Bicycle Tours
Independent and Guided Bike Tours of Scotland
We offer guided tours (Great Glen) and some
that are self-led and designed for the cyclist who wishes to explore
the beauty of Scotland's scenery, visit some of its many tourist
attractions(both historical and modern) and enjoy the warm welcome
of its people. Distances vary between 15-30 miles(24-48km) per day
and where possible there is a choice of daily routes, some more
challenging than others. You can proceed at your own pace comfortable
in the knowledge that there is plenty of time to pause, have lunch
by the burn, climb a hill or visit a historic castle. We supply
all you need to enjoy your holiday in Scotland from the hospitality
of our selected Bed and Breakfast hosts to the quality cycle ready
for you on your first day.Usually you will be met at your the first
night accommodation where we will discuss the route, adjust your
cycle and answer any questions.
THE MORAY COAST AND WHISKY
TRAIL- 7 nights/8 days
From
Inverness, the Capital of the Highlands travel east along
the quiet roads of Moray. There are many historical sites to visit,
the Battlefield of Culloden, Cawdor Castle and Gardens, Brodie
Castle and at Fort George on the coast there is the Regimental Museum
of the Queens Own Highlanders. Perhaps have a swim from
the golden sands of Lossiemouth before turning south along the banks
of the River Spey. This area is famous for its many distilleries.
Many malt whiskies such Glenlivet, Glenfiddich, Cardhu and Tamdhu
are produced alongside your route and some distilleries are
open to visitors. Continue to Grantown-on-Spey and the Highland
resort town of Aviemore before returning to Inverness by train.
Day 1. Arrive Inverness: collect cycle and
equipment. Route briefing and instructions.
Day 2. Inverness - Nairn - 40km
The Jacobite Rebellion of 1745 ended with defeat of Bonnie Prince
Charlies Army at Culloden 8km east of Inverness. There is
now an excellent Visitor Centre with exhibitions and historical
information. From there visit Cawdor Castle, the most romantic
castle in the Highlands. It is the family home of Lord and Lady
Cawdor with fine furnishings and beautiful gardens. Your
overnight stop is at the seaside town of Nairn.
Day 3. Nairn - Lossiemouth - 42km
Visit Brodie Castle and the seaside villages of Findhorn
and Burghead as you cycle along the flat countryside of the Moray
coast to Lossiemouth. It is a traditional seaside town with magnificent
sandy beaches and safe bathing.
Day 4. Lossiemouth - Craigellachie - 42km
The Speyside Way begins at Spey Bay 3km from Lossiemoth. Cycling
is permitted on this long distance walk and the route follows the
River Spey on footpaths, quiet roads and disused railway tracks.
The scenery is spectacular, wildlife is plentiful and beautiful
wild flowers attract many butterflies.
Day 5. Rest Day Craigellachie
Visit Dufftown to see Glenfiddich Distillery, Mortlach Old Church
and Auchndoun Castle.
Day 6. Craigellachie - Grantown-on-Spey -
40km
Cycle along the quiet roads of Banffshire never far from the River
Spey to reach Grantown-on Spey. This picturesque town is surrounded
by woodland and is very popular with summer visitors who enjoy its
fresh air and woodland walks.
Day 7. Grantown-on-Spey - Aviemore - 32km
A chance to visit the Nature Reserves at Loch Garten and Abernethy
Forest on the way to Aviemore. The mighty Cairngorm Mountains
tower above the clear waters of Loch Morlich. Perhaps take the chance
to try some water sports or explore the many forest tracks.
Day 8. Depart Aviemore by train for Inverness.
UNGUIDED PRICE per person double: 660 Euros(allow
15 pounds for train fare)
THE CASTLE TRAIL - 7 Nights/8 Days
The
riverside town of Perth is the gateway to the Scottish Highlands.
It is the starting point for a tour which combines beautiful
scenery with history and splendour. Only three miles from Perth
is Huntingtower Castle with its splendid painted ceilings
and at Dunkeld beside the River Tay is the ancient Cathedral.
