Scotland by Bike and Boat
Description
Summary
Description
Embark on an unforgettable 8-day journey through the breathtaking landscapes of Scotland. This multi-day tour offers a unique blend of cycling, sailing, and exploration of historical sites. Starting from the charming town of Oban, you'll traverse hilly terrains, serene highland lakes, and remote peninsulas. Discover the slate-rich island of Luing, the fascinating excavation site of Kilmartin, and the tranquil Isle of Jura. Experience the natural beauty of Mull Island, the white beach of Calgary Bay, and the colorful village of Tobermory. The tour concludes with a visit to the majestic Glengorm Castle and a leisurely stroll through Oban. Each day is filled with adventure, culture, and stunning views, promising an unforgettable experience.
Included
21 speed hybrid bike rental with pannier (8-speed electric bikes available on most trips for a supplement, limited supplies). The guides will carry bike locks for the group when cycling, or individual locks can be provided on request if you decide to bike alone (limited supply).
7 breakfasts, 2 lunches, 5 dinners (does not include drinks) - The cook on board is a member of the crew and prepares the breakfast and one warm meal a day (dinner may be swapped for lunch). The meals begin with dinner on day 1 and end with breakfast on day 8.
vegetarian, vegan, kosher, meat
7 nights in a twin share cabin with ensuite facilities (supplement applies for single cabin). If you are travelling by yourself you can be matched with another passenger of the same sex. The compact cabins are configured with bunk beds - two beds, or four beds for either 3 adults or 2 adults and 2 children. Ask your consultant for prices on children and triple and quad share. Due to the shape of the boat's hull the size of the cabins may vary, and some cabins may be marginally noisier and less ventilated due to their proximity to the engine and working part of the boat.
Bed linen and towels
Information pack including overview maps per cabin
BIKES
During the trip you will be provided with a 21 speed bike with hand brakes and a pannier to carry your gear during the day. The bikes do not have water bottle holders. Helmets are not supplied but are highly recommended and we suggest bringing one from home. A limited number of helmets may be available for use on board (reservation essential), however we cannot guarantee their suitability. It is a joining requirement that a helmet is worn at all times while cycling for safety reasons.
The rental bikes are equipped with flat pedals. You can bring your own click pedals (or own saddle – without the seat post), the tour guide can attach them to your rental bike.
Electric bikes, 8-speed, are available on most tours for an additional cost (limited supplies - must be pre-booked). These are high-quality pedelecs, powered mainly by a Bosch motor capable of covering long distances, and characterized by lightweight components. Alternative drive systems may also be used.
Please be aware, that we have a weight limit of 22 kg (48.5 lb) per bike on board. We do not allow private e-bikes on board.
Experienced crew including English speaking cycle guide
21 speed hybrid bike rental with pannier (8-speed electric bikes available on most trips for a supplement, limited supplies). The guides will carry bike locks for the group when cycling, or individual locks can be provided on request if you decide to bike alone (limited supply).
Daily Itinerary
Day 1 – Day 1: Edinburgh or Glasgow to Oban
Day 1: Edinburgh or Glasgow to Oban
Start your journey from either Edinburgh or Glasgow and make your way to the picturesque town of Oban. You can choose to travel by bus or train, which takes about 3-4 hours. Alternatively, you can opt for a group transfer from Edinburgh train station or airport to Oban. Check-in to your cabins from 6pm onwards and meet your crew, guides, and group for a late dinner on board at 9pm.
Day 2 – Day 2: Oban to Crinan via Luing
Day 2: Oban to Crinan via Luing
After breakfast, adjust your bikes and start your first cycle tour. Ride southwards from Oban through hilly landscapes and along the shores of a small highland lake back to the sea. Cross a remote peninsula before catching the ferry to the slate-rich island of Luing. Learn about the island's history and its contribution to the construction of the University of Glasgow. Board the Flying Dutchman at the Tobernochy dock for your crossing to Crinan, where you'll spend the night.
Day 3 – Day 3: Crinan to Jura via Kilmartin
Day 3: Crinan to Jura via Kilmartin
Today's bike tour takes you from Crinan to the fascinating Kilmartin excavation site. Explore the stone circles and prehistoric burial mounds that characterize the vast landscape. After visiting the museum grounds and enjoying lunch at the museum cafe, return to Crinan. Sail past the famous Kintyre Peninsula to the tranquil island of Jura.
Day 4 – Day 4: Jura to Mull
Day 4: Jura to Mull
Start your morning with a cycle tour northwards on the Isle of Jura. Enjoy the tranquility of the island, home to nearly 5,000 deer. Pass the so-called Paps of Jura and arrive at a small dock where the Flying Dutchman awaits to take you to the island of Mull. On the way, pass the swirling waters of Corryvreckan, one of the largest natural whirlpools in the world. Rest for the night in a quiet bay on the island of Mull.
Day 5 – Day 5: Mull Island to Salen
Day 5: Mull Island to Salen
Today's cycle tour is dedicated entirely to the spectacular natural beauty of Scotland. Traverse through hilly terrain and along the coastline of Mull Island. Enjoy breathtaking views around every bend. After the road divides, share the road virtually only with sheep and highland cattle grazing peacefully in the bright green meadows. Cycle past Loch Na' Keal to Salen to board the ship. Spend a pleasant evening docked in the quiet harbour of Salen, soaking in the beautiful sunset.
Day 6 – Day 6: Salen to Tobermory via Calgary Bay
Day 6: Salen to Tobermory via Calgary Bay
Today's cycling tour leads you to a climb through the northern part of the Isle of Mull. Take a break at a cosy tearoom before heading for the brilliant white beach of Calgary Bay and its crystal clear water. Take a refreshing swim before a short crossing takes you to Tobermory bay. Spend the evening in this pretty village with colorful facades, and enjoy local dishes such as fish and chips or haggis in an original Scottish pub.
Day 7 – Day 7: Tobermory to Oban via Glengorm Castle
Day 7: Tobermory to Oban via Glengorm Castle
Start your day in Tobermory and cycle to Glengorm Castle, located in the northern outskirts of the island of Mull. Visit the grand 19th-century manor and indulge in the cosy tearooms before returning back to Tobermory. Board the Flying Dutchman for your last sail of the week back to Oban. Take a stroll through Oban before dinner and visit the McCaig's Tower, an incomplete replica of the Colosseum in Rome.
Day 8 – Day 8: Oban to Edinburgh
Day 8: Oban to Edinburgh
After breakfast, disembark around 9am. You can opt for an optional group transfer to Edinburgh airport, which departs Oban at 7:00am, to catch flights departing Edinburgh from 12:00pm onwards.
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