Ballater Bridge (Queen's Bridge) over the River Dee
Ballater Bridge (Queen's Bridge) over the River Dee
Highlight • Viewpoint
Ballater Bridge (Queen's Bridge) over the River Dee
Cycling
5.0
(52)
Mountain biking
4.8
(48)
Hiking
5.0
(19)
Road cycling
5.0
(2)
Running
5.0
(1)
This Highlight is in a protected area
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Tips
January 4, 2023
Mountain biking
March 20, 2023
Cycling
The bridge carries the B971 (a spur of the B976) over the River Dee and offers good views of the river in both directions.
September 20, 2020
Cycling
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Nearby routes
Best routes near Ballater Bridge (Queen's Bridge) over the River Dee
4.4
(9)
124
riders
32.4km
02:29
340m
340m
Embark on a moderate touring bicycle ride through the scenic Cairngorms National Park. This 20.2-mile (32.4 km) loop from Ballater takes you past the serene Loch Muick, framed by Scots Pine and open countryside. You will gain 1120 feet (341 metres) in elevation over approximately 2 hours and 29 minutes of cycling. The route also brings you close to the historic Knock Castle, adding a touch of ancient history to your journey. Expect to cycle through a varied landscape of impressive estates, ancient forests, and rolling farmland. Keep an eye out for local wildlife, including red deer, as you pedal through this beautiful Scottish setting.
Ballater serves as an excellent starting point for this route, recognized as a cycling hub with convenient bike shops and cafes. While the path is mostly paved, be aware that some sections may involve unpaved surfaces. There are no specific warnings regarding permits, fees, or seasonal closures for this particular loop. You can plan your visit knowing these practical details.
This route offers a good challenge for cyclists with decent fitness, immersing you in the stunning natural beauty of the Cairngorms. You will encounter impressive mountain lochs and open countryside, characteristic of the Scottish Highlands. The presence of historic Knock Castle provides a cultural highlight along your journey. This loop stands out for its blend of natural scenery and historical interest within a renowned cycling area.
5.0
(3)
56
riders
36.6km
02:39
280m
270m
Embark on a moderate touring cycling adventure with the Deeside Way & Aboyne loop from Ballater, covering 22.8 miles (36.6 km) with 902 feet (275 metres) of elevation gain. This route typically takes around 2 hours and 39 minutes to complete. You'll cycle through a diverse landscape of forests, farmland, and moorland, enjoying views over the River Dee and glimpses of the Cairngorm Mountains. The terrain varies from unsealed tracks and gravel paths to tarmac, often following the gentle gradients of the old Royal Deeside Railway line, though some sections may involve country roads.
As you plan your visit, consider starting from Ballater, where the Old Royal Station now serves as a visitor centre. The trail is part of National Cycle Network Route 195, making it well-integrated for cyclists. Be aware that while much of the route is off-road, you will encounter short sections on country roads or narrow pavements where you need to be mindful of traffic. Along the way, you'll pass by the Muir of Dinnet National Nature Reserve and might even spot gliders near the Deeside Gliding Club in Aboyne.
This loop offers a rich blend of history and natural beauty, tracing the path of the Old Royal Deeside Railway, which once served Queen Victoria on her journeys to Balmoral. You can pause at the picturesque Cambus o'May Suspension Bridge over the River Dee, a popular spot for a break. The route also takes you past Tullich Kirk, an ancient church with roots dating back to around 1400, adding a layer of historical depth to your ride through this scenic part of Aberdeenshire and the Cairngorms National Park.
5.0
(1)
20
riders
70.9km
04:48
990m
990m
Embark on the difficult Crathie and Strathdon loop, a challenging touring bicycle ride spanning 44.1 miles (70.9 km) with a substantial 3244 feet (989 metres) of elevation gain. This route, which takes around 4 hours and 47 minutes to complete, is not for the fainthearted, featuring demanding ascents like the climb up Gairnshiel with gradients reaching 10%. You will cycle through diverse terrain, including paved and unpaved sections, passing ancient forests, rolling farmland, and picturesque rivers like the Dee and Gairn, with views of the historic Gairnshiel Bridge. Expect exposed mountain moorland sections where strong, swirling winds can add to the challenge.
To tackle this loop, you will need a very good level of fitness, as some segments can be difficult to navigate. The route typically starts from Ballater, a town well-equipped with convenient parking and bike shops if you need to hire equipment or make repairs. Be prepared for varying weather conditions, especially in the elevated moorland areas, as the weather can change quickly. Planning your ride to account for these factors will ensure a more enjoyable experience.
This loop offers a deep dive into the stunning landscapes of Royal Deeside and the Cairngorms National Park. You will experience the rich history of the area, including Ballater's royal connections, being just 7 miles from Balmoral Castle, and its restored railway station which now serves as a visitor center. The route also takes you through Strathdon, an area known for its traditional Highland Gathering and local produce. You might even find yourself on parts of the Deeside Way, a traffic-free path offering pleasant stretches through birch trees and open fields.
Details
Informations
Elevation 200 m
Weather
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Monday 3 August
17°C
11°C
97 %
Additional weather tips
Max wind speed: 20.0 km/h
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