Marten Carlson Hiking & Highlights of Scotland

Day 1 - Saturday 14^th September - Welcome To Scotland!

On arrival at Edinburgh Airport you will be met by a private driver who will transfer you to your city centre hotel. Depending on your arrival time you can choose to relax at the hotel or head out to start exploring this unique city.

Overnight: Edinburgh | Kimpton Charlotte Square
Room Type: King Premium
Meals Included: None

Day 2 - Sunday 15^th September - Meet Guide & Head North to Hike In The Trossachs National Park

Your private trip guide (who will also act as your driver for your time together) will meet you at your hotel this morning and together you head towards the beautiful Loch Lomond & Trossachs National Park. There are lots of options to choose from to start your hiking explorations, and your guide will discuss the best options to suit your day. Discover the grave of an ancient Scottish hero and maybe head up a small summit to make the most of the superb views on offer. ‘The Hill of the Boar’ was an ancient clan rallying point for the MacLarens and isn’t far from your overnight destination.

Overnight: Highland Perthshire | Monachyle Mhor
Room Type: Feature Room
Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch

Day 3 - Monday 16^th September - Hiking & Exploring - Finishing With Whisky Distillery

Set out to explore some highlights of the local area today. Your guide has several great local hiking options today depending on what you feel like, and you could choose to head up into the hills, discover tumbling waterfalls or circumnavigate a beautiful loch. Or take the short scenic hike which brings you to a spectacular turreted castle, dating from the 16th Century, where you can explore the nooks and crannies of the seat of the Clan Menzies. Late afternoon enjoy a perfect finish too the day with a tour and special tasting at a classic whisky distillery before your guide takes you back to your quirky accommodation.

Overnight: Highland Perthshire | Monachyle Mhor
Room Type: Feature Room
Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch

Day 4 - Tuesday 17^th September - Transfer North & Hike Glencoe

Today you head north to explore the stunning scenery of Glencoe. These dramatic mountains and ridges have featured as the backdrop in many films and once you are looking up at these summits it is easy to see why! Today you will explore this famous valley with your guide, there are plenty of options to suit every level of energy and challenge. After your hike continue onwards to your welcoming accommodation near the historic Glenfinnan viaduct, whose graceful arches featured in several of the Harry Potter films.

Overnight: Arisaig Area | Glenfinnan House Hotel
Room Type: Superior Room
Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch

Day 5 - Wednesday 18^th September - 'The Ben'

Take on the challenge of the highest mountain in the UK today, starting from almost sea level all the way up to the 1,345m summit. Keep your eyes open for rock climbers on the popular North facing cliffs, and if the weather is kind to you, then ‘The Ben’ will reward your efforts with sweeping views. No matter what, nothing affects the sense of achievement as you stand at the top of Scotland. This evening maybe raise a well-earned toast to your mountain adventures and cherished memories with the traditional ‘Slainte Mhath’, or ‘good health’.

Hike details: Approx. 9 hours, 17km/ 10.5 miles, 1352m/ 4436 ft of ascent

Please note that Ben Nevis can only be attempted if the weather and client experience/fitness allow. Suitable hiking attire and equipment is essential. The guide’s decision is final, and suitable alternatives will be suggested if Ben Nevis is not a suitable option for the day.

Overnight: Arisaig Area | Glenfinnan House Hotel
Room Type: Superior Room
Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch

Day 6 - Thursday 19^th September - Sea Kayaking In Arisaig

Head further west along the beautiful ‘Road To The Isles’ to Arisaig this morning, where you will take to the waters for an afternoon of sea kayaking with a local guide. This location is a worldwide destination for paddlers due to the beautiful crystal clear waters, white sandy beaches and fun tiny rocky islands to explore and picnic on. The curious seals and wide variety of local wildlife are sure to keep you entertained as you enjoy the views out to the small isles. At the end of a wonderful day your guide will take you back to your hotel for some well-earned relaxation.

Overnight: Arisaig Area | Glenfinnan House Hotel
Room Type: Superior Room
Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch

Day 7 - Friday 20^th September - Transfer East to The Cairngorms National Park

Today you head deep into the Cairngorms National Park following the ‘Snow Road’. There are several intriguing art installations along the way, all inviting you to focus on certain views in this wild landscape. There are some great hiking route options to explore with your guide along the way depending on your inclination. 

Overnight: Cairngorms National Park, Braemar | Darroch Learg
Room Type: Superior Room
Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch

Day 8 - Saturday 21^st September - Full Day Hiking in The Cairngorms National Park

Enjoy a full day hiking and exploring the mountains and rivers of beautiful Deeside area with your expert guide, who will tailor the day to your preference. Maybe explore the woodland trails and pyramids of the beautiful Balmoral Estate, the Highland residence of the Royal Family since it was bought for Queen Victoria in 1852. Or choose to hike up into the atmospheric crags and corries of Lochnagar mountain which Lord Byron immortalised in verse, including the line “I sigh for the valley of dark Lochnagar”. No matter what you pick, your guide will make the landscape come alive with stories and local insights.

Overnight: Cairngorms National Park, Braemar | Darroch Learg
Room Type: Superior Room
Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch

Day 9 - Sunday 22^nd September - Hiking or Exploring & Transfer To Edinburgh Airport Hotel

Today you depart the Cairngorms, and you can choose to enjoy one last hike here in the National Park or explore on route. Perhaps explore the historic university town of St Andrews, hike along the scenic Fife Coastal Path, or step back in time with a visit to a historic Royal palace. There are plenty of options and your guide will ensure that you make the most of your last full day before dropping you at the airport hotel to ensure that tomorrow morning is hassle free. 

Overnight: Edinburgh Airport | Hilton Doubletree EDI
Room Type: King Superior Room
Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch

Day 10 - Monday 23^rd September - Depart

Take your hotel shuttle to the airport to make your onward connections. Waving farewell for now but taking with you special memories and wonderful stories of your Scottish explorations.

Meals Included: Breakfast