Trikes in Scotland

During a cruise stop on Aug. 20, 2009, my husband, Bob, and I toured Edinburgh as passengers on a three-wheeled motorcycle with Trike Tours Scotland (phone 0800 056 7779 or mobile 07786 267826, www.triketours.com).

Our guide, Gordon, was extremely knowledgeable and had a great sense of humor. He picked us up at the dock with our gear: helmets and leather jackets; rain gear was offered, but we declined.

The trike’s driver seat was in front, with the two passenger seats behind, about four inches higher, so we could see everything Gordon talked about and hear him through microphones connected to our helmets; he could also hear our questions.

We ride motorcycles in the US and felt very comfortable on the trike, which I’d compare to a heavy, powerful touring bike, secure even on the slippery cobblestoned streets.

Our 2½-hour private tour cost £120 (near $190) per person, which I paid by credit card nine months ahead. We traveled about 60 miles, with a break at a scenic spot for tea, shortbread and a nip of Guinness. Despite on-and-off rain, we enjoyed every minute!

Trike Tours Scotland conducts these tours year-round in many parts of Scotland, starting at £55 ($87) per person. We’ve been on many excursions and this was one of the best!

KATHY WHEALE

Greenville, SC