Explore the best cycling and bike touring routes in Raleigh, from scenic greenways to wooded trails and smooth city rides—perfect for a vacation on two wheels.
BEST CYCLING AND BIKE TOURING ROUTES IN DUNDEE
Planning a bike-focused holiday in Dundee? Brilliant idea. This charming Scottish city offers a unique mix of scenic riverfront rides, countryside loops, and access to the rolling hills of Angus and Perthshire. Whether you're a casual cyclist or a bike touring enthusiast, Dundee is packed with well-signed cycleways, historic spots, and unforgettable views. This guide covers the best cycling routes in and around the city, all mapped out to help you make the most of your trip.
Easy city rides with great views
If you're just getting your legs spinning or want a relaxing start to your trip, Dundee offers flat, scenic cycle paths perfect for sightseeing. These rides stay close to the city but give you access to some of its most iconic spots—from the Tay waterfront to art-filled neighbourhoods and peaceful parks.
Dundee Waterfront to Broughty Ferry
This is the city's signature ride—a flat, paved coastal path along the River Tay that connects central Dundee with the seaside suburb of Broughty Ferry. Along the way, you'll pass the V&A Museum, historic docks, wildlife-viewing spots, and a Victorian beachfront. It’s a perfect ride for a sunny afternoon, and you can grab an ice cream at the beach before heading back.
Distance: ~10 km one way
Surface: Paved cycle path
Highlights: Tay views, Broughty Castle, cafes
Best for: Families, casual riders, photography lovers
Green Circular Route (East Segment)
Dundee’s Green Circular is a 42-kilometre loop around the city. Start with the east segment for an easy ride through Monifieth and along riverside paths. It’s calm, scenic, and full of parks to explore. Great for a half-day outing with picnic potential.
Distance: ~15–20 km depending on start point
Surface: Mixed (mostly paved)
Highlights: East coast views, wildlife, parks
Best for: Low-effort riders, nature seekers
These routes are ideal for gentle rides that still give you a full Dundee experience—complete with cultural stops and coastline charm.
Countryside loops and scenic escapes
When you’re ready to stretch the ride beyond the city limits, Dundee delivers. You’ll find smooth backroads, castle routes, and open fields that feel like a film set. These loops are perfect for day rides, combining Scottish charm with rolling hills and quiet lanes.
Dundee to Newtyle Loop
This countryside loop takes you northwest out of the city toward Newtyle via Liff and Auchterhouse. Expect gentle climbs, panoramic views of the Sidlaw Hills, and low-traffic country roads. Newtyle is a great spot to rest and refuel at a local café before looping back through fields and forests.
Distance: ~40 km loop
Surface: Quiet country roads
Highlights: Hill views, farmland, village charm
Best for: Moderate cyclists, photo ops, solo rides
Carse of Gowrie Fruit Trail
For a taste of the rural east, ride toward the Carse of Gowrie—a fertile plain between Dundee and Perth known for fruit farms and meandering lanes. This trail is less about speed and more about soaking up the scenery. Bonus: You might pass a roadside stand selling fresh berries in summer.
Distance: ~50 km round trip
Surface: Tarmac lanes and cycle routes
Highlights: Orchards, wildflowers, Tay views
Best for: Scenic rides, foodies, weekenders
These rides give you that classic “Scotland by bike” experience—rolling landscapes, friendly locals, and just enough climb to earn your pint at the end.
Multi-day bike touring from Dundee
Dundee isn’t just a cycling destination—it’s a launchpad for epic multi-day tours across eastern Scotland. Whether you're headed to the Highlands or the coast, you’ll find scenic routes, bike-friendly towns, and a manageable mix of terrain. These bike tours are perfect for riders with panniers, a good map, and a taste for adventure.
Dundee to St Andrews Coastal Tour
This classic route hugs the coast eastward from Dundee through Tayport, Tentsmuir Forest, and on to St Andrews—home of golf, ancient ruins, and dramatic seaside cliffs. Camp or stay in local inns, then return via an inland route for a full loop. You’ll ride through fishing villages, wooded paths, and open farmland.
Distance: ~90 km round trip
Surface: Mixed (cycle paths, quiet roads)
Highlights: Tentsmuir Forest, St Andrews town, East Neuk coastline
Best for: Touring beginners, coastal explorers
Dundee to Pitlochry via Perth
For a longer adventure into Highland territory, cycle northwest through Perth and follow quiet glens into the hills around Pitlochry. This route gives you a taste of the real Scottish countryside—lochs, hills, and cosy B&Bs. Ideal for 2–3 days with plenty of options to extend deeper into the Highlands.
Distance: ~130–150 km one way
Surface: Paved roads, some climbs
Highlights: Perth city, Highland edge, scenic glens
Best for: Intermediate+ tourers, nature lovers
Dundee offers the perfect blend of coastal breezes, city bike paths, and epic routes into the Scottish wild. Bring your kit, prep for any weather, and let the journey unfold.
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