Tackle a challenging circuit ride through majestic Wester Ross. Start from Garve in the shadow of mighty Ben Wyvis and follows the Highland Railway along Strath Bran to Achnasheen (15 miles). Climb to the head of Glen Docherty and experience splendid views along the exhilarating descent to Kinlochewe (25 miles). With Slioch on your right, follow magical Loch Maree past Talladale, into Slattadale and the forested singletrack road down through Kerrydale to meet sea and sand at Gairloch (44 miles). 

Food & comfort stop are located at the Community Centre. Climb the headland before skirting sub-tropical Inverewe Gardens, past Aultbea (57 miles) and around the coast, giving a wide berth to infamous Gruinard Island.  More crests to conquer with many affording magnificent coastal panoramas before you drop down through remnant crofting townships to Little Loch Broom.

The next food & comfort stop is by the Dundonnell Hotel (74 miles) sheltered under brooding An Teallach. Take it steady through the gorge as you climb up to a summit (332m.) along the stark Destitution Road. A final chance to grab a bite at Braemore junction (89 miles) before the drag to the watershed. Take in Beinn Dearg and the Fannichs as you pass lonely Loch Droma then its downhill back to Gorstan and ride HQ at the Garve Hotel (108 miles, 174 km).  Sample some complementary hot soup and sandwiches as you savour the achievement of 6993ft (2131m) of climb and descent in stunning surroundings.

This is a self-timed strenuous ride that will test the fittest.  Weather conditions even in a Highland summer can vary considerably so prepare accordingly.  There is a generous nine hour cut-off and the ride will have full medical, mechanical and recovery support. See the route plan at :

https://www.google.com/maps/d/edit?mid=zpDrBNhOtQZY.kYj99-ga2Zgs&usp=sharing

Registration opens at 7am. on SATURDAY, 8 JULY 2017 at the Garve Hotel (IV23 2PR).  First riders away at 8am.  All event facilities will be closed from 6pm.

Don’t delay, entries cost from £40 at www.hivelo.co.uk

You must read THE LOOP Terms & Conditions before booking your ride.  See these at www.hivelo.co.uk

Info for Riders

A testing sportive ride through spectacular Highland countryside and communities which will also support our campaign for a velodrome and other safe cycling facilities to serve the Highlands. Minimum rider age is 18.

Promoting Organisation: Highland Velodrome Trust (HiVelo).  Non-refundable fee of £40 which includes a donation to the Highland Velodrome project.