Scotland by Bike and Boat

Make your own way to Oban (e.g from Edinburgh or Glasgow by bus or train, which takes approximately 3-4 hours). Alternatively, an optional group transfer is available (must be pre-booked - additional cost applies) from Edinburgh train station (at 3.00pm) or airport (at 4:00pm) to the boat in Oban. Check in is from 3.00pm and cabins will be available from 6.00pm. Should you arrive earlier your luggage can be stored on board until check-in time. Then join your crew, guides and group for a late dinner at 9.00pm on board.

After breakfast we will adjust our bikes and then start our first cycle tour. This leads us southwards from Oban through hilly landscapes and along the shores of a small highland lake back to the sea. Here we cross a remote peninsula before catching the ferry which takes us to the island of Luing. The island is made up of slate and the mining of the glistening grey rocks played an important economic role in the past. The University of Glasgow for instance, is largely constructed from the slate of this small island. At the Tobernochy dock, the Flying Dutchman awaits us for our crossing to Crinan, where we will spend the night.

Today's bike tour takes us from Crinan to the fascinating excavation site of Kilmartin. Stone circles, which remind us of Stonehenge and prehistoric burial mounds, characterise the vast landscape. After visiting the museum grounds and enjoying lunch at the museum cafe, we return to Crinan. Past the Kintyre Peninsula, famous from Paul McCartney's 'Mull of Kintyre' song, we continue by boat to the island of Jura.

This morning we cycle northwards on the isle of Jura. The renowned author, George Orwell, spent the last three years of his life here and described it as the most unattainable place on earth. Enjoy the tranquility of the island, which is only occasionally disturbed by one of the nearly 5,000 deer that live here. Passing the so-called Paps of Jura we arrive at a small dock where the Flying Dutchman awaits to takes us to the island of Mull. On the way we pass the swirling waters of Corryvreckan, one of the largest natural whirlpools in the world - but do not fear, our experienced crew will guide us safely to a quiet bay on the island of Mull for the night.

Today’s cycle tour is dedicated entirely to the spectacular natural beauty of Scotland. The route takes us through hilly terrain and along the coastline of Mull Island. Around every bend another breathtaking view awaits. After the road divides, and the few cars that we have encountered along the way so far have turned off towards Iona, we share the road virtually only with sheep and shaggy highland cattle grazing peacefully in the bright green meadows. Along an ever-changing coastal road, we cycle past Loch Na’ Keal to Salen to board the ship. We enjoy a pleasant evening docked in the quiet harbour of Salen, soaking in the beautiful sunset.

Today’s cycling tour leads us to a climb through the northern part of the Isle of Mull. As a reward, a cosy tearoom offers a welcomed reprieve before we head for the brilliant white beach of Calgary Bay and its crystal clear water. It is considered one of the most beautiful beaches in Scotland and swimming enthusiasts should take the opportunity to jump in for a refreshing swim. A short crossing takes us to Tobermory bay. In this pretty village with colorful facades, an evening visit to an original Scottish pub is high on the agenda, including trying local dishes such as fish and chips or haggis.

Today’s tour starts again in Tobermory and leads us to Glengorm Castle, in the northern outskirts of the island of Mull. This grand manor from the 19th century is truly a sight to behold and the cosy tearooms allow us to indulge ourselves before returning back to Tobermory. Back on board the Flying Dutchman we embark on our last sail of the week back to Oban. Before dinner there is plenty of time to take a stroll through Oban. The McCaig's Tower, an incomplete replica of the Colosseum in Rome, is a worthwhile visit.