The Outer Hebrides

Day 1 - Vatersay to South Uist

We can’t think of a better start to a holiday than taking the short flight from Glasgow to the Island of Barra and landing on the pristine sand. Upon arrival, meet your Wilderness guide and transfer the short distance to the Island of Vatersay, where you’ll make sure your bikes are perfectly fitted. From here, the ride begins by crossing a causeway to join Barra’s west coast. At the north end of the island, take the ferry across to Eriskay and cycle through South Uist to reach a comfortable inn for the night. (B)

Ride details: 30 km/19 miles | 300 m/985 ft elevation gain

Day 2 - South Uist to North Uist

If you thought the first day was good, today is even better. Heading north, you’ll leave South Uist behind and ride up the west coast of the pan-flat Benbecula and onto North Uist. The machair here is a natural marvel, supporting an amazing number of wildflowers in spring and summer. The panoramas are breathtaking, with much of your view encompassing land, sea and sky. Arrive at your hotel this evening, unclipping your shoes and enjoying a cool drink before dinner. (B)

Ride details: 69 km/43 miles | 265 m/870 ft elevation gain

Day 3 - North Uist to the Isle of Harris

Waking to the smell of hot coffee, head out into the brisk sea air. Continue along the coast, cross the causeway onto Berneray and catch the small white ferry to Leverburgh on the Isle of Harris. The beaches here are absolutely stunning, and riding up the Atlantic coast above the white sands of Scarista and Luskentyre is sure to be a highlight of the trip. Later, wind your way slowly inland, where the landscape grows increasingly rugged, arriving in Tarbert for dinner and a good night’s sleep. (B)

Ride details: 70 km/43.5 miles | 605 m/1,985 ft elevation gain

Day 4 - The Isle of Harris to Callanish, Isle of Lewis

Enjoy a relaxed breakfast before visiting the local Harris Tweed Weavers and the community-run distillery. Afterwards, tackle your biggest climb of the trip. Ascend through the hills, enjoying the wild scenery as you traverse beneath the striking mountain of An Clisham. Continue to the Isle of Lewis and across the wind-swept moor. Your destination for today is the mysterious Standing Stones of Callanish, a fitting end to a memorable day of riding. Stay at a friendly Guest House only a short distance from the stones for the next two nights. (B)

Note: If you’re looking for an adventure upgrade, you can follow a coastal road to the western edge of Harris and take a private boat to a remote shore on the Isle of Lewis. From there, you can ride straight to the Standing Stones of Callanish.

Ride Details: 75 km/47 miles | 780 m/2,563ft elevation gain

Day 5 - Callanish to the Butt of Lewis

Your final day of riding is full of stunning scenery and sites of historical and cultural interest. Heading north, pass Dun Carloway Broch and the Blackhouse Village at Gearrannan – both well worth a visit. Later, it’s impossible to miss the Whalebone Arch, recovered from a whale washed up on a beach nearby. As the road bends west, you’re into the last few miles of your ride. Perched on the Atlantic at the edge of Europe, the Butt of Lewis is the perfect place to finish your Outer Hebrides adventure. After celebratory drinks, head back to your accommodation to enjoy your final night on the islands. (B)

Ride Details: 62 km/38 miles | 677 m/2,220ft elevation gain

Day 6 - Depart the Outer Hebrides

Depending on your departure time today, you may have time to explore Stornoway. If so, then a visit to Lews Castle is an enjoyable and informative experience. With stunning views across the inky waters, this gothic-revival castle is steeped in history. Visit the museum, enjoy a coffee at the lovely cafe, and have a nosy around the wee gift shop. Return to the airport and enjoy the short flight back to the mainland, looking out over the islands and chatting about a week thoroughly well spent. (B)