The best road cycling routes around Durness
4.7
(7)
268
riders
7
rides
Road cycling routes around Durness traverse a secluded village in the far north of Scotland, known for its diverse and rugged natural landscape. The area features a dramatic coastline with pristine sandy beaches and vast open spaces. Cyclists encounter towering mountains and unique geological formations, with the region forming a significant part of the iconic North Coast 500 route. The local road network offers a variety of routes, from easy rides to more challenging paths with significant elevation gains.
Best…
Last updated: October 15, 2026
5.0
(2)
24
riders
80.1km
03:35
810m
810m
Cycle a moderate 49.8-mile (80.1 km) loop through the remote Scottish Highlands, featuring Ben Hope, Loch Meadie, and the Kyle of Tongue.
4.7
(3)
98
riders
116km
05:27
1,460m
1,460m
Hard road ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
4.5
(2)
64
riders
64.2km
02:56
730m
730m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
29
riders
99.1km
04:19
930m
930m
Hard road ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
29
riders
98.2km
04:18
920m
920m
Hard road ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
Get access to more routes and recommendations from other explorers.
Already have an account?
Our route recommendations are based on thousands of hikes, rides, and runs completed by other people on komoot.
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
Popular around Durness
North Coast 500 Cycle Route – Scottish bikepacking adventure
The sun always shines on the Sutherland Trail
Around the edge in 80 days — cycling the coastline of Britain
Hiking the 282 munro mountains of Scotland in 95 routes
Hiking around Durness
MTB Trails around Durness
Running Trails around Durness
Cycling around Durness
Other adventures around Durness
Tips from the Community
Short climb before the next hill. There is an information board about the clearly visible ruins on the peninsula. The best way is to climb over the guard rail of the road down to the sheep meadow and have an unobstructed view of Loch Eriboll. Loch Eriboll is also navigable for large ships with a depth of around 60m, which is why the Navy used it to ensure that their ships were in calm and safely hidden waters.
0
0
Strathnaver is a valley
4
0
Running from Loch Naver through the valley of Strath Naver to Bettyhill is a trail that explores the Pre-clearence communities of the Highlands and earlier Iron Age communities. The trail can be enjoyed in either direction, this is location 1 with stunning views across the Loch. The settlement is across the road up a small bank with a broch dating back to 2000 years. Trail guide is at http://www.theflowcountry.org.uk/assets/Uploads/StrathnaverTrailMap.pdf
0
0
The Dun Dornaigil broch is an impressive structure, even so located as it is amongst the epic landscape of the Strathmore rivers and hills. The triangular lintel over the entrance is as solid a support as you could ever hope to find, having stood for approx 2,300 years and counting.
1
0
Brochs are highly impressive prehistoric buildings, unique to Scotland and found mainly in the north and west. These stone roundhouses date from around 400-200 BC. This broch may have belonged to a wealthy family, demonstrating control of the glen.
1
0
This causeway and bridge carry the A838 across the Kyle of Tongue. It was built in 1971 and replaced a 10mile diversion inland on small and windy roads. There was a ferry here, but it closed in 1956.
0
0
A small fishing village that used to have a ferry service to cross the loch until it was replaced by a bridge in 1984. The Kylesku hotel is a good rest stop or destination with an excellent fish-based menu and a nice bar. They have separate summer and winter opening times and are open to non-residents as well as people staying.
1
0
Frequently Asked Questions
How many road cycling routes are available around Durness?
There are 4 dedicated road cycling routes detailed around Durness, catering to various skill levels. The komoot community has explored Durness's varied terrain on over 260 road cycling tours, highlighting the area's popularity.
Are there road cycling routes suitable for beginners or families in Durness?
Yes, Durness offers easy road cycling options perfect for beginners or families. For instance, the Cafe and Craft Village – Sango Sands Campsite loop from Balnakeil Craft Village is an easy 12.7-mile (20.4 km) path that provides a gentle ride through coastal scenery near local amenities, ideal for a relaxed outing.
What kind of scenery can I expect on road cycling routes in Durness?
Road cycling around Durness offers dramatic coastlines, pristine sandy beaches, and vast open spaces. You'll encounter rugged mountains, unique geological formations, and stunning sea views. The region is part of the iconic North Coast 500, ensuring breathtaking vistas throughout your ride.
What are some notable landmarks or attractions I can see while cycling in Durness?
While cycling in Durness, you can explore several unique attractions. Don't miss Smoo Cave, a fascinating sea cave with a waterfall, or the stunning Sandwood Bay and Am Buachaille Sea Stack. The area also features impressive peaks like Ben Hope Summit and Foinaven, offering dramatic backdrops to your ride.
Are there any circular road cycling routes in Durness?
Yes, Durness features several circular road cycling routes. A popular option is the Durness Beach – View of Sango Sands Beach loop from Smoo Cave, a 40.7-mile (65.4 km) trail offering expansive coastal views. Another is the shorter Cafe and Craft Village – Sango Sands Campsite loop from Balnakeil Craft Village.
What is the best time of year for road cycling in Durness?
The summer months generally offer the most favorable weather for road cycling in Durness, with milder temperatures and longer daylight hours. However, the region's weather can be unpredictable, so it's always wise to be prepared for varying conditions regardless of the season.
Are there challenging road cycling routes for experienced riders?
Yes, experienced riders seeking a challenge will find routes with significant elevation gains. For example, the Moine House Ruin – Dun Dornaigil Broch loop from Altnaharra is a difficult 61.6-mile (99.1 km) route with over 3,000 feet (929 m) of ascent, demanding very good fitness. Some segments on more advanced routes might even require pushing your bike.
What do other road cyclists enjoy most about road cycling in Durness?
The road cycling routes in Durness are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars from 4 reviews. Cyclists often praise the dramatic coastlines, the sense of wild, untamed country, and the stunning sea views that accompany many of the rides.
Are there opportunities for cafe stops or places to eat along the routes?
Yes, Durness and its surrounding villages offer amenities for cyclists. Routes like the Cafe and Craft Village – Sango Sands Campsite loop from Balnakeil Craft Village pass near local amenities, including cafes and craft villages, providing convenient stops for refreshments.
Is parking available for road cyclists in Durness?
While specific parking areas for cyclists are not detailed, Durness is a village with various facilities. You can typically find parking in or near the village center, or at designated car parks for local attractions, which can serve as starting points for your cycling adventures.
How long do road cycling routes in Durness typically take to complete?
Route durations vary depending on distance and difficulty. Easy rides, such as the Cafe and Craft Village – Sango Sands Campsite loop from Balnakeil Craft Village, can take around 1 hour. Moderate routes, like the Kyle of Tongue Bridge – Talmine Bay Shipwreck loop from Kinloch River, typically take about 2 hours 37 minutes, while longer, more challenging routes can extend to 5 hours or more.
What is the typical elevation gain on Durness road cycling routes?
Elevation gain varies significantly across routes. Easy rides might have around 400 feet (130 m) of ascent, while moderate routes can involve 1,800 to 2,700 feet (560-825 m) of climbing. The most challenging routes can exceed 3,000 feet (900 m) of elevation gain, such as the Moine House Ruin – Dun Dornaigil Broch loop from Altnaharra.
Most popular attractions around Durness
Get inspired with the komoot mobile app
Explore more
Browse the best Road cycling routes in other regions.
