Bealach na Bà from Applecross is a legendary Highland climb, averaging 7% over 9 km with brutal ramps up to 20%. The single-track road winds through jaw-dropping mountain scenery, with hairpin bends, steep gradients, and exposure to wild weather. The tarmac is generally good, but the climb demands pacing—start steady and save energy for the relentless final switchbacks. Stay alert for oncoming vehicles and give yourself space on tight corners. Reach the summit, and you're rewarded with one of the most dramatic views—and descents—in all of the UK.

Pierre

May 15, 2022

Road cycling

Despite the climb only being 600m Bealach na Ba has real alpine feel to it. It is quite spectacular. Best ridden East to west, then topped of with a drink at the Applecross Inn at the bottom of the beautiful and fun descent.

Marcus

December 2, 2020

Road cycling

This is the easier way to climb Bealach na Ba, but going from the other direction would have created a ridiculous diversion!

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Best Road Cycling Rides to Bealach na Bà Climb from Applecross

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1. Both sides of Bealach na Ba (Top 100 Climbs) from Shieldaig

64.8km

03:42

1,490m

Hard road ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.

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5.0

(2)

723

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2. Bealach na Bà Pass – View of Upper Loch Torridon loop from Achnasheen

146km

07:00

2,000m

Hard road ride. Very good fitness required. Some segments of this route may be unpaved and difficult to ride.

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Hard

5.0

(2)

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3. Applecross Bay – Bealach na Bà Pass loop from Sgeir Fhada

57.7km

03:30

1,550m

Hard road ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.

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Hard

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Informations

Distance 8.58 km

Uphill 620 m

Downhill 0 m

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Wednesday 28 January

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Location: Applecross, Highlands, Scotland, United Kingdom

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Bealach na Bà Climb from Applecross

1. Both sides of Bealach na Ba (Top 100 Climbs) from Shieldaig

2. Bealach na Bà Pass – View of Upper Loch Torridon loop from Achnasheen

3. Applecross Bay – Bealach na Bà Pass loop from Sgeir Fhada

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