The Blairmore Café

This difficult touring cycling route, the Lock Eck, Blairemore Horse Shoe & Strone loop, takes you through the stunning Loch Lomond and The Trossachs National Park. You will cycle 23.7 miles (38.2 km) with a significant elevation gain of 1927 feet (587 metres), which typically takes around 2 hours and 53 minutes to complete. The trail offers magnificent and expansive views, including picturesque vistas of Loch Eck and Beinn Mhor. You will wind through varied landscapes, from dense woodlands to tranquil lochside paths, and pass through high forests. On clear days, you might even see the distant west coast islands of Jura and Islay.

This challenging route is considered difficult and requires very good fitness due to its demanding nature and significant elevation changes. While some sections are on mostly paved surfaces, other parts of the broader Loch Eck Loop can involve unpaved sections with occasional loose material. It is often recommended for experienced mountain bikers due to steep slopes, so ensure both you and your bike are in good condition. The trail passes through remote terrain, so be prepared for self-sufficiency.

The Lock Eck, Blairemore Horse Shoe & Strone loop is a popular touring cycling route within the Argyll Forest Park and Loch Lomond and The Trossachs National Park. You can explore key points of interest along or near the trail, such as Benmore Botanic Gardens, known for its diverse plant collections. Another enchanting site is Puck's Glen, a wooded ravine. The route offers a true immersion into the rich heritage and spectacular scenery of Scotland's Cowal peninsula.

Embark on a moderate touring bicycle adventure through Loch Lomond and The Trossachs National Park with the Lock Eck & Ardentinny loop. This 20.3-mile (32.6 km) route, typically completed in about 2 hours and 1 minute, guides you from Benmore Botanic Gardens along picturesque lochside paths and through scenic forest sections. You will encounter varied terrain, mostly paved, but be ready for some unpaved segments and the challenging Ardentinny Climb, which features a steep gradient. On clear days, you can enjoy expansive views of Loch Eck, Beinn Mhor, and even the distant west coast islands of Jura and Islay.

Your journey begins at the Benmore Botanic Garden, which is accessible via public transport, making it a convenient starting point. While the route is generally moderate, the Ardentinny Climb demands good fitness. You will find tranquil picnic spots along the eastern shore of Loch Eck, such as Jubilee Point, perfect for a break with gorgeous lochside views. Prepare for a mix of surfaces and elevation changes that contribute to the trail's moderate difficulty rating.

This loop offers a fantastic opportunity to explore the diverse landscapes of the National Park, combining natural beauty with a rewarding cycling experience. Beyond the ride, the Benmore Botanic Garden itself is a notable attraction, famous for its majestic trees. Loch Eck is a central feature, known for its tranquil beaches and opportunities for wildlife spotting, including red squirrels and the rare powan fish. The charming coastal village of Ardentinny also adds a point of interest along the way, complementing the magnificent panoramic views that make this route truly special.