The cycle

Loch Carron

Location: North West Highlands Maps: OS Landranger 24, 33 Distance: 25 miles (40km) Time: 3 hours Terrain: Hilly; mainly quiet minor roads, short A-road section

FOR stunning scenery and sea views try this road ride to Kyle of Lochalsh by Loch Carron.

This demanding linear route starts in Stromeferry which gives you the choice of returning by train. From the clachan a short, sharp climb leads to the main road. Turn right, and after 600m, take the first minor road on the left. Cycle through Achmore and follow the tarmac round to head west by the coast.

The road levels out after an initial gradual climb to present a near perfect cycling gradient. Blissful long and flat sections follow small rises for effortless cycling; glide by woods below Creag an Duilisg before enjoying glimpses of the island-studded sea below.

To visit Plockton divert downhill for 2km at a signed T-junction. With its picturesque sheltered bay, the village is a tranquil haven today, a far cry from the era of the Clearances when it was a disembarkation point.

Back on the main route the road, now two-laned, climbs steeply towards the crofting township of Duirinish.

Continue uphill to join a larger and busier road. Turn right to cycle close to the coast with spectacular views of Skye and the Cuillins across the Sound of Raasay. Kyle itself is a bustling spot where the train line terminates.

On paper a circular option from the town looks like a natural choice but this involves enduring the busy and fast A87. Retrace the outward leg instead, omitting the diversion to Plockton.