Bealach Beag Sportive

The Bealach is the UK’s biggest road climb at 2053ft (626m) from sea level in just 6 miles (10k). It is set in a fabulous unspoilt landscape with outstanding views of the sea and the hills. The Applecross Peninsula is renowned as a gem in Scotland’s crown of natural wonders. The idea of a sportive ride belongs to local cycling legend Clifford Davidson. We are naturally grateful to Clifford for his initial idea and advice. The event was first run in the summer of 2006 and it was immediately obvious that had captured the imagination of cyclists of all standards. The demand for places in the event was overwhelming.  

However, parking capacity is severely limited in the small villages used as a base, so we decided to have two events. The Bealach Mor (held on 5th September) retains the original route of 90 miles and the Bealach Beag has introduced a shorter distance of 43 miles.

Bealach Beag Route

The route will take you south east from the picturesque village of Shieldaig down through Glen Shieldaig to Tornapress. 

Things get tough now as the road swings sharply upward for the main climb to Bealach-na-Ba. The reward is great as a massive vista over the west coast and the Isle of Skye opens before you as you plunge down to sea level again at Applecross. 

The hard work is not over as the next section around the north of the peninsula has hardly any flat as it clings to the coast, past rocky cliffs and sandy coves. This is country rarely visited by the tour buses. Finally you return to charming Sheildaig nestling in the shelter of its loch. There the enthusiastic locals will assure you a warm highland welcome (and some good grub!).

Riders will be able to compete for the winners Red & Yellow jersey (think the maillot jaune only better!). The jersey will be awarded to the quickest rider from the bottom of the Bealach to the top. There will be a timing station at the bottom of the Bealach and another at the top. If you want your time on the climb recorded and be eligible to compete to become the Highlands answer to Chris Froome you must stop and ‘dib’ at both!

Please note, once entered you will receive all necessary 'on the day' instructions and information required by email in the week leading up to the event.

Enter all 4 of our 2015 sportives before the 31st March 2015 and receive a free special commemorative cycling jersey.

All enquiries regarding entries to Entries Secretary Email: [email protected]

Other events in this series

Sat 29 Aug 15 - Skye Cyclosportive
Sat 5 Sep 15 - Bealach Mor
Sat 19 Sep 15 - Ullapool Sportive