Blair Castle with its thirty two rooms of beautiful furniture,
fine paintings, china, embroidery and armour is only six miles from
your overnight stop at the Victorian Highland Resort of Pitlochry.
Next day the road winds down the valley of the River Ardle to reach
the charming small town of Blairgowrie in the fertile Vale of Strathmore.
Visit the heraldic workshop in the former linen mill at Keithbank.
From there the Castle Trail leads to the famous Glamis Castle
home of the Earls of Strathmore and Kinghorne. It has been a
royal residence since 1372. Something special for the last day
is Scone Palace, the former crowning place of the Kings of Scotland,
with its fabulous collection of furniture, rare porcelain, clocks,
ivories, needlework and the unique Vernis Martin collection.
Day 1. Arrive Perth:. perhaps time to stroll
to the shops or walk by the River Tay. If more time is available
cross the river and walk or drive up Kinnoull Hill for a magnificent
view of Perth and the Tay Valley. Evening: collect cycles and equipment,
route briefing.
Day 2. Perth - Dunkeld - 40km
Cycle 2 miles from Perth to visit Scone Palace, a treasure house
of furniture, ivories, fine porcelain, needlework and the unique
Vernis Martin. From there north through the rolling farmland
of Perthshire to the historic Cathedral town of Dunkeld. Situated
on the banks of the River Tay it has a peaceful character and charmingly
restored eighteenth century houses forming a small Square. Cathedral
Street leads from there to the partly restored Cathedral construction
of which began in 1318.
Day 3. Dunkeld - Pitlochry - 30km
Leave Dunkeld along the riverside path to the Cathedral imagining
the many years of history that it has seen. Follow the river on
a peaceful route away from traffic for 3km before using the main
road bridge to reach the minor road to Logierait. Another bridge
to cross there and a climb before the quiet elevated road gives
wonderful views of the fast flowing Rivers Tay and Tummel. Past
the Dunfallandy Stone and into the busy Victorian town of
Pitlochry. One of the towns best known attractions is Pitlochry
Dam and Fish Ladder. Created in the 1950s the Dam has an underwater
viewing chamber which allows visitors to watch salmon navigating
the specially constructed fish ladder which bypasses the dam. A
chance to visit the large Blair Atholl Distillery or Scotlands
smallest Distillery - Edradour. 6 miles north of Pitlochry is
Blair Castle with its 32 fully furnished rooms fine furniture,
paintings and armour.
Day 4. Pitlochry - Glamis - 50km
Climb eastwards from Pitlochry and then downhill to follow the River
Ardle through typical highland scenery of forests and glens
to reach the small town of Kirrriemuir. If time permits visit Glamis
Castle family home of the Earls of Strathmore and a royal residence
since 1372. Remodelled in the seventeenth century the Castle
contains magnificent rooms with a wide range of historic pictures,
furniture, porcelain and tapestries.
Day 5. Glamis - Dundee - 27km
Travel through the small villages and fertile farming land of the
Vale of Strathmore to Newtyle. A stiff climb over the Sidlaw Hills
leads to the outskirts of the riverside city of Dundee. Situated
at the mouth of the River Tay this industrial city has a long chequered
history. Still a thriving port it has two historic ships to visit,
Discovery famous for its role in Arctic Exploration and the oldest
wooden ship afloat - the Unicorn. Verdant Works contains a fine
exibition of Dundees textile heritage. Climb Dundee Law in
the centre of the city for magnificent views in all directions.
Day 6. Dundee - St. Andrews - 24km
Cross the Tay Bridge to the historic university town of St. Andrews
with its many golf courses.
Day 7. St. Andrews - Perth. - 56km
A chance to visit Falkland Palace during the scenic journey
through the County of Fife.
Day 8. Depart Perth.
