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    Self Guided Plus+ Cycling

    Skye and the Inner Hebrides

    9 reviews

    Duration: 7 Days / 6 Nights

    From: $1,635.00

    Travel Planning & Advice

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    Trip created by Paul Easto
    View Paul's Profile

    Region: Inner Hebrides including Skye
    Trip Type: Self Guided Cycling
    Accommodation: Classic
    Deposit From: $409

    Grading:

    Carbon Footprint: 167kg ? What does this mean?
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    All you need to know about your trip, this essential document is a must for all adventures.

    Download Itinerary

    Our Skye and the Inner Hebrides trip is the perfect way to explore iconic Scottish islands by bike. Watch stunning views unfold from your saddle as we journey from the Isle of Mull, through the wilds of the Ardnamurchan Peninsula and on to the fabled Isle of Skye.

    The roads of Skye and the Inner Hebrides – the islands along Scotland’s West Coast – offer superb riding through a landscape as rich in wildlife, culture and heritage as it is in dramatic views and postcard-perfect beaches. You’ll enjoy the best rides from island to island, stopping to explore and appreciate places of natural beauty, cultural interest and wildlife sightings. As always, you’ll taste the finest Scottish ingredients in our meals – especially the bounty of the sea – on this unique island hopping trip.

    With your warm and welcoming accommodation arranged, your bikes prepped, and your soigneur taking care of all the details, all you have to think about is turning the wheels at your own pace.

    This price is based on a group of 6, prices will vary depending on group size. Please get in touch with the team to confirm the trip price for your group.

    Trip Highlights

    • Island-hopping through Mull, Iona and Skye on this easy-graded road cycling adventure
    • Quiet country roads, cultural encounters, great landscapes and stunning island scenery
    • Cycle to the Isle of Iona and explore its ancient abbey
    • Enjoy the journey as your soigneur / support guide takes care of all the details
    • Experience the freedom of just turning the wheels as your luggage is transferred each day
    • Relax in the knowledge that you are supported every mile of the adventure

    Day by Day Itinerary

    Day 1 - Northwest Mull

    Welcome to Scotland – meet your soigneur at the Oban Ferry Terminal before hopping on the ferry to cross to the Isle of Mull. Enjoy the views over the Sound of Mull whilst your soigneur prepares your bikes. You’ll set out on the bikes following the coastal road to Salen before riding to the North West of the Island and our accommodation in the wee village of Dervaig. Reaching the oldest inn on Mull, our base for the next two nights, there will be a chance to relax. Perhaps you might like to have dinner in the hotel, where a range of Scottish dishes, homemade desserts, award-winning local cheeses, real ales, fine wines and island malts are all on offer.

    Ride details: 38 km/24 miles | 360 m/1,183ft elevation gain

    Day 2 - The Isle of Iona & the Isle of Mull

    This morning, we transfer to Fionnphort for a 10 minute ferry crossing to the Island of Iona. As Iona’s ferry is passenger-only, you won’t have the support vehicle, but your soigneur will be on hand to provide local route suggestions. One of Scotland’s most famed islands for its monastic connections, enjoy a free morning to follow a route around this iconic island as well as enjoy a must-see visit to the wonderful Iona Abbey, the home of Christian worship since 563AD. Returning back to the Isle of Mull, you’ll follow the coast alongside Loch Scridain to the small village of Pennyghael, where we pick up a typically-Scottish single-track road under the shadow of Ben More, the highest mountain on the island. Today’s ride finishes near Knock, where we’ll transfer back to the accommodation and can spend some time exploring nearby beaches, including the stunning Calgary Bay with its white shell sand. (B)

