A Motor Cycle tour of Scotland 5 nights 14th-19th May 2015
A 6 day 5 night motorcycle tour taking in some of,what are in my opinion ,the best
roads the UK has to offer . By definition these roads are quiet and un trafficked by English
standards and are a mixture of scenic B roads and fast sweeping A roads.
This is not an “easy’ tour but it is certainly rewarding and to that end a certain level
of ability and machinery is required as the days in the saddle are long but the beer at the
end of each day will be cold and the hospitality warm.
Itinerary
Day 1 - 280 Miles
Depart from Travel lodge Skipton at 0930 14th May 2015 prompt. ( overnight stay on
the 13th at your own expense and arrangement)
Todays route will take us through the spectacular Scenery of The North Yorkshire National Park stopping along the way at the world famous Wensleydale creamery in Hawes for Scones and cream and then along the very back bone of England over the border into Scotland . There will be plenty of stops for refreshment and photo opportunity. From Jedburgh the scenic tourist route to the Edinburgh Bypass and then over the `forth road bridge (unfortunately this involves about 30miles of Major dual carriage way and motorway) but then we divert past Knockhill race circuit and Gleneagles hotel through some more amazing and beautiful scenery to our overnight destination in Dunkeld.
The Royal Dunkeld hotel is decent accommodation and friendly with a good bar and good simple food Rooms are on a twin share basis to keep your costs down.
Day 2 - 180 Miles (250 on alternative route)
Leaving the Royal Dunkeld Hotel bright and early and heading north along the A9 to the
first stop of the day at the House of Bruar Then to Dalwhinie ** for another tea stop after
the roads just get better and better passing along the banks of lochs and through passes such as Glenshee. Stops of interest will be the commando monument at Spean Bridge (also a Tea
and cake stop) and Elean Donan Castle (think Highlander) Arriving mid afternoon at our accommodation for the next 2 nights the Stratchcarron hotel.
The Stratchcarron is a great hotel run by Andrew and Eileen and is often used by Bike journalists. Accommodation will again be twin share rooms although some singles will be available at time of writing at a supplement.
**An alternative route to Dalwhinnie is an option for all or some participants which will take in some more technical roads over mountains and along narrow glens.
Day 3 - 250 Miles
After a fantastic Scottish Breakfast time to ride the infamous/notorious Belach na Baa
(pass of the cattle ) to Applecross for a well earned cuppa
and then proceeding around the stunning Applecross Peninsula where the vistas change at every corner. This will lead back to Stratchcarron where a pot of tea will be available before progressing to the majesty of the Isle of Skye Via the Sky road bridge. Skye is simply stunning with great roads and a very good cake shop half way round !
Overnight is again in the Stratchcarron Hotel.
Day 4 - 270 Miles
Time to say farewell to the Highlands and start to head south following the coast where
possible and riding the fabulous A816 from Oban. This is 27 miles of motor cycle heaven
and twists and turns all the way with more wonderful scenery.
This road alone makes the trip worthwhile (Trip Highlight) As we approach our overnight stay on
the banks of Loch Lomond having ridden through the Loch Lomond and Trossachs national park we have an opportunity not to be missed -the Dukes pass a famous and great biking road.
Day 5 - 140 Miles
Another chance to ride the dukes pass as we leave the Trossachs and head to Moffat.
From experience we know that to get round Glasgow the best way is the motorway, which
although unfortunate gets us to the good roads without the need for city centre riding. Once off the motorway there are some lovely roads to enjoy with the finale of the mountain road into Moffat 20 or 30 miles of good road with great scenery and a couple of coffee shops on its route for refreshment.
The Buclceuich Arms** Hotel is renowned for its Bike friendly status and good food !
**This Hotel may be unavailable and if so a suitable alternative will be found
Day 6 - 175 Miles
The last day !
Departing Moffat and heading north east along the St Mary’s loch road, another great
road great scenery, .before turning south on interesting roads passing along Kielder water
arriving eventually back at the Creamery at Hawes where we will say our goodbyes.
Not much has been said about the last days riding as i always get a little sad on the last
day but you will not be disappointed with the roads we ride !
