Sunday, 26 August 2012

2013 Ride

Sounds like Martin had an interesting time on the Hebrides back in the 60's.

How does 11th October sound - I don't think I can make 4th.

Clyde,  I am assuming you are back in the UK in October.

Thursday, 23 August 2012

Having had an excellent couple of weeks in the Outer Hebrides and seeing a number of cyclists touring the Islands,  it gave me the idea that it would possibly make a good ride for us.

My suggestion would be to meet in Oban and catch a ferry to Castlebay on Barra (this is a 6 hour crossing so the first night would be in Castlebay).  We would then ride  across the Island to Ardmhor to catch a ferry to Eriskay. Riding would then be through Eriskay, South Uist, Benbecula and North Uist, all linked by causeways, so no ferries. We then catch a ferry to Harris. We ride through Harris and on to Lewis, reaching our destination at Stornoway. A ferry from Stornoway to Ullapool, then a 60 mile ride to Inverness to finish the ride.

The roads on the Islands have been improved in recent years, but still mainly single track and very quiet. It is about 140 miles from Castlebay to Stornoway plus the 60 mile to  Inverness. We would add a few more miles on the Islands to see some of the sights and places of interest. I am told by the locals that their best weather is normally in the month of May - so good for us. By riding north the prevailing wind should be behind us. The ferries are quite cheap for foot passengers and the bikes go free. There are plenty of Hostels/Bunk House and small hotels so accommodation should be ok.

That's the first one in the pot - does anyone have any other idea's for a ride. How does a meeting towards the end of September/October at the FP sound?

A few pic's: