The best cycling routes around St Cyrus
4.6
(18)
393
riders
59
rides
Touring cycling routes around St Cyrus offer a diverse landscape characterized by its coastal location in Aberdeenshire, Scotland. The region features dramatic volcanic cliffs, expansive sand dunes, and varied habitats, including the St Cyrus National Nature Reserve. The National Cycle Route 1 traverses the area, providing coastal cycling experiences with views of Montrose Bay and Inverbervie Bay. The terrain includes both paved surfaces and some unpaved segments, with routes ranging from gentle gradients to significant elevation gains.
Best touring cycling routes around St Cyrus
- The most popular touring cycling route is Lunan Bay – Signal Tower Museum, Arbroath loop from St Cyrus, a 44.7 miles (72.0 km) trail that takes 4 hours 26 minutes to complete, offering extensive coastal views.
- Another top favourite among local touring cyclists is North Water Viaduct – Charleton Fruit Farm loop from St Cyrus, a moderate 20.1 miles (32.3 km) path that explores the inland areas and agricultural landscapes.
- Local touring cyclists also love the Inverbervie – Gourdon Harbour loop from Johnshaven, a 9.4 miles (15.1 km) trail leading through coastal villages and harbors, often completed in about 1 hour 10 minutes.
- Touring cycling around St Cyrus is defined by coastal paths, dramatic cliffs, and the diverse habitats of the National Nature Reserve. The network offers options for different ability levels, from easy rides to more challenging routes.
- The routes in St Cyrus are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.3 stars from more than 20 reviews. More than 300 touring cyclists have used komoot to explore St Cyrus's varied terrain.
Last updated: October 11, 2026
4.3
(3)
33
riders
71.0km
04:22
540m
540m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
14
riders
32.3km
01:57
180m
180m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
15
riders
15.2km
01:10
40m
40m
Easy bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
17
riders
25.9km
02:01
130m
130m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
6
riders
37.9km
02:19
290m
290m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
The statue commemorates Bamse, a St Bernard, that became a Norwegian military mascot during the second world war. Bamse served on the ship Thorodd, which escaped Norway when it capitulated. The ship became a mine sweeper serving out of Montrose. He even had a special helmet.
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Loads of new cycling infrastructure in Arbroath.
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The Gourdon Survival Station – small, blue, and absolutely essential for survival! Right on the harbor wall in Gourdon, you'll find everything you need for survival – in a charmingly Scottish miniature version: • 🥫 The Storage Box – A food donation box. Open, honest, and supportive. If you're hungry, help yourself. If you have anything left over, put it in. Works better than some refrigerators! • 📚 The Little Free Library – A blue bookcase with anchor decorations, packed with crime novels, children's books, and romantic dramas. For your mind when the weather turns to "horizontal rain" again. • ⚡ The Defibrillator – Safely stored in an old telephone booth with a retro mosaic. If the thrill of a JD Kirk novel or the stairs to the harbor sweep you away – here's power for your heart. Conclusion: Humans need three things: food, reading, and life. In Gourdon, you'll find everything – right next to each other, without any bureaucracy. You just have to brew your own tea.
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For those interested in bagging the circa 170 cast-iron 'Millennium Milepost' sculptures on the National Cycle Network in Scotland, here's one at Arbroath Signal Lighthouse. (Type: Rowe, MP50)
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For those interested in bagging the circa 170 cast-iron 'Millennium Milepost' sculptures on the National Cycle Network in Scotland, here's one at Arbroath. (Type: Rowe, MP501)
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The old stone bridge over River Esk is closed since winter 2023-24 floods. Its first section was washed away and it does not look like it will be fixed anytime soon. It affects the Montrose Basin circular cycling route. No warning signs until crossroads at Barnhead. UPDATE: as of May 2026, maybe earlier, it is now fixed and opened.
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If you are looking for a coastal walk with stunning views, diverse wildlife and rich history, you might want to visit St Cyrus National Nature Reserve. This reserve is located on the north-east coast of Scotland, between the village of St Cyrus and the North Sea. It has a warm and sunny microclimate, thanks to the shelter provided by the inland cliffs and the sand dunes. You can enjoy the sight of colourful wildflowers, rare butterflies, lizards and birds, as well as explore the remains of an old lifeboat station and a salmon fishing station. The reserve is open all year round and has a visitor centre, toilets and parking facilities
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many touring cycling routes are available around St Cyrus?