UNGUIDED PRICE per person double occupancy: 660
Euros
LOCHS AND BENS - 7 Nights/8 Days
Towering
mountain peaks,shimmering lochs and romantic glens
mark this route.There are forest walks and nature trails,castles
and other ancient monuments.Visit historic towns such
as Dunkeld, picturesque highland villages such as Fortingall
and the peaceful lochside towns of Kenmore and Killin. So
much to see,but ample time available with moderate cycling distances
allowing time for leisure.
Day 1. Arrive Perth:. perhaps time to stroll
to the shops or walk by the River Tay. If more time is available
cross the river and walk or drive up Kinnoull Hill for a magnificent
view of Perth and the Tay Valley. Evening: collect cycles and equipment,
route briefing.
Day 2. Perth - Dunkeld - 40km
Cycle 2 miles from Perth to visit Scone Palace, a treasure
house of furniture, ivories, fine porcelain, needlework and the
unique Vernis Martin. From there north through the rolling farmland
of Perthshire to the historic Cathedral town of Dunkeld.
Situated on the banks of the River Tay it has a peaceful character
and charmingly restored eighteenth century houses forming
a small Square.Cathedral Street leads from there to the partly restored
Cathedral construction of which began in 1318.
DAY 3. Dunkeld - Aberfeldy - 32km
You are never far from the swift flowing River Tay. Leave Dunkeld
passing the Cathedral and follow a path along the its north bank:
join the quiet road northward and cross the river by an old railway
bridge at Logierait.From there to Strathtay, a popular spot with
canoeists and river rafters. Continue by the river to the small
village of Weem. Only a short distance now to cross General Wade's
Bridge into Aberfeldy. Visit the Distillery, the Water Mill or
explore the beautiful walk in the Birks of Aberfeldy.
Day 4. Aberfeldy - Killin - 37km
Leave Aberfeldy by General Wades Bridge and stop to visit
Castle Menzies, the seat of the Chiefs of Clan Menzies, currently
being restored. Past Drummond Forest to the conservation
village of Kenmore at the eastern end of Loch Tay. Visit the Crannog
Exhibition which illustrates life on the Loch in the Bronze Age.
By taking the south shore road you can enjoy to the full the unrivalled
beauty of the Lochs and Bens on the way to Killin.
Day 5. Rest day Killin.
Visit the Falls of Dochart, sail on the Loch, walk in the quiet
countryside or journey to the Trossachs and Callander.
DAY 6. Killin - Fortingall - 35km
A choice of routes, either a stiff climb and scenic ride through
Glen Lochy and Glen Lyon or take the shorter easy way along
the north shore of Loch Tay. The destination is the village
of Fortingall with its picturesque thatched cottages and 3,000
year old Yew Tree.
DAY 7. Fortingall - Pitlochry - 32km
Climbing again over the hills to Loch Tummel but you are rewarded
with magnificent views and a level ride by the quiet south shore
road. Perhaps pause to cross River Tummel and visit the Queens
View Visitor Centre. From there it is a short distance to the
Victorian resort town of Pitlochry nestling in the shadow
of the mountain Schiehallion. Plenty to see and do including Blair
Castle, the Dam and Fish Ladder, two distilleries and the Festival
Theatre.
DAY 8. Pitlochry - Blairgowrie - 40km
Uphill to the village of Moulin above Pitlochry and then a swift
descent to into Strathardle. A scenic journey through the valley
of the River Ardle to Bridge of Cally. From there a short ride takes
you to the pleasant town of Blairgowrie. Bus or taxi to depart Perth.
UNGUIDED PRICE per person double occupancy:
660 Euros
ROB ROY COUNTRY - 7 NIGHTS/8 DAYS
This
tour explores the contrasting character of the beautiful scenery
which separates the Highlands and Lowlands. You travel from the
riverside city of Perth, past the rugged Grampian Mountains to
reach a world of hills and glens heralded by Lochs Venacher, Achray
and Katrine. From Lochearnhead you will enjoy the superb
views of lochs and mountains in the Trossachs The Highlands
in Miniature. There are numerous special cycle trails available
in the Queen Elizabeth Forest Park. Visit Rob Roy MacGregor's
grave at Balquhidder and sail on the steamer Sir Walter Scott
on Loch Katrine. Majestic Stirling Castle welcomes you to
Stirling on the last day of your memorable cycle tour.
