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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
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.