Day 4 Arran to Orkney: Claonaig to Oban

This was a longish day with plenty of opportunity for sightseeing so catching the first ferry from Lochranza to Claonaig (8:15 am) was essential. SIngle track road from Claonaig joins the rather busier A83 at Kennacraig through to Ardrishaig. Traffic was not too bad, however and good road provided opportunity to bowl along fast. At Ardrishaig turned off the road onto cycle route 78 which follows the canal; good surface but not tarmac. Just before Crinan cycle route 78 turns onto B8025 to Kilmartin. After visiting several of the prehistoric sites and lunch at the museum we followed the A816 to Oban rather than the longer and hillier cycle route 78. Traffic was generally lightish.

Highlights: beautiful cottages and gardens aloing Crinan canal, Kilmartin prehistoric sites, spectacular views of sea lochs and mountains along the A816.

Accommodation: Jeremy Inglis hostel Oban (the SYHA was full) caution the advertised bike parking was on a roof!