Road Cycling View Trip Dates The Five Countries Tour Book Now

Trip Grade: Blue 6 The Five Countries This unique itinerary provides the amazing opportunity to cycle through the 5 countries of , , Ireland, Northern Ireland and Scotland - all in a single highlight packed adventure.

We start in England’s Yorkshire Dales National Park, heading south into Lancashire before crossing into Wales to ride through Snowdonia National Park and the historic Welsh coast. A short hop by boat leads to the Isle of Anglesey and from there across the Irish Sea to Ireland and Dublin for a rest day in one of Europe's great capitals. We head west through Ireland, exploring the roads of Co. Donegal before crossing the border back of Northern Ireland. Here we follow the spectacular Antrim Coast (some say the best stretch of coastline in Ireland) via the remarkable Giant’s Causeway. From Northern Ireland it’s a boat journey to our final country - Scotland to ride through Dumfries & Galloway on rolling roads. Farms, green hills and gentle coastlines provide the backdrop to our journey’s end. Our final day passes through Keir Mill where the pedal bicycle was invented in 1839 before rolling into the 17th century Drumlanrig Castle - a majestic finale to our memorable tour of 5 countries Britain and Ireland.

Highlights • Ride through the fantastic 5 countries of Great Britain & Ireland • Experience the culture of 5 different nations journeying through the best of scenery from wild mountains to scenic coast, castles and charming villages • Explore the roads made famous by the Tour de , Tour of Britain & Tour of Ireland

Book With Confidence • Max of 8 places available per departure. This trip confirms when 2 people book. Please note that if at 45 days from the trip start date there are still only two people booked on your departure, your trip with run with a single guide who will drive the support vehicle (therefore, no guide will be cycling on the road with you). All other aspects of the trip will be the same, and your guide will of course provide all assistance, bike maintenance, local insights and storytelling.

PLEASE NOTE – The itinerary may be subject to change at the discretion of the Wilderness Scotland Guide with regard to weather conditions and other factors. Planned Itinerary

Day 1 | York and the Yorkshire Dales Inverness

Day 2 | Yorkshire and the Day 3 | Yorkshire Dales to Forest of Bowland Day 4 | Across the English/Welsh Border

Day 5 | Snowdonia, Anglesey and Dublin Edinburgh Day 6 | Rest Day or Optional Ride in Dublin New Castle Day 7 | Dublin to County Donegal

Belfast Day 8 | Fanad Head and Lough Swilly Kendal

Day 9 | Inishowen Peninsula and Northern Ireland York Day 10 | The Antrim Coast & Across to Scotland Galway Dublin Day 11 | The Galloway Hills

Day 12 | New Abbey to Drumlanrig Castle Shannon Day 13 | Transfer to Edinburgh Aberystwyth Cork

Cardiff Arrival Info Departure Info Your guide will meet you at the York Train You will be returned to Edinburgh Station under the gold clock (on the ATM Waverley Railway Station for 12:00pm side) at 11.00am on Day 1 of your trip on the final day of your trip

PLEASE NOTE – The itinerary may be subject to change at the discretion of the Wilderness Scotland Guide with regard to weather conditions and other factors. Day 1 | York and the Yorkshire Dales

You will meet your guides for the trip at York Train Station at 11:00am and transfer to our start point at on the edge of the Yorkshire Dales. Over a pub lunch, your guides will brief you for the day ahead. Our opening ride follows a lovely route around the Nidderdale Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty to the village of Leyburn. We then ride through Wensleydale before crossing into the Yorkshire Dales National Park. Our destination for the evening is near the village of Reeth where we stay in a local inn and enjoy a welcome dinner. (L, D)

Ride details: Distance: 38km/ 24mi | 585m/ 1920 ft elevation gain

Day 2 | Yorkshire and the Tour de France

In 2014, Yorkshire was the proud host of the Grand Depart for the Tour de France. Today’s route follows much of Stage 1 of the 2014 tour and provides the opportunity to test yourself on the amusing Anglo-French climbs of the Côte de Buttertubs (532m) and Côte de Cray (416m). We’ll ride through some of England’s most iconic and picturesque scenery, typical of the Yorkshire Dales. Today is one of the most challenging of the trip but the rewards are ample. By the time we reach the village of Malham, you will have ridden one of best day rides in the UK. (B, L, D)

