This is a superb, scenic road ride.
It's a 26 mile loop best ridden in May when the gorse and the bluebells are at their
best.
For this you'll need OS Map 35. The ride does go off the edge of the map in one place but it's easy to stay on route.
The
ride starts about an hours drive from Aviemore. Drive north on the A9 and take the turning for Strathnairn - the B851.
Continue along here for a few miles passing Brin herb nursery and tea room. You'll see a sign for Loch Ruthven - 1 mile.
Take this narrow road and park in the small carpark by the loch.
From the carpark bike up the hill, keeping the loch on your
left. This is a delightful road with lots of magnificent views. At times the geology seems more like north west Scotland.
The road undulates but is easy biking. There is a fun set of hairpins on the hill dropping down to Loch Duntelchaig.
Eventually
you will come to a road junction. Turn right and head for Dores. There is a fantastic downhill here going for miles and
it eventually leads you to the banks of Loch Ness, in the picturesque town of Dores.
Turn left here and head Southwest along the banks
of Loch Ness. The road on this side of the loch is much quieter than on the other side.
Eventually you will come to Inverfarigaig
(toilet block). There are 2 left turns here. Don't take the first one, which is a steep windy little lane. Instead take
the second one (you'll see the carpark and toilet facilities on your right) signposted Errogie.
Now there is quite a steady
climb through delightful woodland until you crest the summit and drop down to Errogie.
Turn left here on the B862 and continue
to a junction/fork in the road. Take the B851 and continue along here back to the turning for Loch Ruthven (on your left) and
back to the car park.
