Cycling UK Forum

gloomyandy wrote: ↑7 Nov 2021, 2:15pm Loved the blog!

On getting back from the Hebrides this would be my choice if you have the time and energy...

I took this route on one of many trips to the islands. I got the ferry over to Skye from Tarbert (Harris) and then cycled through Skye, ferry to Mallaig and then down through Ardnamurchan to get the ferry at Kilchoan to Mull then to Craignure and the ferry back to Oban. Personally having cycled a lot in the Hebrides (and recently spending a week on Lewis), I'd say that in many respects a circular route starting from Oban and using the above route from Tarbert is a better one than the complete Hebridean way, but I understand the attraction of completing the full route!

Now that's an idea, for yet another ride. Can't have too many on the wish list. Thanks.

slowster wrote: ↑6 Nov 2021, 2:09pm The blog below contains some details of travel arrangements, including using a coach from Ullapool to Inverness. It is worth reading in any case, because it is an enjoyable and inspiring account.

https://www.weirdosonbikes.com/2021/08/ ... -way-2021/

Great read. Many thanks for posting the link.

Many thanks for all the positive replies.
To answer some of the questions and inform the hive, I intend to drive to Oban and leave the car there until my return. I did look at the ferry to Ullapool, the cycling to Garve, with the intent of getting the train back to Oban for the car. Not really viable, as going via Inverness, Perth then Glasgow was getting to be a bit like impersonating Phileas Fogg!!

As for duration, I expect 5 days of cycling, which allows for a bit of exploring in addition to enjoying the ride at a leisurely pace and I expect that the weather may be a player in how I progress.

I hope to mix up the stopovers at night with camping (wild or sites - as available) and B&B stays.

Again, thanks to all that have given guidance, tips and their experiences. It's valuable info and, hopefully, I'll post up my experiences once I get back.

I'm starting to plan trips for next year and this is high on my list.
However, as a solitary cyclist, I'm puzzling over how to get back to Castlebay from the Butt of Lewis, without having to cycle the whole way (lack of time).
I appreciate that I'll probable need to cycle to Stornoway but wondered if any members can provide any information on whether there is/are any transport arrangements that can be used for the return to Castlebay.

Overnight camp at Once Brewed on Hadrian’s Cycleway.
DD tarp over an old Vango TBS100 inner.

There is an old Cicerone Press cycling guide for this route, now out of print.
I managed to source a decent copy from Amazon, with the intent of exploring it. Your links will be invaluable - many thanks OP.

Thanks to you all for posting some really good tips. Filed away in the “getting ready box”.

Thanks Jon.
Some more good information.

Hi,
Does anyone have any experience of/tips on taking bikes on trains in Germany.
I’m considering cycling from Rotterdam to Frankfurt, then returning to Rotterdam by train.
I know the train service in Holland is very bike friendly, but have no experience of same in Germany.

[i][i]You’re never too old to put on lycra and be awesome.[/i][/i]