The best traffic-free bike rides around Bennachie
4.4
(10)
378
riders
12
rides
No traffic road cycling routes around Bennachie traverse a distinctive hill range on the eastern edge of the Grampian mountains in North-East Scotland. The area features varied terrain, with lower slopes covered in woodlands and upper areas transitioning to heather moorland and granite tors. Road cyclists can expect views of the River Don valley and the surrounding Aberdeenshire landscape, with routes often incorporating hills under 200 meters.
Best no traffic road cycling routes around Bennachie
- The most popular no traffic…
Last updated: May 10, 2026
4.5
(2)
19
riders
23.3km
01:05
180m
180m
Easy road ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
19
riders
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
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9
riders
15.4km
00:55
200m
200m
Easy road ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
7
riders
24.3km
01:03
230m
230m
Easy road ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
6
riders
17.2km
00:46
170m
170m
Easy road ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
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Popular around Bennachie
Tips from the Community
A great parkrun route, all flat, primarily on tarmac path. All through the park away from roads. A lovely spot by the river.
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The memorial here commemorates the battle of Inverurie that took place in 1745 during the Jacobite uprising. The cairn is in a state of disrepair so reading the panel is difficult. It is very accessible along the riverside path, newly surface for all abilities.
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Look carefully on the bridge linking Inverurie to Port Elphinstone across the River Don. There is a plaque on the Inverurie side, which indicates the level the River Don reached during the Muckle Spate (Scots for Great Flood) on 4 August 1829. Northeast Scotland was affected by this devastating flood from the Spey to the Dee and into Angus.
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Inverurie Town Hall is a centre point building in Inverurie. It has various meeting rooms and event spaces for hire. Every second Saturday of the month the farmers market is held in the square in front of the town hall.
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The Maiden Stone, also known as the Drumdurno Stone after the nearby farm, is a Pictish standing stone near Inverurie in Aberdeenshire in Scotland, probably dating to the 9th century AD. The Maiden Stone is a 3m-tall cross-slab of pinkish granite, dating to sometime after AD 700. It’s a sculptural delight, bearing both characteristic Pictish symbols and what may be a biblical scene. Plenty of local folklore exists around the Maiden Stone. One tale has it that the stone was once a maiden, who lost a bet with the Devil. As she fled, the Devil turned her to stone. Another says it’s a memorial to a young woman killed as a result of a dispute between two families. - https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maiden_Stone - https://www.historicenvironment.scot/visit-a-place/places/maiden-stone/
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Ury Riverside Parkrun is a fun free 5km run that starts here every Saturday at 9:30. It's marshalled by volunteers and very inclusive, you can race or run/walk a social loop. After the race runners normally grab a social coffee at the Inverurie Garden Centre Café. The course here follows a short loop and then a second longer loop to get the full 5km distance. If you're running here at any time other than Saturday morning, then you can run whatever loop you fancy.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many no traffic road cycling routes are available around Bennachie?
There are currently 11 curated no traffic road cycling routes around Bennachie, designed to offer peaceful rides away from busy roads. These include a mix of easy and moderate options.
What kind of terrain can I expect on these no traffic road cycling routes?
The no traffic routes around Bennachie offer diverse terrain. You can expect quiet country lanes, some featuring 'serious climbs' like the Suie, which reward you with panoramic views of Aberdeenshire. Lower slopes are often covered in woodlands, transitioning to heather moorland higher up. Many routes also follow the banks of the River Don, providing picturesque, tree-lined sections.
Are there easy no traffic road bike trails suitable for beginners?
Yes, Bennachie offers several easy no traffic road cycling routes perfect for beginners. For example, the Polinar Dam loop from Dr Danny Gordon's Widdie is an easy 22.7 km ride, and the Old Rayne stone circle loop from Daviot is another easy option at 24.2 km.
Can I find more challenging no traffic road bike routes around Bennachie?
Yes, for those seeking a greater challenge, there are moderate no traffic road cycling routes. The Clinterty Road loop from The Maiden Stone is a moderate 51 km route with over 400 meters of elevation gain, offering a more demanding experience while still avoiding heavy traffic.
What interesting landmarks or historical sites can I see along these routes?
Many routes offer glimpses of the region's rich history and natural beauty. You might pass by ancient sites like the East Aquhorthies Stone Circle or the Dunnideer Hill Fort Ruins. The iconic Mither Tap hillfort summit is often visible from various points, and you can also find impressive structures like Castle Fraser nearby.
Are there any circular no traffic road bike routes around Bennachie?
Yes, many of the no traffic road cycling routes around Bennachie are circular, allowing you to start and end at the same point. Examples include the Polinar Dam loop from Dr Danny Gordon's Widdie and the Old Rayne stone circle loop from Daviot, providing convenient options for exploration.
What do other road cyclists enjoy most about cycling in Bennachie?
The komoot community highly rates road cycling in Bennachie, with an average score of 4.5 stars. Reviewers often praise the peacefulness of the no traffic routes, the stunning panoramic views from higher elevations, and the diverse landscapes that make each ride unique.
What kind of wildlife might I encounter while cycling around Bennachie?
The varied landscapes of Bennachie provide a habitat for diverse wildlife. While cycling, you might spot cuckoos, red squirrels, and roe deer, especially in the quieter, wooded sections of the routes. Keep an eye out for these creatures as you enjoy your ride.
Is there parking available near the starting points of these routes?
Yes, many of the routes have convenient parking options near their starting points. For example, the Bennachie Visitor Centre is a good starting point for various trails and offers facilities. Specific route descriptions on komoot often provide details on parking availability.
Can I reach these no traffic road cycling routes by public transport?
While some areas around Bennachie are accessible by public transport, it's advisable to check local bus services for specific stops closest to your chosen route's starting point. For detailed information on reaching the area, you might consult resources like VisitAberdeen or the Bennachie Visitor Centre websites.
What is the best time of year for no traffic road cycling in Bennachie?
Spring and autumn generally offer the most pleasant conditions for no traffic road cycling around Bennachie, with milder temperatures and beautiful scenery. Summer can also be excellent, though routes might be busier. Winter cycling is possible but be prepared for colder temperatures and potentially icy conditions, especially on higher ground.
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