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THE ISLES OF SCOTLAND
When the time is right and hopefully in the not too distant future, consider joining us in Scotland for an unsurpassed bike tour.
Towering mountains, glittering lochs, dense woodlands and miles upon miles of golden beaches – the Scottish Isle landscapes really will take your breath away. Tour the rolling hills and lush farmland of the Lowlands, or drive through deep glens surrounded by mountains in the Highlands. Uncover magnificent coastal features in the west, and explore the atmospheric, royal settings of the east.
The Isle of Skye is calling you…
Skye is loved the world over for its dramatic scenery, windswept mountains and swirling seascapes. The intoxicating blend of rugged scenery mixed with fairytale legends and island charm makes the largest of the Inner Hebridean islands and one of our most cherished spots.
But there’s more to this enchanting island than you might imagine, and we’re going to let you in to a few of its secrets. Our Self Guided Isle of Skye and Inner Hebrides bike tour is an amazing adventure and one just waiting for you. 7 Days, 6 nights, Self Guided Bike Tour, from £995.00. Contact CycleWest Ireland at tours@cyclewest.com for more details, dates and travel updates,
Glameig from the Isle of Raasay Distillery (c) Raasay DistillerySO WHEN CAN I TRAVEL TO SCOTLAND? Read here for more details on when you can travel to Scotland: Scotland Travel Advisory
Coast to Coast Scotland Bike Tour
Trip Highlights
- A stunning Coast to Coast Scotland bike tour from Aberdeen to Applecross
- Quiet roads, testing climbs and superb descents in stunning landscapes.
- Scenic Cairngorms National Park.
- Boat tour on the Iconic Loch Ness.
- Amazing mountains of Torridon.
- Fully supported
Aberdeen ~ Cairngorms National Park ~ Lough Ness ~ Applecross ~ Inverness
Duration: 7 Days/ 6 Nights
Price: from £1,965 per person sharing
ITINERARY
This stunning Coast to Coast Scotland bike tour is not for the faint-hearted. It is a biking adventure that will take you on a coast to coast journey, from Aberdeen to Applecross and Inverness.
A combination of challenging climbs, magnificent descents offering stunning scenery each day. Combine this with along with a variety of quintessential cultural experiences, ranging from castles and distilleries to a fantastic boat trip trip along Loch Ness, this is sure to be holiday to remember.
Day 1: Aberdeen to Ballater
Early morning meet and greet at Aberdeen Train Station this morning. We begin our journey across Scotland. A transfer takes us to our start point, on the shores of the North Sea. We begin with a group welcome, bike fit out and a briefing from your guide. This is followed by a bike ride along the quiet South Deeside roads, arriving at the scenic village of Banchory in time for a riverside lunch. The riverside bike ride continues, along the River Dee, leading us to the village of Ballater. A wlecome dinner awaits. (L, D)
Distance: 64km / 40 miles, Ascent: 670m / 2,189ft
Day 2: Biking in Cairngorms National Park
This morning, there are a few hills, including some challenging climbs rewarded with superb descents. Climbing over the Lecht pass you take a break Tomintoul village, the highest village in the Highlands. It’s also home to one of Scotland’s best whisky shops which is well worth a visit. This is followed with an easy end of day ride to the village of Grantown on Spey and your overnight stay. (B, L, D)
Distance: 93km/ 58 miles Ascent: 1342m/ 4,405ft
Day 3: Grantown-on-Spey to Fort Augustus
Today starts easily with a pleasant ride through the villages of Dulnain Bridge and Carrbridge. Following a fantastic country road, we climb over the challenging Garbole where the views of the Highlands open up. A quick descent to the village of Farr, followed by quiet backroads alongside the iconic shores of Loch Ness. We love our 5 mile descent to end the day, dropping us down to the shores of Loch Ness. From here, we transfer to our accommodation in the village of Drumnadrochit. A well earned dinner awaits. (B, L, D)
