Oban and Connel

This short ride follows the old decaying road next to the railway out of town, over the hill to the village of Connel. It then follows "the back road" over to Loch Nell before an off-road section brings you back through Glencruitten forest to town.

Start point: Oban town centre

Distance: 21 km

Elevation gain: 450 m

How rough? (1-10): 2

Eating/drinking: Oyster Inn, Connel (pub, restaurant) 01631 710666

Description:

1. From Oban town centre, follwo the A816 south towards Lochgilphead, turning left at the church (road signed Glencruitten, Playing fields).

2. After around 1 km, take the left turn (signed "Achavaich") just as the road makes a sharp right turn across the golf course.

3. Follow the road up the hill, keeping straight on where it turns to gravel at a gate just past the crest of the hill. Follow the gravel road through more gates and a farmyard (remember to close all gates behind you), all the way to where it reaches the A85 on the edge of Connel.

4. Turn right on the main road and follow this down into the village. Turn right on the main junction next to the Oyter Inn (signed Fort William).

5. After 200 m turn right onto a minor road (signed Barran, Musdale, Kilmore). Follow this for 7.7 km, passing an optional shortcut along the road back to Oban.

6. Just before reaching the shores of Loch Nell, turn right up a steep rough track. Follow this track into Glencruitten forest, heading straight on at all junctions until reaching the forest car park. Exit the car park by turning left on to the minor road which leads back to town.