Sustrans

ADVENTURE FOR EVERYONE ALONG THE CALEDONIA WAY

With unrivalled scenes of famous castles, west coast islands and rugged mountain landscapes, the Caledonia Way is a coast-to-coast cycling experience like no other. Whether you are a seasoned tourer or simply looking for a family day out, a unique experience is only a click away with Sustrans and VisitScotland’s interactive journey planner.

CYCLING THROUGH HISTORY

Beginning in Campbeltown, once recognised as the ‘whisky capital of the world’, the moorland hills of the Kintyre Peninsula unfold as you pass ancient forts, standing stones and burial sites en route to the historic Crinan Canal. Opened in 1801, the nine-mile long canal is used as a short-cut for shipping between the Clyde and the Inner Hebrides, and the towpath provides a delightful traffic-free and family-friendly cycling experience between Ardrishaig and Crinan.

The Caledonia Way continues north past the Neolithic stone circles in Kilmartin Glen, the probable birthplace of the Scottish Nation. From here, the route follows the shore of Loch Awe before turning southwest into Glen Lonan along ‘The Road of the Kings.’ This historic course was undertaken by the funeral processions of Scotland’s ancient monarchs on their final journeys towards the island of Iona.

A BIKE RIDE FOR FOOD LOVERS

Next comes Oban, the ferry gateway to the isles. This bustling west coast town boasts a fine selection of cafés and award-winning restaurants, earning it a reputation as the seafood capital of Scotland. The short ride up to the imposing McCaig’s Tower is well worth the effort, where the stunning reward of a view across the horseshoe bay towards Kerrera and Mull awaits.

FAMILY-FRIENDLY CYCLING

Heading north from Oban, much of the route here follows the old Oban to Ballachulish railway line, and is another ideal section to explore with the family. Take a short detour to Port Appin and enjoy locally caught seafood at the wonderful Pierhouse Hotel, or catch the passenger ferry – bikes are allowed - to the unspoilt wildlife haven of the Isle of Lismore.

A highlight on this section is the iconic Castle Stalker. Set against the dramatic sea-scape of Loch Linnhe and the silhouette of the Isle of Mull, the imposing 15th-century castle gained international infamy as ‘The Castle of Aaarg’ in Monty Python’s cult classic ‘The Holy Grail’.

A NATURE LOVER’S PARADISE

Long before rail and road, most transport here was undertaken aboard Highland galleys called Bhirlinns. Their design is reflected in the maritime gateways as you enjoy beautiful west coast scenery along the shoreline of Loch Linnhe. Keep your eyes peeled during the short ferry crossing at Corran, as seals and porpoises often escort ferries across the loch.

The quiet loch-side road leading to Camusnagaul is also an ideal location for spotting Golden Eagles and Sea Eagles soaring high overhead, whilst otters can often be seen playing and fishing in the shallows along the loch shore. Another short crossing aboard the Camusnagaul foot passenger ferry to Fort William follows, affording breath-taking views east to the imposing mountains of Ben Nevis, Carn Mor Dearg and Aonach Mor.

WELCOME TO THE OUTDOOR CAPITAL OF SCOTLAND!

With guided walking and climbing, sea kayaking, and world-class mountain biking, Fort William is known as ‘The Outdoor Capital of Scotland’ for good reason. It’s also just a short ride across town on the Caledonia Way towards Corpach and the start of the Caledonia Canal. Constructed by Scottish engineer Thomas Telford in the early 1800s, the 60-mile canal runs continuously from Loch Linnhe on the West Coast to the Beauly Firth in the east.

An undoubted highlight here is Neptune’s Staircase. This dramatic flight of seven locks is the longest ‘staircase lock’ in Britain, and a great place to enjoy a coffee whilst watching the incredible sight of canal boats rising nearly 19m over a quarter of a mile of continuous masonry.

IN THE SHADOWS OF BEN NEVIS

From Fort William, the Caledonia Way heads inland past the foot of Ben Nevis, traversing the Great Glen alongside the Caledonian Canal. At Fort Augustus, a climb to the Suidhe view point is rewarded with panoramic views across Loch Mhor, Loch Ness, and the mountain ranges beyond, before an exhilarating descent into the Highland capital of Inverness. The route ends at Inverness Castle – a perfect spot to reflect upon your epic Caledonia Way adventure.

A UNIqUE CYCLING ADVENTURE FOR EVERYONE

The Caledonia Way offers incredible experiences for all cyclists; from traffic-free paths ideal for a short family day-trip, to challenging on-road ascents for experienced tourers. Our Caledonia Way journey planner, created in partnership with VisitScotland, gives you all the information you need to plan your own, unique adventure.

Access everything from food and drink stops to terrain descriptions, or download one of our printable, family-friendly and accessible day trips.

Plan your journey and experience the magic of the Caledonia Way by visiting Visitscotland.com/cyclingroutes

GETTING THERE:

Accessing the Caledonia Way by public transport is easy, with rail links to Ardrossan, Taynuilt, Oban, Fort William and Inverness. Campbeltown is reached by ferry from Ardrossan or Brodick on Arran (www.calmac. co.uk). For other public transport options, go to www.travelinescotland. com

WHERE TO STAY:

SYHA and affiliate hostels make ideal bases for exploring the route, and are located at: Campbeltown, Oban, Glencoe, Glen Nevis, Invergarry, Fort Augustus and Inverness. Full details can be found at www.hostellingscotland. org.uk/be-inspired/view-all-hostels/