Distance: 88km/ 55 miles Ascent: 1009m/ 3,312 ft
Day 4: Loch Ness and Urquhart Castle
This morning is a restful start. Mid-morning, we board a zodiac for a high speed trip on Loch Ness, passing historical Urquhart Castle, nestled on the shores of the loch. This is followed with a bike ride along a lovely road alongside the River Glass. We wind our way through the countryside to our accommodation secluded in the hills above Contin. (B, L, D)
Distance: 65km/ 41 miles Ascent: 594m/ 1,950 ft
Day 5: Into West Highlands
This morning we climb away from the shores of Loch a’Chroisg, rewarded with one of the finest views right down the length of the spectacular Loch Maree. This descent is an absolute blast on a perfect road surface arriving at Kinlochewe. Late afternoon we ride through the dramatic Glen Torridon. Here, the scenery offeres us the majestic mountains of Liathach and Beinn Eighe. We gently climb across the watershed, we get our first glimpse of the west coast. We end the day in the village of Shieldaig, your overnight stay. (B, L, D)
Distance: 69km/ 43 miles Ascent: 596m/ 1,958 ft
Day 6: The Applecross Peninsula
This mornings ride is a coastal one from Torridon to Shieldaig. We continue south through the hills on a winding single track road reaching the start of our final, challenging climb: The Bealach na Ba. Alpine in nature, this route crosses the rugged peak of Beinn Bhàn. Starting from sea level and rising through a series of ramps, hairpins and switchbacks to the summit at 626m (2,054ft) over a 6 mile climb. From the summit the views are panoramic, stretching accross the sea downhill all the way to the coast and journey’s end. Your Coast to Coast journey ends with a celebratory lunch at the legendary Applecross Inn. With views over the sea to the Isle of Skye, it’s the perfect end to an amazing trip. (B, L, D)
Distance: 40km/ 25 miles Ascent: 973m/ 3,193 ft
Day 7: Farewell
Sadly today we bid you farewll. This morning we will have a leisurely breakfast before transferring to Inverness. The journey takes us around 1.5 hours, arriving into the city around 12 noon. You continue with your onward journey from here. (B)
Contact us at tours@cyclewest.com for more details and booking information.
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Treasures of the Highlands
MULTI-ACTIVITY FAMILY ADVENTURE
Self Drive Tour with activities
7 days, 6 nights from £1,215 per person sharing
This activity filled family adventure promises to be a big hit for all of the family. Immerse the family is a land of myths and legends, ride the Harry Potter Train, enjoy sea kayaking, mountain biking, hiking and all with knowledgeable guides. All activities are suitable for beginners.
ITINERARY
DAY 1: ARRIVE FORT WILLIAM
Your adventure begins at Fort William, a great location to use as a base for exploring the West Highlands. As this is a self-drive itinerary, you make your way to Fort William in the West Highlands. If you are coming from Edinburgh or Glasgow, you can drive via the stunning Glencoe valley. Or, if you are starting from Inverness, you will drive along the banks of Loch Ness. Fort William, the largest town in the Highlands and is nestled in the shadow of Ben Nevis. . Settle into your B&B accommodation and overnight.
DAY 2: THE HARRY POTTER STEAM TRAIN
A relaxing day to recover from your journey. After breakfast, don your wizard cloaks and grab your wands and jump aboard the Jacobite Steam Train – also known as the Hogwarts Express – the Harry Potter steam train – to enjoy one of the most scenic train journeys in the world. Sit back and enjoy the immense and spectacular landscape as you cross the famous Glenfinnan viaduct on your way west. A lunch stop in the fishing port of Mallaig provides the perfect break before you return to Fort William.