Day 1. Arrive Perth:. perhaps time to stroll
to the shops or walk by the River Tay. If more time is available
cross the river and walk or drive up Kinnoull Hill for a magnificent
view of Perth and the Tay Valley. Evening: collect cycles and equipment,
route briefing.
DAY 2. Perth - CRIEFF - 20ml(32km)
Before leaving Perth perhaps visit the Caithness Glass Factory
and Huntingtower Castle. An easy ride through quiet countryside
to the small town of Crieff: take the opportunity to see Glenturret
Distillery.
DAY 3. Crieff - LOCHEARNHEAD - 20ml(32km)
As you leave Crieff stop for a tour of the Stuart Crystal Factory.
Then follow the valley of the River Earn, through Comrie and along
lovely quiet road on the south shore of Loch Earn to arrive at Lochearnhead.
DAY 4. Lochearnhead - CALLANDER - 16ml(26km)
Leave the main road to visit Rob Roy's Grave at Balquhidder:
now join the Cycle Route south to the small village of Strathyre.
Then into the Strathyre forest for a scenic journey to Callander.
DAY 5. Callander - ABERFOYLE - 37km
An early start along the south shore of Loch Venachar to Loch Katrine
take a sail on the steamer SS Sir Walter Scott. Alight at
Stronachlacher Pier and perhaps take a detour to Loch Lomond
before the journey through the forest to Aberfoyle.
DAY 6. Rest day Aberfoyle.
Explore the many forest trails in the Queen Elizabeth Forest
Park on foot or by cycle.
DAY 7. Aberfoyle - STIRLING - 23ml(39km)
Five miles east of Aberfoyle is Scotlands only lake,
the Lake of Montieth. On the largest of its three islands is the
ruined Inchmahome Priory. Founded in 1238 it was a haven for
many famous people including Mary Queen of Scots. Continue on to
Doune Castle, stop at Dunblane to visit the Cathedral and
then reach Stirling. Mighty Stirling Castle dominates the skyline.
DAY 8. Depart Stirling.
Unguided price per person double occupancy:
660 Euros
GREAT GLEN CYCLE TOUR - 7 NIGHTS/8 DAYS
A
spectacular journey from Inverness, the Capital of the Highlands,
along the shores of Loch Ness to Fort William.A
day in Fort William to explore, try some mountain biking in the
forest or climb mighty Ben Nevis, Scotland's highest mountain.
Leave Fort William by train across desolate Rannoch Moor to Loch
Rannoch and then Pitlochry.Visit Blair Castle to see the
fine collections of armour, paintings and china before returning
to Inverness by train.
DAY 1. Arrive Inverness. Collect cycles and
equipment, route briefing and instruction. Inverness now a thriving
modern town has historical links going back to neolithic times.
Many battles have been fought for control of this strategic site.
A visit to the Garrison Castle Encounter will take you back
to 1745 and the Jacobite Rebellion.
DAY 2. Inverness - DRUMNADROCHIT - 39km
Leave Inverness following the river: across moorland and quiet
country roads to Drumnadrochit. Visit the Loch Ness Monster
Exhibition Centre and ruined Castle Urquhart.
DAY 3. Drumnadrochit - FORT AUGUSTUS - 37km
Follow the Cycle Way of the Great Glen with its beautiful
views of Loch Ness. In the forest you may see deer or golden
eagles before you reach the south end of the Loch at Fort Augustus.
DAY 4. Fort Augustus - FORT WILLIAM - 55km
The Caledonian Canal tow path and forest tracks keep you
safe from traffic until you reach Fort William in the shadow of
mighty Ben Nevis.
DAY 5. Rest Day Fort William
Situated at the head of Loch Linnhe Fort William is a bustling town.Take
a trip on the scenic West Highland Railway Line to Mallaig, Climb
Ben Nevis or explore the many forest trails in Leanachan Forest.
