The best cycling routes around Coigach

Coigach offers a dramatic and varied landscape for touring cyclists. You'll encounter mountainous terrain with peaks like Stac Pollaidh and Ben More Coigach, rising sharply from lochan-studded moorland. The coastline is highly indented and rocky. While some routes feature significant elevation gains, roads around settlements like Achiltibuie are generally quiet and offer a more accessible cycling experience.

Yes, while Coigach is known for its challenging terrain, there are routes suitable for those seeking an easier ride. For instance, the View of the Summer Isles – Am Fuaran Café and Restaurant loop from Achnahaird Bay Parking is a moderate 10.7-mile (17.2 km) coastal trail with less elevation, offering scenic views of the Summer Isles. This route is often completed in about 1 hour 8 minutes.

There are 24 touring cycling routes available in Coigach, offering a range of experiences from moderate coastal loops to more challenging highland journeys. The komoot community has rated these routes highly, with an average score of 4.9 stars.

Coigach is rich in natural beauty. You can expect to see iconic peaks such as Stac Pollaidh East Summit and Ben More Coigach. The region is also part of the North West Highlands Geopark, renowned for its geological significance. Many routes offer stunning coastal vistas and views across lochan-studded moorland.

Yes, some routes will take you near notable waterfalls. For example, the difficult route The Drumbeg coastal road, Loch Assynt & the Wailing Widow waterfall loop from Lochinver passes by the Wailing Widow waterfall. Additionally, the Falls of Kirkaig, a 20-meter waterfall, are accessible by a path that can be reached from nearby roads.

Absolutely! The View of the Summer Isles – Am Fuaran Café and Restaurant loop from Achnahaird Bay Parking is specifically designed to offer coastal views of the Summer Isles, an archipelago just offshore. Tanera Mòr, the only inhabited island, is part of this stunning group.

Yes, many of the touring cycling routes in Coigach are circular, allowing you to start and end at the same point. Examples include the The Drumbeg coastal road, Loch Assynt & the Wailing Widow waterfall loop from Lochinver and the Loch Bainemhoir – View of Loch Lurgainn loop from Achiltibuie Road End.

The best time for touring cycling in Coigach is generally during the warmer, drier months, typically from late spring to early autumn (May to September). During this period, you'll experience longer daylight hours and more favorable weather conditions. However, be prepared for changeable weather at any time of year in the Highlands. It's also worth noting that midges can be prevalent in summer, especially in still, damp conditions.

While many routes in Coigach involve challenging terrain, the quiet roads around Achiltibuie and coastal areas offer more accessible options for families. The View of the Summer Isles – Am Fuaran Café and Restaurant loop from Achnahaird Bay Parking is a moderate route that could be suitable for families looking for a shorter, less strenuous ride with beautiful views.

The touring cycling routes in Coigach are highly rated by the komoot community, with an impressive average score of 4.9 stars from 28 reviews. Cyclists often praise the dramatic landscapes, the quiet roads, and the sense of remoteness and adventure that the region offers. Many appreciate the stunning coastal views and the challenging yet rewarding climbs.

Achiltibuie, the main settlement in Coigach, is a popular stopover point and offers amenities such as cafes and accommodation. While cycling, you might encounter places like the Am Fuaran Café and Restaurant, which is featured on the View of the Summer Isles – Am Fuaran Café and Restaurant loop from Achnahaird Bay Parking. It's advisable to plan your route and check opening times, especially in more remote areas.

Coigach offers several challenging routes for experienced touring cyclists. The Drumrunie, Ledmore & Loch Assynt loop from Lochinver is a difficult 47.2-mile (75.9 km) path exploring inland areas with significant elevation gain. Another demanding option is the Clachtoll, Drumberg & Loch Assynt loop from Lochinver, a 45.2-mile (72.7 km) route also rated as difficult.