The Glen Orchy, Glencoe and Loch Linnhe Loop, motorcycle route on the West Coast of the Scottish Highlands.
This route is one of the most famous for motorcycling in Scotland – and with good reason. It offers unbeatable views, interesting stops, and towering mountains that make you feel like you’re riding through a film set.
Route stage 1 (33 mins)
- Glencoe to Bridge of Orchy
Tip: Fill up your tank in Glencoe, mount up and follow the route east towards The Meeting of Three Waters (which is a decent photo stop) and down to Bridge of Orchy.
Stage 2 (24 mins)
- Bridge of Orchy to Dalmally
Tip: The midges can get pretty bad around here during the warmer months of the year so close your visor! And you might want to pack a midge net if you’re stopping. The route can also be uneven in places so it’s worth slowing down to enjoy it properly.
Stage 3 (19 mins)
- Dalmally to Taynuit
Tip: The views get pretty stunning on this section but when it’s wet, it’s really wet. So, make sure you’re prepared for all weathers before you go out.
Stage 4 (20 mins from Taynuit)
- Optional detour down to Oban
Tip: If you’ve got time, it’s probably worth going down to Oban. It’s famous for its chippies but there’s a whole lot more to this couthy town.
Stage 5 (31 mins)
- Taynuilt to Portnacroish
Tip: There are heaps of Scotland’s famous tight twists and turns up here. If you get stuck behind another vehicle, make sure you know it’s clear to overtake, and do so at a safe speed.
Stage 6 (23 mins)
- Portnacroish to Glencoe
Tip: Check out Shuna Island just off Portnacroish before blasting up the coast towards your final stop, Glencoe.
Stage 7
- From Glencoe you can either:
- Give you and your motorcycle a rest stop here – there are plenty of food and accommodation places.
- Head up to take on the coastal loop.
- Take a ride around the nearby 8 mile twisty forest loop.
Recommendations and detours on the motorbike route
- Check the forecast but plan for all weathers – conditions are so changeable in this part of the world.
- There are tight corners and blind bends so keep your speed down. The roads might also get busy around the Oban area, especially during the summer.
- Take rest stops when you need to. Fatigue lowers your concentration and reaction time so pace yourself and take in the amazing scenery.
- Oban makes a fantastic detour and is filled with a bunch of attractions, restaurants and places to stay.
- Remember, roads are getting busier now so take extra care. People’s driving and riding skills can be a bit rusty after winter – particularly after the COVID-19 travel restrictions.
- Refresh your skills with friendly advice from our experts.
We are so lucky to have some of the best motorcycling routes in the world.
Mountain ambassadors - Rod and Brenda Mitchell