MegaSack DRAW - This year's winner is user - rgwb
We will be in touch
In a couple of weeks time we're embarking on a C2C starting in Montrose, ending on the west coast in Mallaig. Looking at a couple of different route options and hoping the biketrekkers amongst us can help me out. First leg is from Montrose over to Ballater/Braemar area, and is one of the places I've never been. So not sure if Glen Clova is the best option,then up and over to Braemar or is it better to head up Glen Esk and onto Mount Keen? Always fancied Mount Keen as a separate ride, so quite fancy this route, but it looks like a few road miles to get to Braemar. any alternate routes appreciated.
Most of the 'middle' bit I've ridden on various outings, so planning Feshie-Newtonmore-General Wades-Fort Augustus-Arkaig. Any other alternates appreciated.
Finally, Is there a rideable route from Strathan at the west of Loch Arkaig to Mallaig or is it a hike a bike?
Cheers!
I think Skedaddle cycle holidays use the Mount keen option,as its more rideable..
Keen is a good option, with straightforward navigation. Means a further short climb back NW out of Glen Tannar though, if you want to reduce the road miles.
A tougher option for consideration if you're travelling light is to climb out of Clova to Bachnagairn, then Broad Cairn, Cairn Bannoch, Saggart Mor, Callater and Braemar. This require good weather and better nav skills plus confident riding, as the descent is a step up from the north side of Mt Keen.
Both are good. Haven't been west out of the top of Arkaig but strongly suspect it's a ball ache.
I'd do Broad Cairn et al myself but it is, as Highlandman says, quite a step up. Descending via the ridge off the North of Carn an t-Saigort Mor then down the Feindallacher Burn is a balls out alternative to the techy Callater descent. The initial pitch is unmarked on the map but the trail is easy enough to pick up from the saddle between the two 'Saigarts.' Swing round via the Lions Face above the town - nice trail / views.
Arkaig > Mallaig is difficult. Again if you are up for a challenge and don't mind some portage then Dessary > Sourlies > Gleann Meadail> Inverie has to be the mother of all CTC finales. Have a knees up @ The Old Forge then 25 min ferry back to Mallaig in the morning. Nice bunkhouse above Inverie too.
Thanks guys. We've got a fair bit of kit so Mount Keen looks the best option. Will certainly look in to the Inverie route. Food for thought, thanks.