National Cycle Network routes in North and North East Scotland

Running along Scotland's east coast, the Moray Firth and inland towards the stunning Cairngorms National Park, National Cycle Network routes in North and North East Scotland are perfect for everyday journeys in the cities of Aberdeen and Inverness and exploring beautiful landscapes further afield.

National Route 1

Part of both the long-distance Coasts and Castles route and the North Sea Cycle Route, National Cycle Network Route 1 connects Aberdeen City to the Highland capital of Inverness.

Following a mixture of quiet roads and traffic-free paths, the route continues north towards Dingwall and Tain and south towards Stonehaven and Angus.

Meander through Aberdeen's historic streets and past the award-winning Maritime Museum and historic Marischal college.

Connect to National Cycle Route 195, the Deeside Way, for a predominately traffic-free ride towards the Cairngorms National Park.

National Cycle Network Route 1 heads northwards from Aberdeen through beautiful Aberdeenshire coastal countryside towards the Highlands.

The route incorporates sections of the traffic-free Formartine and Buchan Way and is perfect for enjoying views across the Moray Firth or exploring the rich history of Culloden Battlefield and Elgin Cathedral.  

Please note: there are short gaps in National Cycle Network Route 1 at Stonehaven, Cuminestown, east and west of Portsoy and west of Buckie.  

National Route 7

Forming the northern section of the long-distance Lochs and Glens Way route, National Cycle Network Route 7 in the north of Scotland links Inverness and Carrbridge in the Cairngorms National Park.

Connecting to National Cycle Network Route 1 alongside the River Nairn, National Cycle Network Route 7 passes the world-famous battlefield at Culloden and the Tomatin Distillery Visitor Centre.

Find more information about the Lochs and Glens Way with our interactive journey planner, created in partnership with VisitScotland.

Please note: there are short gaps in National Cycle Network Route 7 between Moy and Daviot. 

National Route 78

National Cycle Network Route 78 is part of the long-distance Caledonia Way route.

It connects Inverness and Dores on the northern banks of Loch Ness along a mixture of traffic-free paths and quiet roads.

Find more information about the Caledonia Way with our interactive journey planner, created in partnership with VisitScotland.

National Route 195

Also known as the Deeside Way, National Cycle Network Route 195 follows traffic-free paths and some short quiet-road sections along the former Deeside Railway line between Aberdeen and Ballater.

Running for 41 miles between Duthie Park, south of Aberdeen city centre, and the heart of the Victorian village of Ballater, National Cycle Network Route 195 is a great opportunity for the whole family to enjoy stunning views across the River Dee and Cairngorm Mountains.    

Please note: there is a short gap in National Cycle Network Route 195 east of Aboyne. 

 

 

Please note

We have taken all responsible steps to ensure that these routes are safe and achievable by people with a reasonable level of fitness.

However, all outdoor activities involve a degree of risk.

To the extent permitted by law, Sustrans accepts no responsibility for any accidents or injury resulting from following these routes.

Walking and cycling routes change over time. Weather conditions may also affect path surfaces.

Please use your own judgement when using the routes based upon the weather and the ability, experience and confidence levels of those in your group.

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