Creran and Etive

Another ride starting at Loch Creran, this time making a connection to Loch Etive. Quite commiting - smooth tracks in Glen Creran lead to a pass (20 minute hike) followed by a descent on grass and bog into the back of beyond. There isn't much phone signal over here and is some way back down Loch Etive to civilisation (of sorts) at Bonawe. The initial section of path is unrideable for a couple of km, and the initial forest section along the loch is presently quite overgrown with Birch saplings (summer 2020). After a few km the track opens up for the journey back to Bonawe. Then it's a pleasant cruise round on the road back to the start.

Start point: Creran bridge, A85 (NM975441)

Distance: 59 km

Elevation gain: 1120 m

How rough? (1-10): 9 (most is 2-3)

Eating/drinking: Creagan Inn (Restaurant, Bar) 01631 730250

Description:

1. From Creran bridge, follow the road on the south side of the loch until you reach the junction just beyond the head of the loch. Turn right to the car park at Elleric.

2. Follow the track towards Glenure estate house. About 400m before reaching it, turn left on a gravel track. Follow the track up the right side of the glen until it eventually ends on the north side of Beinn Fiondlaidh.

3. Get off and push the bike to the top of the col.

4. The descent into Glen Etive is grassy and boggy, with holes to catch the unwary. Be careful! Reach the edge of the forest at an obvious track gap to the left (N) of the river.

5. Follow the track down the hill to the road.

6. Turn right and follow the road to its end. Continue along the shore of Loch Etive for a short way before following a path through the bushes, signed as the right of way to Bonawe.

7. The track deteriorates and requires pushing for a couple of km. The track splits into two, one closer to the shore and one further up in the trees. The high track may be best, but is becoming a little overgrown with birches.

8. Keep on the track, following a series of snaking climbs and descents through the trees.

9. Eventually a more solid landrover track is reached. This is followed all the way along the loch to the village of Bonawe (following the signed diversion around the quarry).

10. 2 km after the village of Bonawe, turn right (N) towards Barcaldine.

11. Upon reaching Barcaldine, a right turn on National Cycle Route 78 can be taken to lead back to the start point.

GPX file