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Highlights
Ride the Caledonia Way from Oban to Inverness, exploring lochs, canals, and historic sites.
Cycle Scotland’s coast-to-coast route through iconic towns like Oban, Fort William, and Fort Augustus.
Experience scenic ferry crossings, including the journey to the Ardgour Peninsula.
Explore the beauty of Loch Ness and remote National Scenic Areas like the stunning Appin Peninsula.
Experience Scotland’s whisky heritage with visits to the distilleries in Oban and Fort William.
The 7-Day Caledonia Way Cycling Tour is an incredible adventure in Scotland that follows along a remarkable 130-mile route that stretches from Oban to Inverness. This scenic cycling trip takes you through Scotland’s breathtaking landscapes, featuring coastal views, Highland lochs, and picturesque villages.
From Oban’s charming waterfront to Inverness, this cycling journey offers cyclists the opportunity to explore dramatic landmarks like Loch Ness, the Caledonian Canal, and Neptune’s Staircase. Ride along quiet roads, forest paths, and canal towpaths, passing through iconic towns like Fort William, Drumnadrochit, and Fort Augustus. With a mix of easy roads and challenging gravel paths, this route is perfect for cyclists seeking a rewarding adventure through Scotland's historic heart.
The 7-Day Caledonia Way Cycling Tour is an incredible adventure in Scotland that follows along a remarkable 130-mile route that stretches from Oban to Inverness. This scenic cycling trip takes you through Scotland’s breathtaking landscapes, featuring coastal views, Highland lochs, and picturesque villages.
From Oban’s charming waterfront to Inverness, this cycling journey offers cyclists the opportunity to explore dramatic landmarks like Loch Ness, the Caledonian Canal, and Neptune’s Staircase. Ride along quiet roads, forest paths, and canal towpaths, passing through iconic towns like Fort William, Drumnadrochit, and Fort Augustus. With a mix of easy roads and challenging gravel paths, this route is perfect for cyclists seeking a rewarding adventure through Scotland's historic heart.
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7-Day Caledonia Way Cycling Tour Itinerary
Day 1 Arrival in Oban
Start your 7-day Caledonia Way cycling trip in Oban, a picturesque coastal town known as the “Gateway to the Isles.” Explore the town’s charming Victorian character as you stroll along its waterfront, lined with seafood restaurants and quaint shops. Take in panoramic views from McCaig’s Tower, a hilltop folly inspired by the Roman Colosseum.
For those with extra time, Oban offers a variety of attractions, including boat trips to the nearby Isles of Mull, Iona, and Staffa. Discover the history of Dunstaffnage Castle, or delve into Oban’s whisky heritage with a visit to the Oban Distillery to sample its famous single malt. Whether you’re enjoying the local sights or venturing further afield, Oban is the perfect starting point for your cycling adventure.
Overnight Location: Oban
Distance: N/A
Meals: N/A
Day 2 Oban to Port Appin
Begin your cycling adventure in Oban, the “Gateway to the Isles,” renowned for its bustling harbour and sweeping views of the Hebrides. After a relaxing breakfast, set off along the coast, cycling north through tranquil landscapes of hills and lochs. Follow quiet B-roads with stunning views of Loch Linnhe and occasional glimpses of distant islands. Stop in the charming village of Benderloch for refreshments at the popular Ben Lora Café, then continue northward, crossing the impressive Creagan Bridge with the mountains of Morvern to your west. Reach Port Appin, a picturesque village famous for its views of Castle Stalker on its islet. Treat yourself to a well-earned rest at the luxurious Airds Hotel, known for its delicious local seafood menu.
Overnight Location: Port Appin
Distance: 38km, 415m of ascent, 410m of descent
Meals: Breakfast
Day 3 Port Appin to Fort William
Departing Port Appin, you’ll immediately be greeted by the striking sight of Castle Stalker, an iconic Scottish tower house perched on a tidal islet in Loch Laich, a peaceful inlet of Loch Linnhe. Following the Caledonian Way’s scenic cycle path, you’ll continue hugging the shoreline of Loch Linnhe, where sweeping vistas of the loch and surrounding hills offer an unforgettable backdrop.