(B)
DAY 3: SEA KAYAKING TO DESERT ISLANDS
Your first adventure activity is today’s sea kayaking on the beautiful coastline, in the Sound of Arisaig. Here we will find lots of tiny desert islands, quite possibly with hidden treasure buried somewhere! This beautiful stretch of water offers excellent sea kayaking in fairly sheltered waters. It is also an excellent place for seeing marine wildlife such as seals, otters or even dolphins. You will have lots of breaks during the day to ensure that no-one gets too tired. Late afternoon, return to Fort William. (B)
DAY 4: CANOEING IN THE GREAT GLEN
A fun day, starting and finishing near Fort William. Your first stop will be Neptune’s Staircase – the impressive series of 8 canal lock-gates where the Caledonian Canal meets the shore of Loch Eil. Here you collect your canoe equipment and start with a canal-side briefing on how to paddle canoes. Then jump in and paddle north up the canal, enjoying the easy paddling on the calm canal waters and the beautiful views of the hills, including the north face of Ben Nevis – the highest peak in Scotland. On reaching Gairlochy you’ll be collected and transferred back to the start point. Fort William.
DAY 5: CAIRNGORMS NATIONAL PARK – MOUNTAIN BIKING
Driving east this morning to the Cairngorms National Park, 1 hour & 30 minutes away, you have time to stop for a short walk or visit a whisky distillery. Grab lunch and then you meet your guide and pick up your bikes. We’ll take our mountain bikes on an off-road journey thorugh ancient Caledonian Pine Forests of Rothiemurchus Estate. through the ancient forests, seeking out the wildlife as we ride. The trails are well-known for wildlife, including reindeer, golden eagles, red deer, squirrels and ospreys. All in all la great biking day through magnificent scenery.
DAY 6: HIKING AND TREASURE HUNTING
During the week you will have been collecting clues as part of your great treasure hunt! Today is teh day to find the treasure! So today is the day you try our geocaching – learning basic navigation skills and then using them, combined with the clues we have already gathered, to find the treasure. So today, we take you on a guided hike, geocaching and treasure hunting along the way. Tonight, enjoy your last night in the Cairngorms.
DAY 7: DEPARTURE… OR CONTINUE WITH AN EXTENSION
Sadly today we bid you all farewell. You begin your journey home. Or if you prefer to remain in the area and do some additional exploring, we are happy to be of assistance in planning your extended stay. Contact us at tours@cyclewest.com for more details and to book.
Outer Hebrides Road Cycling Tour
Trip Highlights
• An unforgettable bike tour and island safari of Scotland’s favourite islands. Explore nine beautiful Hebridean islands, cycling through some of the most natural and unspoiled landscapes in Europe
• En route, enjoy the regales of local Gaelic culture and history of the Outer Hebrides
from your guide and visits to local sites
• Opportunities to see white tailed eagle, otter, and dolphins in this wildlife rich region
• This trip includes visits to impressive ancient sites such as the Callinish Standing Stones and the newly renovated Lews Castle.
Outer Hebrides Isles of Barra ~ Uist ~ Harris ~ and Lewis
Duration: 7 Days/ 6 Nights
Price: from £2.095 per person sharing
INTRODUCTION
This extraordinary journey will take you through nine amazing islands, covering a distance of 173 miles/280 kms along the entire Hebridean archipelago. Every day’s biking combines the stunning white sandy beaches, rocky mountains and wild glens with the rich cultural and natural history of the Hebrides. It will be a journey to remember.
From vast coastal fields of wild flowers to the mysterious standing stones of Callanish, we are sure you will be captivated by these special islands. Here, where Gaelic is still spoken, you will find a rich culture and history.
With warm hospitality, great accommodation and food completing the picture, join us for a memorable trip through the Hebrides!
Day 1: Inverness to South Uist
We meet in Inverness in the morning and drive west through the highlands. Crossing by ferry to the Isle of Skye, where your adventure begins. Lots of opportunity to watch out for whales and other marine wildlife on the crossing, before we alight at the wonderful Outer Hebrides at Lochmaddy. Onward to the islands of North and South Uist. Welcome dinner and a cosy overnight stay (D).