There are over 70 touring cycling routes around St Cyrus, offering a diverse range of experiences. These include 21 easy routes, 35 moderate routes, and 14 more challenging options, catering to various fitness levels and preferences.
What is the best time of year for touring cycling in St Cyrus?
St Cyrus benefits from a unique warm microclimate, especially in summer, making it ideal for touring cycling. This period sees abundant wildflowers and insects, particularly within the St Cyrus National Nature Reserve. While routes are accessible year-round, spring and summer offer the most pleasant conditions for enjoying the coastal scenery and wildlife.
What do other touring cyclists say about the routes in St Cyrus?
The touring cycling routes in St Cyrus are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.3 stars from over 20 reviews. Cyclists often praise the dramatic coastal views, the diverse habitats, and the variety of routes available, from gentle coastal paths to more challenging inland loops.
Are there easy touring cycling routes suitable for beginners in St Cyrus?
Yes, St Cyrus offers 21 easy touring cycling routes perfect for beginners or those seeking a relaxed ride. An excellent option is the Inverbervie – Gourdon Harbour loop from Johnshaven, a 9.4-mile trail leading through charming coastal villages and harbors.
Are there any accessible bike paths in St Cyrus?
Yes, a dedicated cycle path links Montrose to a viaduct over the River North Esk, providing access to St Cyrus beach and offering a relatively accessible cycling experience. This path is part of the broader network that includes both paved and some unpaved segments.
Can I find circular touring cycling routes in St Cyrus?
Many touring cycling routes around St Cyrus are designed as loops, allowing you to start and finish at the same point. For example, the popular North Water Viaduct – Charleton Fruit Farm loop from St Cyrus is a moderate 20.1-mile path exploring inland areas, and the Inverbervie – Inverberbie Stone Bridge loop from St Cyrus offers an easy 15.9-mile coastal ride.
What kind of wildlife can I spot while cycling around St Cyrus?
St Cyrus is rich in wildlife, especially within the St Cyrus National Nature Reserve. Cyclists might spot peregrine falcons, ravens, buzzards, and various butterflies and grasshoppers. The coastal waters offer chances to see seals, dolphins, porpoises, and occasionally minke and killer whales. Roe deer, foxes, and common lizards also inhabit the reserve.
Are there any waterfalls along the touring cycling routes near St Cyrus?
Yes, you can find the Woodston Burn Waterfall and Rocks near St Cyrus, which can be a scenic stop on your cycling tour. This natural feature adds a picturesque element to the diverse landscapes of the region.
What interesting places can I explore along the touring cycling routes?
Beyond the stunning coastline, touring cyclists can explore several points of interest. These include the St Cyrus National Nature Reserve, the historic Ecclesgreig Old Church and Nether Kirkyard, and the impressive Ferryden Viaduct. Coastal towns like Inverbervie also offer pleasant stops.
Are there options for pub stops or places to eat along the touring cycling routes?
Yes, coastal towns such as Inverbervie, which you can pass through on routes like the Inverbervie – Inverberbie Stone Bridge loop from St Cyrus, offer shops, cafes, and pubs for refreshments. These settlements provide convenient stops to refuel and relax during your ride.
Where can I find parking for bike trails in St Cyrus?
Parking is generally available at various access points to the cycling routes, particularly near popular attractions like the St Cyrus National Nature Reserve visitor center. Many routes also start from towns like Montrose or Johnshaven, where public parking facilities can be found.
Are there any long-distance touring cycling routes that pass through St Cyrus?
Yes, the National Cycle Route 1 passes through the St Cyrus area, offering a fantastic coastal cycling experience. This route provides extensive views of Montrose Bay and Inverbervie Bay, connecting St Cyrus to towns like Montrose, Johnshaven, and Inverbervie, and can be incorporated into longer tours.
Can I combine cycling with other activities in St Cyrus?
Absolutely. St Cyrus is ideal for combining cycling with other outdoor activities. You can enjoy scenic walks along the expansive St Cyrus Beach, explore the waymarked trails of the National Nature Reserve, or visit the Montrose Basin Wildlife Centre for birdwatching, all easily accessible from various cycling routes.
Most popular attractions around St Cyrus
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