Isle of Harris.

[Paladin - York]

All sorted.

Out; Oban - Barra - Eriskay - South Uist - Benbecula - Harris.
Back; Skye - Mallaig - Lochailort - Kilchoan & Point of Ardnamurchan - Tobermory - Craignure - Oban.

7 ferries. CalMac Hopscotch 21 & 23.

10 b&bs.

March/April. 226 miles plus side trips.

 

[JamieRegan]

You've missed out North Uist and Berneray.

We're doing a similar trip in April from Barra to Lewis. If you have any tips to share, it would be appreciated. This is my first time doing anything like this.

 

[Ticktockmy]

You've missed out North Uist and Berneray.

We're doing a similar trip in April from Barra to Lewis. If you have any tips to share, it would be appreciated. This is my first time doing anything like this.

Here is my blog for my 2009 trip through the outer Heb's maybe you will find something of interest in there.

http://gkyuk.multiply.com/photos/album/4/Outer_Hebridges_Cycle_Tour_June_16th_to_24th_June_2009

 

[Paladin - York]

You've missed out North Uist and Berneray...

...and Grimsay

Hi JamieRegan

This will be my fourth cycle trip in the Outer Isles (n car trips) having done other trips on Mull & Tiree. What does it say about me? Heaven knows. I'm less daunted now because I have my "watering holes" established, I know the wild camping areas, for summer use, the regular b&bs I use for other times like this one. I can shelter, if I need to in known covered bus shelter locations, in the lee of any available peat stacks, Barpa Langass etc. There are also some bike carrying bus services should all else fail. I've only once ever known it too windy to cycle - on Tiree, it was great for the windsurfers.

My prediction? - You'll love it.

If you haven't been before these might (?) help.
http://psychlopetualmotion.blogspot.com/2011/12/oban-lochboisdale-lochmaddy-uig-isle-of.html
http://psychlopetualmotion.blogspot.com/2011/12/garve-to-oban-via-outer-hebrides.html

 

[JamieRegan]

Thanks, guys. Those links are really interesting. I've been up before, but never cycled it - or that far before. So, really looking forward to it.

 

[lpretro1]

Harris is beautiful and worthwhile doing the complete circuit as each coastline is different. However, be aware that Sundays everything closes as they are very strict religion-wise there which needs to be respected. Lewis west coast also worth a trip. Gatliff Hostesl are brilliant - as long as you don't expect 4* luxury!! It will likely be quite cold up there Mar/Apr time so plenty of warm togs recomended!

 

[mickle]

Harris loves you too.

 

[Amanda P]

Here's my account of almost the same tour as you're planning. Enjoy!

For me, Mallaig to Kilchoan was just magical - I almost missed the ferry because I was so busy taking photos. But it all depends on your luck with the weather. You'll probably have a wet or windy day or two, but it will be worth putting up with them for the still, clear day that will eventually come. Make sure your camera is still working when that day comes!

 

[P.H]

All sorted.

Out; Oban - Barra - Eriskay - South Uist - Benbecula - Harris.
Back; Skye - Mallaig - Lochailort - Kilchoan & Point of Ardnamurchan - Tobermory - Craignure - Oban.

7 ferries. CalMac Hopscotch 21 & 23.

10 b&bs.

March/April. 226 miles plus side trips.

Have a great trip, as you've been before you'll know what to expect and what you want, so this isn't meant as criticism.
For anyone who is considering going for the first time, I'd recommend choosing a smaller area and exploring it in more detail. you can ride 300 miles on Harris and Lewis and come home feeling you've got to know the place rather than cycled through it.
My first trip in the Outer Hebrides covered too much ground and I've been back twice to see the bits I missed, which is OK except you get to the point where to see something new you have to repeat a lot you've done before.