The Bealach Beag 43 Miles – Scotland Cycling

The Bealach is the UK’s biggest road climb with an ascent of 626m from sea level in just 10km. It is set in a fabulous unspoilt landscape with outstanding views of the sea and hills. The Applecross Peninsula is renowned as a gem in Scotland’s crown of natural wonders. The idea of a sportive belongs to local cycling legend Clifford Davidson.

The event was first run in the summer of 2006 and it was immediately obvious that had captured the imagination of cyclists of all standards. Shortly after, due to demand, we introduced a 2nd shorter option which also included the opportunity to climb the big one! Bealach Mor retains the original route of 90 miles and the Bealach Beag introduced a shorter distance of 43 miles.

72KM

1426M OF ASCENT

The route will take you south east from the picturesque village of Shieldaig down through Glen Shieldaig to Tornapress. Things get tough now as the road swings sharply upward for the main climb to Bealach-na-Ba. The section of road from Tornapress up the Bealach and down to Applecross campsite is closed for the event. The reward is great as a massive vista over the west coast and the Isle of Skye opens before you as you plunge down to sea level again at Applecross. The hard work is not over as the next section around the north of the peninsula has hardly any flat as it clings to the coast, past rocky cliffs and sandy coves. Finally you return to charming Sheildaig nestling in the shelter of its loch. There the enthusiastic locals will assure you a warm highland welcome (and some good grub!)

The Bealach is the UK’s biggest road climb with a 626m ascent from sea level in just 10km. It is set in a fabulous unspoilt landscape with outstanding views of the sea and the hills. The Applecross Peninsula is renowned as a gem in Scotland’s crown of natural wonders. The 78km route will take you south east from the picturesque village of Shieldaig down through Glen Shieldaig to Tornapress.

Things get tough now as the road swings sharply upward for the main climb to Bealach-na-Ba. The section of road from Tornapress up the Bealach and down to Applecross campsite is closed for the event.

The reward is great as a massive vista over the west coast and the Isle of Skye opens before you as you plunge down to sea level again at Applecross. The hard work is not over as the next section around the north of the peninsula has hardly any flat as it clings to the coast, past rocky cliffs and sandy coves. Finally you return to charming Sheildaig nestling in the shelter of its loch. You are assured of a warm highland welcome (and some good grub!) from the locals.

There will be a timing station at the bottom of the Bealach and another at the top. If you want your time on the climb recorded and be eligible to compete to become the Highlands answer to Chris Froome you must stop and ‘dib’ at both!

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