New gravel cycling routes have been launched at Alyth, in the region of Perth & Kinross. Extending to some 310km of off-road cycling, it is being described as one of Scotland’s most comprehensive gravel cycling networks to date.
The Alyth Gravel Network features 13 carefully designed and interconnected routes for gravel and mountain bikes, linking Alyth with quiet lanes, forest tracks, riverside trails, open moorland and historic sites across the Cateran Ecomuseum.
Developed by Bikepacking Scotland founder and guidebook author Markus Stitz, the network is designed to make it easier for riders to explore the area responsibly, stay longer and support local businesses.
It has been funded by the SSE Drumderg Community Fund and the Thomson Charitable Trust.
The routes build on Alyth’s growing reputation as a cycling destination. The town is already home to a two-day bikepacking event, the Cateran Dirt Dash.
Some of the routes are also accessible by public transport, with Ember bus services between Dundee and Aberdeen stopping at Blairgowrie, Bridge of Cally and Glenshee.
Markus said: “Gravel cycling is one of the best ways to experience this part of Scotland. From Alyth you can ride straight into a huge variety of landscapes including wooded glens, open moors, rivers, farmland and quiet back roads. All this without the need to drive anywhere.
“The Alyth Gravel Network gives visitors the confidence to explore, while encouraging them to spend time in the town and the surrounding communities.”
The project also highlights the heritage of the Cateran Ecomuseum, where riders can discover places connected to old drove roads, military roads, stone circles, standing stones and other landmarks that have shaped the area over centuries.
Designed with a mix of abilities in mind, the network includes shorter rides suitable for relaxed half-day adventures, as well as longer and more challenging routes for experienced gravel cyclists. All routes, including detailed descriptions, images and downloadable GPX files, are available on the Cateran Ecomuseum website.
Sarah Marshall, Senior Community Investment Manager from SSE, said: “The Alyth Gravel Network is exactly the kind of community-focused project that SSE’s Drumderg Community Fund is pleased to support. It encourages people to explore the area in a sustainable way, while bringing visitors into Alyth to stay locally, hire bikes, visit cafés and shops, and discover the wider Cateran Ecomuseum.”
The Alyth Gravel Network routes are now available at cateranecomuseum.co.uk/explore or on Komoot.