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Road Cycling
Aberdeenshire’s rural and wide winding roads matched with its picture-perfect panoramic mountainous landscapes, make it the idyllic place for road cycling in Scotland.
The terrain in this part of Scotland varies from coastal passes and rolling farmland to challenging climbs, including the iconic Cairn O’ Mount, between Banchory and Stonehaven, where gradients of up to 18% will challenge even the fittest legs.
Ride through Royal Deeside to the Cairngorms National Park and take on the challenge of the UK’s highest pass at the Glenshee ski centre, or turn right at Ballater towards The Lecht and test yourself on what is recognised as one of the toughest, and most spectacular, road climbs in the country.
Further south, enjoy the sea breeze as you pass the iconic ruins of Dunnottar Castle on an Aberdeenshire coastal route or travel via the historic manor of Haddo House to through the Banffshire Coast.
If you're a keen cyclist, then why not try your luck at the Aberdeenshire Ascents? This new initiative recognises ten of the most challenging cycling routes found in the region.
If you really want to get involved in the action, Aberdeen and Aberdeenshire hold cycling events across the year including the popular two day ‘Ride the North’ and the 'Mid-Summer Beer Happening' in Stonehaven which has its own sportive.
“Cycling through the year, I was able to experience the four seasons, from glorious sunshine to deep snow, again the perfect training and experience to prepare me for the Pan American Highway.” - Dean Stott
Please always follow the Scottish Outdoor Access code.