Redpoint beach loop from Kinlochewe

This is a challenging touring bicycle route, consistently rated as 'difficult'. It requires very good fitness due to significant elevation changes and mixed terrain. Be prepared for strenuous sections, and some parts may even necessitate pushing your bike.

Given the mixed terrain, a robust touring bike, gravel bike, or mountain bike is recommended. While 70-80% of the route is paved, there's a significant 10-12 kilometer unpaved gravel section, especially after Redpoint Beach. Road bikes would find this section very challenging due to the need for wider tires and more forgiving suspension.

The route offers breathtaking views of the Scottish Highlands. You'll pass through or near the Beinn Eighe National Nature Reserve Scenic Road, enjoy vistas of Loch Maree, and reach the stunning sandy shores of Redpoint Beach. There's also the Gorsebush Café for a stop.

The Scottish Highlands can be unpredictable. Late spring to early autumn (May to September) generally offers the most favorable weather conditions, with longer daylight hours and milder temperatures. However, always be prepared for sudden changes in weather.

The loop starts from Kinlochewe. You can typically find parking in or around the village, which serves as a common access point for routes in the Beinn Eighe area. Specific parking areas may be signposted.

No, there are no specific permits or entrance fees required for cycling on the public roads and designated trails that form part of this loop within or around the Beinn Eighe National Nature Reserve. However, always respect the natural environment and follow the Scottish Outdoor Access Code.

While dogs are generally welcome in the Scottish Highlands, including parts of the Beinn Eighe National Nature Reserve, it's crucial to keep them under close control, especially due to livestock (sheep, deer) and ground-nesting birds. Given the length and difficulty of this cycling route, consider if it's truly suitable for your dog.

Given the route's difficulty and remote nature, pack essentials like a repair kit, spare tubes, plenty of water, high-energy snacks, waterproof and windproof layers, a first-aid kit, and navigation tools (like a GPS device or the komoot app). Helmets are highly recommended.

Yes, this route intersects with sections of several other trails. Notably, it covers about 42% of the Highland Trail 550. Smaller portions also overlap with the Cape Wrath Trail (including its Beinn Eighe Diversion) and the Beinn Eighe Trail.

The Gorsebush Café is a highlight along the route, offering a potential stop for refreshments. Kinlochewe, your starting point, also has limited facilities. It's advisable to carry sufficient supplies, especially water, as services can be sparse in this remote area.

Due to its 'difficult' rating, significant distance (over 85 km), considerable elevation gain, and mixed terrain including gravel and potentially technical sections, this route is generally not recommended for families with young children or inexperienced cyclists. It's best suited for experienced touring cyclists with very good fitness.