Scotland - Outer Hebrides & Skye, July 2013

 

Following my two previous summers' epic cycle tours across Europe, Connie (my trusty steed) and I looked forward to a more relaxed adventure around Scotland's remote Western Isles. My two finest touring buddies Niall and James confirmed their availability with an enthusiastic "I'm in!", and my brave girlfriend Raquel liked the sound of cycle touring enough to book her flights without the slightest bit of arm twisting!

There's nothing quite like getting chucked in at the deep end for learning the ropes fast! From growing up in Portugal and flying in from the 40 degrees heat of the UAE, Raquel coped remarkably well with her baptism of fire, wild camping and cycle touring in this exposed corner of Scotland. Despite a heat wave hitting the headlines across Britain, it was "a wee bit chilly" for the most part. We enjoyed a cyclist's best friend - glorious tailwinds and warm sunshine some days, and on others we battled a cyclist's foe - strong headwinds up long hills and scrawly showers. But the bond of friendship developed and strengthened through experiencing an adventure together is priceless.

Niall very kindly built Raquel's shiny new Dawes Horizon in advance of our arrival, and after a successful maiden voyage, Raquel named her Fiona! Niall was his ever patient and helpful self, adjusting to a much more sedate pace than usual, and assisting with everyone's bike maintenance. These included James' broken saddle and gear changer, and my snapped spoke. After around 6000 miles Connie is ready for a good servicing and many new parts!

James was at his laid back and entertaining best. From juggling 7 balls to balancing a kayak paddle on his chin, we were never bored. James has an appetite of a sizable animal and any number of facial expressions with hilarious photographic consequences! Will Calamity James' long nameless bike finally get a name!? Brook?

For Raquel and Fiona, uphills were not their best friend. But as the days passed, the number of pushes uphill became fewer, and Raquel eased up the long inclines "naey bother"! For many, spending 10 days living rough with 3 smelly boys and slogging a heavy bicycle for miles along unforgiving roads isn't an ideal holiday! But Raquel kept her cheery self and didn't cry once!! Will Fiona and Raquel do another tour together?!

Some of my highlights were our wild campsites, despite the flies, midges, snails and sheep poo! Within a stone's throw were stunning white sand beaches, where we all went for several ‘refreshing’ quick dips! With the bigger numbers on tour and our different cycling paces, I was thankful for everyone's easygoing natures. Ending the tour happy and safe is always a relief. Ye cannae beat cycle touring; I wonder where the next one will be!