Day 2 – Barra And Eriskay
This morning we ride to the Isle of Eriska, steeped in stories of local lore. It is here that Bonnie Prince Charlie and ‘the Seven Men of Moidart’ landed in 1745 to begin the Jacobite Rising. Onward by ferry to Barra where we take a loop bike ride of the island, taking in Kisimul Castle ~ the Castle in the Sea ~ at Castlebay. Further along the West Coast of Barra, we capture the beautiful views of the Atlantic. Later this afternoon we return by ferry to the Isle of Eriskay and South Uist, your home again for the night. (B,L,D) Distance 37 m / 59 km
Day 3 – South Uist, Benbecula & North Uist
This morning we follow the wild machair covered west coast, taking in all the sights and sounds as you weave past the wild flowers and white sandy beaches. The Machair is a wild, fertile habitat supporting an abundance of wildflowers in Spring and Summer. Here, you will also find sand dunes and fresh water lochans where an extensive array of wild birds thrive. Ease your way north along flat terrain and across the tiny island of Benbecula onto North Uist and Benerary. A short ferry crossing takes us to the Isle of Harris and a transfer to your harbourside hotel.
(B,L,) Distance 47 m / 75 km
Day 4 – The Golden Road and Luskenture
Today offers one of the best days biking on the Hebrides. We follow the “Golden Road” on winding roads to the east of Harris, known local as the Bays. The route offers amazing scenery and views across the Isle of Skye. Arriving into Rodel, we stop to visit the 15th century St. Clements church before lunch at Leverburgh. After lunch we follow the beautiful coastline to the beaches of Luskentyre and take a short beach walk. Optional transfer or follow the beach route to a final descent back to Tarbert, the islands ‘capital’ and your lovely hotel right by the harbour. (B,L) Distance 36 m / 59 km
Day 5 – Harris to The Isle of Lewis
After breakfast we visit the famous Harris Tweed weavers to see the worlds most famous weavers at work. Today will be your most challenging day as we climb through the hills but the striking scenery is a reward worth earning. As you traverse beneath the striking mountain of An Clisham – the highest pint of the Outer Hebrides. you should keep an eye out for golden Eagles.
Crossing the spectacular fjord of Loch Seaforth, we continue on to the Isle of Lewis, the largest island of the Western Isles or Outer Hebrides archipelago. Turning west we bike towards the historical Callanish standing stones. These mysterious stones are over 5000 years old. The ancient site provides a fitting end to a memorable day of riding. For the next two nights your home will be a friendly 4 star Guest House located nearby. (B, L) Distance 39 m / 64 kms
Day 6 – Callanish to the Butt of Lewis
Your final day of cycling follows the west coast of Lewis and is full of historical and cultural interest. Heading north, we pass the ancient Dun Carloway Broch and then the Blackhouse Village at Gearrannan which offers an insight into what island living was like not so many years ago.
Discover the Whalebone Arch, recovered from a huge whale washed up on a beach nearby. Perched on the Atlantic at the very edge of Europe, the Butt of Lewis is a spectacular place to end our journey through the Outer Hebrides. This brings you to the end of an unforgettable bike tour and island safari of Scotland’s favourite islands. We return to Callanish for your final overnight stay and a celebratory dinner. (B, L,D) Distance 34 m / 56 km.
Day 7 – Callanish to Inverness
After a relaxed breakfast, you have time to take a final bike ride to the village of Stornoway. Alternatively, we can ride in the van to explore Lews Castle, recently renovated, with restaurants and museum. Lots to see and do here, including the excellent Gaelic cultural arts venue and nice cafes where you can have lunch. Early afternoon we board the ferry for a scenic journey to Ullapool on the mainland. From Ullapool it is approximately 1.5 hour’s drive to Inverness, where we will arrive close to 6.30 pm. (B)
Email us for more details at tours@cyclewest.com West Coast Whisky Trail
Trip Highlights
- Cycling the best of Scottish Islands: the Isle of Arran, Islay island and the whisky island of Jura,
- Enjoy world class whisky
- Explore the Mull of Kinture
- Visit the third largest whirlpool in the world
- An unforgettable cycling holiday.
