A Highland Adventure

George, Regina, Sebastian, Georgia & Leticia

Monday 19th August – Thursday 29th August 2024

Number of Travellers: 5
Duration: 11 Days / 10 Nights

Overview

On a bespoke, thoughtfully crafted trip, enjoy a wonderful summer adventure in Scotland. From the glittering waters and misty mountains of the Isle of Skye to the wild rugged landscape of the north, enjoy exploring beautiful and diverse landscapes. Hike along stunning trails that ribbon their way through brilliant purple heather, take a boat trip out to a remote loch and spend time sea kayaking in the turquoise waters of the West Coast. Along the way, look out for the secretive Scottish wildlife, spotting roe deer, red squirrels and golden eagles. As the golden evening light spills across the misty moors, settle into hand-picked accommodation carefully chosen for their delicious food and traditional charm. On a trip designed just for you, enjoy discovering the bewitching beauty of Scotland.

Itinerary at a Glance

Day 1 | Monday 19th August | Welcome to Edinburgh | Overnight: Edinburgh

Day 2 | Tuesday 20th August | Exploring Edinburgh | Overnight: Edinburgh

Day 3 | Wednesday 21st August | Travel to Glencoe | Overnight: Glencoe

Day 4 | Thursday 22nd August | Hiking in Glencoe - Guided | Overnight: Glencoe

Day 5 | Friday 23rd August | Sea Kayaking and Arrive on Skye | Overnight: Nr Edinbane

Day 6 | Saturday 24th August | Exploring the Misty Isle - Guided | Overnight: Nr Edinbane

Day 7 | Sunday 25th August | Wild Loch Coruisk & The Black Cuillin Mountains - Guided | Overnight: Nr Edinbane

Day 8 | Monday 26th August | Travel to the Achiltibuie | Overnight: Ross-shire

Day 9 | Tuesday 27th August | Exploring Assynt | Overnight: Ross-shire

Day 10 | Wednesday 28th August | Travel to Edinburgh | Overnight: Islington

Day 11 | Thursday 29th August | Depart

Highlights

  • Take a boat trip out to the wild Loch Coruisk, one of the more remote lochs in Scotland.
  • Paddle in the clear, turquoise waters of the West Coast, spotting dolphins, seals and golden eagles.
  • Discover the wild beauty and loch strewn landscape of Assynt.

Day by Day

Day 1 - Monday 19th August - Welcome to Edinburgh

Arrive in the architecturally stunning city of Edinburgh today and settle into your lovely accommodation. Depending on your arrival time, you may wish to head out and explore the winding alleys and cobblestone streets. Full of history, the capital is very accessible by foot. Wander up the Royal Mile, visiting St Giles’ Cathedral (which has been a working church for over 900 years) and Edinburgh Castle, which offers sweeping views over the city. This evening, enjoy dinner and a good night’s sleep.

Overnight: Edinburgh | Bruntsfield Hotel

Day 2 - Tuesday 20th August - Exploring Edinburgh

After breakfast, head out for a day spent exploring the beautiful cobblestone streets of the city. Full of history, the capital is very accessible by foot. Wander up the Royal Mile, stopping to visit the architecturally stunning St Giles Cathedral, and enjoy panoramic views from Edinburgh Castle. Pick up a coffee and a pastry from one of the wee artisan shops, dipping into local galleries, cheesemongers and bookshops. If you fancy an afternoon with a twist, head to the Surgeons’ Hall Museums, which holds one of the largest collections of surgical pathology in the world. This evening enjoy dinner under the twinkling lights of the city.

Overnight: Edinburgh | Bruntsfield Hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast

Day 3 - Wednesday 21st August - Travel to Glencoe

Collect your hire car this morning and set off towards the West Coast. On the way, pause for a leg stretch in Loch Lomond and the Trossachs National Park, perhaps hiking up the iconic hill that Sir Walter Scott claimed offered the finest views in all of Scotland. Continue through the beautiful scenery, arriving in the arresting, brooding beauty of the iconic Glencoe Glen. Settle into your lovely accommodation and enjoy a glass or two looking out over the brooding Rannoch Moor.

Overnight: Glencoe | Kingshouse Hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast

Day 4 - Thursday 22nd August - Hiking in Glencoe - Guided

Enjoy breakfast before meeting your Wilderness guide, Kristina, and heading out to explore Glencoe. The spectacular Glencoe, carved out centuries ago by glaciers and volcanic eruptions, offers some wild and scenic hiking. One great option is to hike along a narrow rowan-hung gorge until you reach the Lost Valley. This enclosed meadow – high, green, and hidden by precipitous tors, is said to be where the Macdonald clan used to conceal their rustled cattle. After your hike, surrounded by jagged peaks that shift in and out of mountain mist, visit the Glencoe Center to learn about the landscape’s haunting history.

Overnight: Glencoe | Kingshouse Hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast

Day 4 - Guide Details - Kristina Wetter Read More +

Name: Kristina Wetter
Contact Number: +44 (0) 7742312830
Meeting Place: Kingshouse Hotel | Meeting Time: 09:30

Kristina will meet you in the reception area of the Kingshouse Hotel. Here, chat about some options for the day before heading out in a convoy to explore Glencoe.

