Highland Adventure

Ksenia, Cory, Rhonda, Joe, Victoria and Dave

Monday 10th June – Thursday 20th June 2024

Number of Travellers:  6
Duration: 11 Days / 10 Nights

Overview

Embark on a tailored journey through the heart of the Scottish Highlands, from the ancient pine forests of Cairngorms National Park, to the wild west coast and magical beauty of Skye. Explore historic battlegrounds and enchanting castles, indulge in a distillery tour and tasting, and immerse yourself in the tranquillity of remote Scottish landscapes. When with your knowledgeable Wilderness guide, delve into Scotland’s rich history, heritage, and wildlife as you traverse trails on foot and on bike lined with vibrant heather. Then, experience the serene beauty of turquoise waters, keeping an eye out for marine life, and uncover the otherworldly allure of the Isle of Skye. Relax in hand-picked accommodations exuding luxury and traditional charm. With a journey tailored to your preferences, revel in the captivating allure of Scotland’s natural wonders.

Itinerary at a Glance

Day 1 | Monday 10th June | Welcome to the Highlands | Overnight: Kingussie

Day 2 | Tuesday 11th June | Hiking in the Cairngorms | Overnight: Kingussie

Day 3 | Wednesday 12th June | Cycling in the Cairngorms & Distillery Visit | Overnight: Kingussie

Day 4 | Thursday 13th June | Visiting Banff and Travel to the West Coast | Overnight: Achiltibuie

Day 5 | Friday 14th June | Torridon and Gairloch | Overnight: Achiltibuie

Day 6 | Saturday 15th June | Applecross and the Isle of Skye | Overnight: Greshornish

Day 7 | Sunday 16th June | Exploring the Misty Isle | Overnight: Greshornish

Day 8 | Monday 17th June | Fairy Pools and Talisker Bay | Overnight: Greshornish

Day 9 | Tuesday 18th June | Road to the Isles and on to Glencoe | Overnight: Glencoe

Day 10 | Wednesday 19th June | Hiking in Glencoe | Overnight: Glencoe

Day 11 | Thursday 20th June | Back to Edinburgh

Highlights

  • Travel at your own pace on this self drive adventure.
  • Spend time with an expert guide hiking, cycling and getting to know Scotland through the eyes of a local.
  • Discover the beauty of Highlights as you travel through different landscapes.

Day by Day

Day 1 - Monday 10th June - Welcome to the Highlands

This morning, catch the train to Inverness and pick up your hire car. Your first stop is Culloden Battlefield. Here, you will discover the true story of the Jacobite Rising in this immersive museum; afterwards, take time to walk the battlefield and enjoy lunch in the cafe. Entry to the museum is payable locally. Then, take a further step back in time to the Bronze Age by visiting the burial chambers and standing stones of Clava Cairns. Later, head south to the Cairngorms National Park, where you’ll settle into your welcoming guesthouse and relax.

Overnight: Kingussie | The Seelies
Room Type: 1 x 2 bedroom apartment, 1 x 1 bedroom apartment
Meals Included: None

Day 1 - Dinner Details Read More +

Hotel: Rowan Tree Hotel | Location: Kingussie
Reservation Time: 18:30
Phone: +44 (0) 1479 810207 | Website: https://rowantreehotel.com/

Please pay locally

Day 2 - Tuesday 11th June - Hiking in the Cairngorms

Today, enjoy a guided hike in the beautiful Cairngorms National Park. At over 4500 sq km it is the largest National Park in the UK, home to rare native plant and animals and 5 out of the 6 highest peaks in the UK it is perfect for hikers. With your guide, choose a hike that suits you – perhaps head out onto the alpine plateau of the Cairngorms Mountain range and bag a sought-after Munro. Or choose to explore the Caledonian pine forest, which is the oldest forest in Scotland and the last of the woodland that once covered the whole of the UK. Roam heather-covered glens and alongside jewel-like lochs for the perfect immersion into the ancient landscape. This evening, enjoy a drink in a Highland pub hoping catching a night with traditional folk music., hoping to catch

Overnight: Kingussie | The Seelies
Room Type: 1 x 2 bedroom apartment, 1 x 1 bedroom apartment
Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch

Day 2 - Breakfast Details Read More +

Restaurant: The Sugarbowl | Location: 30 High Street, Kingussie
Reservation Time: 08:00
Phone: +44(0) 1540 661641 | Website: https://thesugarbowl.co.uk/

Breakfast included as part of your accommodation.

