Based in the village of Tayvallich, Mid Argyll, and scheduled for 11 November, participants at the Taynish Run Festival have choice of three different routes - 5K, 10K or cross country trail run. 

The Cross Country Trail Run is approx 6.8 miles and is a challenging course with uneven and varied surfaces, as well as steep climbs and undulating single track. This route utilises all three of Taynish National Nature Reserve's trails including a steep ascent/descent of the Barr Mor, the flat Linne Mhuirich trail and the undulating and sinuous woodland trails. 

Organisers comment: "Winter is perfect for cross country running so the trail run will be a must for such enthusiasts. Although a good introduction to cross country and trail running we would not recommended this route to inexperienced runners due to the technical nature of some of the trails. This route includes all types of terrain from tarmac, pitched path and steps, muddy and rough ground – it’s hard but awesome."

The 10K is an out and back route that takes runners down the spinal road in Taynish, meeting the path that runs down to the Linne Mhuirich. This is a flatter and easier route than the trail race and as such it is suitable for all runners, with the main climb being at the start. 

The 5K is also an out and back route that follows the c-class road down into the reserve to the formal car park. From here runners take the all abilities trail down to Taynish Mill and to the Loch Sween Shore where they can dip their toes in the water, if wished, and then return to Tayvallich.

Speaking about the Festival, organiser, Colin MacFarlane said: "For all routes you will be running downhill – well you went up it so you might as well enjoy coming down it – and returning to the village hall the way you left it. 

"There are plans for extremely yummy (and definitely not to be missed!) refreshments for competitors at the finish which will be provided by the local MacMillan Girls in the Village Hall with all donations going straight to MacMillan Cancer Support. I hope that you will stay around after the race to enjoy these refreshments and give generously for a great cause."

If you'd like to know more, visit the Taynish Run Festival entry page here. 

Image: Taynish Run Festival