If you crave quiet roads and remote wild country and you need it the fast way on a road/race bike, this is a ride for you. It is possibly the quickest route into the very heart of Lochaber. There is the option for those on mountain bikes to cycle for about the first six miles on the Caledonian Canal Towpath. There are great views of Ben Nevis from both the B8004 and from the towpath.

Starting from Nevis Cycles Bike Hire at Inverlochy village, go along Locheil Road. Continue until you come to a railway bridge. Go under the bridge. On your left is the old castle of Inverlochy. Cycle past the main gate of the castle and down behind the Aluminium Social Club. Follow the path across the Putting Green to the traffic lights. Turn left and follow the A830 'Road to the Isles' for a mile until you cross the swing bridge, then take the next right turn onto the B8004 for Gairlochy.

Pass the alternative starting point at the Neptune's Staircase Car Park where mountain bikers can cross the canal to ride along the right hand tow path for the next 6 miles before rejoining the route along the B8005 at Gairlochy.

Turn left onto the B8005 as you approach Gairlochy. Your route is now signposted to Clunes.

The tree lined road hugs the shore of Loch Lochy. Watch out for a row of wooden houses on your right. This is the hamlet of Clunes. The road then swings to the left to enter a small steeply wooded valley called the Mile Dorcha the "Dark Mile". A place steeped in Highland history.

On the right are the spectacular Eas Chia-aig Waterfalls. Go straight on, soon the glen opens out to a striking view along Loch Arkaig. Continue along the road that hugs the northern shore of the loch. This track-like road ducks and dives as it affords the chance for a decent spin of about 12 miles, 18.5 kms. At its end you will find that the road has disappeared into the landscape to become a stalker's path.

As you turn enjoy the tangible silence of this lovely place. Once it clamoured with the noise of an army barracks in the eighteenth century.

The magnificent stands of ancient Caledonian pines are also worth noting on the southern banks of the loch. In autumn the hills ring with the calls of the red deer stags.

Retrace the northern shore miles. Turn right onto the wooden bridge across the end of the loch then turn left into Achnacarry Estate (watch out for estate vehicles). After a few minutes, the route passes the Clan Cameron Museum - it is well worth a visit. At the end of the estate road turn right onto the B8005 to return to Banavie (Perhaps pausing at Gairlochy's seasonal tea-room).



Starting Points
Parking & Bike Hire - Nevis Cycles, Inverlochy grid reference NN112747
Car park at Neptune's Staircase grid reference NN113769
Distance
Approx 54 miles / 88 kilometres

Alternative Starting Point
Forest Car Park, Clunes grid reference NN203887
Distance
Approx 34 miles / 55 kilometres

Grade
Easy
Type of Route
5hr/whole-day ride for mountain / hybrid / road bike
Terrain
Gently undulating tar macadam road
O.S.Map
O.S. Explorer 399,400
O.S. Landranger 40,41
Parking
Free parking available at 3 optional route starting points

Railway Stations
Banavie (0 miles), Fort William (2 miles), Inverness (69 miles)
Refreshments
You need to take food and drink with you
Accommodation
Nearest Hostel Glen Nevis, Corpach (independent)
There are many bed and breakfast, guesthouses, and hotels in Banavie, Corpach and the wider Fort William area.
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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