RSF - The Off Road Cycling Club

This ride on the isle of Raasay starts at Inverarish. Follow the road east to GR565364 near the old mine buildings and turn left onto the path along the Inverarish Burn (it can be slippery in wet weather here). It's a steep climb up near the waterfall and now you reach the open country. In fair weather most of the path north-east is easy to follow, some parts are indistinct. At Loch na Mna there's some boulders to negotiate, then it's a bit further north to Loch na Meillich where the path turns right and you start climbing to the top of Dun Caan. The climb isn't too bad but the final part is a bit rocky. While up on top you'll enjoy marvelous views all around in fair weather, from Applecross on the mainland to the Cuillins on Skye. Looking down to the south east you'll see some green swathes, this is the Hallaig area in which some contours of the houses of the lost township of Hallaig can still be seen. For those interested: read about the history on the internet and have a look at Sorley Maclean's poem Hallaig. After the descent to Loch na Meillich take the path veering off to the left and keep Loch na Mna well on your right. This path can be awkward in wet weather so take care, it follows a ridge from which you can have an even better view of Hallaig. Eventually you will be heading south-west and strike a much better path, keep to the right here and in the end you will be on the road back to Inverarish. Be well prepared, it's not for the fainthearted.

Total distance: just over 8 miles, but on the whole it is slow going, the 'ride' can involve a fair amount of walking!