This route uses the first six miles of the Caledonian Canal Towpath.
From Nevis Cycles (Bike Hire) turn left along Locheil Road. At the cycle/footbridge cross the River Lochy. Turn sharp left. Take the next left turn to follow the Great Glen Cycle Route along the shore road. At the end of the tarred road join the single track cycle path which skirts the shore. This path takes you to the Canal's Corpach Basin. You will find an interesting selection of boats which use the canal, especially in summer.

About turn and take the right hand canal towpath as it skirts the village of Caol. Dismount to cross the railtrack and the busy A830. Contiue up the towpath passing the 8 locks of the impressive Neptune's Staircase. Don't forget to look over to your right for those views of Ben Nevis!
After 6 miles you arrive at the hamlet of Gairlochy. If you have time, continue along the right bank of the canal for another half mile to the shore of Loch Lochy where there is a lighthouse and a wonderful view looking directly along the centre of the great glen.
Now return to Gairlochy and go over the iron bridge across the canal and turn left on to the B8004. This lovely winding backroad leads you gently back to Fort William. However take time to visit Glen Loy to picnic by the highland stream in this most tranquil of small glens.


Starting Points
Nevis Cycles Inverlochy grid reference NN112747
Distance
Approx 18.4 miles / 29.5 kilometres
Grade
Easy
Type of Route
3.5hr/half-day ride for mountain / hybrid bike
Terrain
Level wide canal towpath, gently undulating tarred road
O.S.Map
O.S. Explorer 392
O.S. Landranger 41
Parking
Available at route start or

Car park at Banavie grid reference NN112769
Railway Stations
Fort William (1 miles), Inverness (70 miles)
Refreshments
Shops near start and end, seasonal cafe at mid-point (Gairlochy)
Accommodation
Nearest Hostel Glen Nevis
There are several bed and breakfast places alondg the route and hotels near the start
Cycle Repair
If you break down or have an accident CALL Nevis Cycles 01397 705555 FOR PICK UP
Courtesy bikes available while you wait. Work guaranteed for 6 months. All types of bikes repaired!
FREE safety checks - FREE fitting of any accessories purchased from Nevis Cycles!


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Image Reproduced from the Ordnance Survey Landranger 1:50 000 scale maps by
permission of Ordnance Survey® on behalf of The Controller of Her Majesty's Stationery Office.
©Crown copyright 2006. All rights reserved. Licence number 100045700