MTSZ
MTSZ térképportál
Turista Magazin
TuristaShop
Kéktúra
Gerecse50
A kéktúrázás napja
Cycle 141 km from Oban on the scenic Three Ferries Loop, featuring coastal roads, island ferries, and stunning Highland views.
Explore the stunning landscapes of Argyll & The Isles on the Three Ferries Loop, a challenging 141 km (88 miles) cycling route that starts and ends in the vibrant town of Oban. This iconic loop combines quiet coastal roads, breathtaking Highland scenery, and three picturesque ferry crossings that add a unique island-hopping experience.
Beginning in Oban, the route winds through scenic villages like Benderloch and Ballachulish, with views of Loch Linnhe. Cyclists cross the Corran Ferry to reach Ardgour, then cycle on to Strontian and Lochaline. From Lochaline, the journey continues with a ferry ride to the Isle of Mull at Fishnish, before returning to Oban via Craignure.
Ideal for experienced cyclists, the Three Ferries Loop offers a diverse mix of terrains, from smooth tarmac to gravel paths, and a chance to soak in some of Scotland’s most dramatic coastal and island landscapes. This full-day route is perfect for those seeking adventure, combining physical challenge with spectacular natural beauty.
Author’s recommendation
- Start early to catch all ferry crossings and avoid rushing.
- Check ferry schedules in advance to plan your timing carefully.
- Bring enough water, snacks, and basic repair tools—services can be limited.
Derived from the technical difficulty and the stamina requirements.
Track types
Safety information
Road cycling is a wonderful way to explore, but it’s not without risk. Keep safe by following these safety tips.
Keep your bike roadworthy – maintain it well and check it is in good working order before you set out. Carry essential tools and spares.
Always carry drinking water with you. Ride sensibly. Limit your speed and keep your distance.
Start with a short trip, preferably on an official trail, so there are no surprises. Ride within your skill level and take your time. Consider your fitness levels, the terrain, the weather forecast, etc.
Be seen – you might not be on the roads for much of the time, but you still need to be seen to be safe. Check your lights are working, batteries are charged, and wear high-vis clothing.
When cycling, wear a helmet.
For longer journeys, pack a basic first aid and survival kit. Think self-heating hand warmers, foil blankets, high-calorie foodstuffs, tick remover, etc.
Pack for all weathers. This is Scotland. Pack waterproofs and sun cream.
Tell someone where you are going and when you expect to return.
Know how to summon help if you need it.
Carry cash. In remote areas, you may need it for that well-earned coffee or wee dram.
Check for felling. Argyll’s forests are working forests. If you are riding forestry tracks, always check for felling operations and other forestry maintenance works. In the summer months, be alert for fire warnings from Fire Scotland and on local news channels.
Tips and suggestions
- Plan your ride around the ferry timetables to avoid long waits.
- Carry plenty of water and snacks, as some stretches have limited facilities.
Roadbook
- Start at Oban town centre.
- Cycle north on NCN78 towards Benderloch.
- Continue coastal roads to Ballachulish.
- Take the Corran Ferry from Ballachulish to Ardgour.
- Cycle through Ardgour to Strontian, then climb to Lochaline.
- Take the Lochaline to Fishnish ferry to the Isle of Mull.
- Cycle from Fishnish to Craignure on Mull.
- Take the ferry from Craignure back to Oban to finish the loop.
St John's Episcopalian Cathedral
Public transport
Public-transport-friendly
Oban is easily accessible by train from Glasgow via ScotRail, with the journey offering scenic views. By car, it’s about a 2.5-hour drive west from Glasgow via the A82 and A85. Bus services from Glasgow also connect to Oban, with journey times around 3 hours. Once in Oban, the town centre is the starting point for the Three Ferries Loop cycling route.
See https://www.westcoastmotors.co.uk/services for futher information.
Parking
Many spaces can be reserved in advance through services like JustPark.
Coordinates
Equipment
For a short trip on a planned route, you will need a mountain bike, a helmet, high-visibility clothing, a map and compass/GPS, and plenty of water. For a longer trip, it would be useful to have a basic bicycle repair and first aid kit, sun cream, and a waterproof jacket (for the unpredictable Scottish weather!), insect repellent, and plenty to eat and drink. Always carry cash as cards may not be accepted in remote places.
Derived from the technical difficulty and the stamina requirements.
User Questions