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Bealach na Ba (Pass of the Cattle)
mountain pass

Bealach na Ba (Pass of the Cattle)

United Kingdom
18.1km
Distance
Route length
611m
Elevation gain
Total ascent
50.6km/h
Avg. speed
Estimated
22min
Duration
Estimated time
82/100
Driving score
Overall score
Estimates are based on route characteristics and may vary with traffic, weather, road conditions, and driving style.
Twistiness
1.30×
LowAverageHighExceptional
Technicality
262°/km
LowAverageHighExceptional

More technically demanding than 50% of roads.

What makes this road special

Bealach na Bà, meaning “Pass of the Cattle” in Scottish Gaelic, is a historic mountain road across the Applecross peninsula in Wester Ross, Scotland. The single-track route connects Tornapress near Loch Kishorn with Applecross, climbing through a series of tight bends and hairpins to a summit at 626 metres before descending toward the west coast. Originally built in the early 19th century, the road combines unusually steep gradients with an exposed Highland landscape and, in clear conditions, wide views toward the Isle of Skye and the surrounding mountains.

Elevation profile

Road information

Route
Tornapress — Applecross
Road number
C1087
Type
Mountain Pass
Surface
Paved
Toll
No
Season
Year-round

Driving this road

Bealach na Bà is demanding primarily because of its steep gradients, single-track width and limited visibility rather than its length. The eastern climb from Tornapress contains the road's tightest hairpins, with gradients approaching 20% as the route gains height rapidly above Loch Kishorn. Passing places are essential when meeting oncoming traffic, and drivers may need to stop or reverse to the nearest suitable point. Beyond the summit, the road descends more gradually across open Highland terrain toward Applecross. The combination of narrow pavement, elevation change and oncoming traffic rewards patience and careful positioning rather than speed.

Before you drive

Bealach na Bà is a single-track road with passing places and is not recommended for learner drivers, caravans, motorhomes or very large vehicles. Highland Council signage directs unsuitable vehicles toward the alternative low-level coastal route via Shieldaig. The pass can also become impassable or close during snow and severe winter weather, so check current conditions before travelling outside the warmer months. Use designated passing places to allow oncoming vehicles to pass, and avoid stopping on the carriageway for photographs; dedicated viewpoints provide safer places to stop.

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