    Ride details: 56 km/35 miles | 518 m/1,702 ft elevation gain

    Day 3 - The Ardnamurchan Peninsula

    After breakfast, we will make the short journey to Tobermory, where you can see the colourful harbour. We then board a ferry for a short trip across the Sound of Mull to the Ardnamurchan Peninsula on the mainland. From where you land, the only way is east, so you’ll follow peaceful and undulating single-track roads through the peninsula. We have the option to stop in to see the Ardnamurchan Distillery, which is one of Scotland’s newest distilleries. Along the route, enjoy views south across Loch Sunart, keeping your eyes peeled for wildlife. Our destination tonight is the tiny hamlet of Acharacle and our hotel enjoys wonderful views down scenic Loch Shiel. (B)

    Ride details: 43 km/28 miles | 707 m/2,322 ft elevation gain

    Day 4 - The Road to the Isles

    Following perfect cycling roads, today we roll through Ardnamurchan and Moidart as we make our way to the fishing port of Mallaig. Our route crosses the rugged peninsula before joining the coast on the Sound of Arisaig. On the way, you can stop at a local smokehouse to stock up for a delicious, local picnic. The final section takes us along a stretch of the original ‘Road to The Isles.’ A new road bypasses the coastal road, making this an idyllic and almost car-free ride as we pass numerous white sand beaches. Looking out to sea, the high peaks of the Cuillin range on the Isle of Skye and the distinctive skylines of the Small Isles make this a memorable ride. On arrival in Mallaig, we settle into our accommodation for the night. (B)

    Ride details: 56 km/35 miles | 875 m/2,869 ft elevation gain

    Day 5 - The Isle of Skye & The Isle of Raasay

    This morning, we’ll take the ferry across to the Isle of Skye. A transfer will whisk us up to the village of Sconser, where it’s just a hop across the water to the Isle of Raasay, located between Skye and the Applecross Peninsula. Here you will cycle on the quiet, single-track roads and the famous ‘Calum’s Road’. This was built single-handedly by a local crofter between the mid 1960s and 70s, with hand tools and a wheelbarrow. Raasay is also home to a new distillery which makes for a great visit to taste the local wares. Reconnect back to the Isle of Skye, where we’ll transfer to the lovely town of Portree, your home for the next two nights. (B)

    Ride details: 34 km/21 miles | 849 m/2,788 ft elevation gain

    Day 6 - Dunvegan Castle and a Wee Dram

    This morning we ride across to the west side of the island passing by a number of small villages and Dun Beag, an Iron age Broch (a uniquely Scottish fortification), perched atop a grass knoll, before arriving at the dramatic Dunvegan Castle. Want to dig a bit deeper into Scottish history? You can take a tour to learn about Clan MacLeod and the Lord of the Isles or simply enjoy the views out across Loch Dunvegan. After lunch, ride out to Neist Point, the most westerly point on Skye. The point provides stunning views to the Outer Hebrides, perfect for a short walk to the picturesque lighthouse. Transfer back to Portree to enjoy your final evening meal and perhaps a celebratory dram. (B)

    Ride details: 53 km/33 miles | 756 m/2,483 ft elevation gain

    Day 7 - Eilean Donan & Return to Inverness

    After breakfast, we transfer back to Inverness. Stopping at the magnificent and wildly photogenic Eilean Donan Castle for a quick photo stop to break up the journey. Depending on when you need to be back in Inverness, you might like to do a tour of the castle. (B)

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    Self Guided Plus+ Cycling
    Skye and the Inner 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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    Price from: £1,635
    Duration: 7 Days 6 Nights

    Trip Details

    Accommodation Read More

    This itinerary includes 6 nights in 3-4 star accommodation, staying at some of our favourite locally-owned guesthouses and small hotels along our route, each handpicked for their warm welcome and bike friendly facilities. Single rooms are available on request.

    Accommodation Upgrades are available in some locations for a supplement and are subject to availability. Please note that choosing to upgrade the accommodation may mean additional transfers to and from the route at the beginning and end of each day.

    Meals Read More

    Breakfast is included each day barring Day 1. Your soigneur will suggest a number of options for your lunches and evening meals in each location.

