Bealach na Bà from Tornapress

Route overview

This ride suits cyclists prepared for a short but steep climb with significant elevation gain over 13.7 km.

A 13.7 km point-to-point climb from Tornapress to Bealach na Bà, ascending 616 m on the C1087.

Starting near Tornapress at about 5 m elevation, the route immediately begins climbing at 1.3 km and continues ascending for 8.4 km gaining 605 m at an average gradient of 7.2%, with the steepest section reaching 13.7%. The highest point is at 622 m reached around 9.7 km. The route then descends for 3.9 km dropping 418 m. The entire 13.7 km route is on paved minor roads, mainly the C1087. Despite the minor road status, all 13.8 km traveled are classified as fast roads with speed limits over 80 km/h. The first half of the ride has 74% of the total elevation gain. The gradient statistics show 6.3 km climbing over 5%, including 3.3 km over 8%, and 1.1 km exceeding 10%. There are no cafés, shops, water points, or bike shops directly on the route. The closest food and drink option, The Bealach Café & Gallery, lies 31 m off route near the start, as does the viewpoint Bealach na Bà near 9.9 km. There is no known facility to bail out. Peaks near the road include Sgùrr a' Chaorachain at 792 m (6.5 km), Meall Gorm at 708 m (8.3 km), and Creag Gorm at 608 m (10.6 km).

Highlights

• Bealach na Bà viewpoint at 9.9 km
• Climb of 616 m over 8.4 km averaging 7.2%
• Peaks near route: Sgùrr a' Chaorachain, Meall Gorm, Creag Gorm

Practical information

Surface

Paved

Route shape

Point to point

Riding time

59 min

Best months

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

Know before you go

• No café, shop or water for 13.7 km
• 13.8 km on fast roads with speed limits above 80 km/h
• Steepest 500 m section at 13.5% gradient

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