Rentamotorcycle

05/06/2025

Highlights from our Isle of Man thrill ride today!

Want in on the action next year? Secure your spot before they're all gone!

03/06/2025

The most exciting blurs here at the TT!

03/06/2025

Our Isle of Man TT Tour 2025 is a go - stay tuned for more of the action!

Sad you missed out? We’ve got a handful of spaces left on our 2026 tour, but be quick - they’re selling fast!

Visit Motojoe.co.uk to find out more 🇮🇲

29/05/2025

D U N N O T T A R C A S T L E

A ruined medieval fortress located upon a rocky headland on the north-eastern coast of Scotland, about 2 miles south of Stonehaven.

The surviving buildings are largely of the 15th and 16th centuries, but the site is believed to have been fortified in the Early Middle Ages.

Well worth a look on your tour of Scotland, get in touch and we'll happily help you plan it in!

06/05/2025

20/04/2025

E I L E A N D O N A N C A S T L E

The name Eilean Donan, or island of Donan, is suggested to be named after the 6th century Irish Saint, Bishop Donan who came to Scotland around 580 AD.

There are several churches dedicated to Donan in the area and it is probably that he formed a small cell or community on the island all the way back in the late 7th century.

The first fortified structure was built on the island in the early 13th century as a defensive measure, protecting the lands of Kintail against the Vikings who raided, settled and controlled much of the North of Scotland and the Western Isles between 800 and 1266.

From the mid 13th century, this area was the quite seperate “Sea Kingdom” of the Lord of the Isles where the sea was the main highway and the power of feuding clan chiefs was counted by the number of men and galleys or “birlinns” at their disposal.

Over the centuries, the castle itself has changed in size. The medieval castle was likely the largest, with towers and a curtain wall that encompassed nearly the entire island.

Around the end of the 14th century the area of the castle was reduced to about a fifth of its original size and, although the reason is unclear, it probably relates to the number of people required to defend the structure.

Eilean Donan also played a role in the Jacobite risings of the 17th and 18th centuries, which ultimately culminated in the castle’s destruction.

In 1719 the castle was garrisoned by 46 Spanish soldiers who were supporting the Jacobites. They had established a magazine of gunpowder, and were awaiting the delivery of weapons and cannon from Spain. The English Government caught wind of the intended uprising and sent three heavily armed frigates The Flamborough, The Worcester, and The Enterprise to quell matters. The bombardment of the castle lasted three days, though met with limited success due to the enormity of the castle walls, which in some places are up to 14 feet thick. Finally, Captain Herdman of The Enterprise sent his men ashore and over-whelmed the Spanish defenders. Following the surrender, the government troops discovered the magazine of 343 barrels of gunpowder which was then used to blow up what had remained from the bombardment…

For the best part of 200 years, the stark ruins of Eilean Donan lay neglected, abandoned and open to the elements, until Lt Colonel John Macrae-Gilstrap bought the island in 1911. Alongside help, he dedicated the next 20 years of his life to the reconstruction of Eilean Donan, restoring it to its former glory.

The castle was rebuilt according to the surviving ground plan of earlier phases and was formally completed in the July of 1932.

A magnificent castle that's well worth a visit!

16/04/2025

This August, join us for an incredible adventure on the Isle of Skye, the Scottish gem guaranteed to steal your heart 💖

From rugged landscapes to fairytale-like castles, Skye is a paradise for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike.

Every inch of Skye is brimming with breath-taking vistas - from the dramatic cliffs of the Trotternish Peninsula, to the mystical Fairy Pools, and the iconic Old Man of Storr are just a few of the highlights of this wonderful island.

The charming villages on Skye are straight out of a storybook and let's not forget about the warm and welcoming locals who make Skye all the more special.

We think the Isle of Skye has it all, why not come along to experience the magic for yourself?

From £295 per person for a two night and three day guided tour.

Visit us at motojoe.co.uk to find out more!

15/04/2025

Get ready to meet the adorable stars of the Scottish Highlands - the iconic Highland Cows! 🐮

With their majestic long horns and shaggy coats, these gentle giants have captured the hearts of visitors from around the world.

Ride through the scenic landscapes of Scotland and be greeted by these charming (and sometimes a bit silly!) creatures grazing in the meadows.

Happy coosday!

15/04/2025

G L E N F I N N A N V I A D U C T

We came for Harry Potter, we stayed for the views 😍

The Glennfinnan Viaduct is an absolute beauty to behold which is why we've compiled a trip to see it this September as well as stopping off at Ardnamurchan Lighthouse, passing through the mighty Glen Coe, checking out Rannoch Moor, Comrie and Gleneagles too - a veritable feast for the eyes!

Prices from £295pp for a two night/three day guided tour.

If you'd like to find out more or book a spot on this year's Strontian Tour, please visit motojoe.co.uk