    Inclusions Read More
    • 6 nights accommodation in 3-4 star locally-owned guesthouses and small hotels
    • Meals as indicated in the itinerary; Breakfast each day
    • A support vehicle throughout the trip who will offer guidance, local insights, snacks, change of clothes, navigation and a boost if needed
    • Soigneur / Support driver / bike mechanic / first aider available 24/7 while on the trip
    • Essential equipment including GPS with pre-loaded routes. Your soigneur will also have a bike lock, bike tool, spare inner tube, pump and tyre levers if required.
    • Bike cleaning and maintenance throughout the trip
    • Welcome briefing and expert bike fitting on Day 1 if hiring
    • Daily luggage transfers

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

    Trip Grading Read More

    Green Graded Road Cycling Holidays 1-3

    Green graded trips are suitable for people with a reasonable level of fitness who enjoy cycling and are looking for an active but relaxed trip. They are also suitable for active people who are new to cycle touring and looking for a new way to explore the countryside.

    Distances each day will be between 25-40 miles, cycling at an average speed of around 12mph. You will ride on mostly straightforward rolling terrain with one or two more notable climbs during the trip, where some riders may opt to ride in the support vehicle. You will be in the saddle for 4-6 hours each day plus the odd longer day. There is also time each day for breaks and lunches, plus visits to sites of interest.

    Travel – Arrival and Departure Read More

    Arrival Info

    Meet your soigneur at the Oban ferry terminal on Day 1 of your trip. Arrival and Departure times are flexible but dependant on ferry schedules.

    Departure Info

    You will be returned to Inverness Railway Station on the final day of your trip.

    Bike Hire / Bringing Your Own Bike Read More
    Bike Hire

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

    Bring Your Own Bike

    You are also more than welcome to bring your own bike.

    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.

    Upgrade and Customise Your Trip Read More

    Accommodation Upgrades are available in some locations for a supplement and are subject to availability. Please note that choosing to upgrade the accommodation may mean additional transfers to and from the route at the beginning and end of each day.

    Other Read More

    For a full list of inclusions please see our comparison table here.

    Looking to extend your stay? Get in touch with our friendly sales team to book extra nights before or after your trip.

    Photo Gallery

    Speak to an Expert

    Jane Gillies

    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 Jane a Question

    Difficulty Grades Explained

    Green Graded Road Cycling Holidays 1-3

    Green graded trips are suitable for people with a reasonable level of fitness who enjoy cycling and are looking for an active but relaxed trip. They are also suitable for active people who are new to cycle touring and looking for a new way to explore the countryside.

    Distances each day will be between 25 – 40 miles, cycling at an average speed of around 12mph. We will ride on mostly straightforward rolling terrain with one or two more notable climbs during the trip, where some riders may opt to ride in the support vehicle. We will be in the saddle for 4-6 hours each day plus the odd longer day. There is also time each day for breaks and lunches, plus visits to sites of interest.

    Compare road cycling grades

    Trip Reviews

    Rated 5.00 out of 5 based on 9 reviews of Self Guided + Cycling – Skye and the Inner Hebrides

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    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.

    MK

    Mitzi Klukvin

    Reviewed on 12/07/2023

    Age: 60 - 70
    Country: United States
    Trip Date: 19/06/2023
    Trips Taken: 3

    The Bottom Line

    The Bottom Line

    We were with a group with some folks who were very experienced at traveling to Inner Hebrides but I think we missed not having the expertise of a proper guide and most likely would use a guided trip in the future. TEAM WILDERNESS RESPONSE: We're pleased to hear you still had a great time overall, though sorry to hear some of the information wasn't as clear as it could have been or as it normally would be on our fully guided trips. We would love to have you join us again in the future.

    MR

    Megan Ryan

    Reviewed on 25/06/2023

    Age: 40 - 50
    Trip Date: 09/06/2023
    Trips Taken: 1

    The Bottom Line

    The Bottom Line

    Wonderful experience!

    RG

    Richard Green

    Reviewed on 30/05/2023

    Age: 60 - 70
    Country: United Kingdom
    Trip Date: 29/04/2023
    Trips Taken: 1

    The Bottom Line

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