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    Road Cycling

    Outer Hebrides

    209 reviews

    Next Trip: 4th - 10th May 2024 Duration: 7 Days / 6 Nights

    From: £2,795 View Prices & Dates

    Travel Planning & Advice

    Book With Confidence

    Trip created by Paul Easto
    View Paul's Profile

    Region: Outer Hebrides and St Kilda
    Trip Type: Road Cycling
    Accommodation: Classic
    Max Group Size: 8
    Confirmed: When 3 Travellers Book
    Deposit From: £738

    Grading:

    Carbon Footprint: 179kg ? What does this mean?
    Click here to find out about our carbon labelling project and what we're doing to be more sustainable.

    All you need to know about your trip, this essential document is a must for all adventures.

    Download Itinerary

    This amazing cycling trip in the Outer Hebrides takes you through some of the most beautiful and unspoiled regions of Scotland, journeying past spectacular white sand beaches, rugged mountains and wild glens. In the Outer Hebrides, you will find the Gaelic language is still spoken and the rich history and culture is embraced.

    You will visit impressive ancient sites such as Callanish Standing Stones. Stay in a range of 4-star accommodations from an intimate boutique hotel to a cosy guesthouse including a converted house: a place where one could wait for the ferry, the original building dates back to circa 1750 and retains many of its original features.

    Need a bike? See our bike hire page for details.

    Trip Highlights

    • Cycle tour from Barra to Lewis through nine amazing islands of the Outer Hebrides.
    • Admire the outstanding landscapes of white sand beaches and towering shapely peaks.
    • Enjoy the fascinating history, rich culture and warm hospitality of the islands.

    Day by Day Itinerary

    Day 1 – Inverness to South Uist

    We meet in Inverness in the morning and drive west through the Highlands. Our adventure really begins as we cross first to the Isle of Skye from where we board the ferry from Uig. We’ll keep our eyes peeled for whales and marine wildlife on the crossing, before winding our way through a scattering of skerries to alight at Lochmaddy, our first landfall on the wonderful Outer Hebrides. From here we transfer south across the islands of North and South Uist to our accommodation on the southern shore of the island where we enjoy a welcome dinner. (D)

    Day 2 – Barra and Eriskay

    This morning we will ride from the hotel to the small island of Eriskay, where Bonnie Prince Charlie and ‘the Seven Men of Moidart’ landed in 1745 to begin the Jacobite Rising. Here we board the ferry to Barra, where we’ll have the opportunity to visit some old churchyards and ride a loop of the island, taking in Kisimul Castle – ‘The Castle in the Sea’ at Castlebay. Continuing up the west coast, we get glorious views of the Atlantic. Later this afternoon, we take the ferry back across the Sound of Barra to the Isle of Eriskay and enjoy a drink at the Am Politician pub. (B, L)

    Ride details: 43.5 km/27 miles | 528 m/ 1,731 ft elevation gain

     

     

    Day 3 – South Uist, Benbecula and North Uist

    We begin at an ancient standing stone outside the inn and head north, following the west coast with the wild machair on either side of us. The machair is a fertile habitat supporting many wildflowers in spring and summer and combines beautifully with brilliant white beaches, gentle dunes and expanses of fresh-water lochans where a host of bird species thrive, including buntings. The terrain also makes for very flat cycling, and with the prevailing wind easing our way north, we cross the tiny island of Benbecula and continue onto North Uist and Benerary. A short ferry crossing takes us to the Isle of Harris, where we transfer to our harbour-side hotel. (B, L)

    Ride details: 95 km/59 miles | 495 m/1,627 ft elevation gain

    Day 4 – The Golden Road and Luskentyre

    Today is one of the best days riding in the Hebrides. Following the “Golden Road” from Tarbert, we pick up the winding single-track roads of the east coast of Harris, known locally as the Bays. Our route has some amazing scenery and views back across the water to the Isle of Skye. We will visit the 15th-century St Clements Church before having lunch. Our ride then swings north and follows the coast past some truly amazing beaches, where we will stop to explore the golden sands of Luskentyre beach with a short walk. Afterwards, you can opt to jump in the van and transfer back to the accommodation or continue by bike. A short climb awaits as you pedal away from the beach and a final descent back to Tarbert. (B, L)

    Ride details: 69 km/43 miles | 946 m/3,105 ft elevation gain

    Day 5 – Harris to the Isle of Lewis

    Following breakfast, we will visit the local Harris Tweed weavers – to see the island’s world-famous export. From Tarbert, our journey continues north, this being our most challenging day as we climb through the hills of North Harris. The scenery more than makes up for the effort as we traverse beneath the striking mountain of An Clisham – the highest point in the Outer Hebrides. Keep an eye out for Golden Eagles here. Crossing the spectacular fjord of Loch Seaforth, we continue onto the Isle of Lewis and across the wild moor before turning west back to the coast. Our destination for today is the mysterious Callanish standing stones; dating back over 5000 years, this ancient site provides a fitting end to a memorable day of riding. For the next two nights, our home is a friendly 4* Guest House a short distance from the stones. (B, L)