Ride details: 82km/ 51mi | 1319m/ 4326 ft elevation gain

Day 3 | Yorkshire Dales to Forest of Bowland

A relaxing start today after yesterday’s big ride. Leaving the Yorkshire Dales National Park behind we cross into Lancashire and the Forest of Bowland. This happens to be the geographic centre of Great Britain, which seems a fitting place to ride through on our 5 countries tour. We ride through to the village of Waddington where we take a late lunch. Then we transfer south to Oswestry near the English/Welsh border. (B, L, D)

Ride details: 45km/ 28mi | 425m/ 1394 ft elevation gain Day 4 | Across the English/ Welsh Border

From Oswestry our bike tour heads west into Wales. Central and north Wales are fairly mountainous which makes for great and, at times, challenging cycling. Immediately you will notice a different culture to England. Welsh is often the first language and the national identity is strong. Passing through the rolling valleys of the east, the Milltir Cerrig mountain pass presents a barrier to entering Snowdonia National Park. However, the climb of 300m/900ft is at a steady gradient and the increasingly impressive views provide motivation. The descent over 8km/5mi is a blast and leads us to lunch at the beautiful Bala Lake. The second half of the day journeys through increasingly wild Welsh scenery on roads ideal for bike riding. Climbing higher into Snowdonia National Park our destination for the evening awaits at the end of another amazing descent into Ffestiniog. (B, L, D)

Ride details: 81km/ 50mi | 1202m/ 3942 ft elevation gain

Day 5 | Snowdonia, Anglesey and Dublin

Our second day in Wales begins in the mountains of Snowdonia. In the morning we will pass through many mountain villages steeped in Welsh mythology and legend. Continuing west and our ride destination is in Caernarfon - home to one of the most impressive castles you will find anywhere and a World Heritage Site which overlooks the Menai Straits. After a late lunch and time to explore the town, we will cross by boat to reach the Isle of Anglesey. From here it’s a short distance to Holyhead where our journey across the Irish Sea begins. It’s just over 2 hours by fast boat to Dublin where we’ll be ashore in time for dinner in the city. (B, L, D)

Ride details: 54km/ 34mi | 707m/ 2318 ft elevation gain Day 6 | Rest day or Optional Ride in Dublin

After 5 days of riding, we are are halfway through our 5 countries tour. The cosmopolitan capital of Dublin provides a great choice for a break from riding. Wander the historic streets, sample the city’s cafes and bars or perhaps check in for a massage to recharge for the second half of the tour. Dublin is a fantastic city to hang out and explore. If your legs are feeling strong, there’s the option of a ride out of the city, along the coast and into the Wicklow mountains where the best views of the city can be taken. Tonight we enjoy a relaxed dinner in Dublin and perhaps a few pints of Guinness at the world famous Temple Bar. (B)

Ride details: 58km/ 36mi | 755m/ 2476 ft elevation gain

Day 7 | Dublin to Country Donegal

In the morning we travel by road out west to the wild open spaces of North Donegal. Geographically and politically cut-off from much off the Republic because of the border with Northern Ireland, Donegal has retained it’s own cultural identity and unique accent. We’ll arrive in time for lunch near Glenveagh National Park before riding north to the coast. The route takes us along an elevated road overlooking Lough Swilly. From here it’s a short distance to our accommodation either in Rathmullan or Inishowen. (B, L, D)

Ride details: 48km/ 29mi | 574m/ 1882 ft elevation gain

Day 8 | Fanad Head and Lough Swilly

Continuing north, we’ll bike along an elevated road that overlooks the azure shores of Lough Swilly, a huge glacial fjord between two peninsulas. Our route today takes us to the Fanad Head Lighthouse, situated on the wild coast of the Fanad Peninsula in North Donegal. From here we ride south towards one of the most picturesque climbs of the trip. Passing through a landscape dotted with castles, we will explore the rocky coastal terrain in this little-travelled region of Donegal at the edge of the world. (B, L, D)

Ride details: 87km/ 54mi | 1152m/ 3780 ft elevation gain Day 9 | Inshowen Peninsula and Northern Ireland

Riding across the Inishowen Peninsula we follow an epic route featuring sporting climbs and exciting descents. Upon reaching the east coast a private charter boat will take us across the border into Nothern Ireland where we continue our coastal route from Portrush to Portballintrae via the iconic Dunluce Castle. In the evening there is the option of riding the cycle-way from the hotel down to the Giant’s Causeway, where this fascinating geological formation and World Heritage Site can be seen free from the day-time crowds. (B, L, D)

