Mark Beaumont's Hebridean Way Cycling Challenge captured on film

Earlier this year Mark Beaumont, a record-breaking, endurance cyclist, took on the challenge to ride the Hebridean Way Cycling Route (National Cycle Route 780) in 24 hours, to launch this new long distance cycling route.
By The Newsroom
Published 23rd May 2016, 12:22 BST
Updated 23rd May 2016, 13:27 BST

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Starting the cycle in the south of the islands, in Vatersay on Thursday 10th March 2016, 185 miles, ten islands, six causeways and two boat trips later, he made it to Butt of Lewis finishing on Friday 11th March, with only 12 hours in the saddle!

A new film shows him on this epic journey from Vatersay to Ardmhor, across the water on a rib to Eriskay, reaching Paible as the light was beginning to fade on his way to Berneray and making it with enough light to get over the Sound of Harris.

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Starting at dawn on Friday morning in Leverburgh, he then raced on up to Leurbost and then on to the Callanish Stones and the last leg up to the Butt of Lewis.

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He was joined by cyclists, young and old along the way.

Awaiting him at the Butt of Lewis, was a welcome party to congratulate him on his epic journey.

From there he was driven back south to formally launch the Hebridean Way Cycling route that evening at a celebratory event at the Harris Distillery.

A truly stunning film (it can be viewed: here) it beautifully showcases the rugged beauty of our islands – whatever the weather!

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Mark himself commented: “The Hebridean Way is a stunning and constantly changing route, best explored at the speed of a bike.

“And my only advice is take a bit more time than I did, racing the 10 islands and entire route in 24 hours was certainly a tough and memorable challenge!”

The film can also be viewed on the Outer Hebrides facebook page and Outer Hebrides YouTube Channel.

Viewers are invited to link to it on social media using hashtags #hebway and #outerhebrides #scotspirit #calmac

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Ian Fordham, Chairman of Outer Hebrides Tourism who organised the challenge as a means to promote one of the great experiences that visitors can enjoy in the Outer Hebrides added: “This route makes the most of the stunning landscapes, the geology, wildlife, heritage and scenery of the Outer Hebrides and shows how truly awe-inspiring it is throughout these islands.”

The Hebridean Way is dual aspect, with separate walking and national cycle network route 780.

Find out more about the Hebridean Way Cycling Route at: website

Pictured above is Mark Beaumont, who visited the Callanish Stones as part of the launch challenge.