    Ride details: 64 km/38 miles | 660 m/2,160 ft elevation gain

    Day 6 – Callanish to the Butt of Lewis

    Our final day follows the west coast of Lewis and is full of historical and cultural interest. Heading north, we soon 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. An impossible to miss feature on our final push is the Whalebone Arch, recovered from a huge whale washed up on a beach nearby. A turning of the road to the west signals the last few miles. Perched on the Atlantic at the very edge of Europe, the Butt of Lewis is a spectacular and fitting place to end our trip through the Hebrides. After celebratory drinks, we head back to our accommodation at Callanish for our final night on the islands. (B, L, D)

    Ride details: 56 km/34 miles | 490 m/1,600 ft elevation gain

    Day 7 – Return to Inverness

    On our final morning we have the option to do one last ride – crossing the Isle of Lewis to arrive in the island capital of Stornoway. Or we can ride in the van if we feel our legs have done enough! In Stornoway we can visit the freshly renovated Lews Castle with its museum and restaurant. Following lunch, we will board the ferry for the scenic journey back to Ullapool on the mainland. From Ullapool we travel back to Inverness where our trip comes to an end. (B)

    X
    Road Cycling
    Outer Hebrides

    To download a PDF copy of our Trip Itinerary, containing full details about this holiday, please complete the form below:

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    Trip Dates & Prices

    All payments taken in local currency GBP

    Trip Dates for 2024AvailabilityStatusPriceBook
    4th May - 10th May 2024Trip FullFULLY BOOKED £2,865
    25th May - 31st May 2024Trip FullFULLY BOOKED £2,865
    15th Jun - 21st Jun 20242 places leftGuaranteed £2,865Book Now
    29th Jun - 5th Jul 20241 place leftGuaranteed £2,865Book Now
    13th Jul - 19th Jul 2024Trip FullGuaranteed £2,865
    27th Jul - 2nd Aug 20246 places leftAvailable £2,795Book Now
    10th Aug - 16th Aug 2024 Women only departure6 places leftAvailable £2,795Book Now
    24th Aug - 30th Aug 20243 places leftGuaranteed £2,865Book Now
    7th Sep - 13th Sep 20247 places leftAvailable £2,795Book Now
    28th Sep - 4th Oct 20248 places leftAvailable £2,795Book Now

    Trip Details

    Accommodation Read More

    This trip features some of the best hotel and guest house accommodation and food along the route we travel. We use a variety of accommodations such as country inns, guesthouses and small hotels, all hand-picked by us. Accommodation is in a choice of double or twin rooms with ensuite facilities.

    Single Rooms

    There is no supplement charged to solo travellers, however, you will be required to share a room with another person of the same sex. If you request a double room for single occupancy, a supplement of £500 is charged.

    Due to the nature of the accommodations we use, single supplements are limited and are allocated on a first come first served basis.

    Meals Read More

    Breakfast is provided each morning at your accommodation. Lunch each day will be either a wilderness picnic or taken at a local cafe/restaurant. Drinks and snacks are provided throughout the day as you require. Evening meals are included on the first and final evenings, and on this itinerary and we have the flexibility to take evening meals in local restaurants or pubs. Based upon our knowledge and experience, we will visit the best places to eat along the route. Included dinners are two courses as standard.

    On this trip we generally eat dinner as a group however if you would like to make alternative arrangements you are free to do so. Your guide will have an evening off during this trip where they do not eat with the group. They will recommend options for dinner that evening and will help you make any necessary reservations.

    Inclusions Read More
    • 7 days professional guiding with lead guide
    • plus assistant guide/support driver
    • 6 nights accommodation in 3* and 4* hotels/inns/guest houses on a B&B basis
    • Most meals, as stated in the itinerary (B=Breakfast, L=Lunch, D=Dinner)
    • Vehicle transport throughout including ride support and luggage transfers
    • All ferry transport and local boat services
    • Entrance and admission fees as stated in the itinerary
    • Ride snacks, home-baking and drinks
    Trip Grading Read More

    Blue Graded 4-6

    Blue graded trips are suitable for people with a good level of bike fitness, who regularly enjoy cycling and may have joined a multi-day cycle holiday before.

