Cycling the Hebridean Way – Self Guide Cycle Tour
Day 1 Oban to Castlebay
Arrival in Oban in plenty of time to the ferry from Oban to Castlebay
Ferry departs Oban 13:40
Ferry arrives Castlebay 18.25
*Ferry times are subject to change
Overnight Castlebay – Isle of Barra
Day 2 Vatersay – Eriskay – distance: 31km ascent: 315m
Cycle to Vatersay for the start of the tour. The beginning of the Hebridean Cycling Way is at the obelisk in the village of Vatersay. The route follows the main road over the causeway to Barra and round the scenic west coast of Barra to the Ardmhor ferry terminal. Here is where you get the ferry to Eriskay, and the ferry journey is 40 minutes.
Overnight at a B&B on Eriskay
Day 3 Eriskay to Benbecula distance: 53km ascent: 308m
Today leave the picturesque island of Eriskay and travel over the causeway to South Uist. Eriskay comes from the Old Norse for “Eric’s Isle”. Eriskay is a stunning isle and home to the famous Eriskay ponies. Maybe you will catch a glimpse of the ponies on your cycle through the Island. Over the causeway to Uist, cycle from the South to Benbecula. South Uist is a beautiful island. See the crystal clear waters of the sea and the white powder beaches to the west . Benbecula in Gaelic is Beinn na Faoghla which means Mountain of the Ford. Benbecula is in fact a stepping stone between North and South Uist.
Overnight Benbecula
Day 4 Benbecula to Berneray distance: 50km ascent: 335m
Today as we leave Benbecula and travel through North Uist and over to Berneray. North Uist has many fresh and saltwater lochs also miles of sandy beaches, and cultivated crofts. Berneray may be a small island, but Berneray boasts a fascinating history and is home to a wide range of wildlife and a picturesque white sandy beach. The island has approximately 130 inhabitants.
Overnight Berneray
Day 5 Berneray to Tarbert (Isle of Harris) distance: 50km ascent: 1030m
Start off today with the ferry from Berneray to Leverburgh on the Sound of Harris. Enjoy the 80-minute ferry journey between the Islands. The Island of Harris is one that has offered inspiration for generations. With its rich traditions, stunning shifting scenery and a strong sense of community, Harris offers a unique introduction to island life.
Overnight in Tarbert
Day 6 Tarbert to Callanish distance: 72km ascent: 20m
This part of the route travels through the hilly Lochs area of Lewis. It takes us to the Callanish Standing Stones. Take time to enjoy the beauty and magnificence of these magical stones.
Day 7 Callanish to Butt of Lewis distance: 47km ascent: 20m
Today is the toughest day, but the Butt of Lewis is a spectacular end of this magnificent trip. The last part of the route travels along the scenic west side of Lewis, past the famous Callanish Standing Stones. The Butt of Lewis is about as far north as you can go in the Western Isles.
Overnight Lewis
Day 8 Lewis to Inverness distance: 50km ascent: 850m
Last Day and final ride back to Stornoway to catch the ferry back to the mainland. Depart early morning and cycle the 28 Miles to Stornoway.
Ferry departs 14.00 and arrives Ullapool for 16.30
*Please note ferry times can change
Enjoy the ferry journey over the Minch. This long stretch of seawater between the west coast of Scotland and the Hebrides. Sit back and enjoy the wildlife, pod of whales and plenty of birdlife can be seen.
On arrival at Ullapool ferry port, our representative will meet you and transfer you to Inverness.
Overnight Inverness
Day 9 Departure
Today depart Inverness for your journey home
Well done, you can clap yourself on the back – you did it!
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