This route goes right out to the furthest North West point of the British mainland – a dramatic headland with its whitewashed lighthouse perched atop the cliffs. The road itself is not connected to the main public road network so access is by the Cape Wrath Ferry, a foot passenger boat from Keoldale a mile south of Durness (make sure you arrange a return time as there’s no other way back).
Once off the boat the way is obvious – there is only one road which continues for 11 miles to the lighthouse. The road is tarmac but fairly broken in places so the surface can be quite rough. After a short section parallel to the Kyle of Durness which gives wonderful views across to Balnakiel Bay the road swings inland and climbs onto open moorland which is crossed via numerous ups and downs all the way to Cape Wrath.
After about 8 miles a detour of a mile (each way) can be made down to the idyllic bay at Kearvaig, guarded by a spectacular sea stack and lying just to the west of the highest cliffs on the UK mainland. The track to the bay is quite rough so although mountain bikers may find it possible others may prefer to leave bikes near the top of the track and walk down to the bay. Once at the lighthouse there are good coastal views and plenty seabirds including Puffins in the spring and summer months. The lighthouse also offers refreshments throughout the year.
