The best traffic-free bike rides around Loch Migdale

There are 7 dedicated traffic-free touring cycling routes around Loch Migdale featured in this guide. These routes offer a variety of experiences, from easy loops to more challenging rides through the Scottish Highlands.

The routes around Loch Migdale offer diverse terrain. You'll find tranquil lochside paths, forest climbs, and sections through open moorland and rolling hills. Some routes, like the Alladale Gravel Road – Croick Church loop from Ardgay, incorporate gravel roads, while others follow quieter paved sections.

Yes, there is an easy route suitable for families looking for a relaxed ride. The River Carron loop from Ardgay is a gentle 26.2 km (16.2 miles) route along the tranquil River Carron, offering scenic views and opportunities to spot local wildlife like sheep and Highland cows.

For experienced touring cyclists, the region offers more demanding routes with significant elevation gains. The Croick Church – Croick Estate Off-Road Track loop from Ardgay is a difficult 64.4 km route with substantial climbing, providing a rewarding challenge and stunning Highland vistas.

Beyond the natural beauty, you can discover historical and natural attractions. Keep an eye out for the ancient Iron Age crannog hidden in Loch Migdale's waters, or the remnants of a Canadian forestry camp. The area is also known for its diverse woodlands, including the Ledmore & Migdale Woodland Trust site, and wicker sculptures of red squirrels along some paths.

Yes, all the routes featured in this guide are circular, allowing you to start and finish at the same point. This includes options like the Balblair Wood loop from Bonar Bridge, which is a moderate 11.9 km ride.

The komoot community highly rates the touring cycling experience around Loch Migdale, with an average score of 5.0 stars. Reviewers often praise the stunning Scottish Highland scenery, the tranquility of the traffic-free paths, and the rich wildlife, including red squirrels and various bird species.

Many routes, such as those starting from Ardgay or Bonar Bridge, are accessible from local train stations, making public transport a viable option for reaching the starting points. It's advisable to check local train schedules and bike carriage policies in advance.

Parking is generally available in the villages of Bonar Bridge and Ardgay, which serve as common starting points for many routes. Specific parking details may vary by route, so it's recommended to check the individual route descriptions for the most accurate information.

While the routes focus on natural beauty and tranquility, villages like Ardgay and Bonar Bridge offer cafes and local amenities where you can refuel. For example, the Alladale Gravel Road – Alladale Wilderness Reserve loop from Ardgay starts and ends near village facilities.

The Scottish Highlands offer beautiful cycling experiences throughout the year, but spring and summer (May to September) generally provide the most favorable weather conditions with longer daylight hours. Autumn brings stunning foliage, while winter can offer a unique, crisp experience, though some paths may be more challenging due to weather.