Findhorn to Elgin
This is a lovely ride following national cycle route 1 along little used roads and lanes. Cycle route 1 runs from Dover to The Orkney Isles but even for short journeys such as this it is worth following. The signposting is so good there is no need to navigate much so you can just bowl along and enjoy the scenery. Having said that, it is always nice to have a map with you just in case you miss a sign or want to make a detour. This ride is covered by Ordnance Survey maps 27 and 28 in the Landranger series.
To pick up the route. From Findhorn village or The Park turn left by Kinloss Spar Shop in the direction of Burghead. After a short distance and passing Kinloss Abbey turn right, signposted The Loft and A96. Continue over the railway line and take the next left (The Loft again) and of course Route 1.
Basically just follow the cycle route signs all the way to Elgin passing by Newton of Struthers, East Grange where you could stop for a coffee at The Loft which is a restaurant and music venue. Continue to Milton Brodie, Coltfoot and follow Route 1 signs all the way to Elgin. Mostly flat and easy until near Elgin where there are a couple of ups and downs. Elgin centre is reached by a path along the river Lossie and emerges near Moray Leisure Centre. You can get light meals at the centre.
If you haven’t been to Elgin before it is worth visiting the ruins of Elgin Cathedral. In the middle of the magnificent ruins stands a Pictish Cross slab which is older than the cathedral. The distance from Findhorn to Elgin is about 12 miles.
For the return journey you can just return by the same route, it is clearly signposted in both directions. However if you have the above mentioned maps you could return by a different route.
A great return route is to follow the minor roads just south of the A96 which are accessed by following the B9010 signposted Dallas out of Elgin. After crossing the railway line and leaving the built up area turn right signposted Miltonduff and after a very short distance right again. These roads go all the way to Brodies Hill Cottages (with the odd left and right kink) where if tired turn right down to the A96. Turn left for about half a mile and then turn right signposted Kinloss and Findhorn. Take care the A96 is a busy road. Alternatively if not too tired turn left at Brodie hill Cottages and follow the road UP for about three miles to the Califer Hill view point and picnic site for wonderful views of Findhorn Bay and the Moray Firth. After which freewheel most of the way to Forres and make your way back to Findhorn.
Either way this is a very satisfying day out.
