The best road cycling routes in Knoydart

Komoot features 20 road cycling routes in Knoydart. These routes navigate the region's unique landscape, which is known for its remote and rugged character.

Knoydart is characterized by a very limited network of tarred roads, approximately seven miles in total. The terrain is predominantly rugged and remote, with many routes involving unpaved, difficult, boggy, or rocky sections. While some segments might be suitable for touring bikes, a mountain bike or a heavy touring bike is generally recommended for exploring the existing tracks.

The routes in Knoydart cater to various skill levels, though the region is generally challenging. There are 5 easy routes, 9 moderate routes, and 6 difficult routes available. Routes like Wild Campsite at Corran Bay – Glenelg Shop loop from Sgeir Leathan are considered difficult due to significant elevation gain and rugged terrain.

Given Knoydart's remote and rugged nature, traditional family-friendly road cycling on smooth, dedicated paths is very limited. The region's few tarred roads and numerous unpaved tracks are often more suited for experienced cyclists or those with mountain bikes. However, some of the 5 easy routes might be manageable for families with older children and appropriate bikes, but caution and preparation are advised due to the wilderness setting.

Knoydart offers dramatic landscapes, including towering peaks, secluded lochs, and pristine coastlines. Along the routes, you might encounter stunning views of Loch Hourn or Kinloch Hourn. The region is also home to four Munros, such as Meall Buidhe, offering impressive vistas.

Knoydart's weather can be unpredictable. The warmer, drier months, typically late spring to early autumn (May to September), generally offer the most favorable conditions for cycling. However, even during these times, be prepared for sudden weather changes, including rain and wind, due to the region's remote and exposed nature.

Yes, many of the road cycling routes in Knoydart are designed as loops. For example, the Glenelg–Skye Ferry – Glenelg Shop loop from Arnisdale is a popular moderate circular route, and the View of Glasnacardoch Bay – The Prince's Cairn loop from Mallaig also offers a circular experience.

Due to the limited tarred roads and prevalence of unpaved, rugged tracks, a traditional road bike is generally not suitable for most of Knoydart. A mountain bike or a heavy touring bike is highly recommended. E-bike and regular bike hire is available in the area for exploring the trails.

Knoydart is famously remote and not connected to the main UK road system. Access is typically by boat from Mallaig or via a challenging walk. This means bringing a bike by public transport directly into the peninsula is difficult. Cyclists usually access the area via Mallaig, which has train connections, and then take a ferry.

Knoydart has very limited facilities due to its remote nature. Inverie is the main settlement and is home to mainland Britain's most remote pub, The Old Forge, which is a notable attraction. Cyclists should plan to be self-sufficient with food and water, especially on longer routes, as cafes and shops are scarce.

The longest road cycling route featured is the View of the Small Isles – Road from Kilchoan Ferry loop from Mallaig, which spans 60.5 miles (97.3 km) and typically takes around 4 hours 45 minutes to complete. This challenging route leads through coastal and elevated areas.

The komoot community rates the road cycling routes in Knoydart highly, with an average score of 5.0 stars. Cyclists often appreciate the dramatic and remote landscape, the sense of true wilderness, and the challenging nature of the routes, which offer a unique escape from urban life.