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Hebridean Way

Trip overview

The spectacular islands of the Outer Hebrides have always been a magnet for cyclists

seeking quiet roads and a different pace of life.  As you wind your way past stunning white  

shell beaches here at the very edge of Europe, constantly stopping to visit an antiquity

or watch eagles soar overhead, you will lose all track of time.

Using ferries and causeways to hop between islands, this popular on-road route begins

on the Island of Vatersay at the southern tip of the archipelago and ends 185 miles (297km)

later at the Butt of Lewis lighthouse in the far north.

You will get lungs full of fresh air and the scenery that subtly changes along the way is

awe-inspiring.  In the morning you can be riding beside turquoise seas and passing

flower-strewn machair, before heading inland through rugged hills made from

Lewisian gneiss which is some of the oldest rocks in the world.  

But there is absolutely no hurry. This is a journey to savour so take it steady.


At a Glance

2 nights in a hostel

4 nights wild camping (additional accommodation available before and after journey)

All food or provisions to make your own

6 days guided cycling journey

Group normally 5 to 8, per leader

Meet at Oban train station

Trip Highlights

A unique opportunity to cycle along arguably Britain's most spectacular coastline.

10 islands, 6 causeways and 2 ferries.

Wild camping opportunities overlooking stunning white beaches and turquoise sea.

Is This Trip for You?

An average level of cycling fitness is required

You will need to be averaging 15km an hour on quiet relatively flat roads.

The daily distances may seem daunting however are all very achievable

You will be cycling for at least 5-6 hours a day.

Scroll down for an outline itinerary

Mountain-Biking-in-the-Outer-Hebrides-8-

Outline Itinerary

Day -1 Optional Oban

If you are travelling from afar then you can choose to stay with us the night before.

Accommodation will be provided however you must provide your own food.

Day 1

Start Oban

1400 - 2000

Today we will travel to Barra. Our ferry departs at 1430 and arrives at the island at 2000.

On arrival in Castlebay we will stay at a comfortable bunkhouse near the port and start our

journey early the next morning. We will spend the evening getting to know each other and

planning our trip.

Day 2

Vatersay - Howmore

0800 - 1700

Today we will cycle along the quiet roads of Vatersay, Barra, Eriskay and South Uist

before wild camping near Howmore. We will also travel by ferry from Barra to Eriskay.

Distance 64km

Day 3

Howmore - Berneray

0800 - 1700

We will hug the west coast of Benbecula and North Uist today, cycling along quiet roads

alongside some spectacular beaches.

We will wild camp a little short of Berneray overlooking one of these beaches ready for an

early ferry to Leverburgh the following morning. Next Island Harris.

Distance 82 km

Day 4

Berneray - Balland

0800 - 1700

After an early start to catch the ferry we will have time today to spend exploring yet more

splendid beaches.

The first stop must be on Luskentyre beach which overlooks Taransay where the

TV programme castaway was filmed and Ben Fogle found fame.

It is worth spending a bit of time here as we will, for the first time leave the coast and

venture in land shortly after this magnificent beach.

Tonight we camp at Balland at the top of Loch Erisort.

Distance 64km

Day 5

Balland - Butt of Lewis

0800 - 1700

Our last cycling day and we finish on a high with more stunning coastline to the very tip

of the archipelago. After some pics we will travel by vehicle to Stornoway and spend the

evening exploring the delights this lovely small town has to offer.

Distance 87km

Day 6

Stornoway - Ullapool

0700 -

Another early start for the 7am Ferry to Ullapool, arriving at Ullapool at 0945. You may make

your own way home from here if you wish, alternatively you may want to travel to the train

station at Fort William with the group. Arrive Fort William around 2pm

Accommodation will be available at Fort William for those travelling further afield.

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