The route from Strichen to Fraserburgh is quite short at 11 miles and only has 420 feet of climbing, and so has been given a difficulty rating of 4. You head almost due north from Strichen, and only a strong wind off the sea will make this feel tougher than its rating.Strichen in an interesting place which sits on the River Ugie. There is considerable evidence of ancient settlements nearby, including the Strichen Stone Circle and the Catto Long Barrow south of the town. The most significant building is the Town House, a superb example of early 19th century architecture. Nearby Mormond Hill is fascinating for its historical mix. The hill is littered with disused satellites and masts which are the remnants of US communications posts from the Cold War, and you can also see the Strichen White Horse and the Strichen White Stag. The Buchan and Formartine Way passes just south of the village. Opened in the early 1990s, it is classed as one of Scotlands Great Trails and runs for 53 miles along a former railway. It is well used by cyclists, walkers and horse riders.
You start in the centre of Strichen and head north, with the River Ugie on your left for the first mile. The initial 2.2 miles are uphill, taking you to the high point of 331 feet. You then having rolling roads before the only other hill of note at 4.2 miles. You will then steadily go downhill all the way to the coast. There are no specific tourist sites on route, but you will be cycling through nice farmland on quiet roads. You reach the outskirts of Fraserburgh at mile 9.3 and will have to navigate the west and north side of the town before finishing at the main harbour.Known locally as The Broch (an Iron Age, drystone structure and the old Scots word for fort), Fraserburgh is a major fishing port specialising in shellfish, white fish and pelagic. The town was founded in the early 16th century by the Fraser family, and the first harbour was built in 1590. If you have time, you could visit Kinnaird Head Lighthouse or the Museum of Scottish Lighthouses. The town is also famous for its array of impressive 19th century churches. There are various caf, restaurant and supermarket options if you wish to refuel.
By clicking on the play symbol on the graphic below you can see route map. The elevation profile of the ride can be seen via the Hills tab with files for use with a GPS device also available for download. If you take any photos of the route that youd like to share, please submit to neil@velodays.comOnward rides from Fraserburgh can be found here
Route map for Strichen To Fraserburgh by Neil Innes on plotaroute.com
