Taynuilt - Fearnoch Gravel Loop
The route essentials you need to know
Level: Intermediate
Total Distance: 20.6 km
Total Ascent: 280 m
Terrain: A mixture of quiet roads, well-graded gravel paths and a short section on a busy road
Route Category: Straightforward
Riding Time: 2 - 2.5 hrs
Start/Finish: Taynuilt Railway Station
OS Grid Ref: NN 00352 31212
Nearest Parking: At the station, also in the village
Key Facilities on Route: Taynuilt (shop, accommodation, food)
OS Landranger Map: 49
Taynuilt - Fearnoch Gravel Loop
Route Description
The route starts at Taynuilt Railway Station, situated in the heart of the village. It passes the village shop and tea room, before crossing the A85 and following the Caledonia Way on a quiet road out towards Glen Lonan. A delight in all seasons, the glen hosts a residential herd of Highland cattle, which are often found grazing close to the road. The route follows a track towards Angus's Garden, which was created out of a mother’s love for her son, who died in the 50s in Cyprus. Shortly after the entrance to the garden the route enters Fearnoch Forest, and continues on well-maintained tracks through this area.
It reaches the small hamlet of Fearnoch and then travels back to Glen Lonan, joining the road again for a short section. At the next opportunity the route follows a track on the left, which leads to Achnameadhonach, where the route continues on a singletrack road towards the A85. For less confident cyclists the last section into Taynuilt can be finished on the pavement instead of using the main road, before the route finishes at the railway station. From here the Bonawe Iron Furnace and the small road to the shores of Loch Etive offer more cycling opportunities.