Two Giants – One day

North West Scotland

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Route at a Glance

The Two Giants:

Giant one – Skye
Skye also known as the Isle of Skye is the largest and most northerly large island in the Inner Hebrides. The island’s peninsulas radiate from a mountainous centre dominated by the Cuillins the rocky slopes of which provide some of the most dramatic mountain scenery in the country. It is joined to the mainland by the Skye Bridge. The route makes a circular venture of the Island including Portree which is an ideal stop for a cuppa and a breather.

Giant Two – Applecross
The name Applecross is at least 1300 years old and is now used locally to refer to the 19th century village. Extremely isolated, Applecross was only accessible by boat until the early 20th century, and for many years after that the only road access was over one of Scotland’s most notoriously treacherous roads, the Bealach na Ba (‘Pass of the Cattle’), which crosses the peninsula and reaches a maximum height of 2053 ft (626 m). It is this road that the fuss is all about. A steep ascent with some challenging technical aspects this is a must do road.

PRO TIP – The joining route between these two giants is as good as the Giants themselves. Have a feast.

Route Notes & Highlights

(Icons on the map)

• Isle of Skye – Recently voted ‘4th best island in the world by National Geographic magazine. Stark rise of the jagged Cuillin ridge drops to the gentle white of a soft sand beach. Inlets, bays and islands create a complex lacework pattern with the sea. Tiny villages and historic keeps are familiar and fascinating. A place where time means nothing.
• Applecross – Over the 2053’ road called the Bealach na Ba, if the cloud has lifted, you’ll see the kind of views normally reserved only for sweaty mountaineers. Panoramas to the Outer Hebrides and South to the Kintail mountains will keep you gazing until you need to descend to the village for warmth and sustenance. We could wax lyrical about the fantastic beaches, the calm waters of the Inner Sound and the gentle hills above the crofting townships, the food, the music, the sunsets and more. Oh and did I mention one of the most memorable and great rides you will ever do.
• Eilean Donan Castle – There’s a road parallel to the A87 where you will find Carr Brae, a viewpoint with some different and great panoramic views of the castle. This is definitely one of the most photographed castles in Scotland, it’s setting along the loch is quite stunning. There was a dwelling on the location dating back to the 6th century but the castle itself dates back to the 1300’s!

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Filling Stations on Route

Plenty of fuel stations along the way in the major towns.