The best cycling routes in Trotternish

There are a handful of touring cycling routes in Trotternish, offering diverse experiences across the peninsula. These routes are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.8 stars from over 30 reviews.

Trotternish offers a varied terrain for touring cyclists. You can expect dramatic landscapes with continuous ups and downs, including challenging ascents and winding single-track roads. Routes often traverse mountains, moorland, and pass by lochs and waterfalls, providing a mix of coastal and inland views.

Yes, Trotternish offers options for various ability levels. For an easier ride, consider the View of Fairy Glen – Stone Circle at Fairy Glen loop from Uig, which is 5.6 miles (9.0 km) long and leads through the unique Fairy Glen. Another easy option is the Deserted Village of Erisco – Gorge Descent to Loch Hunish loop from Duntulm Castle, a 3.4-mile (5.5 km) route.

Trotternish is rich in natural landmarks. You can cycle past the iconic The Quiraing, an extraordinary landslip with unique rock formations. Other notable sights include the Fir Bhreugach and the The Prison (Quiraing rock formation). Many routes also offer views of the dramatic Trotternish Ridge and the coastline.

Yes, many of the touring cycling routes in Trotternish are circular, allowing you to experience a diverse selection of sea and inland views without retracing your steps. Examples include the The Quiraing – View of the Quiraing loop from Ellishadder and the View of Uig Bay – The Quiraing loop from Binn Loch Mhòir.

For experienced touring cyclists seeking a challenge, routes like the View of Portree Harbour – View of The Old Man of Storr loop from Portree offer significant elevation gain over 33.7 miles (54.2 km). The Quiraing Pass, featured in routes like The Quiraing – View of the Quiraing loop from Ellishadder, is also known for its steep gradients and rewarding panoramic views.

The best time for touring cycling in Trotternish is generally during the warmer, drier months, typically from late spring to early autumn. This period offers more stable weather conditions and longer daylight hours, making the challenging routes and stunning vistas more enjoyable. However, weather on Skye can be unpredictable, so always be prepared for changes.

Yes, the dramatic landscape of Trotternish features several waterfalls. The Mealt Falls spectacularly plummet roughly 55 meters into the Sound of Raasay from Kilt Rock, which is a popular viewpoint along many routes. The Bride's Veil Falls are also located in the area around the Old Man of Storr, another prominent feature on cycling tours.

While specific cafes and pubs directly on every route segment are not guaranteed, the main villages and towns like Portree and Uig, which often serve as starting or ending points for routes, offer various options for refreshments and meals. It's advisable to plan your stops, especially on longer routes, and carry sufficient water and snacks.

Yes, the presence of e-bike rental services in the region makes the challenging terrain of Trotternish accessible to a wider range of cyclists. This can be a great option for those who wish to experience the dramatic landscapes and steep climbs with a bit of assistance.

The komoot community highly rates touring cycling in Trotternish, with an average score of 4.8 stars. Reviewers often praise the breathtaking vistas, the dramatic and unique geological features like The Quiraing, and the rewarding experience of cycling through mountains, moorland, and past lochs and waterfalls. The varied terrain and the sense of adventure are frequently highlighted.