Ride details: 74km/ 46mi | 1402m/ 4598 ft elevation gain

Day 10 | The Antrim Coast & Across to Scotland

Today’s ride takes to our final country, starting in Northern Ireland and ending in Scotland. The first part of the route follows the Antrim Coast which many consider to be the finest stretch of coastline in Northern Ireland. Some also consider it to be the “toughest cycling road in Ireland”! The riding is as dramatic as it is challenging following the Torr Scenic route through wild landscapes and deserted villages. Then it’s a short transfer by road to the ferry port of Larne. The crossing from Larne to Scotland takes 2 hours and shortly after arrival the second half of our ride begins. We should make quick progress on the flat roads. Our route through the rural farmland of Dumfries takes us to our overnight stop in Wigtown. (B, L, D)

Ride details: 74km/ 46mi | 978m/ 3207 ft elevation gain Day 11 | The Galloway Hills

Dumfries and Galloway is a cycling revelation with quiet roads through beautiful scenery. Our route takes in some of the region’s best roads as we head through Galloway Forest Park in the shadow of the hills known as the “Range of the Awful Hand”. With no major climbs we should make quick progress, reaching Castle Douglas for lunch. From here we head south following the shores of Loch Ken and then through rolling farmland. A late afternoon stop for coffee and cake at one of the best Farm Shops in Scotland provides the boost we need for the final 15km to our historic hotel in Mabie Forest near New Abbey. (B, L, D)

Ride details: 98km/ 61mi | 928m/ 3043 ft elevation gain

Day 12 | New Abbey to Drumlanrig Castle

Our final day of riding takes us from New Abbey to a magnificent finish at the 17th century Drumlanrig Castle. The Speddoch climb provides the last major climb of the trip, winding through woodland on the lower slopes to wild moorland. The descent from the pass is superb with great views across the glens and hills to the north. A short distance on we pass Keir Mill where the pedal bicycle was invented back in 1839. From here, it’s a short distance to the Drumlanrig Estate where quiet roads wind through scenic parkland. Our final km is one of the best you’ll find anywhere - a perfect boulevard leading right to the castle entrance. No doubt you’ll be feeling the effects of the past 11 days riding but well have smiles all round! We’ll enjoy some celebratory drinks and cake at the castle before returning to New Abbey for our final night dinner together. (B, L, D)

Ride details: 57km/ 35mi | 663m/ 2175 ft elevation gain Day 13 | Transfer to Edinburgh

After a relaxing breakfast, we’ll depart New Abbey around 09:30am for the two hour drive to Edinburgh. We will plan our arrival into Edinburgh no later than 12:00 noon with the option to be dropped at Lockerbie for the West Coast railway line en route (for trains south inc London). On your journey home, you’ll have time to reflect on what will surely be one of the most memorable biking trips you’ve ever done. (B) Trip Grading | Blue 6 |

Blue graded trips are suitable for people with a good level of bike fitness, who regularly enjoy cycling and may have joined a multi-day cycle holiday before. Distances each day will be between 35 - 45 miles, cycling at around 12/13mph. Each day will be rolling and hilly terrain and there will be notable climbs most days. Some of these will be more testing and some riders may opt to push or ride in the support vehicle. Some climbs are also followed by exciting descents. We will be in the saddle for 5 - 7 hours each day plus the odd longer day. There is also time each day for breaks and lunches, plus some visits to sites of interest.

The weather in Scotland can be unpredictable and at times can make activities more challenging. Please do bear this in mind when thinking about what trip to join.

If our guides feel that you are not able to complete a scheduled ride they may ask you not to join in that day. If you have any questions about the grading, then please do give our Adventure Consultants a call to chat through your experience and suitability for this trip.

It is your responsibility to ensure you are appropriately fit and capable of doing the described hikes in the expected times. Please refer to the grading section on our website for more details. If you are unsure we encourage you to speak to us first. Accommodation and Meals

This trip features some of the best hotel and guest house accommodation and food in the British Isles. We use a variety of accommodations such as country inns, guesthouses and small hotels, all hand-picked by us. Accommodation is in a choice of double or twin rooms with ensuite facilities.

Lunch each day will be either a wilderness picnic or taken at a local cafe/restaurant. Drinks and snacks are provided throughout the day as you require. Evening meals are included on the first and final evenings, and on this itinerary and we have the flexibility to take evening meals in local restaurants or pubs. Based upon our knowledge and experience, we will visit the best places to eat along the route.