Day 5 - Friday 23rd August - Sea Kayaking and Arrive on Skye

Today, leave Glencoe behind you and head for the stunning Isle of Skye. Along the way, stop to enjoy some sea-kayaking in the turquoise waters of Arisaig. Led by an expert guide, paddle out from a sheltered bay to explore hundreds of tiny islands, spotting seals, otters, and a myriad of coastal birds. Later this afternoon, catch the small white ferry across to the ‘Misty Isle’ and continue to your lovely accommodation, perched on a headland overlooking the rugged coastline of Scotland’s most famed island.

Overnight: Nr Edinbane | Redwood House
Meals Included: Breakfast

Day 5 - Sea Kayaking in Arisaig Read More +

Activity: Sea Kayaking in Arisaig
Rockhopper Sea Kayaking: Rockhopper Sea Kayaking
Start Location: Arisaig Hotel, Main Road, Arisaig, PH39 4NH | Start Time: 09:30
Phone: +44(0)7739 837 344 | Website: https://www.rockhopperscotland.co.uk

Your Rockhopper guide will meet you in the car park of the Arisaig Hotel this morning. Here, you’ll get suited and booted and head out for a tranquil day on the water. Please bring suitable footwear that you don’t mind getting wet on the day. Neoprene shoes, sandals, an old pair of trainers or wellington boots are all great options for something

Day 5 - Ferry Details Read More +

Operator: Caledonian MacBrayne
Booking Reference: S2401024522
Contact Number: +44 (0) 1475 650 110

Departure Port: Mallaig | Departure Time: 17:40
Arrival Port: Armadale | Arrival Time: 18:10

Please refer to the ‘important additional information’ section of this document for your ferry ticket collection letter. Check-in for the ferry closes 30 minutes before departure so please ensure you arrive in Mallaig with plenty of time.

Day 6 - Saturday 24th August - Exploring the Misty Isle - Guided

This morning, meet you expert Wilderness guide, Martin, and head out to explore the dramatic landscape of the Quiraing on the northern peninsula of Skye. As you walk, admire the stark rock formations that rise from the rugged ground like the great ruined battlements. Chat with Martin about the geology and history of the area, enjoying the incredible sweeping views of the islands, mountains and sun-clipped shores that stretch in every direction. This afternoon, visit Dunvegan Castle, a Hebridean fortress which has been home to the same family for over 800 years. Learn about the family ancestry and stroll around the formal gardens, perhaps pausing for a home bake and cup of tea, before returning to your hotel to relax.

Overnight: Nr Edinbane | Redwood House
Meals Included: Breakfast

Day 6 - Guide Details - Martin Tull Read More +

Name: Martin Tull
Contact Number: +44 (0)7807 576 955
Meeting Place: Redwood House, Greshornish Nr Edinbane, Isle of Skye, IV51 9NP | Meeting Time: 09:30

Martin will meet you at Redwood House this morning where you’ll chat through some options for the day before heading out to explore the mystical Isle of Skye.

Day 7 - Sunday 25th August - Wild Loch Coruisk & The Black Cuillin Mountains - Guided

After breakfast, head south with Martin arriving in Elgol – a tiny hamlet scattered along the western cliffs of the Strathaird peninsula. From a small jetty, board the charming Bella Jane and sail over Loch Scavaig into the very heart of the Black Cuillin. As the lovely first mate provides some fascinating history about the surrounding islands, look for sleepy seals lounging on the warm rocks. Upon reaching the shore, leave the boat to explore Loch Coruisk, also known as the Cauldron of the Waters, a deep dark loch that stretches like a shadow below the impressive volcanic peaks. Choose to walk around the loch or climb the rugged mountain of Sgurr na Stri – which is considered by many to offer one of the wildest and most spectacular views in Scotland.

Overnight: Nr Edinbane | Redwood House
Meals Included: Breakfast

Day 7 - Guide Details - Martin Tull Read More +

Name: Martin Tull
Contact Number: +44 (0)7807 576 955
Meeting Place: Redwood House, Greshornish Nr Edinbane, Isle of Skye, IV51 9NP | Meeting Time: 08:45

Day 8 - Monday 26th August - Travel to the Achiltibuie

Leaving the Isle of Skye this morning, cross the Skye Bridge and begin driving north through the Highlands. Along the way, you’ll pass Kyle of Lochalsh and Ullapool, perhaps stopping for a mid morning pick me up. A detour to Corrieshalloch Gorge offers a view of the Falls of Measach and is worth a visit. The final stretch to Achiltibuie, with views of Stac Pollaidh is beautiful. Settle into your hotel this afternoon, and enjoy some hearty food with views stretching out over the Summer Isles.

Overnight: Ross-shire | Summer Isles Hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast

Day 9 - Tuesday 27th August - Exploring Assynt

Today is a free day for you to explore at your own pace. Discover the breathtaking beauty of Assynt and the Summer Isles and perhaps begin with an early hike up Stac Pollaidh for panoramic views of the rugged landscape. You may wish to head north to Lochinver for a famous pie from the Lochinver Larder and enjoy a scenic walk to the Old Man of Stoer, a dramatic sea stack. End your day with a tranquil walk along the beaches of Achiltibuie, soaking in the serene sunset.

