Scottish routes
episode 2
Torridon classic
Route Guides: McTrail Rider & Louise Haggerty
Route overview
The Torridon Classic Mountain Bike Loop offers a thrilling MTB adventure through Scotland's rugged Highlands. Spanning 30 miles of remote terrain, riders are immersed in untamed wilderness, tackling exhilarating descents and challenging climbs. It's an experience that combines adrenaline-pumping excitement with breathtaking natural beauty, leaving riders craving more, long after the journey ends.
Location
Torridon
Average Duration 4-8 Hours
Distance 30 Miles
Elevation 944M (Avg)
Technical Difficulty Black Diamond
Required Fitness Level High
Local amenities
Torridon (Village)
Cafe / Campsites / Hostel / B&B / Medical Practice
Achnashellach
Trainline/ Hostel/ Campsite
Coulin
Coulin Estate/ Coulin Accommodation
Map view
Route Rundown
Welcome to the Torridon Classic Mountain Bike Loop, a challenging yet rewarding journey through the remote wilderness of the Scotland's Highlands. This naturally crafted trail offers mountain biking enthusiasts an opportunity to immerse themselves in the rugged beauty of the Scottish landscape whilst testing their skills on a variety of terrain. In this blog, we delve into the key sections of the route, including the Coulin Estate, the Achnashellach Descent, Coulags and the Anat Descent which form part of this remote but epic ride.
The Coulin Estate : Spanning vast stretches of ancient woodlands and rolling moors, riders will navigate a network of trails that wind through dense forests and open meadows, offering a gentle introduction to the challenges that lie ahead.
The Achnashellach Descent: As riders venture deeper into the heart of the Highlands, they will encounter the exhilarating descent into the Achnashellach Valley. This section of the trail is characterized by steep gradients, rocky outcrops and technical features that require a high level of skill and concentration. Descending over 1,000 feet in elevation, riders will experience a thrilling ride filled with adrenaline-pumping descents and breathtaking vistas of the surrounding landscape.
Coulags: Following the Achnashellach Descent, riders will then begin the easy pedal across roads and double track to the Coulags, where rugged terrain and steep inclines test their endurance and determination. This section of the loop covers approximately 10 miles and includes a mix of singletrack, a bothy pit-stop, and quite a climb. With elevation gains of over 1,500 feet, riders must be prepared for a sustained climb to lead you to the final descent - the Anat.
The Anat Descent: The final leg of the Torridon Classic Mountain Bike Loop culminates in the heart-stopping descent of Anat, a technical trail that winds its way down the mountainside with breathtaking speed that requires absolute precision. Riders will encounter Torridon’s infamous rock slabs and challenging obstacles as they negotiate the rugged terrain of this iconic descent. The Anat Descent offers a thrilling conclusion to an unforgettable ride through the remote wilderness of the Highlands.
What sets the Torridon Classic Mountain Bike Loop apart is not just its challenging terrain or breathtaking scenery, but the sense of adventure and remoteness that pervades every mile of the journey. Riders will find themselves immersed in a wilderness untouched by civilization, where the only sounds are the rustle of leaves and the call of the wild. With limited access to amenities and services, riders must come prepared with adequate supplies and equipment to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.
As you near the end of the loop, the trail leading back into Torridon you’ll be filled with a sense of familiarity and accomplishment having conquered one of Scotland's most challenging mountain bike trails. The Torridon Classic Mountain Bike Loop offers an unforgettable journey through some of the most remote and beautiful landscapes in the Highlands, providing riders with an opportunity to test their skills, push their limits, and experience the true essence of adventure. So, saddle up fellow adventurers, and embark on a journey that will leave you breathless, exhilarated, and yearning for more.
Episode 1
Episode 3