Aberdeenshire
An emerging destination for mountain biking, Aberdeenshire is full of forest tracks and old drove roads that are just calling out to be explored.
Read on to see why this stunning part of the world is fast becoming a favourite place for mountain bike tourists, and find out how you can be a part of catering to this growing market.
Mountain Biking in Aberdeenshire
In the heart of Dee Valley lies Aboyne. This area contains some of Aberdeenshire’s longest mountain biking descents, as well as short, challenging trails that will take riders out to Tarland and Cambus o’May.
The beautiful village of Ballater is home to epic mountain rides and some steep enduro classics. For those looking to get off the beaten track, Heartbreak Ridge, Mastermind and Green Mile Trails offer lesser-known routes for riders to discover.
Scolty near Banchory is an enduro rider’s idea of heaven, boasting steep slabs and a healthy dose of rocks, roots and off-camber sections to keep you on your toes.
Pitfichie hosts local and national events in downhill and enduro racing, including the Aberdeenshire Enduro Series. This sell-out event sees 500 mountain bikers race against the clock down a Championship-grade route.
If you are an accommodation provider in Aberdeenshire, take our self-assessment tool to find out your current level of service and how you can improve your offer. You will receive a score out of 100 and then have the option to have your business advertised for free in the Aberdeenshire Ride Guide on the DMBinS website.
Aberdeenshire's MTB Community
Aberdeenshire and Aberdeen City are well equipped to welcome mountain biking tourists.
From coastal carriages to cosy B&B’s to elegant hotels, Aberdeenshire has something for everyone, with many accommodation providers taking steps to provide appropriate bike storage and facilities.
Specialist bike shops can be found in key areas where riders can pick up essentials and gather some local knowledge. And when it’s time to give the legs a break, mountain bikers will easily find a bike-friendly café, coffee shop or tea room that will provide a much-needed pick-me-up.
The Aberdeenshire Trail Association has been looking after significant portions of the natural trail network in the region since 2018. The association also hosts dig days to educate people about the trails and social rides to reward the hard-working volunteers who pour their heart and soul into maintaining the trails.
The Future of MTB in Aberdeenshire
Aberdeenshire is an emerging destination for mountain biking, so there is always lots going on to make the area the best it can be for riders.
Tarland - New £750k Trail Centre
Funding has been secured to create a new trail centre in Tarland. The new development will contain red, orange and blue graded trails on the Pressendye and Pittenderich hills.
Ballater & Catherine - Mountain Bike Festival
Hosting the inaugural event in 2021, Ballater Business Association (BBA) and Ballater (Royal Deeside) Ltd work in conjunction with Ballater Films and the V&A Halls to provide a festival programme full to the brim with MTB activities.
Ellon - Wheel Park Project
Backed by Team GB silver medallist Neah Evans, plans for a 650-yard long park have been submitted. The multi-use park is set to include a pump track and various cycling tracks.
Aberdeenshire Media Files
We have lots of information about mountain biking in Scotland, but sometimes a picture is worth a thousand words. Take a look through our library of stunning imagery and action-packed videos to see what Scottish MTB is all about.
Self Assessment Tool
Our handy questionnaire allows you to quickly evaluate how you currently cater to MTB tourists, while identifying any gaps and the opportunities that may help enhance your offering.
