Location: Argyll
Map: OS Landranger 50, 55
Distance: 50 miles (81km)
Time: 5 hours
Terrain: some hills; mainly quiet B and minor roads, busy A-road section
A circuit of Scotland's longest freshwater loch on quiet roads is ideal for getting away from it all. As a full trip around Loch Awe involves a lengthy stretch on the main Crianlarich to Oban road, this route takes advantage of the nearby rail line.
Start from Dalmally railway station to follow the busy A85 for just over a mile and then the A819, which carries fast-moving traffic, for Inveraray. Kilchurn Castle occupies a dramatic position at this end of the loch. The large, gloomy, stronghold was built in 1440 by the Campbells of Glen Orchy and served formidably for centuries.
After five miles (8km) turn on to the very quiet B840 for Cladich; non-traffic-confident cyclists could park here and enjoy a shorter run. This is arguably the most scenic side of the loch, having open countryside dotted with oaks and is quite flat.
Mountain views beckon after Cladich where you can see the grand profile of the Ben Cruachan massif with its sharp peak. At 1126m (3694ft), it is Argyll's highest mountain. It also, of course, houses a hydro-electric power station.
Cruise down to Ford before tackling the much hillier northern shore road. Pass woods by Dalavich and continue to a T-junction and turn left to reach Kilchrenan. The road rises before descending by pretty Glen Nant. At the main road, go right, then left for Taynuilt and the train back.
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