DAY 6. Fort William - TUMMEL BRIDGE - 39km
Avoid the busy roads with a scenic train journey across bleak
and desolate Rannoch Moor to Rannoch Station.Cycle by Loch Rannoch
to Tummel Bridge.
DAY 7. Tummel Bridge - PITLOCHRY - 20km
A short day's cycle to the delightful Victorian town of Pitlochry.
A chance for some shopping or a visit to a distillery or the
Dam and Fish Ladder. Blair Castle 6 miles north has thirty two
fully furnished rooms of infinite variety presenting a stirring
picture of Scottish life.
DAY 8. Depart Pitlochry by train for Inverness.
UNGUIDED PRICE per person double occupancy:
675 Euros (allow for train fare to Inverness)
2006 GUIDED DATES : July 15, August 5 and 19
GUIDED PRICE: 700 euros. Singel supplement: 195 euros
CYCLE THE KINGDOM OF FIFE
This
part of the east coast of Scotland is often referred to as the Kingdom
of Fife. Fife was one of seven Celtic kingdoms and the only one
to retain its special title and spirit. This was due to its
particular geographical location bounded as it is by two fast flowing
rivers, the Tay in the north and the Forth in the south. To reach
it an invading army had to risk a dangerous river crossing or travel
long distances to cross by the bridges at Perth and Stirling. The
sea was the main route to Fife and the coastal villages had thriving
trade with Europe, exporting coal and salt and importing timber
and textiles. Visit these scenic harbours with their fishing
boats and pleasure craft and enjoy the miles of golden sandy beaches.
Royal connections remained when Dunfermline was Scotlands
ancient capital and Falkland Palace was the Kings hunting
lodge and there is more history in St Andrews with its ruined Bishopss
Palace and Cathedral. The Millennium Commission awarded Fife
£1.8 million and together with matching sums from Fife Council
and the European Community a total of £3.6 million has been
spent creating a unique network of 500km of signed and safe cycle
routes. This tour uses these routes to explore the lush green landscapes
and sparkling sea views from the Rivers Tay in the north to the
Forth in the south.
Day 1. Arrive PERTH: collect cycle, route
briefing and instruction. Perhaps time to explore the riverside
walks and enjoy the colour of Perth in Bloom.
Day 2. PERTH - NEWPORT-ON-TAY - 29ml(46km)
Take the minor roads south to Bridge of Earn, and turning east climb
into Pitmedden Forest to join the Fife Cycleway. There are
fine views of the Tay valley before you descend to meet the river
at the small burgh of Newburgh. At the Laing Museum you can see
Alexander Laings Victorian collection together with
other objects illustrating the many aspects of Newburghs history
from medieval burgh to maritime and industrial town. On a seat by
the river bank you will find the perfect spot for a picnic lunch
and enjoy the peace and tranquillity of the fast flowing river.
There are fine views across to the Carse of Gowrie. Follow the minor
road by the river towards the railway bridge at Wormit with perhaps
a stop at Balmerino Abbey. This ruined Cistercian monastery was
founded in 1229 and in the grounds there is an ancient Spanish
chestnut tree, one of the oldest in the country. The overnight stop
is at Newport-on Tay, the former ferry port for the crossing to
Dundee.
Day 3. NEWPORT - ST ANDREWS -12/18ml(19/29km)
Cross to Dundee on the central cycleway of the Tay Bridge and visit
Discovery Point. Here the citys past and present are
related in a vibrant exhibition which includes Captain Scotts
Polar exploration ship SS Discovery. Return to Newport and continue
round the coast, past the other former river crossing at Tayport
and spend a little time away from the tarmac on the tracks of Tentsmuir
Forest. Continue through Leuchars village with its busy air base
and climb to reach the village of Strathkinness. There is a lovely
panoramic view over the Firth of Tay and beyond as you descend
into St Andrews. Once the ecclesiastical capital of Scotland,
St Andrews is now better know as the Home of Golf.
