(No availability) Coast to Coast Cycling between the Atlantic and the North Sea in 4 days

This "Bike and Barge" mini cruise allows you to cycle the length of the Great Glen from coast to coast. You will have two full days of 23 and 27 miles of guided biking (37 - 44 kilometers) and two part days at the start and finish to complete the journey. These few days are an enjoyable way to cover the full 65 miles by bike as you only need to carry what you need for the day while your accommodation with comfortable saloon and resident chef follows as you cycle the Glen.

Caledonian Discovery, with two comfortable barges, each carrying a dozen guests, has operated activity holidays up and down the Caledonian Canal, including Loch Ness, for over twenty years. They are now promoting their bicycle itineraries through the "bike and barge” idea which is aimed at those who want to combine comfort with as much exercise as they are in the mood for that day.

Step aboard, unwind into "Highland time", and relax into the gentle world of life afloat. Each day brings new scenery to enjoy and new options to choose from. Today, you could opt for one of those gloriously lazy holiday days just sitting on the deck watching the world go by and you might just manage a wee amble before dinner.

For the more adventurous, there are bikes on board for your exclusive use. You will explore towpaths, forest tracks, and quite scenic roads with no heavy panniers to weigh you down. Of course, you can also choose to stay aboard, relax, and enjoy the cruise.

Itinerary

Day 1: Banavie - Gairlochy

A scenic towpath walk or cycle for 10 miles from Banavie to Gairlochy is an option on the first afternoon. Alternatively, you can cruise with the barge and take in the scenery in a more relaxed manner. Views of Ben Nevis and the Grey corries on your right are to be enjoyed.

Day 2: Fort Augustus

During the day, there are options to cycle parts or complete the whole distance of 23 miles over metalled undulating roads. The first loch, to bicycle beside, is Loch Lochy offering wonderful views of the hills of the Great Glen. The second Loch of the day is Loch Oich, with the route following a disused railway line between Inverness and Fort William. This section of the route has been upgraded for cyclists and is a joy for all users.

Your destination for the day is the iconic Loch Ness, reached by an enjoyable ride along the canal path to Fort Augustus. The barge will be cruising from Gairlochy to Fort Augustus, initially entering Loch Lochy with stunning views down the length of the loch and mountains all around. You will arrive at Laggan Locks then continue along the gorgeous tree-lined section of the canal named Laggan Avenue before entering the small and very picturesque Loch Oich.

The next section of the journey is along the canal. After passing the second bridge, which carries the main road the A82, the barge will travel by Cullochy and Kytra locks before arriving in Fort Augustus where it will berth for the night. Again, guests are welcome to relax and enjoy the cruise.

Day 3: Foyers

The morning will involve the descent of the five locks of Fort Augustus. The barge will then be cruising the full length of the mystical Loch Ness taking in some stunning scenery including waterfalls, castles, and mountains. You will stop off at Foyers before continuing up the loch past Urquhart Castle to Dochgarroch. Guests are welcome to relax, enjoy the cruise, and try a bit of Nessie spotting.

There will also be the option to leave the barge in the morning and cycle on the south side of Loch Ness giving fantastic views from above Loch Ness. Cyclists, if they wish, could split their journey and either cycle the 14-mile journey to Foyers or in the afternoon cycle from Foyers to Dochgarroch, a 13-mile cycle ride.

Day 4: Dochgarroch

A walk or a towpath cycle of seven miles from Dochgarroch to the top locks at Muirtown basin in Inverness makes up the last morning.

The cruise starts from Banavie (Fort William) to the Muirtown lock on the Caledonian canal in Inverness, Scotland, UK.

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Caledonian Discovery understands after a day of exploring the Great Glen's trail and paths, food is hugely important. The resident chef prepares meals for all dietary requirements. Caledonian Discovery has a great reputation for freshly prepared good food and their chefs are happy to cater for all dietary needs.

Breakfast includes porridge, cereal, yogurt, and fresh fruit, followed by toast and a hot cooked option. At lunchtime, you have homemade bread, soup, and fresh salads. Packed lunches are individually prepared for guests who are out and about. Dinner consists of a main course with two options, dessert, and cheeseboard.

A local produce is sourced wherever possible including fresh fish from Mallaig, wild Scottish venison, and Aberdeen Angus beef. Home-baking often welcomes you back on the boat after an afternoon of activities. Meals are informal with guests and crew sitting together around a large table. Stories about adventures are shared and plans are made for the following day.

• 65-mile cycling tour
• Instruction and equipment for your activities
• Inclusive of bike hire and crash helmets
• Service of local guides and maps to enhance each trip
• Freshly cooked meals
• 3 nights' accommodation

• Alcoholic drinks (reasonably priced)
• Transport to return you to the cruise start point (available for 40 GBP per person for up to eight people)

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• A reservation requires a deposit of 25% of the total price.
• The deposit is non-refundable, if the booking is cancelled.
• The rest of the payment should be paid 30 days before arrival.