Cycling & Mountain Biking

Home to the UK round of the UCI Mountain Bike World Cup, Lochaber is a mecca for mountain bikers and cyclists.

With exciting single track trails, world class downhill, miles of gentle forest routes, flat (yes flat!) canal paths, an ambundance of wilderness routes to discover and quiet Highland roads, the area is perfect for all types of mountain bike and cycling holidays.

Circumnavigating around Ben Nevis on a mountain bike or cycling out to the most westerly mainland point on the British Isles on the Ardnamurchan Peninsula are just a couple of the routes that make the Outdoor Capital a haven for all bike enthusiasts*.

Lochaber's fame for world-class downhill riding is undoubtedly linked to the UCI Mountain Bike World Cup which Nevis Range, with it's gondola that takes you (and your bike!) to the start of the downhill track at 2,150ft, has been hosting for the past 10 years.

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Mountain Biking

Downhill

Downhill mountain biking is a real test of the rider's skill and nerve. The best riders in the world complete the Black Run at Nevis Range in around 4 minutes, whilst less experienced riders can take up to half an hour! As not everyone can or even should attempt this famous track, the Red Route is a brilliant alternative. A longer and less steep course, although still technically challenging, it is a sensible way to build up the skills and confidence of proficient bikers before tackling the ultimate test of the Black Run. 

Glencoe Mountain Resort offers an extremely technical black downhill track which is served by chairlift access and there is a new freeride trail due for completion in August 2011. Glencoe hosts a variety of bike events, including British and Scottish Downhill Association competitions and the first No Fuss Events MacAvalanche. Bike hire is available.

There are also lots of unmarked downhill tracks around the area - you just have to know where to look for them!  Follow the links below, book a guide, or ask local riders who are always happy to advise you on best bike routes in the area. 

Cross Country

Lochaber has an extensive network of trails and for cross-country mountain bikers this is a truly fantastic place to ride. From gentle forest tracks with stunning views in Glencoe to all-day epics through remote highland glens, you'll find it all here. Purpose-built trails that incorporate exciting features into compact and accessible areas, such as the Leanachan Witch's Trails or the Red World Champs course at Nevis Range are popular options.

Road and Tour Cycling

Road Cycling in Lochaber is all about enjoying the tranquility of our quiet Highland roads, and the ability to cover great distances on your bike. Once you're off the main trunk roads, Lochaber’s winding, mainly single-track offer ideal cycling. A 40-mile route can be done in a long summer’s evening, or you can take it easier and make a day trip of it. Choose from a variety of classic routes out to Ardnamurchan point, the most westerly point on the UK mainland, or explore the older, back roads of the Great Glen and Glen Spean.  One thing's for sure in the more remote parts of Lochabrt, you'll often have the whole road to yourself!

See our Pedal in Paradise ActiVacation for cycling tour ideas in the Outdoor Capital of the UK.

Useful Links

• www.ridefortwilliam.co.uk 
• www.greatglenbikes.com