Arran ~ Islay ~ Jura
7 days/ 6 nights Classic Guided Bike Tour
From £2,195 per person sharing
INTRODUCTION
Our West Coast Whisky Trail bike tour takes you through three of Scotland’s most beautiful islands: the isles of Arran, Islay and Jura. Enjoy a tutored whisky tasting including samples fresh from the cask. Experience a guided Rib trip to the world famous Corryvreckan Whirlpool. Throughout the week you will enjoy rides on the Isles of Arran, Jura and Islay. Included also is a crossing of the Mull of Kintyre. At the end of the tour you can enjoy time in Glasgow. At the end of each day, relax in hand chosen accommodations with wonderful. Enjoy local food, ales and whiskies, providing an authentic taste of the islands.
Day 1: Scotland in Miniature
Meet and greet in Glasgow for the start of your West Coast Whisky Trail. From which we depart to the west coast. Here we catch the ferry from Ardrossan to the Isle of Arran. Arran is often described as “Scotland in Miniature”. It has the Highland-Lowland dividing line running through the middle of the Island. This divides the wild, unspoiled, mountainous north, dominated by the peak of Goat Fell, and the forest, farmland and resorts of the south.
The crossing through the Firth of Clyde takes 55 minutes. Then we arrive into the main village of Brodick. On arrival we will make the short transfer to our accommodation for the next two nights. Following lunch we will spend some time fine tuning the bikes and ensuring everyone is set up for weeks riding. After a short ride, there will be time to enjoy the leisure facilities at the hotel. These include a swimming pool, sauna and steam room to help relax before a welcome dinner at the hotel. Overnight in Brodick on the Isle of Arran. (L,D)
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Day2: Castles, Crags and Caves
Today’s bike route will take us around the southern half of Arran. The day is jam packed with island scapes and the coastline. In additiona, we will be treated to great views across to Kinytyre and back to the mainland. Commencing in Lamlash we head south through Whiting Bay, and on to the south side of the island. We stop at a local ‘Velo Cafe’ before turning North again. The island is full of points of interest, such as caves, ancient standing stones, castles and crags. Also, you will have stunning coastal vistas to the mainland. There will be time to explore the picturesque villages before arriving back to Brodick and back to Lamlash. This evening we will enjoy a well deserved dinner at the hotel. (B, L)
Daily Distance: 41 miles/65 km
Day 3: Island Hopping
This mornings ride skirts by Goat Fell, the highest peak on Arran standing at 874 metres (2,866 ft) to the village of Lochranza and its ruined castle. We have two short ferry crossings: a short ferry crossing takes us to Kintyre Peninsula. The second ferry from Kennacriag to Islay is a voyage of exploration. It takes 2 hours, whisking us past the Isle of Ghia and through the Sound of Jura, where we can look out for minkie whales, dolphins and basking sharks. On arrival in Port Askaig, we will hop back on the bikes and ride towards our accommodation and base for the next two nights. (B,L)
Daily Distance: 36.2 miles/52 km
Day 4: Wildlife and Whisky
This morning we transfer to the coastal village of Portnahaven, following the west coast of the island to Port Charlotte. A picturesque ride, with views of Orsay Island. Picnic lunch overlooking the sea. Back on the bikes we start to ride back to our accommodation at Brigend via Loch Gruinart, where we can stop off to visit the small RSPB Center where they relate the importance of Islay to many bird species such as migrating geese, corn rake, lapwing and hen harrier. (B,L)
Daily Distance: 38.8 miles/62 km
Day 5: Island Hopping
Today will be a short day of riding on Islay’s quiet country roads. Setting off from Port Ellen, we reach the Coast once more and turn left, following the road along the Whisky Coast. We pass the island’s 3 famous distilleries of Laphroaig, Lagavulin and Ardbeg. Following on, we reach the Kildalton Cross, a monolithic Celtic Cross. From here, we ride back to Ardbeg fir lunch in the cafe before spending the afternoon enjoying a tutored whisky tasting. Afterward, we transfer back to Brigend. (B, L)
Distance: 45-65km/ 30-40 miles depending on which distilleries you choose to visit
Day 6: Jura and The Corryvreckan Whirlpool
This morning we transfer the short distance to Port Askaig, where we board the passenger ferry. We cross the fast flowing Sound of Islay and reaching the Jura in a little over five minutes. We follow the eastern coastline of the Island watching out for red deer and the many Iron Age Forts, ancient burial grounds and standing stones as we bike along the east coast of the Island towards the main village of Craighouse.
