Cycling on North Coast 500 Day 9 had been short but lumpy and had finished in the rain. For North Coast 500 Day 10 we would have a longer day in the saddle. At least the weather was fine when we left Melvich.

Leaving Tigh-na-Clash Guest House we continued following NCN Route EV12, the A836, for a mile or so. At which point we turned off and began following the A896.

This was following the alternative cycling version of the North Coast 500. The route now followed a timber route.

What was best about this alternative route was … no campervans (and hardly any other traffic either)!

In fact there was hardly any civilisation at all along this route.

The scenery though, was magnificent.

Thankfully there was some civilisation …

We popped into Forsinard Lodge for a morning break.

Back on our bikes we passed through Forsinard Flows and into Forsinard Flows National Nature Reserve.

As we cycled further down the road, the open terrain with little vegetation resulted in a very windy environment. It was quite hard going at times.

It was a steady climb for the first 17-18 miles.

We cycled past Loch an Ruathair.

Near Kinbrace we had a decision to make. Our route originally turned off and went over Kilournan Hill. However, at the cafe earlier in the day we had been dissuaded from taking that route since the track wasn’t in good condition. So we decided to stay on the current road and head for Helmsdale. It would add a few miles, but would be a better cycle ride.

This road followed the River Helmsdale.

We tracked the river through its valley to Helmsdale.

In Helmsdale, we visited Thyme and Plaice for a late afternoon meal. We were certainly in need of energy replenishment by the time we arrived.

For the final section of our North Coast 500 Day 10 route, we joined the A9. We had wanted to avoid this road as we knew it would be quite busy. Neil, however, decided to put his foot down since a rainstorm was expected.

Our speedy finish enabled us to avoid the worst of the traffic … and the rain.

Tonight we were staying at the Sutherland Inn in Brora.

Today we cycled just over 51 miles. It had been another day affected by the weather. That said, a day in a remote part of the country, and away from most of the traffic, had made a welcome change.

You can view our North Coast 500 Day 10 route from Melvich to Helmsdale and then Brora.

Tomorrow we cycle to Alness.