It is also home to Scotlands oldest university with many
fine buildings set in a combination of Medieval, Edwardian and Victorian
streets. Visit the ruined Castle and Cathedral or take a stroll
on the wide expanse of the golden West Sands.
Day 4. ST ANDREWS - PEAT INN -6/30ml(10/48km)
Either spend the day exploring St Andrews with a short ride to Peat
Inn or cycle to the charming East Neuk of Fife. Neuk is the old
Scots word for corner and is the name for the wedge of land running
round the Eastern peninsula of Fife. Visit the picturesque fishing
villages of Crail, Anstruther, Pittenweem and Elie with their whitewashed
cottages and narrow streets. A more modern sight awaits you
underground at The Secret Bunker, Scotlands former Government
HQ in the event of a nuclear war, while in contrast Anstruthers
Scottish Fishing Museum tells the story of the fishing communities
and their industry. Leave the coast to travel inland to the overnight
stop at Peat Inn.
Day 5. PEAT INN - ABERDOUR -31ml(50km)
Southwards today towards the Firth of Forth. Pass through the village
of Ceres and perhaps visit the Fife Folk Museum with its
interesting collection of old farming implements, tools and costumes
which are a record of the way of life in days gone by. On the road
from Ceres there are beautiful views of the valley of the River
Eden. At the bustling town of Kirkcaldy you reach the coast again
and the views of the Firth of Forth on the road to Burntisland
are magnificent. From Burntisland you join the Fife Coastal
Path to Aberdour. Aberdour has been a popular holiday resort
since Victorian times and is renowned for its Silver Sands-a
secluded sandy beach nestling in a sheltered bay that offers all
the fun of the seaside.
Day 6. ABERDOUR - KINROSS - 25ml(40km)
Leave Aberdour and cycle by the Coastal Path to the magnificent
sight of the mighty Forth Bridge. In its shadow is Deep Sea World,
Scotlands revolutionary Aquarium, with all kinds of exhibits
and special themed events. Continue to the historic town of Dunfermline,
for 500 years the ancient capital of Scotland and burial place
of Scottish kings. Visit Dunfermline Abbey with its ninth
century nave and the ruined Royal Palace, birthplace of two kings
and seven queens. In more recent times it is known as the birthplace
of the richest man in the world, Andrew Carnegie,
and his birthplace is now an interesting museum. The route climbs
through the Blairadam Forest and from the Cleish Hills there are
exceptional views for many miles over Loch Leven and beyond. Northwards
now to Kinross and the Nature Reserve of Loch Leven. On an
island in the Loch stands Loch Leven Castle, famous as the prison
of Mary, Queen of Scots before her dramatic escape in May 1568.
A small ferry will take you to visit this 14th century tower.
Day 7. KINROSS - PERTH -30ml(48km)
From Kinross follow old railway lines and ancient rights of way
to the small village of Strathmiglo. From here you can divert to
visit Falkland Palace, set in the heart of a unique medieval
village. It was the country residence and hunting lodge of
eight Stuart monarchs, includes the exceptionally beautiful Chapel
Royal and is surrounded by internationally known gardens. The
tour is complete when you descend from Pitmedden Forest to the River
Tay and return to the Fair City of Perth.
Day 8. DEPART PERTH.
PRICE per person double occupancy: 685 Euros
WEST TO EAST MOUNTAIN BIKE TOUR
A strenuous 230ML(370km) Mountain Bike Tour which
follows the ancient trails and drove roads across Scotland from
Loch Hourn in the west to Montrose in the east. From the Atlantic
seaboard in the west follow desolate tracks, mountain passes
and forest trails through some of Scotlands finest scenery
to the reach the North Sea at Montrose. It is not all off road
, however and you will be glad of the intervals on the smooth tarmac
of minor roads.
DAY 1. Arrive FORT WILLIAM: overnight stay,
collect cycles, route briefing and instruction.