The highlight of the afternoon is when we load up the bikes and take a private boat trip to visit the Corryvreckan Whirlpool, the third largest whirlpool in the world. From here the boat takes us back to the mainland, where there is an option to cycle the last few miles back to our hotel, set in 17 acres of gardens and beach overlooking the coast. Farewell dinner tonight and perhaps a dram to celebrate a fantastic week of Island hopping. (B,L,D)
Daily Distance: 36 miles/57 km
Day 7: Return to Glasgow
Sadly, to day we bid you farewell. After a leisurely breakfast at our hotel there will be time for a short walk around the neighbouring Arduannie Gardens. The gardens are run and maintained by the National Trust for Scotland and benefit form the warming effect of the North Atlantic drift. Due to the proximity to the sea, this allows the cultivation of many rare and tender plants from around the world. Our journey back to Glasgow will take us around 2 hours 45 minutes, passing through Inverary and Loch Fyne, where we can stop at the Loch Fyne Oyster Bar and Deli for a bite to eat before returning to Glasgow. (B)
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Contact us to book your tour: tours@cyclewest.com
Outer Hebrides: A Very Special Place
Highland Whisky Tour
Highland Whisky Tour
Itinerary
Our Highland Whisky tour offers a wonderful mix of castles and casks, this journey offers a cultural experience in the Highland Whiskey Country of Scotland. It offers a relaxing bike ride on quiet roads, giving you the opportunity to explore at your leisure. 7 days, 6 nights Guided Tour.
Trip highlights include the home of Glenlivet Whisky, Culloden Battlefield, Cawdor Castle and Loch Ness. Contact us for more details at tours@cyclewest.com – places limited.
Hebridean Trail Mountain Bike Tour
This extraordinary mountain bike journey, The Hebridean Trail, takes you through one of Europe’s last true wilderness regions, the Outer Hebrides
7 Day/ 6 Night Guided Mountain Bike Tour
Inverness~Uist~Isle of Lewis
Hebridean Mountain Trail
OVERVIEW
More than just another bike ride, the Hebridean Trail mountain bike tour offers the opportunity to experience life on this unique group of islands, the Outer Hebrides. Here, the landscapes are wild and untamed, golden eagles and red deer roam free and human history dates back over 5,000 years. Immerse yourself in the traditions of the Outer Hebrides. Hear Gaelic being spoken or sung, listen to traditional folk musicians play in pubs. Moreover, you get to see famous Harris Tweed being weaved by skilled local crafters. In addition, from the sea and the land comes some delectable produce; think fresh langoustines, scallops, lobster, crab, lamb and beef – and don’t forget moreish Stornoway black pudding!
Day 1: Inverness to the Island of North Uist
Meet at 08.30 at Inverness railway station for your journey through the Highlands. We meet at 8.30am in Inverness and travel to Uist by ferry from Uig on the Isle of Skye. Arriving into Lochmaddy, we transfer a short distance to our hotel. After checking in, we have a bike fitting session followed by a short bike ride near the village of Lochmaddy. (L,D)
Day 2: Lochmaddy to South Uist Island
Touday, the start of the Hebridean Trail follows the west coast of South Uist through the delightful coastal flower meadows, called machair. A trail runs for approximately 30km right the way up the west coast of the island. This is defined by its beautiful white sand beaches and turquoise seas. From the north of the island head inland and follow the ‘main’ road across the causeways to the tiny island of Benbecula. Afterward we return to the island of North Uist to Lochmaddy for your overnight stay.
