SCOTTISH HIGHLANDER
BIKING CRUISE
Cycling Itinerary
For Charter Groups of 6-8 Passengers
SUNDAY
At 4.00pm we meet at the Glenmoriston Town
House Hotel in Inverness and transfer to Scottish Highlander moored in
Dochgarroch. Champagne Welcome followed by a short cruise along the
heather lined canal. Dinner aboard.
MONDAY
(Cycling Distance 25ml/40km)
After breakfast we ride from
Culloden to Inverness where we can take in the views over Moray Firth.
In Inverness we join General Wade's military road on the east shore of
Loch Ness. After passing through the village of Dores the road hugs the
bank of the loch, where you should keep an eye open for “the Monster”
in the deep, dark waters as you look across Urquhart Bay and the ruins
of Urquhart Castle. At Foyers we stop to enjoy the spectacular Falls of
Foyers before rejoining the barge for lunch. Afternoon cruise followed
by dinner on board.
TUESDAY
(Cycling Distance 23ml/37km)
This morning we begin with a climb
following the river, past the upper falls and on to a high section
before the steep drop to Fort Augustus. Take time to explore this
pretty village and view the boats going through the 6 canal locks. Join
the towpath for a level ride to Oich Bridge and from here we follow the
forest track. Returning to the barge for lunch followed by an afternoon
cruise to Fort Augustus. Dinner ashore this evening at a local hostelry.
WEDNESDAY
(Cycling Distance 19ml/30km)
Begin this morning on a quiet minor road,
which runs alongside Loch Eil. The road continues to Loch Linnhe and
across the water you will see mighty Ben Nevis, Scotland's highest
mountain. Follow the loch side road to Corran, cross on the small ferry
and return to the barge by minibus to save those tired legs. Afternoon
cruise to Invergarry. Dinner on onboard.
THUSDAY
(Cycling Distance 20ml/32km)
After breakfast the minibus takes us to
Clunes to join part of the Great Glen Cycle Route. The fairly level
forest track runs parallel to Loch Lochy for nine miles to Laggan and
after another more hilly section we arrive in Invergarry. After lunch
there is a steep climb in the forest before descending to the Bridge of
Oich and onto the towpath. Afternoon cruise to Gairlochy. Dinner on
board.
FRIDAY
(Cycling Distance 17ml/27km)
This morning we visit “Legend of the Dew
of Ben Nevis” whisky distillery for an insight into the secrets of the
various stages of whisky preparation and a tasting. Alternatively there
is plenty of opportunity for shopping possibilities in Fort William.
After lunchtime for more cycling along the towpath to Banavie. Return
to the barge for a cruise through the Neptune's Staircase of locks.
Dinner onboard
SATURDAY
Passengers disembark for Fort William
after a hearty Scottish breakfast by minibus arriving at about 9.45 am
NOTE:
This is a sample itinerary and subject to change. Alternative weeks the
cruise is in the reverse direction
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