Cycle Path from Glencoe to Kentallen

The bike paths along the A82 from Glencoe to Oban provide both an important link between scattered rural communities and a valuable addition to the local tourist infrastructure. Being able to travel safely by bike amidst such gorgeous scenery is a must, and so to prove a point we checked out the ride from Clachaig Inn in Glencoe to the Holly Tree Hotel at Kentallen Pier.

The first couple of miles are on quiet single track roads, and there’s a nice bit of downhill gradient to get you into the swing of things. Nearer the village, the first sections of the Glencoe Orbital Track will take you off the road as far as the Hospital Drive. In time, it is hoped that there’ll be a path all the way along the old village road as far as Clachaig, where it will then meet up with a return down the glen, past An Torr and Signal Rock and then back to the village by the National Trust for Scotland Visitor Centre.

If you haven’t got your bikes with you, then try hiring from Woodlands in South Ballachulish. Leave your car in  Glencoe Village car park and start the journey from here.

From Glencoe Village, the route uses the old section of road past Craft & Things (save your coffee and cake stop for the return!) and along TighPhuirt. Sections of new tar then take you along past Ballachulish Village and towards the impressive setting of St John’s Church. Built in 1842, the present church is now in need of repair and restoration and attempts are being made to raise the estimated £1m required.

It’s definitely worth stopping to take in a bit of history, and to also marvel at the panoramic views across Loch Leven from the church.

More smooth tar will take you to Ballachulish roundabout next. If you’re heading for North Ballachulish, continue on over the bridge, but we took a left turn along the old Ballachulish railway line, which continues through Glenachulish and is currently rideable all the way to Kentallen Pier.

Back on the bed of the old railway line, the views open out, and on a day such as the one we chose, it’s just amazing. The views across Loch Linnhe to the Ardgour and Morvern Hills are the best you could wish for. There’s a few little shingle beaches and coves where you can get off and search for crabs, watch the cormorants, or simply take a snooze.

The Sustrans route continues beyond the Holly Tree Hotel, all the way to Oban making for a superb journey.  So either continue or stop at the hotel to enjoy a cuppa and cake or perhaps something from the bar!