The best cycling routes around Loch Ashaig

There are 18 touring cycling routes around Loch Ashaig, offering a variety of experiences. These include 4 easy routes, 10 moderate routes, and 4 more challenging options, catering to different skill levels.

The terrain around Loch Ashaig is diverse, featuring tranquil lochside settings and stunning coastal views. You'll primarily encounter single-track roads, with gradients ranging from gentle near the loch to more undulating paths. Cyclists can enjoy sea views with the Applecross Hills and Torridon mountains to the east, and the Red Cuillins to the west.

Yes, Loch Ashaig offers several easy touring cycling routes perfect for beginners or families. An excellent option is the Kyle of Lochalsh – Skye Bridge loop from Glas Eilean, which is 13.5 miles (21.7 km) long and provides beautiful views of the Skye Bridge and surrounding waters.

Many routes offer breathtaking natural sights. You can expect sea views, especially towards the Applecross Hills and Torridon mountains, and the Red Cuillins. The area is also known for its tranquil lochs, and if you're lucky, you might spot otters along the shoreline or seals near the mouth of the River Lusa. The nearby sandy beach at Ashaig is also a notable feature at low tide.

Yes, the area is rich in history. Ashaig has ties to Saint Maelrubha, with a rock known as Pulpit Rock and the remains of an early medieval church and burial ground dating from the 7th-13th centuries. Some routes, like the Scenic Heather Cycle Path – View of Knock Castle loop from Glas Eilean, offer distant views of historical structures.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.3 stars from over 20 reviews. Cyclists often praise the serene lochside settings, diverse coastal backdrops, and the quiet single-track roads that make for an immersive experience. Over 300 touring cyclists have already explored Loch Ashaig's varied terrain with komoot.

Yes, many of the touring cycling routes around Loch Ashaig are designed as loops, allowing you to start and end at the same point. For example, the Aant Sithe Chambered Cairn – The Marble Line Railway Path loop from Broadford is a moderate 15-mile circular route.

Parking is generally available in and around the main villages like Broadford, which serves as a good base for exploring the area. Many routes start from accessible points, and you can often find suitable parking near the beginning of trails. Specific parking details might vary by route, so checking individual route descriptions on komoot is recommended.

While the Isle of Skye has public transport options, accessing specific single-track roads and trailheads directly by public transport can be limited. Broadford, being a larger village near Loch Ashaig, is better served by bus routes. Cyclists often combine public transport to Broadford with cycling to reach their desired starting points.

The best time for touring cycling in Loch Ashaig is generally from spring to autumn (April to October) when the weather is milder and daylight hours are longer. Summer offers the warmest temperatures and longest days, but can also be busier. Spring and autumn provide beautiful landscapes with fewer crowds, though weather can be more unpredictable. Winter cycling is possible but requires appropriate gear and awareness of shorter days and potentially challenging conditions.

Many outdoor areas on the Isle of Skye, including cycling routes, are generally dog-friendly. However, it's crucial to keep dogs under close control, especially in areas with livestock or wildlife, and to follow the Scottish Outdoor Access Code. Always carry waste bags and ensure your dog is fit enough for the chosen route's distance and terrain.

Yes, the nearby village of Broadford offers a range of amenities for cyclists, including cafes, pubs, and various accommodation options such as B&Bs, guesthouses, and hotels. These establishments provide convenient places to refuel and rest after a day of cycling around Loch Ashaig.