National Cycle Network Route 7 (North)

Distance: 8.5km

Ascent: 69m

Time: 45 - 70 minutes

Difficulty: Easy

The route can be shortened or lengthened as desired

Overview

National Cycle Network Route 7 passes the end of the road to the cottages and is an excellent way to explore the upper Spey valley.  Heading north on route 7 takes you to Newtonmore and then onwards to Aviemore on a safe cycle route running parallel to the A9.

From the end of the road to the cottages turn right to head south on National Cycle Network route 7.  The route follows the old A9 up the valley to Dalwhinnie and its excellent distillery (9km and 120m ascent) after 30-60 minutes of steady cycling.  The route is generally uphill on the way to Dalwhinnie and more often than not into a headwind.  The route continues beyond Dalwhinnie on a dedicated cycle path running parallel to the A9 over Drumochter to Blair Atholl and beyond.  The return journey following the outward route, downhill and often with a tailwind, is much easier!