Scotland: Inner Hebrides and Islands

Individual flight to Edinburgh or Glasgow followed by either train or bus to Oban. Alternatively you are welcome to reserve a seat with our collective transfer service which leaves the centre of Edinburgh at 5.30 pm and Edinburgh Airport at 6 pm (see prices below). The cabins on the Flying Dutchman are ready for check in at 6 pm. Should you arrive earlier, your luggage can be stored on board until check-in. A late evening dinner gives everyone a chance to get to meet each other, the crew, and the tour guides. (Catering: Dinner).

After breakfast we adjust our bicycles and start our first cycle tour, which leads us southwards from Oban through hilly landscapes and along the shores of a small highland lake back to the sea. Here we cross the remote island of Seil before boarding a ferry which takes us to the island of Luing, one of the Slate Islands. Mining the grey, glistening rock from the archipelago played an important economic role until the mid-20^th century. The University of Glasgow, for instance, is largely constructed from slate from this small island. At the Toberonochy dock, the Flying Dutchman awaits us, and we sail over to Crinan where we spend the night. (Catering: Breakfast, Dinner).

Today’s bike tour takes us from Crinan to the fascinating excavation site of Kilmartin. Stone circles, reminiscent of Stonehenge, and prehistoric burial mounds characterize the vast landscape. After visiting the museum grounds and enjoying lunch at the museum cafe, we return to Crinan. Past the Kintyre Peninsula, made famous by Paul McCartney’s song ‘Mull of Kintyre’, we continue by boat to the island of Jura. (Catering: Breakfast, Lunch).

After breakfast we cycle northwards on the Isle of Jura. The renowned author George Orwell spent the last three years of his life here, describing it as an “extremely un-get-at-able place”. Take the time to truly enjoy the tranquillity of the island, which is only occasionally disturbed by one of the more than 5,000 deer that live there. Passing the so-called ‘Paps of Jura’ we arrive at a small dock where the Flying Dutchman takes us to the Isle of Mull. Along the way we pass the swirling waters of Corryvreckan, one of the largest natural whirlpools in the world. But don’t worry, our experienced crew will guide the ship safely to a quiet bay on the Isle of Mull for the night. (Catering: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner).

Today’s cycle tour is dedicated entirely to the spectacular natural beauty of Scotland. The route takes us through hilly terrain and along the island’s coastline. Behind every bend in the road another breath-taking view awaits. After the road divides, and the few cars that we may have encountered along the way have turned off towards Iona, we share the road 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 where the ship is waiting. We enjoy a pleasant evening docked in the quiet harbour of Salen, able to soak in the beautiful sunset. (Catering: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner).

Today’s cycling tour leads us to a climb through the northern part of the Isle of Mull. As a reward for our effort, we can enjoy a break in a cosy tearoom before heading towards the brilliant white beach of Calgary Bay with its crystal-clear water. It is considered one of the most beautiful beaches in Scotland and swimming enthusiasts should not pass up this opportunity to jump in for a refreshing swim. Ship-ward bound, we have just a few more inclines to master before arriving in the main town of Tobermory. In this pretty little place, with its colourful facades, an evening visit to a typical Scottish pub is high on the agenda. While here we can taste delicious national dishes such as fish ‘n’ chips and haggis. (Catering: Breakfast, Dinner).

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 19^th century is truly a sight to behold and the cosy tearooms allow us to indulge ourselves before returning back to Tobermory. Back at 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 Mc Caig’s Tower, an incomplete replica of the Colosseum in Rome, is a worthwhile visit. (Catering: Breakfast, Dinner).

After breakfast, individual return trip home from Oban or group transfer to the Edinburgh airport.