FOR a man who has cycled around the world, it may not have seemed very far.
But – if only for logistical reasons – record-breaking cyclist Mark Beaumont will have been feeling proud yesterday when he completed a 185-mile cycle route that took in the length of the Outer Hebrides in under 24 hours. His feat marked the launch of the Hebridean Way cycle route.
Taking in 10 islands and six causeways with two rib boat crossings – courtesy of Uist Sea Tours – Beaumont completed the trip from Vatersay in the south to the Butt of Lewis in the north in one day a single day as part of a push to showcase the unique appeal of the islands.
He was exuberant about his short time on the islands.
He said: “This whole Outer Hebrides experience has been unforgettable
– from the moment I landed on the spectacular beach at Barra to completing the challenge at the islands’ most northerly point at the Butt of Lewis.
“What struck me most is the amazing immediacy of the landscape, which changes from island to island. The scenery is stunning, and you would miss so much of it dashing along in a car. This has to be the best part of Scotland, and cycling has to be the best way to see these fantastic islands. The roads are perfect for cycling - quiet and safe.
“So many communities, schoolchildren and cyclists turned out to wish me well on my journey, and I’m sure I’ll be back again with my bike to soak up more of this unique Hebridean landscape and hospitality.”
Outer Hebrides Tourism’s Ian Fordham said: “Cycling is an increasingly popular sport these days, and we have seen more and more people wanting to explore our islands on two wheels.
“It has to be one of Scotland’s most scenic cycling routes, and we know visitors will be as impressed as Mark was with the changing landscapes from one island to the next.”
The challenge, which was filmed from start to finish, was completed with the support of Western Isles Council and Calmac Ferries.
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