Hebridean Explorer

Day 4 in particular was our favourite, the variety of riding, differing terrains, stops and the rib rides were all terrific. And how on earth did [the tour operator] arrange the varying weather conditions culminating in glorious sunshine. Is there nothing you guys cannot do?!

All of the days provided different challenges with variety, concluding with a more relaxed day in the saddle with a few more sightseeing stops. Almost perfect in my opinion! The guides were all friendly and extremely helpful throughout and the tour leader had very clear instructions on and off the road, with the riders safety paramount in his mind.

The pre holiday service was very good, we received all the info required, and the pre-holiday phone call and email from [the tour operator] was a nice personal touch, very reassuring.

I have always wanted to see the Western Isles & the combination of ferry, inflatable boat, on-road, off-road and travel in the [tour operator's] van was perfect to experience the variety of scenery, historic features, island culture, bird and sea life, and something of ordinary life in Outer Hebrides. It was an adventure and challenge for both my husband and I, and would have been impossible without the support from the other cyclists and the guides. The weather & prevailing wind certainly helped too!

Travel arrangements were good; briefings as needed; good rapport between the guides and cycling group. Technical and mechanical assistance freely & willingly given. Four very understanding & patient guides. Not hassling those of us riding at the back but always encouraging when needed. Guides who obviously love the outdoors, cycling and sharing their experiences. Guides who know the hoteliers; local weaver; historic and local features – be it community hall lunch or distillery. And knowing which lay by or rest place is best for the next “catch-up” Enjoyed the mix of accommodation; B&B + hotel; and welcomed the two-night stops. The snacks and lunches provided from the  “refreshment” van were excellent; plenty of variety and well presented. Loved the salads.

My favourite day was probably on the Isle of Harris with its coastline contrast from west to east; golden road; the “hidden” modern homes; and the mountain bike bridge and hill challenge. The South Uist sand dunes were also a marvellous introduction to what was to come. The impromptu music group on Mallaig ferry crossing helped to set the scene. Other highlights were yoga on the sand dunes; challenge of blowing the post horn. The pre holiday information was always sufficient to help make decisions, and the office staff were understanding and answering any queries.

I’d definitely say that this holiday was good value for money when you see the level of support  provide during the week and the standard of accommodation!

Thank you for a unique and wonderful tour of the Outer Hebrides! A magical trip in which changed every day. From the birds, seals, otters and other wildlife in South Uist to scenic Lochmaddy with its numerous Lochans. A ferry trip progressed us to Harris with its sweeping hills and valleys with stunning singletrack accompanied by Sea Eagles aloft. Moving North, high mountain passes took us across to Lewis by boat and bike and the ancient stones of Callinish. History and culture followed with Brochs, Blackhouses and weavers cottages before a final tour across moorland to the Butt of Lewis, cliffs and more sealife. Great weather, good company and super guides made this an unforgettable trip!

I’m always pleasantly surprised to see how [the tour operator] manage to find and secure very suitable and comfortable accommodation in some rather remote places. I have experienced the opposite from other bike adventure tour organisers in very salubrious countries – eg. Switzerland. Well done!!

As we, return ‘offenders’ to [the tour operator] trips, we know the refreshments, and especially the picnic lunches, are legendary :-)) Feeding myself during a long day in the saddle is always a bit of a mission, I tend to ‘forget’ until it’s too late. But with the frequent food & drinks stops this problem is erased. The presentation is always splendid, fresh and quite frankly just yummy!!

Given the somewhat limited possibilities available on the Western Isles [the tour operator] have picked out the best there is and, from this short impression of the Hebrides, cannot imagine that there is room for improvement. I think for a level 2 / 3 tour it’s as perfect as can be.

Being on tour with Steve is always very entertaining, and he certainly keeps one on your toes – I mean from the whiplash repartee that goes on all the time. Added to this he is very knowledgeable about the history and culture of the region.

This was the 1st time I’ve been on tour with Tony, and I certainly hope it was not the lsat time!! A fine guide with a good sense of how to subtly encourage a not-so-strong biker into achieving far more than he/she thought themselves capable of! I know Tony & Steve have a verrry long track record of guiding together & it shows in their easy going and yet professional execution of their responsibilities.

Most likely I’ll do the Hebridean Explorer trip again next year.

This holiday was a brilliant way to see the Western Isles. There was something for the roady as well as us off roaders. I love the idea of our luggage being taken to the next destination. Our guides were not just cycling guides, they made sure we saw all the sights and told us about interesting information about them and made sure we enjoyed every moment. They supplied good nourishing food on the way and we had really good quality hotel accommodation.

Hard to pick my favourite day as they were all memorable and I liked them all. The ‘big’ day (5) was VERY memorable and wonderful. Day 1 was beauty and remoteness enhanced. Day 3 was also pure fun through the rolling hills of heather. The lodge in Laggen was extra extra special with some of the best food I have ever had and way better than the food we had in Paris the week prior! The Altnaharra also had Exceptional food.