Applecross from Lochcarron

Route overview

Riders suited to moderate distance with significant sustained climbing of 748 m over 28.7 km.

28.7 km point-to-point cycle from Lochcarron to Applecross with 748 m climbing on paved roads in the UK.

The route starts at Lochcarron and heads for Sanachan and Kishorn before passing through Ardarroch and finishing at Applecross. It includes two climbs: the first begins at 0.9 km and rises 132 m over 2.4 km at an average gradient of 5.4%, and the second starts at 12 km, soaring 606 m over 8.5 km averaging 7.2%, with a maximum gradient of 13.7%, reaching 622 m altitude around 20.5 km. The road surface is fully paved. The route combines 62% minor roads and 36% main roads, primarily along the C1087 and A896. The entire 10.3 km on main roads lacks cycle lanes. Fast roads with speed limits 80 km/h or higher run for 27.1 km. The route features 38% climbing, 41% descending and 21% flat; a long descent of 8.1 km starts at 20.6 km. Food and drink options are found near the start at Lochcarron, including the Waterside Cafe at 0.8 km and a Spar supermarket at 0.6 km. The Bealach Café & Gallery is just off route at 10.9 km. Beyond 10.9 km to the finish at 28.6 km, there is a longest stretch of 17.7 km without cafes, shops or water. At Applecross, The Junction bar and a petrol station are near the finish.

Highlights

• Bealach na Bà viewpoint at 20.7 km
• Climb reaching 622 m altitude at 20.5 km
• Peaks near the route: Sgùrr a' Chaorachain 792 m
• First climb at 0.9 km gains 132 m

Practical information

Surface

Paved

Route shape

Point to point

Riding time

2 h 03 min

Best months

Jun to Aug — daily highs of 16–17 °C in those months

Know before you go

• Longest stretch without café, shop or water 17.7 km from 10.9 to 28.6 km
• 10.3 km on main roads without cycle lane
• 27.1 km on roads with speed limit 80 km/h or higher
• Steepest 500 m at 18.5 km with 13.4% gradient

Routes are for inspiration. Roads, surfaces and conditions change — check locally and ride within your limits.