A Motor Cycle Tour of Scotland

Motor Cycle Tour of Scotland

We don’t get many requests for help with a motor cycle tour but two countries which are ideal for such an itinerary are New Zealand, prefer the South Island, and Scotland. We recommend a route with little traffic, two lane or even one lane roads, sweeping bends which allow you the freedom of the open road, breathtaking lovely scenery, history, and culture, and bike friendly hotels or bed and breakfasts for you to stay at. It is easy to discover Scotland when you have the freedom that two wheels can offer you.

All driving is on the left and overtaking is permissible only on the right. Particular care is needed at roundabouts, priority is given to traffic on the right, and you should go round the roundabout in a clockwise direction. I remember one time I had to go around a roundabout four times before I got myself ready to exit in the right place. I had my two roommates with me, a South African and an Australian, and we couldn’t stop laughing. On a single track road, you must use the passing places to overtake. In some of the more remote parts, petrol stations should be used when you see one, and most are closed on Sundays. You will find petrol more expensive than in California. My father used to always carry a little tin of petrol in his boot since the petrol stations in the highlands can be far apart.

A good route starts with picking up a motor cycle in Glasgow or Edinburgh. There are several makes to choose from. A popular one is the Honda NC700X.

This route takes you thru a less travelled part of Scotland, lovely scenery, small villages, castles, history, and my favorite time is the Spring or the Autumn. If you are in Edinburgh in August, then a must is to go to the Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo, which is held for four weeks. Absolutely spectacular show, takes place in the Castle Esplanade, with a thousand performers in bands from all over the world It is an honor to be invited, and all parts of the British Commonwealth have been represented at one time or another. Even if you don’t like bagpipes and marching bands, this is a wonderful show.

I always recommend going to the Glasgow International Jazz Festival which is held June 22 to 26 which draws people from all over the world and is usually a great event to attend, even if you only go to one performance.

These are some very remote parts of Scotland, and I grew up in the Outer Hebrides. The route I am recommending is because it is the path less travelled, and would appeal to a motorcyclist.

I can give you lots of recommendations depending on what your interests are.

The first night would be in Perth.

Second and third nights in Oban Take the ferry to the isle of Mull, if you want a cruise. Nice little town to wander around, good restaurants. There are two routes from Oban to Inveraray from where the A83 continues eastward to Loch Lomond. The first way follows the A85 to the north passing Loch Etive and the picturesque ruined site of Kilchurn Castle before heading south to Inveraray along the A 819. The signpost Argyll Tourist Route on the other hand leaves Oban from the south – A818 passing Castle Kilmartin before turning to the left and running along the banks of Loch Fyne – A83 – to Inveraray. Both nice routes. I like driving along Loch Etive since you might see a Golden Eagle, which is 8ft in width.

You should see one castle and one garden on your trip. I like the Kinlochlaich Gardens, half way between Oban and Fort William. Wonderful Rhododendrons.

One night in Inverness. This is a busy little town, business center for the highlands. There is a great whisky distillery - Royal Brackla, worth a visit.

Two nights in Perthshire. Stop where you fancy, and enjoy the journey.

One night at Edinburgh or Glasgow airport and turn in the bike.

Make sure you buy a cashmere jumper, or a lambswool muffler.

Only thing I can’t take care of is the weather which can be jolly unpredictable, no matter what time of year.

Maureen Jones

Scotsmaster

All Horizons Travel/Frosch

640-961-2340 direct