Loch Assynt

Embark on a difficult touring cycling adventure along the Drumbeg coastal road, a 47.7 miles (76.8 km) loop that takes you through the rugged beauty of the Scottish Highlands. You will encounter a raw landscape of rock, sand, and heather, with dramatic mountain views of peaks like Quinag and Suilven. This challenging route involves a significant 3711 feet (1131 metres) of elevation gain, requiring around 5 hours and 4 minutes to complete.

To tackle this demanding route, very good fitness is essential, as you will face grinding gradients up to 25% on the B869 Drumbeg coastal road. Some cyclists find it beneficial to ride the loop clockwise, allowing you to confront the toughest sections earlier in your journey. If you plan to visit the impressive Wailing Widow Waterfall, be aware that it requires a short walk over rough, boggy terrain, and there are no safety barriers, so proceed with caution.

This route offers a deep dive into the unique geology and wild character of the Assynt-Coigach National Scenic Area. As you cycle, you will pass shimmering lochs, including the expansive Loch Assynt, before reaching the spectacular 50-foot Wailing Widow Waterfall, which cascades from Loch na Gainmhich. This waterfall is widely regarded as one of Scotland's most beautiful natural sights, adding a memorable highlight to your Highland exploration.

Embark on the NC500 Alternative loop from Ullapool, a difficult touring bicycle route spanning 66.4 miles (106.9 km) with a significant elevation gain of 4368 feet (1331 metres). This challenging journey, typically completed in around 6 hours and 49 minutes, offers a memorable experience through the Scottish Highlands. You will encounter stunning coastal scenery, rugged mountains, and remote glens, with highlights including views of Loch Assynt and the impressive Kylesku Bridge, all set against a backdrop of mind-boggling 360-degree views and astounding geology.

Prepare for a hard bike ride that demands very good fitness, as the route features relentless climbs and descents, especially when heading inland. While mostly paved, you might encounter single-track roads with passing places where you could interact with vehicles and even sheep. The remote nature of the landscape means services are few and far between, so you will need to be self-sufficient and ready for long stretches without amenities.

This alternative loop is designed to provide a more serene cycling experience by utilizing quieter, smaller roads that diverge from the main NC500 driving route, making it less accessible to motorhomes and caravans. The area is also notable for the North West Highlands Geopark, including Knockan Crag, which offers fascinating insights into Scotland's geological history and some of the oldest rocks in the world.

Cycle the difficult 47.2-mile Drumrunie, Ledmore & Loch Assynt loop from Lochinver, gaining 2691 feet through dramatic Scottish Highlands.