National Route 78 of the National Cycle Network runs from Campbeltown to Inverness and was officially opened on 5 October 2015. It offers a variety of cycling, from challenging on-road hills to lengthy sections of traffic-free path through the spectacular scenery of the west coast of Scotland.

Oban to Fort William

Oban is just under 40 miles from us here in Glencoe and there’s a wonderful bike path running for most of it. Of course you don’t need to ride the whole route – there are lots of fantastic options on route. Ballachulish (a mile) has a cafe and shop, Woodlands Glencoe (5 miles) has activities, cafe and bike hire and the lovely Holly Tree Hotel (6 miles) serves great food and has a small swimming pool you can use. After 10 miles you pass through Duror Village and into the Highland Titles Estate – worth a visit for top opportunities to see the local wildlife.

Starting in Glencoe Village you can get straight onto Route 78 opposite the T junction in the village. Once you leave the A82 behind a mile after Ballachulish you are onto the peaceful line of the old railway connecting to Oban quickly and enjoying stunning views over the surrounding area. You’ll run alongside the loch soon after that with great views opening up across the water and mountains. The route continues, mostly on the bike path, for another 34 miles to Oban itself

Get a feel for Route 78 on Sustrans YouTube video.