Torridon Highs

I've been a bit remiss with the blog of late... a sea kayaking day, trip to the Lakes and climbing...

So with a day to play with and inspiration to get out West with the bike I headed to Torridon to ride the much talked about Tour of Ben Damph.

After being chased by Jack and Jenna in his bright yellow Honda Jazz (they were going up Liathach) I ended up at the Torridon Inn and set off.

Beach life

I really enjoyed the initial easy stretch that follows the shore, taking a small detour to a headland for a photo opportunity - I think worth it! The ride then follows Loch Damh South past a wee fishing hut that marks the end of the landrover track and start of the single track.

This section is great, passing small beach's and having fine views. I was slightly saddened that at Kinloch Damph expecting great single track and remoteness (or feeling of) there's a new hydro scheme being constructed and they have decimated 3 miles of track, built bridges, roads... basically trashed the place. Hopefully when its complete some restoration is achieved - must write to them about this!

Slabs - thats Torridon

I got quite angry about this, but once I left the giant pipes and heavy machinery behind at the hydo's intake point in Strath a' Bhathaich the nice trail reappeared and sense of calm returned. I had to push some of the fine trail up to Drochaid Coire Roill (col), but that was nice as it allowed me to linger and look around. I think I have read somewhere that this landscape feels and looks quite Tolkienesque, and it certainly felt that today with the silver shimmering Torridon Peaks to the NE in view.

I had fun messing about with the camera at the col, playing on the rock slabs and even thought of a dip in the lochan... but at 12 degrees that didn't quite happen. The long descent was interesting! Loz raved about this... I enjoyed it, but obviously having an off day found it pretty hardcore. Its pretty loose and rocky with tennis ball to bowling ball cobbles! Basically I took it easy and wished I had lowered my seat +/- had a big travel bike and knee guards! I really enjoyed the the last section in the forest - now that was mega.

Mount doom

Overall I give it 7/10! It would have been 9/10 if not for the hydro scheme. I great Scottish ride that I can see why people say its a must do. It's definitely on the list for when Kev visits in Oct!