An east to west 200 incorporating a climb of the iconic Bealach-na-Ba.
Start: Garve, NW of Inverness
Date: Sunday 21 April 2024
Time : 08:00
Named the Iron Horse in honour of the local oracle Brahan Seer who predicted “the iron horse would fall into the sea at Kishorn” along with many other prophecies around the area.
This 200k ride takes in the iconic climb of Bealach Na Ba, fearsome both in length and in gradient. Not the highest road in Scotland but it is the climb with most continuous ascent in the UK, 626 metres of it at an average gradient of 7% with the steepest bits towards the top. Starting half hours drive from Inverness at Garve it’s a climb, neigh a whole ride guaranteed to remain in your memory.
Start by cycling 60k alongside the railway that promotes itself as one of the most scenic rail journeys in the world. If the iron horse runs you may keep up as nothing runs at high speed in these parts so relax & enjoy.
Then, from Lochcarron leapfrog over to Loch Kishorn to the bottom of the climb of the day starting at more or less sea level and climb to the summit just over 8k away and 626m high. If it’s a clear day a stop at the viewpoint is well worth it. A long downhill to Applecross then a spectacular ride up the coast and on to Torridon. Cycle up the glen under the towering mountains of Torridon to the viewpoint car park near the top of Glen Docherty, after Kinlochewe, where a stop to look back is most worthwhile. A short pedal to the top from here and then it’s downhill for the last 32k with the prevailing wind on your back!
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The Iron Horse – photo library 2023
Highland Audax 