recommended routeBroadford to Armadale
Author’s recommendation
Safety information
The A851 road you will be cycling along today is generally quiet but can have short busier spells with traffic heading for the ferry to Mallaig.
Beware of traffic particular when entering and leaving towns where traffic flow tends to be the highest. Remember to stay on the left hand side of the road. Be mindful of other road users. Obey local road signs and look out for any change in road conditions.
***Before starting your ride it's always worth inspecting your bike for damage. Check for damage to the frame, components and wheels. Ensure that there are no loose cables, tyres are properly inflated and the brakes are working. Bear in mind the brakes may work the opposite way to which you are used to.
If you are hiring a bike it is worthwhile taking a quick test ride when you collect your bike to familiarise yourself with the gears, brakes and to check your bike is setup correctly for you.
Always wear a helmet when cycling and if you have any concerns over the condition of your rental bike please call the office or your bike hire shop using the number provided in your information pack.***
Tips and hints
Points of Interest
Armadale Castle & Gardens
An 18th century castle ruins surrounded by stunning gardens and woodlands with an on site café.
https://www.armadalecastle.com/
Torabhaig Distillery
A recently opened whisky distillery (one of only two in Skye) offering tours with a café off to the left of the A851.
Food & Drink
There are a few options along the route today to stop for a quick tea/coffee or a more considerable lunch if you prefer. Aternatively, you can get supplies from several shops and cafés in Broadford before leaving. Make sure to bring snacks along with plenty of water whatever you choose to do. Just off the A851 approx. 14 km into the route you'll reach An Crùbh (usually open 7 days a week from 10am-4:30pm during peak months), a modern cafe in a beautiful space serving tea, coffee, cake and light snacks. Near the end of the route attached to Armadale Castle & Gardens you'll pass the Gasta resturant & cafe (usually open 7 days a week from 9am-5pm during peak months) at Armadale Castle.
When you arrive in Armadale you can enjoy tea, coffee and cake at Cafe 1925, or wait until the evening for dinner at the Ardvasar Hotel - make sure to book the latter as there are very limited options in the village.
Start
Destination
Turn-by-turn directions
0.00 km - In Broadford, with the supermarket on your left-hand side continue STRAIGHT ON the A87 road out of the town for 2 km.
2.25 km - At the end of the town at the junction TURN RIGHT off of the A87 main road onto the A851 following the signpost for Armadale and Ardvasar. Continue STRAIGHT ON this road as you pass through the settlements of Ilseornsay, Teangue and Kilbeg en route to Armadale.
20.00 km - Continue STRAIGHT ON passing the Torabhaig Distillery on your left-hand side.
25.10 km - Continue STRAIGHT ON passing the entrance to Armadale Castle & Gardens on your right you can stop here for a visit - there's a cafe, and a few lovely trails in the ruined castle's grounds.
26.10 km - Once past the filling station and shop in Armadale BEAR LEFT on the road and continue until you reach the pier and Calmac ferry terminal to end today's ride.
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