Overnight: Ross-shire | Summer Isles Hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast

Day 10 - Wednesday 28th August - Travel to Edinburgh

Leaving the Highlands behind you, enjoy a relaxed breakfast before jumping in the car and heading south from Achiltibuie to Edinburgh. As you drive, you’ll notice the landscape soften and transition into a vibrant cityscape. Depending on your time of arrival, drop off your hire car and check into your final accommodation, just a stone’s throw away from Edinburgh Airport. You may wish to hop on the tram to enjoy dinner in the city or relax in your hotel.

Overnight: Islington | Hampton by Hilton (Edinburgh Airport)
Meals Included: Breakfast

Day 11 - Thursday 29th August - Depart

Enjoy a relaxed breakfast at your hotel this morning before heading to the airport and beginning your onward journey home.

Meals Included: Breakfast

Trip Details

Inclusions Read More
  • All accommodation from Day 1 to Day 11
  • Breakfast each day
  • Services of an experienced and knowledgeable qualified guide on Days 4, 5, 6, & 7
  • All guided hikes and activities mentioned in the itinerary
  • Sea Kayaking in Arisaig
  • Personalised trip design and delivery
  • Snacks throughout the trip
  • 24 hour in-country support from the Wilderness Team
Exclusions Read More
  • Flights
  • Car hire
  • Airport transfers
  • Travel insurance
  • Meals not mentioned in the inclusions
  • Activities and entrance fees not mentioned in the inclusions
Important Contact Numbers Read More
Wilderness Scotland Office | 9:00am – 5:30pm

UK: +44 (0)1479 420 020
US: 866 740 3890

Out of Office Hours | 5:30pm – 9:00am

+44 (0)7766 794 640

Emergency Services

999

Important Additional Information Read More
Terms & Conditions Read More

Please see our booking terms here.

Get in Touch

Tel: 866 740 3890

Email Chris

Accommodation

Bruntsfield Hotel

69 Bruntsfield Place | Edinburgh | Mid-Lothian |
EH10 4HH | Scotland
Phone: +44 (0) 131 229 1393
Web: thebruntsfield.co.uk

Kingshouse Hotel

Glencoe | Ballachulish |
PH49 4HY | Scotland
Phone: +44 (0) 1855 851 260
Web: kingshousehotel.co.uk

Redwood House

Greshornish | Nr Edinbane | Isle of Skye |
IV51 9NP | Scotland
Phone: +44 (0) 1470 582 203
Web: skye-hotel-accommodation.com

Summer Isles Hotel

Achiltibuie | Ross-shire |
IV26 2YG | Scotland
Phone: +44 (0) 1854 622 282
Web: summerisleshotel.com

Hampton by Hilton (Edinburgh Airport)

5 Almond Avenue | Islington | Edinburgh |
EH12 9GN | Phone: +44 (0) 01313 709 999
Web: hilton.com/en/hotels/edihxhx-hampton-edinburgh-airport

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edinburgh old and new town unesco

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Edinburgh Skyline

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Edinburgh city skyline

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Edinburgh Castle

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Glencoe

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Glencoe and deer

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Isle Of Skye Coruisk

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Skye self-drive

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Quiraing

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colin prior photography locations

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colin prior photography locations

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Assynt photography

Meet Your Guides

Kristina Wetter

Contact Number: +44 (0) 7742312830

I grew up in Germany, and for the last 20 years, l have lived in Switzerland, Australia, Germany, and the UK for the last 13 years. I started my professional career as a social support worker, working in a residential setting with adults with learning disabilities, but then started the process of becoming an Outdoor Facilitator in 2001.

I have worked full-time as an Outdoor Instructor and Expedition Leader since 2006 – first for two years in Australia, then briefly back in Germany/Austria, and, since 2011, here in the UK, where I started in North Wales for the first three years.

After living in the Lake District in England for almost ten years, I recently moved to the Cairngorm National Park in Scotland, where I have spent a few winters over the years.

Full Web Bio

Martin Tull

Contact Number: +44 (0)7807 576 955

Originally from Salisbury, Wiltshire I settled in the north of Scotland after completing a long and varied career in the Royal Air Force, the latter half spent in Scotland. As Aircrew, I was very fortunate to have been able to travel and explore a great deal across the globe particularly early on in my career. Now I prefer to do it by foot.

A keen Rugby player in my younger years I was a comparatively late starter to the outdoors. That moment came when I spent a weekend scrambling in Snowdonia in my late 20s. I was immediately hooked and since then I haven’t looked back. When I was later posted to Scotland I started to climb, walk and mountaineer in earnest, often organising and leading trips here and later overseas. I have also led many multi-week development expeditions for young people around the world and completed the Munros (Scottish mountains over 3000ft) in 2004. I hold a great passion for the Highlands and Islands of Scotland and love sharing it with people.

Full Web Bio

Virtuoso

A Highland Adventure

Monday 19th August – Thursday 29th August 2024