Cycling through the village of Onich, the route takes you to the ferry crossing at the Corran Narrows. A short but memorable ten-minute journey transports you to Ardgour, where the road follows the loch’s edge once again. After another 16km of peaceful cycling, you’ll arrive at Camusnagaul, where a second ferry will take you across the loch to Fort William. Upon arrival in Fort William, the towering presence of Ben Nevis and the Nevis Range dominates the skyline, welcoming you to Scotland’s outdoor capital. Don’t miss Neptune’s Staircase, an incredible series of eight canal locks on the Caledonian Canal, and explore the lively high street filled with outdoor shops, cafes, and restaurants before continuing your adventure northward.
Overnight Location: Fort William
Distance: 53km, 475m of ascent, 480m of descent
Meals: Breakfast
Day 4 Fort William to Invergarry
Starting at the ruins of Fort William, follow the Great Glen Way markers as you cycle past the mighty Ben Nevis and the historic Inverlochy Castle. Continue your journey along the River Lochy, with great views of Loch Linnhe at Corpach. Ride along the Caledonian Canal and experience the unique sight of Neptune’s Staircase, a series of eight locks that raise and lower boats to sea level.
From there, the route takes you towards Gairlochy, where the terrain gently ascends before heading around the west side of Loch Lochy. Transitioning to a gravel fire road, the path rises slightly before descending into the village of Invergarry, known for its scenic castle. Take a moment to relax, with a charming Dutch barge-turned-pub offering a perfect spot for a break.
Overnight Location: Invergarry
Distance: 42km, 450m of ascent, 400m of descent
Meals: Breakfast
Day 5 Invergarry to Drumnadrochit
After breakfast, begin your ride with a challenging climb through Nursery Woods, offering spectacular views of Loch Oich. The route undulates along single-track paths before crossing the charming 1854 suspension bridge, leading you into Aberchalder. Rejoin the Caledonian Canal towpath and the Great Glen walking trail, offering a relaxing stretch as you make your way to Fort Augustus. Upon arrival, admire the boat locks before reaching the shores of Loch Ness. Take a break in the town or perhaps enjoy a pleasure cruise on the famous loch before heading back into the forest on fire roads.
The climbs become steeper as you ascend through the forest, offering stunning views of Loch Ness and the surrounding mountains. A sharp descent into Invermoriston brings you to the picturesque Moriston River Falls, located beneath the historic Thomas Telford Bridge. After a steep climb, you’ll cycle along an undulating track for another 12 miles, before descending into Drumnadrochit. If time permits, take a short detour to Urquhart Castle, one of Scotland’s most iconic and dramatic sites. It’s a long day, but the views and history make it worth the effort.
Overnight Location: Drumnadrochit
Distance: 48km, 940m of ascent, 960m of descent
Meals: Breakfast
Day 6 Drumnadrochit to Inverness
The day begins with a steep climb from Drumnadrochit, passing Loch Laide and forest tracks before descending into Inverness along the River Ness. Upon arrival, relax and celebrate completing the Great Glen Cycle route in the “capital of the Highlands.”
Inverness offers a frontier charm, with nearby attractions like the Culloden Battle site and Fort George, both easily accessible for further exploration.
Overnight Location: Inverness
Distance: 39km, 480m of ascent, 510m of descent
Meals: Breakfast
Day 7 Departure
After breakfast, it’s time to depart and bid farewell to your incredible journey along the Caledonian Way. Take one last look at the stunning landscapes before heading on your onward travels. Safe travels and we hope to see you again on another adventure!
