Fort William Holiday Lodge
best routes on our door step
9 Great Cycle Routes Near Fort WilliamHere’s 9 great cycle routes near Fort William. If you need to hire a bike while you’re visiting us, there are good options in Fort William including Nevis Cycles and Off Beat Bikes.
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Our 9 great cycle routes near Fort William
downhill
The Nevis Range
Located conveniently near Fort William, the Nevis Range is a renowned UK mountain biking destination. Whether you’re a seasoned mountain biker or new to the sport, this centre offers a variety of trails to suit different skill levels. A gondola provides uplift access, allowing you to maximize your downhill riding experience.
Please note that the dedicated mountain biking trails are open seasonally. During the winter months, the Nevis Range operates as a ski resort, but the lower trails remain accessible for year-round cycling.
While parking at the Nevis Range incurs a fee, you can easily cycle there directly from Highwinds by following this route that avoids the main road. For detailed information about the various mountain biking trails available at the Nevis Range and surrounding area, please visit here. This offers a fantastic option for exploring local cycle routes near Fort William.
Please note that the dedicated mountain biking trails are open seasonally. During the winter months, the Nevis Range operates as a ski resort, but the lower trails remain accessible for year-round cycling.
While parking at the Nevis Range incurs a fee, you can easily cycle there directly from Highwinds by following this route that avoids the main road. For detailed information about the various mountain biking trails available at the Nevis Range and surrounding area, please visit here. This offers a fantastic option for exploring local cycle routes near Fort William.
road and track
Caledonian Loop
This loop offers a varied cycling experience starting with a crossing of the main road onto the Witches Trails. Mountain bikes are recommended for this section due to rough forestry tracks. Experienced riders might consider incorporating the upper downhill trails at the Nevis Range for an added challenge. If you don’t have a mountain bike, an alternative route avoids the main road by heading along the back road towards Brackletter.
The loop continues through Spean Bridge, passing the Commando Memorial (offering excellent views of Ben Nevis), and then follows the Great Glen. From Gairlochy, you can choose a flat return journey along the Canal Path or an undulating road that runs parallel to the canal. You’ll pass Neptune’s Staircase in Banavie before reaching the canal’s end in Corpach. From there, head towards Caol, passing Old Inverlochy Castle before returning to the main road for the final leg home. Here’s a link to my Strava route.
The loop continues through Spean Bridge, passing the Commando Memorial (offering excellent views of Ben Nevis), and then follows the Great Glen. From Gairlochy, you can choose a flat return journey along the Canal Path or an undulating road that runs parallel to the canal. You’ll pass Neptune’s Staircase in Banavie before reaching the canal’s end in Corpach. From there, head towards Caol, passing Old Inverlochy Castle before returning to the main road for the final leg home. Here’s a link to my Strava route.
road and track
The Back Road Loop
This is a pleasant, quieter, and somewhat sheltered undulating road cycling route on the back road by Highwinds. The main challenge is a notable hill approximately 5 miles after the Brackletter corner. To complete the loop, cross the main road and return via trails near the railway line. Mountain bikes are required for this final section, which includes grassy and rough forestry tracks. Road bike users can either return via the same back road or complete the loop on the main road.
road and track
Glen Nevis
Enjoy a scenic out-and-back cycle through the stunning Glen Nevis. This route primarily utilizes forestry tracks, leading all the way to the upper Glen Nevis car park. Beyond this point, some tricky rock sections are present, so it’s advisable to lock your bike and walk to Steall Falls for a closer view. This is generally an easy ride with incredible views. For refreshments, the Ben Nevis Inn offers great pub food with fantastic views along the route. Alternatively, The Highland Soap Company cafe is another excellent stop along the way.
mostly track
Dun Deardail Loop
This loop primarily follows forestry and gravel tracks on the Cow Hill circuit. Cycle around to Blar a’ Chaorainn and then join the West Highland Way for a climb up to Dun Deardail. This site of an ancient Iron Age Fort offers impressive panoramic views down Glen Nevis.
off road
West Highland Way I
Head towards Glen Nevis and then follow The Great Highland Way all the way to the lovely village of Kinlochleven. There’s a few spots to pick up some lunch there! This is a fairly hard route with some steep sections. You will need a decent mountain bike and be comfortable with some rough terrain to do this route.
off road
The Skyfall Challenge
For cyclists looking for a challenging and scenic ride, consider an out-and-back journey to the famous “Skyfall” road (near Glen Etive). This route offers the rewarding experience of cycling to a recognizable film location and back. Be prepared for significant inclines as portions of this route follow the West Highland Way. A mountain bike or a robust hybrid bike with suitable gearing is recommended due to the rought tracks and steep sections along the West Highland Way. Remember to factor in extra time and effort for the climbs and allow for photo opportunities at your destination.
off road
Tour de Ben
For experienced off-road endurance cyclists seeking a significant adventure, this loop around Ben Nevis appears to be an epic undertaking. This route is likely to involve challenging terrain and significant elevation changes. Please ensure you are well-prepared and equipped for a demanding off-road experience. Share your experience with us if you take on this challenge!
road & track
Lochness & Back
This is one of the longer cycle routes near Fort William, taking you to the iconic Loch Ness. Turn right out of Highwinds and follow the road, enjoying scenic views of the River Lochy and the Caledonian Canal. This will lead you onto the main road towards Spean Bridge. Turn left here and cycle past the Commando Memorial (offering great views of Ben Nevis!). Finally, join the Great Glen Way and follow it all the way to Loch Ness. Return to Highwinds by following the Canal path, passing by Loch Oich and Loch Lochy. This route offers a mix of road and potentially some gravel/canal towpath sections, so consider your bike type accordingly.
