5.0
(2)
48
riders
14
rides
Touring cycling around Tannach And District, located within the Scottish Highlands, features a diverse landscape suitable for various cycling preferences. The region is characterized by a rugged coastline with towering cliffs and tranquil coves, alongside inland valleys, glens, and moorland. Freshwater lochs are also present, offering picturesque views and varied terrain for cyclists.
Last updated: April 30, 2026
8
riders
78.2km
04:33
440m
440m
Cycle the John O'Groats & Dunnet Bay loop from Wick, a moderate 48.6-mile route with coastal views and the iconic Dunnet Bay Beach.
1
riders
57.9km
03:27
380m
380m
Cycle a moderate 36-mile loop from Lybster through Rumster Forest and past Loch Watten, featuring varied terrain and wildlife.

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1
riders
55.7km
03:32
350m
350m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(1)
11
riders
86.3km
05:17
780m
780m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
8
riders
15.9km
01:06
130m
130m
Easy bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Popular around Tannach And District
This is a pretty commercialised spot, but for a good reason. The end or start point of many a biking and hiking adventure. Ours took 12 days, south to north, and I was pretty glad to see this signpost.
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The stairs are quite steep, so you should not be afraid of heights.
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The path to the viewpoint is now very easy, you no longer have to go around the valley (there is a comfortable path with wooden steps and a bridge). However, there can be a nasty wind at the top of the ledge, there are no railings!
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Really worth seeing small local museum with a very appealing café - but: CASH ONLY!!!
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This iconic signpost marks the end of the journey for cyclists (and hikers!) making the long trek from Land's End, the southwestern tip of mainland Britain. Unlike the Land's End sign, this one is free to get your photo taken at. Just be prepared to wait, as it can get quite busy with tourists doing the NC500 route. It's worth noting that despite its fame, John O' Groats is not the absolute most northerly point of mainland Britain. That distinction belongs to Dunnet Head, which is situated a few miles to the west of John O' Groats.
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A magnificent beach of fine sand protected by an immense barrier of high dunes. Perhaps the most northerly surf spot in Britain. Spectacular!
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A magnificent beach of fine sand protected by an immense barrier of high dunes. Perhaps the most northerly surf spot in Britain. Spectacular!
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Dunbeath also has a harbour that was built in the early 1800s to cash in on the boom in herring fishing. Up to 100 boats used to operate from the village. Dunbeath’s harbour is now much quieter but it does provide an excellent viewpoint for the prominent 15th century Dunbeath Castle that stands above cliffs on a peninsular to the south of the village looking like a white sentinel.
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Tannach And District offers a selection of 14 touring cycling routes, catering to various preferences and skill levels. These routes explore the region's diverse landscapes, from rugged coastlines to serene inland glens.
The terrain in Tannach And District is quite varied. You'll find routes with mostly paved surfaces, suitable for all skill levels, as well as more challenging segments that may be unpaved and feature significant elevation gains. The landscape includes dramatic coastlines, tranquil coves, inland valleys, glens, and moorland, often with picturesque views of freshwater lochs.
Yes, there are several routes suitable for beginners and families. For example, The Trinkie Sea Water Pool – Wick Harbour loop from Wick is an easy 15.9 km path that offers a pleasant ride. The region has 5 easy routes in total, providing accessible options for a more relaxed cycling experience.
Absolutely. For experienced touring cyclists seeking a challenge, the region offers routes with significant elevation gains and longer distances. The Wick Railway Station – Old Pulteney Distillery loop from Wick is a difficult 86.3 km route with considerable elevation, providing a strenuous cycling adventure through the varied Scottish Highlands landscape.
Tannach And District is rich in historical sites that can be incorporated into your cycling tours. You can visit the dramatic ruins of Castle Sinclair Girnigoe, perched on a rocky promontory, or explore the ancient Grey Cairns of Camster. The historic Whaligoe Steps, a dramatic descent to a former fishing port, is also a notable stop on some routes, such as the Whaligoe Steps, Grey Cairns & Loch Watten loop from Wick.
The region boasts breathtaking natural beauty. Cyclists can enjoy panoramic views from Noss Head Lighthouse, overlooking the North Sea. The dramatic coastline with its towering cliffs and tranquil coves is a constant feature. Inland, you'll cycle through picturesque valleys, glens, and past serene freshwater lochs, such as those found on the Loch Watten & Rumster Forest loop from Lybster.
The best time for touring cycling in Tannach And District is generally during the warmer, drier months, typically from late spring to early autumn (May to September). During this period, you'll experience longer daylight hours and more favorable weather conditions, making it ideal for exploring both coastal and inland routes. However, the dramatic landscapes offer unique beauty in all seasons.
Yes, many of the touring cycling routes in Tannach And District are designed as loops, allowing you to start and end your journey in the same location. Examples include the popular John O'Groats & Dunnet Bay loop from Wick, the Loch Watten & Rumster Forest loop from Lybster, and the Whaligoe Steps, Grey Cairns & Loch Watten loop from Wick.
The touring cycling routes in Tannach And District are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 5.0 stars. Cyclists often praise the diverse landscapes, from the rugged coastal grandeur to the serene inland glens and lochs. The opportunity to combine cycling with visits to historical landmarks and scenic viewpoints is also a frequently highlighted aspect.
While specific parking information for each route varies, many routes start from towns like Wick and Lybster, where public parking facilities are generally available. It is advisable to check local parking options in these starting points before your tour.
Many routes in Tannach And District are accessible via public transport, particularly those starting from larger towns like Wick. Wick has a railway station, and bus services connect various communities within the region. Cyclists should verify specific transport schedules and bike carriage policies with local operators when planning their trip.
While the region offers a sense of remoteness, routes often pass through or near villages and towns where you can find cafes and pubs. It's recommended to plan your stops in advance, especially on longer routes, as services can be spread out. Starting points like Wick and Lybster offer more amenities.


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