On this trip we generally eat dinner as a group however if you would like to make alternative arrangements you are free to do so. Your guide will have an evening off during this trip where they do not eat with the group. They will recommend options for dinner that evening and will help you make any necessary reservations.

Single Rooms

For solo travellers: Accommodation is based on sharing a twin room with another solo traveller of the same gender. A limited number of rooms for single occupancy are available on a first come first served basis, subject to a single supplement. Please enquire for availability.

Single supplements vary across our itineraries so please refer to the ‘What’s Included - Accommodation’ tab on the trip page on our website for this trip or contact our sales team. Inclusions

This trip includes the following:

• 12 days professional guiding with lead guide plus assistant guide/support driver

• 11 nights accommodation in 3* and 4* hotels/inns/guest houses on a B&B basis • Most meals as stated in the itinerary (Meals included indicated as B=Breakfast, L=Lunch, D=Dinner) • Vehicle transport throughout including ride support and luggage transfers • Ferry and private boat transport as required • Entrance and admission fees as stated in the itinerary • Ride snacks, home‐baking and drinks and some Wilderness extras Our holidays reviewed in your words…

For anyone who enjoys cycling, go on this trip. Wilderness Scotland is an excellent company who delivers fabulous “ tours. I can't recommend them highly enough. Fiona Leatt-Hayter ”

All Trip Reviews Here Your Guide

During this trip you will be accompanied and led by one of our professional guides. Our guides are among the most highly experienced and qualified in the country. Defined by their passion for Scotland’s wild places, they have an intimate knowledge of the natural and social history of this land which they will be delighted to share with you. For more info and to meet the team please see our Guide Pages.

Sustainable Travel

Wilderness Scotland is committed to the principles of ecotourism. We work very hard to ensure our engagements with local communities, wild lands and wildlife are positive.

We are a proud partner of the Leave No Trace Centre for Outdoor Ethics, which enhances our commitment to responsible activity in Scotland’s wild lands, as enshrined in the Scottish Outdoor Access Code (SOAC).

We are also proud to be a John Muir Trust Peak Partner. Thanks in part to the generosity of our clients though our Conservation Contribution scheme the John Muir Trust can rely on our investment to go towards conservation projects that have a deep connection to Wilderness Scotland and the areas we adventure in.

You can learn more about the work we’re doing with the John Muir Trust and the other ways we care for the wild places we love here. Equipment List

Check out our guide on what to wear when adventuring in Scotland. wildernessscotland.com/blog/hiking-in-scotland-what-to-wear

Eat | Stay | See

Looking for accommodation for before or after your adventure with us? Check out our list of where to stay and what to do

Eat – Stay – See – York.pdf

Eat – Stay – See – Edinburgh.pdf

General Info – Scotland

From food and drink to the Loch Ness Monster, our General Info for Scotland guide has got you covered for all your need to to know facts.

General-Info-Scotland.pdf Travel Insurance

It is your responsibility to take out appropriate travel insurance to cover you during your trip. This should include cover for cancellation prior to the trip, the activities undertaken (i.e hiking), curtailment, and adequate medical insurance for sickness/ injury and medical repatriation. We also strongly recommend you have cover for your other travel arrangements such as flights, and your personal possessions.

We suggest you do your own research to find the best insurance cover for you however the follow companies offer suitable policies.

Campbell Irvine Direct – campbellirvinedirect.com

Journeyman Insurance Services – journeyman-services.com/travelInsurance

If you cancel your holiday charges will apply. Please see section 2 of our terms and conditions for a breakdown: wildernessscotland.com/make-a-booking/booking-conditions

Travel With Confidence

You can book with us in complete confidence that all trip payments made to us are fully protected.

Wilderness Scotland Ltd is a licensed and bonded tour operator. Your financial security is guaranteed through our membership and bonding with ABTA. FAQs

Looking for more information? Check out our frequently asked questions page. wildernessscotland.com/faq

Questions To Ask? Ready to Book?

If you want to get in touch please send us an email or give us a call. We accept bookings online, by email, or over the phone. A deposit of 25% is required at the time of booking to secure the trip with the balance payable 8 weeks (56 days) before departure. If booking less than 56 days before the trip start date, full payment of the trip price is required immediately.

We accept payment by credit or debit card, or bank transfer.

email: [email protected] View Trip Dates Tel (UK and Europe): +44(0)1479 420 020 Book Now Tel (US and Canada): 866-740-3890