The Cairngorms Loop (part) is a two-stage cycling route of 171 km total distance, combining rolling and moderately mountainous terrain in the Scottish Highlands. It begins at Bridge of Tilt and finishes at Nethy Bridge, passing through Braemar on the way.
Stage 1 runs from Bridge of Tilt to Braemar over 113.2 km with 873 m of elevation gain. The route climbs several short hills, including one at 15.4 km that rises 119 m over 2.9 km at an average gradient of 4.1% (max 7.1%), and others at 24.6 km, 51.1 km, 77.9 km, and 81.6 km with smaller gains. The highest point on this stage reaches 563 m. Along the way, it passes through multiple small places including Old Bridge of Tilt, Old Blair, Calvine, and Inverey. There are nine water or food stops distributed through this stage.
Stage 2 covers 57.5 km from Braemar to Nethy Bridge, climbing 800 m in total. It features steeper climbs early on, including a 4.3 km ascent starting at 5.1 km which climbs 170 m at 4.0% average gradient (max 8.2%), and a longer 3.7 km climb starting at 10.1 km gaining 242 m at an average of 6.5%, max 11%. The highest elevation reached on the stage is 722 m. The route also climbs moderately around 39.4 km and 43.8 km. Ten water or food stops are available on this stage. It passes through Tomintoul before finishing at Nethy Bridge.
No temperature data or specific seasonal information is provided. The route remains fully within Great Britain and includes no cross-border transitions. The road surface or traffic conditions are not specified. The longest day is stage 1 at 113.2 km; stage 2 is shorter at 57.5 km. The climb is distributed fairly evenly between the two stages, with stage 2 featuring steeper sections.
