SAMPLE - Scottish Hiking Explorations

2 Adults

Summer 2024

Number of Travellers: 2
Duration: 6 Days / 5 Nights

Day by Day

Day 1 - Meet your Guide and Depart for the Highlands

You will meet your guide in Edinburgh and together you will depart the city in your private vehicle to head north. As you drive into the Scottish Highlands, enjoy how the scenery changes from gentle rolling farm land, to the rugged mountainous terrain. Stop at a local cafe for lunch and a piece of cake, before heading out on a hike in Glencoe Valley.

Your Guide will discuss the best hiking option for the day depending on weather, energy levels and interest. Maybe take on a short section of the West Highland Way named ‘the Devil’s Staircase’ and head to the nearby summit of Stob Mhic Mhartuin offering superb views of Glencoe. Or perhaps explore the Lost Valley where the MacDonald clan used to hide their rustled cattle.

Overnight: Near Fort William | Inverlochy Castle Hotel
Meals Included: Lunch

Day 2 - Hiking in the Shadow of Ben Nevis

Today, you will enjoy hiking at the foot of the mighty Ben Nevis, the highest mountain in the UK. Your route gives you fabulous views of the North Face of ‘The Ben’. Keep your eyes peeled for climbers on the rugged cliffs as you make your way out to where a classic mountaineering shelter sits at the base of a classic climb.

Relax with a celebratory drink at the charming Ben Nevis Inn afterwards.

Overnight: Near Fort William | Inverlochy Castle Hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch

Day 3 - Transfer to Braemar and Hike Ben Vrackie

Today you transfer with your guide to Braemar, which is approximately 3 to 3.5hrs total drive time.

On route stop to hike in the Ben Vrackie, a superb small summit in the Southern Highlands with big character and wonderful views. Then carry on to your opulent and unique hotel.

Overnight: Braemar | The Fife Arms
Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch

Day 4 - Morning Hike and Afternoon Whisky Tasting

This morning you will hike along the shores of Loch Muick, which provides good views of the surrounding hills and pleasant stopping places. After your adventure, you’ll enjoy a late lunch at The Ghillie’s Bar, Balmoral Arms.

This afternoon, you are free to explore the area as you wish. Your guide would be more than happy to accompany you on another hike or you can spend the afternoon exploring on your own.

In the evening, you will take part in a privately led whisky tasting in Bertie’s Bar in Fife Arms, where you will learn more about the famous spirit and enjoy a wee dram or two.

Overnight: Braemar | The Fife Arms
Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch

Day 5 - Balmoral Cairns Hike and Free Afternoon

Today you will explore the historical Balmoral Cairns, which were erected by the Royal Family on the Balmoral Estate. This walk comes with great views over Deeside and Balmoral Castle itself. Afterwards, you’ll visit a local cafe for a relaxing lunch.

You will have another free afternoon to explore as you choose, either independently or with your guide.

 

Overnight: Braemar | The Fife Arms
Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch

Day 6 - Transfer to Edinburgh and Depart

After a relaxing breakfast, your guide will transfer you from the Highlands back to Edinburgh. They will drop you either at the airport or your hotel before departing.

 

Meals Included: Breakfast

Trip Details

Inclusions Read More
  • 5 nights accommodation, as stated in the itinerary above
  • Most meals, as stated in the itinerary above
  • The services of a qualified and experienced guide from Day 1 to Day 6
  • All transfers in a private vehicle driven by our guide
  • All guided hikes mentioned in the itinerary
  • Entrance fees and activities mentioned in the itinerary, specifically:
    • Entry to Balmoral Castle
    • Privately Led Whisky Tasting in Berties at Fife Arms
  • Tips for accommodation and included meals
  • 24/7 In-Country Support from the Wilderness Team
Exclusions Read More
  • Flights
  • Travel insurance
  • Meals not mentioned in the inclusions
  • Activities and entrance fees not mentioned in the inclusions
  • Gratuities for the main driver guide