Day 2. RATAGAN - ARNISDALE -19ml(30km)
Transport to Ratagan on Loch Duich to begin your adventure. Cycle
along the lochside before tackling the steep climb over the hills
to Glenelg. Pass the ferry to Skye and enjoy the wonderful sea
views on the coast road to Arnisdale.
DAY 3. ARNISDALE - FORT AUGUSTUS - 42ml(67km)
A strenuous off road journey to Kinloch Hourn (alternatively
invest in small boat journey), by track and road to Invergarry and
then follow the Great Glen Cycle Route to Fort Augustus.
DAY 4. FORT AUGUSTUS - KINGUSSIE - 45ml(72km)
Via Corrieyairack Pass on General Wades Old Military Road(weather
permitting) to Garva Bridge then the minor road to Laggan: follow
the Spey Valley to Newtonmore and Kingussie, pass the ruined
Ruthven Barracks and on to Drumguish then off road to Balachroik
(alternative Feshiebridge).
DAY 5. KINGUSSIE - TOMINTOUL - 34ml(54km)
Eastwards through the Rothiemurcus Estate, by Inshriach, Loch
an Eilein, Loch Morlich, Abernethy Forest, Braes of Abernethy, and
Bridge of Avon to Tomintoul. This 17th century village
stands astride the road between Deeside and Speyside in some
of Scotlands finest scenery.
Day 6. TOMINTOUL - BALLATER - 34ml(54km)
An exciting off road journey via Inchrory, Glen Builg and
Loch Builg to Invercauld House near Braemar: follow the track to
Inver on main South Deeside road and an easy ride to Ballater.
Day 7. BALLATER - EDZELL - 39ml( 62km)
Tough today! The minor road takes you to Dinnet, through Glen Tanar
and over the Grampian Mountains to Glen Esk: join the minor
road for a pleasant ride to picturesque village of Edzell.
Day 8. EDZELL - MONTROSE - 15ml(24km)
The wild mountains are left behind as you travel the short distance
to the sea: take the road to Brechin and via Logie Pert to Hillside
and Montrose. Cycle through he town to the beach and dip your toes
in the water to celebrate your arrival at the North Sea! Return
transport to Perth provided.
UNGUIDED PRICE per person double occupancy:
750 Euros (not including bike rental of 130 euros))
THE ENCHANTED ISLES OF MULL & IONA
A
Sail from Oban to this beautiful island and explore the unspoilt
charm of its coastal and mountain scenery. Perhaps visit the
holy Isle of Iona, sail to the majestic Fingals Cave
on Staffa or enjoy a wild life safari. The Islands
pretty capital, Tobermory, set in a sheltered bay is popular with
visiting yachtsmen and provides the ferry link to the rugged Ardnamurchan
Peninsula. Cross to Kilchoan and follow the road by the shore of
Loch Sunart to the village of Strontian. From there you return southwards
via Morvern and the ferry at Lochaline to Mull. A short ride to
Craignure for the ferry to Oban completes your tour.
DAY 1. Arrive Oban.
Evening: collect cycles and route briefing.
DAY 2. OBAN - BUNESSAN 31ml(50km)
Morning ferry to Craignure on Mull, perhaps visit Duart or Torosay
Castles. It is a scenic journey through Glen More following the
river to Loch Scridain and on through the village of Pennygael to
Bunessan, 6miles from Fionphort, the ferry point for the Isle of
Iona.
DAY 3. Rest day BUNESSAN
An ideal opportunity to enjoy the peace and tranquility of Iona.
Visit the ruined Nunnery, the restored Abbey Church and the ancient
resting place of Scottish Kings. After that explore the west side
of the Island and leave behind the majority of your fellow visitors
or take a boat trip to land on the island of Staffa and explore
Fingal's Cave, an unforgettable experience.
DAY 4. BUNESSAN - SALEN 34ml(55km)
Back through Pennyghael to take the coast road to Loch Na Keal.
Enjoy the magnificent views of Ben More and the pass the holy island
of Inch Kenneth to reach the narrow waist of Mull. A short journey
now to the village of Salen on the Sound of Mull.
