Cycling

Despite the mountainous terrain in Glencoe that even the most hardy of cycling enthusiast would call lumpy, there are still some great cycle rides available to suit all ages and all levels of ability.  From easy flat cycling following Sustrans cycle routes, quiet road routes with very little traffic, simple off road riding on well made tracks to the hardest of downhill mountain bike routes that the professional rider will face in world championship events.

It’s all here in abundance. If you can’t bring your bike, you’ll be pleased to know that there are plenty of options to hire a bike for that dream ride.

Downhill mountain biking

Being based in such a mountainous area with a number of ski resorts, downhill mountain biking can take on a whole new meaning with the ability to take a chair lift with your bike to the higher reaches of the mountain.  The newly opened tracks at Glencoe mountain resort are just up at the head of the glen.

Further afield in Fort William are tracks on the Nevis Range.  And just over an hour away is the well renowned Wolf Trax near Laggan.

Loop of the Loch

A favourite cycle ride of ours is a loop of Loch Leven.  This is a 21 mile circular route that initially takes you through Glencoe village and then follows the South side of Loch Leven into Kinlochleven.  The south side has a few hills, but you are rewarded with superb views over to the Mamore mountains for the effort.  Why not then stop in Kinlochleven for a coffee, and explore the village.  Here you will find the Ice Factor – an indoor climbing wall with the largest ice climbing wall in the world.  There is also a museum to the old aluminium smelter works that used to be here.  Then hop back on the bike for the easier North side of the loch, taking you back to North Ballachulish where you will cross the famous Ballachulish bridge before returning to Glencoe.  Stop at Bishops Bay to see some superb views back along the loch to the mountains of Glencoe.

Coastal cycle – Kentallen to Ballachulish

An absolutely top quality cycle track meanders along the coast taking in some spectacular views along its full length.  Take a picnic, and especially a camera, and enjoy this classic route without needing to venture onto the road.

Lands End to John O’Groats (LEJOG / JOGLE)

Whatever way you are cycling from end to end, Glencoe is a regular stop off as the A82 is generally considered to be on the more direct route up through the Highlands. Why not stop here and relax those weary legs for the evening, or maybe even have a rest day here in Glencoe to soak of some of the best scenery on the route.  We also have a secure area in which you can store your bikes.