommended to keep dogs under close control, especially near livestock or on shared paths. Check local signage for specific restrictions on individual trails or protected areas. Be mindful of ground-nesting birds during breeding season.

The best time to go mountain biking in Orphir is generally during the spring, summer, and early autumn months (April to October). During these periods, the weather is typically milder, with longer daylight hours and less chance of severe winds or rain, making for more enjoyable riding conditions across the exposed landscapes.

While Orphir itself is a smaller community, the nearby town of Kirkwall, which many trails pass through or near, offers a range of cafes, pubs, and accommodation options. You can find places to refuel and relax after your ride in Kirkwall Town Centre or near Kirkwall Harbour.

Public transport options in the Orkney Islands primarily involve bus services connecting various towns and villages, including Orphir and Kirkwall. Cyclists should check local bus timetables and policies regarding carrying bikes, as space can be limited. Ferries connect the Orkney Mainland to other islands and the Scottish mainland, and often accommodate bikes.