Can I explore Rousay by bike?
Yes. Rousay’s road circuit is about 13 miles, with hills and potentially strong winds, so allow time for the ride and stops. Bike hire is available on the island. Contact the provider in advance to confirm availability, suitable sizes and where to collect your bikes.
Hiring a bike
We can help with bike-hire details through The Cottage or The Farmhouse listing.
The Rousay, Egilsay and Wyre Development Trust’s bicycle-hire listing has details of local pedal bikes and e-bikes. Trumland Organic Farm cycle hire is a short walk from Rousay Pier. You can reach them at trumland@btopenworld.com or 01856 821252.
The hire provider can help with bike sizes, available equipment and collection and return times.
The road around Rousay
The Rousay Lap follows the road around the island, roughly 13 miles in all. It’s hilly, and wind can make it a harder ride. The route guide describes the circuit in more detail.
There are ancient sites to visit along the way. Some are a steep, uneven walk from the road. Our archaeology guide describes each one and how to get there.
Bikes and ferry arrivals
The hire provider can confirm e-bike availability and return times.
If you’re coming without a car, there’s also the journey from the pier to the bike hire and your cottage. Our Rousay ferry guide explains the crossing and arrival.
A few more questions
Can I hire a bike on Rousay?
Yes. We’re happy to help with details through your cottage’s Airbnb listing. The hire provider can confirm which bikes are available and where and when to collect and return them.
Is cycling around Rousay flat?
No, there are hills around the road circuit, and it can be windy. The route and bike that suit you will depend on how much cycling you do and the weather.
Find out more
From Stay Rousay. Practical information checked 17 September 2026. The links go to the operators and local organisations for the latest details.