(B,L, D) Ride distance: 71km, 44m
Mountain Biking on the Hebridean Trail
Day 3: Lochmaddy to the Isle of Harris
Riding north from Lochmaddy, we follow the coast road to Berneray. Here you will take the short ferry across the Sound of Harris to Leverburgh. Harris is arguably the jewel in the crown of the Outer Hebrides with its stunning beaches and rugged mountains. We follow the west coast road with incredible views. On clear days, the World Heritage Site of St Kilda can be seen 40 miles offshore. We now heading off-road. Taking a series of ancient ‘coffin roads’, you will spend the afternoon riding some fine single track through a landscape of a 1000 lochans. Then we have one final road descent takes you to the charming village of Tarbert where will we stay for two nights. (B,L,D) Distance 62km, 40m
Day 4: Reinigeadal and the Isle of Scalpay
Depending on whether you want to tackle one of Scotland’s rarely ridden classic off-road routes or take it easy exploring the Isle of Scalpay and the area around Tarbert there are options. Notwithstanding, for confident riders, the Reinigeadal Loop is superb, offering amazing mountain biking through wild and mountainous landscapes. In addition, we can visit one of the island’s most remote coastal villages before visiting the Harris Distillery. Also, it is well worth extending the day by visiting the Isle of Scalpay with its strong fishing community and a historic lighthouse . Overnight hotel in Tarbert. (B,L, D) Distance: 35km, 22m
Standing Stones of Callanish
Day 5: Tarbert to Callanish, Isle of Lewis
We continue on our Hebridean Trail Mountain Bike Tour with an unforgettable day of island adventure. We combine mountain bikes with a couple of short boat rides by RIB. This opens up the otherwise inaccessible west coast of Harris and the Isle of Lewis. Once on the Isle of Lewis, follow a trail through a dramatic glen, flanked by spectacular peakson either side.We then descend back to the coast and rejoining the RIB for a final ride to the Standing Stones of Callanish. This mysterious stone circle is over 5000 years old and a remarkable place to visit. Our guest house accommodation is nearby. Distance 53km, 33 m (B,L,D)
Day 6: Callanish to the Butt of Lewis
Your final day follows the west coast of Lewis and is full of historical and cultural interest. Heading north we pass the ancient Dun Carloway Broch. Onward to the Blackhouse Village at Gearrannan which offers an insight into what island living was like not so many years ago. An impossible to miss feature on your final push is the Whalebone Arch, recovered from a huge whale washed up on a beach nearby. Perched on the Atlantic at the very edge of Europe, the Butt of Lewis is a spectacular and fitting place to end your Hebridean Trail. After celebratory drinks, head back to your accommodation at Callanish for our final night on the islands. Distance 64km, 39m (B,L,D)
Day 7: Return to Inverness via Ullapool and farewell!
Following breakfast will head into Stornoway – the largest town in the Outer Hebrides – for a free morning to explore, shop and relax. There is plenty of interest here including Scotland’s newest distillery, a Gaelic cultural and arts venue and nice cafes and bars. After lunch board the ferry back to Ullapool on the mainland. From Ullapool it is approximately 1.5 hour’s drive to Inverness. (B)
Please contact us at tours@cyclewest.com to book this tour.
For more Scotland Bike Tour itineraries: READ MORE >
Grand Tour of Scotland
Tour Highlights
Pedal trough the spectacular Cairngorms National Park
An immersion into the best of Scotland’s natural and cultural heritage
Experience Scotlands hidden corners through the eyes of a local guide
Visit the historic University town of St. Andrews
Spend time at Glamis Castle, described at ‘the most beautiful castle in Scotland
Inverness ~ Cairngorms National Park ~ Dundee ~ St. Andrews ~ Edinburgh
Duration: 7 Days/ 6 Nights
Price: from £2,295 per person sharing
INTRODUCTION
Our Grand Tour of Scotland is the perfect way to explore Scotland by bike! A quintessential biking adventure that takes you 230 miles from Inverness to Edinburgh.
Highlights include Royal Lochnagar Distillery to a guided tour of what’s know as ‘the most beautiful castle in Scotland’ this trip will leave you wanting for nothing.
From lunch at the historic battlefield of Culloden to a guided tour of what’s know as ‘the most beautiful castle in Scotland’ this trip will leave you wanting for nothing. Leave the car and tour bus behind, safe in the knowledge that your guides and vehicle support will take care of you. With great accommodation and food completing the itinerary, take part in a classic Scottish adventure.