DAY 5. SALEN - TOBERMORY 10/18/33ml(16/29/53km)
Choose from a leisurely day in Tobermory after a short ride on the
main road from Salen, a slightly longer journey through the forest
of Aros or for the energetic a special reward of mountain and sea
views as they circle the west and north coasts by Ulva and Dervaig.
DAY 6. Rest day TOBERMORY
Suggested excursions:
1. Take the ferry to Kilchoan on Ardnamurchan. Visit the lighthouse
visitor centre at Ardnamurchan Point and the beautiful beach at
Sanna.
2. Take a boat trip from the harbour to see the seals.
3. A Wildlife Safari: Mull is home to many interesting species of
birds and mammals.
DAY 7. TOBERMORY - OBAN 21ml(34km)
Follow the A848 never far from the waters of the Sound of Mull.
Cross to Oban by the ferry at Craignure and there will be time to
explore this busy tourist town.
DAY 8. Depart OBAN
UNGUIDED PRICE per person double occupancy:
675 Euros
Information About All Tours
INCLUDED:
- Cycle and Equipment Hire (including 18 speed
hybrid cycle, panniers,pump,lock, helmet,cape, water bottle,puncture
repair kit,spare tube). Not included on East to West tour
- Bed and Breakfast Accommodation in Standard
Grade Twin/Double Rooms with private bathrooms where possible.
- Tour Information including Maps and Routes/
- Cycle Tickets/Reservations on Trains .
- Emergency Backup.
- Baggage carrying (please note that there will
be a supplement for baggage handling for a single person traveling
alone).
OPTIONAL EXTRAS FOR UNGUIDED TOURS: Private bathrooms for
8 euros per person per night. (guided tours include rooms with
private bathrooms where possible). Single Rooms for 12 euros per
night. Single rooms with private bathroom for 27 euros per night
CYCLES: our cycles are Diamond Back Hybrids
which are not more than 2 years old and are fully serviced before
each departure.Children will be supplied with a cycle to suit their
age and height.Also included are helmets, wet weather cape,tools,puncture
repair kit and cycle locks.An emergency breakdown service is available.
Please feel free to bring your own cycle, a reduction of £30
per week is available provided we are notified at the time of booking.
ACCOMMODATION: the accommodation provided
is either in Scottish Tourist Board graded B&B establishments
or in acommodation inspected by ourselves. For the most part we
use guest houses, farmhouses or private houses: the emphasis is
on a friendly welcome, good quality facilities and a hearty breakfast.Prices
are based on two persons sharing a twin/double room. Single Bookings
are welcome but will normally incur a supplement to cover any increased
room rates.Family rooms consisting of one double and one single
bed will be provided if available. Triple/quad rooms are not normally
available. Private facilities are at most locations. Evening meals
are available at some B&Bs or are readily available nearby.
HOLIDAY START: you can start your holiday
on any day of the week except for a small number of tours where
Sunday ferry services are not available. We will be happy to advise
on your travel arrangments to the tour departure point.
CHILDREN: children are welcome to accompany
adults on the less strenuous tours. We suggest a minimum age of
11 years but it will depend on the individual's cycling experience.
Reductions of 20% are available for children under 12yrs who share
their parents room.
TOUR ROUTES: these are chosen and surveyed
by ourselves. They follow minor roads, cycle paths or forest trails
allowing ample time for pauses to inspect places of interest. You
will receive a printed detailed route description and a Tourist
Map of the region on which the route is marked. This also has details
of places of interest and your tour pack includes numerous brochures.
Bicycle reservations and tickets are supplied for trains where necessary.
You are required to purchase your own passenger tickets for trains
and ferries unless specified as included. We regret that we do not
supply printed routes except as part of a holiday package but are
happy to advise on the numerous books available.
TRANSFERS: an Airport/rail/bus collection
service is available. This can be very competitive for groups(up
to four per car)and recommended if you are bringing your own bike
to Edinburgh or Glasgow Airports.If you require any advice regarding
the journey to the tour start please do not hesitate to contact
us.
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