Overnight Location: N/A
Distance: N/A
Meals: Breakfast
7-Day Caledonia Way Cycling Tour Price and Dates
The 7-Day Caledonia Way Cycling Tour is a private tour for your group only, and the price per person depends on how many people are in your group. The best time to visit is from April to October. Prices below are per person:Accommodation on the 7-Day Caledonia Way Cycling Tour
The route offers a variety of accommodations, including bed and breakfasts, lodges, and small hotels, all run by cycling-friendly hosts. These accommodations provide en-suite or private rooms, along with a delicious breakfast to fuel you for the ride ahead. Additional amenities, such as washing and drying facilities, packed lunches, and more, are available at some of the accommodations.
Single Rooms and Solo Travellers
Rooms are based on double occupancy. A single supplement has been added to the price for all single and solo travellers.
What’s Included in the 7-Day Caledonia Way Cycling Tour?
Meals
6 breakfasts are included.
Accommodations
Accommodations for 6 nights are included. Accommodations before the tour and after the tour in Inverness are not included but can be added as a supplement.
Transportation during the Tour
The tour includes luggage transfer for one bag per person weighing up to 20kg, but you can bring additional bags for an extra charge.
Also included
- Route Information that can be accessed through digital GPS app
- Excursions mentioned in the itinerary
Not included
- Flights
- Meals, drinks, or snacks not previously mentioned
- Gratuities for tour guides or other staff if desired
Optional Extras
- Additional nights before or after the tour
- Optional activities or excursions
- Bike rentals
- How hard is the 7-Day Caledonia Way Cycling Tour?
- Do I need a visa to travel to Scotland?
- Are meals included on the 7-Day Caledonia Way Cycling Tour?
- Do I need insurance?
- How do I get to Oban to start this tour?
- Is the 7-Day Caledonia Way Cycling Tour in English?
- Where does the 7-Day Caledonia Way Cycling Tour end?
- Do I need special vaccines to travel to Scotland?
- Are there any travel restrictions for Scotland?
This tour is rated 4/5, offering a challenging adventure ideal for those with significant experience in cycling and who regularly engage in similar activities. A good level of physical fitness is required, as you will encounter longer and more intense cycling sessions, typically lasting between 5-8 hours per day. The route includes frequent ascents and descents along varied terrain, including grassy tracks, woodland trails, and stony paths. Some sections may involve higher altitudes, adding extra difficulty to the journey. This tour is designed for those seeking a more demanding cycling experience.
Check with your local country about visa requirements. You could also try this website, though you should verify with your government.
6 breakfasts are included.
Yes, it is mandatory to have health and medical insurance to join this trip, and your insurance should cover hiking. Get your travel insurance.
To get to Oban and start the tour, you have several travel options:
By Train: ScotRail operates regular services from Glasgow Queen Street to Oban, with the scenic journey taking just over three hours. This route is known as one of Scotland's most beautiful train journeys, passing through Loch Lomond and the Trossachs National Park and alongside the shores of Loch Awe.
By Bus: Citylink provides frequent bus services from Glasgow and other major Scottish towns to Oban. The buses are comfortable, and the journey offers stunning views of the Highlands along the way.
By Air: The nearest airport to Oban is Glasgow International. From there, you can reach Oban by train, bus, or car.
Yes, the materials for this self-guided tour are in English.
Your tour concludes in Inverness, Scotland. For those leaving from Inverness:
By Train: ScotRail offers direct services to major destinations including Glasgow, Edinburgh, and Aberdeen. The Highland Main Line, running to Perth and beyond, is especially scenic, passing through the Cairngorms National Park. If you're heading west, the train to Kyle of Lochalsh is one of the most breathtaking rail journeys in Scotland.
By Bus: Inverness Bus Station offers connections to various destinations, including the Isle of Skye, Fort William, and Edinburgh, with services operated by Citylink and Megabus. Local buses also serve smaller Highland villages.
By Air: Inverness Airport, about 15km from the city center, offers flights to locations across the UK and Europe, including London and Manchester.
Check with your family doctor.
Please check with your local government about travel restrictions before you book your tour. This map from the US Department of State provides an overview of the current status in countries around the globe. The UK‘s Foreign Office and Government of Canada also provide advice on foreign travel. Note that the travel advice may change depending on your nationality.
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