Day 1: Inverness to Grantown-on-Spey
For the start of your Grand Tour of Scotland, we meet in Inverness in the heart of the Scottish highlands. A quick transfer will take you to the historic battlefield of Culloden where your guide who will give you a trip briefing and bike fitting before a guided tour of the battlefieds and lunch. Then we journey east on a flat road through the Whisky Country of Speyside. In addition, we take an ancient military road, dating from the 1700’s, to our first overnight stop at Grantown on Spey to your first hotel at Grantown-on-Spey. (L, D) Distance 37m/59km
Day 2: The Cairngorms National Park
Today you ride from west to east across the UK’s largest and most spectacular National Park named by National Geographic as one of the ’50 Must Visit Places on Earth’. Reach your first stop at Tomintoul – the Highland’s highest village and home to one of Scotland’s best whisky shops. After lunch make for the stiff climb over Lecht pass with the summit providing rewarding views over Royal Deeside. Then we continue on to the lovely village of Ballater – your home for two nights. (B, L, D) Distance 39m/63km
Day 3: Royal Deeside to Edzell
Today you will continue east along the River Dee through the picturesque Forest of Birse. An early lunch sets you up for the climb over Cairn O’Mount with its stone cairn said to be more than 4000 years old. Panoramic views of the North Sea and Scotland’s East Coast. Moreover, you have a superb 10 miles of downhill riding all the way to Edzell our home for the night. (B, L, D) Distance 39m/63km
Day 4: Glamis Castle & Dundee, the City of Discovery
Leaving the Cairngorm Mountains behind, head south through Kirriemuir onto Glamis Castle. We stop here for lunch and take a guided tour of what is said to be Scotland’s ‘most beautiful castle’. Following on, we continue on our journey crossing the low-lying Sidlaw Hills before reaching your waterfront accommodation in the City of Dundee. (B, L, D) Distance 42m/68km
Day 5: St Andrews and Fife
Today on your Grand Tour of Scotland, we take a transfer to the historical town of St Andrews with plenty of time to explore on foot. Leaving St Andrews behind we pick up part of the National Cycle Network route, passing through a number of villages and the historic Falkland Palace. This afternoon we climb through the Lomond Hills Regional Park and continue on to our accommodation in Crossford. (B, L, D) Distance 50 m/ 80km
Day 6: The Firth of Forth
We begin our final full day of riding with an easy climb and descent out of Fife. Crossing the River Forth, where it widens and becomes the Firth of Forth, we continue on to see the Kelpies, a magnificent monument to horse-powered heritage across Scotland and then the Falkirk Wheel, a rotating boat lift connecting the Forth and the Clyde Canal with the Union Canal. Later this afternoon, we ride along the banks of the estuary, passing the 15th-century fortress of Blackness Castle before arriving at our final accommodation in South Queensferry. We can enjoy our final evening together with dinner at the inn. (B, L, D) Distance 47 m/76 km
Day 7: Scotland’s Capital, Edinburgh
On the final day of our Grand Tour, we can choose to have a free morning in South Queensferry or take a ride out and back across the Forth Road Bridge. This impressive suspension bridge is now closed to general traffic, so cyclists and pedestrians have it to themselves to admire the spectacular views of the Firth of Forth and its other two bridges, representing the pinnacle of engineering from three centuries.
Depart from Edinburgh Park station and choose whether to head home or into the city centre to explore more of Scotland’s capital. The trip ends with a celebration lunch before we bid you farewll. (B,L) Distance 3.5 m/ 6km
Contact us at tours@cyclewest for more details or to book this trip.
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Explore Scotland by Bike 2018
Discover the magnificent landscape, a warm hospitality and rich history ~ the best way possible ~ on two wheels!
Come join us in Scotland and discover a land of single malt whisky with its deep throated, peaty flavours.
Tiny islands dotting the coastline, with deserted crofts, sandy beaches and where Gaelic remains the language of choice.
The islands offer the opportunity to watch for eagles and test your stamina on the passes. Stunning landscapes mark your course on our Scotland bike tours in 2018!
