National Cycle Route 1

Route overview

Suitable for riders wanting a short, mostly flat 24.5 km ride on mostly gravel cycle paths with minimal climbing.

National Cycle Route 1 in Aberdeenshire from Newmachar to Auchnagatt, 24.5 km with 92 m climbing mainly on cycle paths.

This 24.5 km point-to-point route starts at Newmachar at 136 m and descends to a low of 13 m near Ellon at 12.1 km. It passes through North Balnakettle, Udny Station, Mains of Orchardtown, Logiemuir, Ellon, Little Arnage and finishes at Auchnagatt. The route is almost entirely on cycle paths (23.6 km), mostly gravel (89%), with just 10% paved surfaces. It follows the Formartine and Buchan Way for over 11 km in three stretches. The profile is 75% flat with some gentle climbing (only 9% climbing gradient) and a longest descent of 4.4 km dropping 57 m starting near 1 km. There are no cafés, shops, water points or toilets along the route, and no bail out points. A picnic site called Logierieve Wood lies just 24 m off the route near 7.8 km. A bike repair stand is located near Auchnagatt at the finish, 51 m off route.

Highlights

• Formartine and Buchan Way cycle path
• Longest descent of 4.4 km dropping 57 m
• Picnic site at Logierieve Wood (7.8 km)
• Route starts at 136 m elevation in Newmachar

Practical information

Surface

Gravel

Route shape

Point to point

Riding time

2 h 02 min

Best months

Jun to Aug — daily highs of 16–17 °C in those months

Know before you go

• No café, shop or water for 24.5 km
• 89% gravel or unpaved surface
• 96% on cycle paths but no paved road beyond 10%
• Longest descent from 1 km is 4.4 km

Routes are for inspiration. Roads, surfaces and conditions change — check locally and ride within your limits.