    Distances each day will be between 35 – 45 miles, cycling at around 12/13mph. Each day will be rolling and hilly terrain and there will be notable climbs most days. Some of these will be more testing and some riders may opt to push or ride in the support vehicle. Some climbs are also followed by exciting descents. We will be in the saddle for 5 – 7 hours each day plus the odd longer day. There is also time each day for breaks and lunches, plus some visits to sites of interest.

    Travel – Arrival and Departure Read More

    You will be met by your Wilderness Scotland Guide at Inverness Railway Station at 9:00am on Day 1 of your trip. You will be returned to Inverness Station for 7:00pm on the final day.

    For advice on getting to and from Scotland please our travel advice page on our website: www.wildernessscotland.com/faq/travel-to-scotland/

    Bike Hire / Bringing Your Own Bike Read More
    Bike Hire

    We have an excellent fleet of bikes available to hire including road bikes, mountain bikes, and E-bikes.
    Find Out More

    Bring Your Own Bike

    You are also more than welcome to bring your own bike. If you’re bringing your E-bike along for the trip, please ensure it has a removable battery. Due to limitations around charging, E-bikes with non-removable batteries cannot be accommodated.

    If you choose to do so, please ensure it’s in excellent working condition and has been recently serviced – either by you or by a reputable bike shop.

    In addition, please bring the following:

    • Multi-tool, including a chain tool
    • Mini pump and/or CO2 canisters
    • Two spare tubes and a puncture repair kit

    Because we will need to load your bike onto one of our trailers, please ensure that:

    • Your rear wheel is clear of any obstructions; including lights, mudguard or panniers
    • Your tyres are no wider than 45mm

    Due to the nature of our trips, we are unfortunately unable to carry bike boxes or bags with us, so please make prior arrangements if necessary.

    If you have any questions at all, don’t hesitate to get in touch. Our friendly and knowledgable sales team are always delighted to answer any queries you may have.

    Photo Gallery

    Make This Trip Private

    Fancy this trip just for your group? Get together with family and friends spend quality time exploring wild places. A private trip allows you to benefit from all the features of the group departure, including hand-picked accommodation and expert local guides but with the advantage of the flexibility to tailor the days to your group. Make the trip more or less challenging depending on your experience or choose to add in some optional extras like castle or distillery visits depending on your interests. The price of a private trip will depend on the number of travellers in your group. Let us know your prefered departure date and we'll take care of the rest.

    Speak to an Expert

    Bridget Brown

    Our friendly office team hail from across the world but share a passion for the outdoor and wild spaces of Scotland. We are committed to providing you with the best customer service and are more than happy to chat through options and provide help and advice. Get in touch to find your perfect adventure.

    Ask Bridget a Question

    Meet Your Guide

    Difficulty Grades Explained

    Blue Graded Road Cycling Holidays 4-6

    Blue graded trips are suitable for people with a good level of bike fitness, who regularly enjoy cycling and may have joined a multi-day cycle holiday before.

    Distances each day will be between 35 – 45 miles, cycling at around 12/13mph. Each day will be rolling and hilly terrain and there will be notable climbs most days. Some of these will be more testing and some riders may opt to push or ride in the support vehicle. Some climbs are also followed by exciting descents. We will be in the saddle for 5 – 7 hours each day plus the odd longer day. There is also time each day for breaks and lunches, plus some visits to sites of interest.

    Compare road cycling grades

    Trip Reviews

    Rated 4.94 out of 5 based on 209 reviews of Road Cycling – Outer Hebrides

     

    Every client receives a feedback survey when they return from their guided, self guided or tailor made holiday with us. Once completed the review is published on our website just as soon as our database updates. The little touches and details are important to us and where issues are raised we make positive changes to our trips to improve your experience.

    That’s why we read each of our client’s reviews and although we don’t respond to all of them, if it’s glowing feedback then we get the satisfaction of helping to make your holidays truly memorable.

    MW

    Malcolm Wakefield

    Reviewed on 25/09/2023

    Age: 50 - 60
    Trip Date: 16/09/2023
    Trips Taken: 1

    The Bottom Line

    The Bottom Line

    My wife and I travel as often as we can. I told her just after finishing the trip that in our twenty years travelling together, this has been my favourite trip. I will look for another opportunity to book with WS again and be pleased to recommend to friends and family

    PW

    Phill Warner

    Reviewed on 25/09/2023

    Age: 70 - 80
    Country: United Kingdom
    Trip Date: 16/09/2023
    Trips Taken: 1

    The Bottom Line

    The Bottom Line

    Well organised , flexible and a pleasure to deal with . Will definitely look for another trip .

    MT

    Mike Taylor

    Reviewed on 25/09/2023

    Age: 60 - 70
    Country: United Kingdom
    Trip Date: 16/09/2023
    Trips Taken: 1

    The Bottom Line

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