Day 2 - Dinner Details Read More +

Restaurant: Old Bridge Inn | Location: Aviemore
Reservation Time: 19:00 | Booking Reference: BXGN2YQY
Phone: +44 (0) 1479 811137 | Website: http://www.oldbridgeinn.co.uk/

Please pay locally

Day 2 - Guide Details - Andy Stotesbury Read More +

Name: Andy Stotesbury
Contact Number: +44 (0) 7980 574506
Meeting Place: Seelies Accommodation | Meeting Time: 09:15

Andy will meet you outside your accommodation and together you will decide the best route for today.

Day 3 - Wednesday 12th June - Cycling in the Cairngorms & Distillery Visit

After a hearty breakfast, join your guide to explore the Cairngorms National Park by bike. Peddle through the Ryvoan pass and on to Loch Garten, looking out for the local birdlife. Enjoy lunch in Nethy cafe before continuing your ride a short way to a local distillery where you can sample a tour and tasting. From grain to glass, learn more about the art of whisky making, chatting about how the distillery’s unique location, sense of community, and surrounding environment all play a part in the creation process. After the tour, hop back on your bikes for a relaxed ride back to Kingussie along the Speyside Way.

Overnight: Kingussie | The Seelies
Room Type: 1 x 2 bedroom apartment, 1 x 1 bedroom apartment
Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch

Day 3 - Breakfast Details Read More +

Restaurant: The Sugarbowl | Location: 30 High Street, Kingussie
Reservation Time: 08:00
Phone: +44(0) 1540 661641 | Website: https://thesugarbowl.co.uk/

Breakfast included as part of your accommodation.

Day 3 - Dinner Details Read More +

Restaurant: The Rowan Tree Country House Hotel | Location: Aviemore
Reservation Time: 18:30
Phone: +44 (0) 1479 810207 | Website: https://www.rowantreehotel.com

Please pay locally

Day 3 - Guide Details - Andy Stotesbury Read More +

Name: Andy Stotesbury
Contact Number: +44 (0) 7980 574506
Meeting Place: Mikes Bikes, Aviemore | Meeting Time: 09:30

Please meet Andy at Mikes Bikes (Aviemore Bikes) in Aviemore. Here you will set up your bikes and head off for the day.

Day 4 - Thursday 13th June - Visiting Banff and Travel to the West Coast

Your final destination today is the west coast but first you’ll head to the Moray Coast to visit the town of Banff, Scotland. Leave the Cairngorms behind and ribbon your way northeast. Separated from the neighbouring village of Macduff by a pretty seven-arch bridge over the River Deveron, Banff is tucked around a sandy bay and is notable for having one of the best-preserved townscapes in Scotland. Once you have explored the town head a long the coast to Cullen, home of the Cullen Skink soup, where you can walk out to the impressive Bow Fiddle rock before enjoying a bowl of the famous chowder for lunch.  Afterwards, wind your way back west along the coast, travelling through Inverness and along the shores of Loch Maree. Enjoy the stunning drive, watching the landscape become increasingly rugged beyond the window. Arrive at your accommodation and enjoy a warm welcome.

Overnight: Achiltibuie | Summer Isles Hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast

Day 4 - Dinner Details Read More +

Hotel: Summer Isles Hotel | Location: Achiltibuie
Reservation Time: 19:00
Phone: +44 (0) 1854 622 282 | Website: https://%20http://www.summerisleshotel.com/

Please pay locally

Day 4 - Directions Read More +

Day 5 - Friday 14th June - Torridon and Gairloch

Today, explore the west coast areas of Achtilbuie and Ullapool and enjoy the breathtaking views of the rugged mountains and serene lochs. Head to the coast to walk the cliff paths, enjoying the varied wildlife, the tranquil coastal scenery and the fresh sea air. You may want to head to Loch Inver and visit the famous Loch Inver Pie Shop, choose to eat in or take away and enjoy your lunch on the beautiful Achmelvich beach. End the day with a laidback evening in your handpicked accommodation, perhaps curling into an armchair with a book or chatting over a hearty dinner.

Overnight: Achiltibuie | Summer Isles Hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast

Day 5 - Dinner Details Read More +

Hotel: Summer Isles Hotel | Location: Achiltibuie
Reservation Time: 19:00
Phone: +44 (0) 1854 622 282 | Website: http://www.summerisleshotel.com/

Please pay locally

Day 6 - Saturday 15th June - Applecross and the Isle of Skye

Today, make your way to the beautiful Isle of Skye. First, travel south down the coast on a road that consistently reveals new and captivating views to the tiny village of Applecross. Take a walk here along the rocky shore before enjoying lunch at the Applecross Inn, which does fantastic local and seasonal food. Continuing on to Skye you’ll ribbon your way up and over the Bealach na Ba pass. Meaning the pass of the cattle, is a historic route once used to drive cattle through the mountains it’s steep and narrow with hairpin bends and passing places, you’ll often have to reverse and wait for other traffic to pass but incredible views from the top are incredible. From here cross the arching bridge taking you on to the Isle of Skye.

