Weekender: Kyle of Sutherland explorer route 3
Route name: Croick to Ullapool.
Start/finish: Croick Church, Croick, Sutherland (OS grid ref: NH 45405 91447)/Ullapool.
Maps: OS Landranger 21 Dornoch & Alness.
Distance: 42km (26 miles).
Climbing: 518m (1,700ft).
Bike type: gravel/mountain bike.
Ride level: regular; moderate fitness is required for the climbs.
This route is reasonably flat with some undulation. There are no significant climbs on the way out. On the way back there is a long climb up out of Ullapool but it is on well-surfaced tracks. There is a short section of approximately 500 metres which may require pushing your bike due to conditions especially if it is wet underfoot.
The route starts just after Croick Church; there is an alternative start to the route at the Oykel Bridge Hotel (OS grid ref: NC 38476 00934). The closest train station is at Ardgay, a 10-mile ride away on quiet roads.
Take some time to explore the church. Built in 1827, it featured prominently in the clearance of Glencalvie in 1845. This tragic event is recorded in messages scratched on the east window.
The first 5 miles of the route is along reasonably flat tracks through the remote forested valley Strath Cuileannach before climbing 200ft over the next 1.5 miles. You’ll be rewarded with stunning views.
There is then a lovely descent down to the Schoolhouse Bothy at the 10-mile mark. This is the first of two bothies. It’s well maintained and close to Duag Bridge, offering the opportunity to spot wild salmon. Cross the bridge and keep left.
Beware here, as there are two routes to Ullapool from this point. If you continued straight ahead this would lead you along the harder route past Corriemulzie Lodge. Our route takes you up the small track on the right (OS grid ref: NH 33870 97250), 0.2 miles from the bridge along Druim a’ Bhathaich.
There is a ford ahead (OS grid ref: NH 32000 97790) which can be high if there has been heavy rain, otherwise it is easy to cycle across. Continue along this track passing Knockdamph Bothy at the start of Loch an Diamh (14.5 miles) and through the gates into Rhidonoch Estate (approx 18 miles) where the track eventually changes to tarred single track roads.
Pass Loch Achall. When you reach the end of the loch take the right fork and then the next left to descend into Ullapool. This picturesque fishing village and port sits on the shores of a deep sealoch, Loch Broom. You’ll find a range of restaurants, inns and hotels.
