Crowned the 'Hebridean Explorer', this 280km bike journey weaves its way through seven islands on a variety of ancient paths, historic by-ways, mountain tracks and impossibly quiet roads. Travel through one of Europe’s last true wilderness regions, the Outer Hebrides, a superb location for a mountain bike holiday in the UK. More than any other bike ride, the Hebridean Explorer offers the opportunity to experience life on the islands, where the landscapes are wild and untamed, golden eagles and red deer roam free, and human history dates back over 5000 years. This tour runs from Glasgow-Glasgow.
Voyage into the wilds of the Hebrides on a guided cycle tour of Scotland's pristine and remote isles. Discover pure biking bliss on South Uist, Benbecula, North Uist, Berneray, the Isles of Harris, Lewis and Scalpay on this unforgettable journey of the UK's hidden gems. The Outer Hebrides retain a culture distinct from the rest of Scotland. Here you will find Gaelic as the first language and a sense of pride and tradition which make the Outer Hebrides a remarkable and unforgettable place to visit.
While there is the occasional intermediate level trail, the riding is not overly challenging, allowing you to relax and enjoy the superb wilderness scenery. Island hopping means that you will be using a combination of ferry trips and exciting boat trips to link up the paths you'll ride across this diverse archipelago.
The first part of the trip is largely flat and on sandy terrain but as you head north to the Islands of Harris and Lewis, the trails become increasingly harder and hilly. This trip is only suitable for mountain bikes with a wide range of gears, front suspension and disc brakes. A lower tread tyre will make the road sections easier but be prepared for some challenges on the rocky trails of Harris and Lewis!
In terms of distance, the trip totals 280 km /174 miles and this breaks down into 60% on-road and 40% off-road. Day 3 offers the more technical day of riding of this trip with some steep ascents/descents and some rocky trails.