Cycle Path Extended

Wednesday 21st April 2010

Regular visitors to the area will have already spotted sections of the new Oban to Glencoe cycle path, particularly the section from Glenachulish (by Ballachulish Bridge) to Kentallen. This is one of the loveliest stretches of coastline along Loch Linnhe.

Whether on a bike or simply walking, it is worthwhile doing, and bliss to be without any traffic. Leaving Glenachulish and turning the corner you'll see cormorants on the rock by the shore, stretching their wings if you are lucky. Across the water are the Hills of Morven. Above you, by 200 feet or so is the notorious place where the Campbell of Glenlyon was shot. In Victorian times, Robert Louis Stevenson made a famous boys novel out of it, called Kidnapped. As you come to Kentallen bay, keep a look out for the heron family - there is wild life everywhere.

The track follows the line of the old, famous railway line from Ballachulish to Oban along the shore of Loch Linnhe through Appin. The track carried slate from the main quarries at Ballachulish, but when they closed in 1955 the line went into decline. Dr Beeching's cuts finally closed the line in 1966.

The next phase in the development of the route is currently underway, and should be complete by this summer. The A82 between Glencoe village and the Ballachulish Bridge is one of the most scenic sections, and yet a virtual no go zone if you're not in a car. However, a new path will connect Glencoe village, Ballachulish and the exisiting cycle path at Ballachulish Bridge, offering a relative safe means of commuting route this section of the loch.

Further south, further new sections of the cycle path are due to open very soon. Biking around Port Appin has always been a pleasure, but with the track now linking the stunning views at Castle Stalker, right through the Strath of Appin to Creagan and then beyond to the Sea Life Centre beyond Barcaldine, there's plenty to explore.

For more information about bike hire in Glencoe or biking locally contact Crank It Up Gear.

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