The uncompromising Bealach Na Ba
Take on the challenge of one of Britain’s biggest, toughest, but also most spectacular climbs in this superb long weekend tour.
The Bealach Na Ba (Pass of the Cattle) has the highest height gain of any road in the UK (626m or 2054ft) and is the closest a cyclist can come to climbing an alpine classic without leaving these shores. It is the subject of a yearly sportive, and has a bit of a cult status amongst riders in the know – both for the satisfaction of tackling it and for the stunning local scenery.
Lochcarron, a stunning part of the world
Bealach Na Ba Weekend – Tough
Friday – Arrival in Achnasheen
The first day is left free to allow for group members to arrive and get their bikes ready for the tour (or get fitted for one of our hire bikes). We have a group meal in the evening to give everyone a chance to meet each other and discuss the next two day’s riding.
Saturday – Achnasheen to Applecross
37 miles (60km)
Peaceful coastal roads on the Applecross Peninsula
The day starts off quite easily with a gentle cruise down the glen to the banks of Lochcarron, before kicking up in a short but sharp, leg-warming climb after the village. This provides us with a notion of the task to come. After an exhilarating descent down towards Loch Kishorn we hit the base of the Bealach Na Ba and the real climbing begins. At this stage each member of the group can decide to climb at their own pace – the guide will stay with the quicker riders and the support car will ensure everyone gets off the hill safely. From the top, it’s an amazingly speedy ride down into the village of Applecross, where the reward of glorious seafood awaits at our stopover, the Applecross Inn.
Amazing views of the islands, including the mountains of Skye
Sunday – Applecross to Achnasheen
52 miles (83km)
The second day sees an increase in the mileage, and while there is no one major challenge, there are a plentiful supply of small testing climbs to keep us interested. We head north from Applecross along the coastal road, which offers fantastic views across to the islands of Raasay and Rona, eventually rounding the peninsula at Loch Torridon. There is the opportunity to stop for some refreshments at the lovely little fishing village of Sheildaig, before continuing down into dramatic Glen Torridon and on to our hotel at Achnasheen.
Monday
Depart for home, satisfied with completing a great adventure.
Upcoming Tours in 2011:
Friday 26th – Monday 29th August
We specialise in small group tours, and as such the size of group for each tour is limited to a maximum of 6 people. Places tend to get booked up quickly so don’t spend too long mulling it over!
This tour is priced at £450 per person (based on sharing a twin room – single supplement £100)
Included in the price:
- An experienced guide to lead the group.
- Vehicle support.
- Accommodation in characterful 3 or 4 star small, family-run hotels or B&B’s.
- Fully planned route.
- Local information.
- Luggage transfer.
- Bike Hire (subtract £30 if bringing your own bike)
If you are interested in joining us, please let us know by using the Booking Enquiries form on the right.
