Creran and Linnhe

This ride links Loch Creran and Loch Linnhe. Most of the route is on smooth tracks and cycle path, but there is a short unrideable climb to get to the high pass on the ridge linking Fraochaidh and Sgorr a Choise, followed by a steep, grassy and boggy descent to Glean an Fhiodh. The pass is fantastic, and Glean an Fhiodh feels lovely and remote. I rode a moutain bike for this route, but you could argue for either bike, depending on ability level/desire to ride the rough bits.

Start point: Creran bridge, A85 (NM975441)

Distance: 46 km

Elevation gain: 850 m

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

Eating/drinking: Creagan Inn (Restaurant, Bar) 01631 730250, The Old Inn, Appin (Pub) 01631 730186

Description:

1. Follow the road along the south shore of Loch Creran.

2. Just before crossing the river at the head of the loch, turn right on a track (unsigned). Follow this track along the south bank of the river and past a small loch, reaching Glenure estate house after 6km.

3. Cross the river and follow the track around the back of the house to pass onto the Glenure house approach road. Follow this to the car park at Elleric.

4. Turn R (E), almost doubling back, on a gravel track which continues from the end of the public road. Follow this for 2.5 km.

5. Take the track heading slightly left up the hill. This contours the hill on a long climb for around 4 km, flattening out before a turning on a footpath marked by a small cairn and a marker post (see photo).

6. Follow the footpath steeply up to reach the grassy col between the two glens. Descend the other side into Glean an Fhiodh following wooden marker posts, with several wheel grabbing bog steps. Ford the river and find the Glean an Fhiodh path 50 m N.

7. Follow the Glean an Fhiodh path W (rough in places), reaching the top of the forest and an easing in the difficulties.

8. Follow forest tracks and the river down Glen Duror to Duror village.

9. Just before reaching the A828, turn left on the National Cycle Route 78. Follow this all the way back to the start point, 20-something km later, with some lovely sections through woods and along the shores of the loch.

GPX File