Scotland Hebridean Way

Itinerary Details

1. Day 1Ferry To South Uist

   The group will meet-up at Glasgow International Airport (GLA) in order to transfer to the ferry that leaves from the bustling fishing hub of Mallaig to Lochboisdale on South Uist. Arriving into Lochboisdale in the evening, you will have a short transfer (20 minutes) to reach the accommodation out on the west coast of the island.

   The crossing to the Outer Hebrides signals the start of the journey as you sail through spectacular island scenery with good marine wildlife spotting potential around the Small Isles of Rùm and Canna.

   • Local accommodation
2. Day 2Loop Ride of Eriskay, Barra and Vatersay

   Heading out from the accommodation in Dalibugh, South Uist, there's around 10 miles (16km) until you reach the ferry at Eriskay (reached by a causeway from South Uist) for a crossing (40 minutes) to the island of Barra. The magical island of Eriskay is only 3 miles (4.8km) long and is where in 1745, Bonnie Prince Charlie landed on his way to his disastrous defeat at Culloden.
   
   In fine weather, the ferry ride across the Sound of Barra affords great views of the offshore islands including Eilean Leathan immediately to the south of Eriskay. You might catch a glimpse of the ruin of Caisteal an Reubadair- the home of notorious pirate MacNeil. During the ride, you’ll be treated to deep incut sea lochs, rolling hills, and lovely white sandy beaches as you explore the island. The loop ride is around 25 miles (40km) and serves as a great introduction to your time in the Hebrides. The planned lunch-stop comes at the mid-point of the ride and is taken at Vatersay beach. Connected to Barra by a causeway, Vatersay was home to the famed Vatersay Raiders who rose-up against Lady Gordon Cathcart, their absent wealthy landlady. We’ll also slot in some time to take in Barra “Airport” where you can see planes landing on the beach!!
   
   The day ends with the ferry back to Eriskay before retracing pedal strokes back to Dalibugh. Depending on ferry schedules and/or the group’s progress, the return to the accommodation may be via the support vehicle.

   • 47.8 miles
   • 3,116.8 ft
     3,116.8 ft
   • Local accommodation
   • Breakfast and Lunch
3. Day 3South Uist to Lochmaddy

   Heading northwards, the initial riding brings you through the watery landscape of South Uist, taking in Howmore before crossing over to the “Mountain of the Ford” Benbecula. So named as in the past crossing the Uists involved fording dangerous stretches of sand at low tide. Thankfully, today the islands are connected by a series of causeways which are all bikeable.
   
   The next island to tick off is North Uist where just after the village of Claddach Kirkibost, you will take the minor roads that will eventually bring you to Lochmaddy where you'll stay for the evening. For those who still have some energy in the legs, the final section can be extended by a further 7 miles (11.2km) along the coastal road.

   • 57.2 miles
   • 1,148.3 ft
     1,148.3 ft
   • Local accommodation
   • Breakfast and Lunch
4. Day 4Lochmaddy to Tarbert

   Leaving Lochmaddy, set your sights on Tarbert as you continue the route through these wonderful islands. Riding north, follow the coast road to the Isle of Berneray, yet another place rich in wildlife and history. It’s here that you'll take the short ferry across the Sound of Harris to Leverburgh. The crossing offers good opportunities to see seals basking on the skerries (tiny rocky islands) as well as many different types of seabirds.
   
   On arrival on the Isle of Harris, you will see an immediate change in the landscape with bold mountains dominating the west coast. Harris is arguably the “Jewel in the Crown” of the Outer Hebrides with its stunning beaches and rugged mountains. From Leverburgh, follow the west coast road with incredible views – on clear days, the World Heritage Site of St. Kilda may be seen 40 miles (64km) offshore. Highlights here include Luskentyre Beach and bends of The Golden Road – a winding singletrack route through rocky east coast.

   The ride ends with a great descent to the charming village of Tarbert where a stylish 4* hotel will be the base for the night. Tarbert is the main port on the Isle of Harris with plenty of places to buy world famous Harris Tweed products and with a great range of places to choose from for our evening meal.

   • 49.1 miles
   • 3,838.6 ft
     3,838.6 ft
   • 4* hotel in Tarbert
   • Breakfast and Lunch
5. Day 5Tarbert to Callinish

   Another superb day on the bike – whilst taking on the ‘cheeky climbs’ through the hills of North Harris may be challenging at times, the views are superb throughout and your reward for your efforts is an exhilarating descent back down to sea level. This area is also a great place to look for both Golden and even White-Tailed Eagles along the steep cliffs of Loch Seaforth.
   
   Once over on Lewis, we make sure there is plenty of time to check out the Standing Stones of Callanish near Loch Roag. This mysterious stone circle dates back over 5000 years and is a remarkable place to visit, especially in the late afternoon when it is usually deserted. The overnight hotel accommodation is only a handful of miles from the stones and is where you'll take the evening meal. Should there be time, we also hope to schedule in a visit to the weavers at Leurbost

   • 43.5 miles
   • 2,690.3 ft
     2,690.3 ft
   • Local accommodation
   • Breakfast and Lunch

   • 

     Standing Stones of Callanish

     Visit this atmospheric site, as you ride the Isle of Lewis on day 5

6. Day 6Callinish to the Butt of Lewis

   The final day of riding as you head up to the Butt of Lewis follows the west coast and is full of historical and cultural interest. Heading north, you'll soon pass the ancient Dun Carloway Broch before reaching the Blackhouse Village at Gearrannan. Now beautifully restored, this traditional style of building survived for centuries before almost disappearing in the last half of the 20th century. The site now offers an insight into what island living was like not so many years ago.
   
   Along the way, you’ll also see the The Whale Bone Arch at Bragar which is situated close to our lunchtime spot. Perched on the Atlantic at the very edge of Europe, the Butt of Lewis is a spectacular and fitting place to end your journey.

   After celebratory drinks, head back to the accommodation at Callanish for the final night in the Hebrides.

   • 37.3 miles
   • 1,968.5 ft
     1,968.5 ft
   • Local accommodation
   • Breakfast and Lunch

   • 

     Blackhouse Village at Gearrannan

     Visit this beautifully restored village which gives a look into the island life not so many years ago

7. Day 7Depart Callanish

   In the morning, catch the ferry back to Ullapool on the mainland from Stornaway with exact departure subject to the ferry schedule.
   
   You'll then be transferred back to Glasgow Airport (GLA) where you pick up your cars, hop on a train, plane, or perhaps extend your holiday. This is an amazing drive with breathtaking scenery on all sides, allowing you a few more photo opportunities before bid you farewell.

   • Breakfast