Overnight: Greshornish | Redwood House
Meals Included: Breakfast

Day 6 - Lunch Details Read More +

Restaurant: Applecross Inn | Location: Applecross
Reservation Time: 13:00 | Booking Reference: 16803689
Phone: +44 (0) 1520 744 262 | Website: http://www.applecross.uk.com/inn/

Please pay locally

Day 6 - Dinner Details Read More +

Hotel: Redwood House | Location: Isle of Skye
Reservation Time: 19:00
Phone: +44 (0) 1470582203 | Website: https://www.skye-hotel-accommodation.com

Please pay locally

Day 6 - Directions Read More +

Day 7 - Sunday 16th June - Exploring the Misty Isle

This morning, 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 of a long-forgotten war—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, all the while admiring the stunning views.

Overnight: Greshornish | Redwood House
Meals Included: Breakfast

Day 7 - Dinner Details Read More +

Hotel: Redwood House | Location: Isle of Skye
Reservation Time: 19:30
Phone: +44 (0) 1470582203 | Website: https://www.skye-hotel-accommodation.com

Please pay locally

Day 8 - Monday 17th June - Fairy Pools and Talisker Bay

If you want to visit the Fairy Pools then head there early, ask your hotel for a packed breakfast to take away, so you can hike to and explore the pools without the crowds. The pools are full of cold crystal clear water and are great for a dip if you’re feeling brave. Later today, head to Talisker Bay for a walk to the black sand beach and to the waterfall. Have a very foodie lunch at the Three Chimneys pop-up restaurant in Talisker Distillery (book this in advance if you are keen) before heading back to Portree to explore the quirky shops and galleries.

Overnight: Greshornish | Redwood House
Meals Included: Breakfast

Day 8 - Dinner Details Read More +

Hotel: Greshornish House | Location: Isle of Skye
Reservation Time: 19:30
Phone: +44 (0) 1470 582266 | Website: https://greshornishhouse.com/

Please pay locally

Day 9 - Tuesday 18th June - Road to the Isles and on to Glencoe

Leave Skye today by the small white ferry and travel the Road to the Isles. This is frequently listed as one of the most beautiful drives in the world and it is easy to see why. Stop for a walk at Silver Sands, a beautiful beach in Arisaig offering sweeping views of Skye and the Small Isles. You may also wish to stop at the historic Glenfinnan Viaduct and Glenfinnan Monument and see if you can spot the Jacobite Steam Train puffing its way over the graceful arches of the viaduct. Later, continue on to beautiful Glencoe and to your accommodation.

Overnight: Glencoe | Holly Tree Hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast

Day 9 - Ferry Details Read More +

Operator: Caledonian MacBrayne
Booking Reference: S2400470807
Contact Number: +44 (0) 1475 650 110

Departure Port: Armadale | Departure Time: 10:30
Arrival Port: Mallaig | Arrival Time: 11:00

Ferry tickets are attached in your important documents. Please be at the ferry no later than 10am for check in. They will not let you board if you are late.

Day 9 - Dinner Details Read More +

Hotel: Holly Tree Hotel | Location: Glencoe
Reservation Time: 19:00
Phone: +44 (0) 1631 740292 | Website: http://www.hollytreehotel.co.uk/

Please pay locally

Day 9 - Directions Read More +

Day 10 - Wednesday 19th June - Hiking in Glencoe

Carved out centuries ago by glaciers and volcanic eruptions Glencoe is famous for its wild, rugged beauty and its tragic history. After a relaxed breakfast you might want to hike to the Lost Valley. Follow along the narrow rowan lined gorge until you reach the hanging valley. The enclosed meadow – high, green, and hidden by precipitous tors, is said to be where the Macdonald clan used to conceal their rustled cattle. Later, head to the Glencoe Centre to learn more about the history of the area, including the harrowing Massacre of Glencoe.,

Overnight: Glencoe | Holly Tree Hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast

Day 10 - Dinner Details Read More +

Hotel: Holly Tree Hotel | Location: Glencoe
Reservation Time: 19:00
Phone: +44 (0) 1631 740292 | Website: http://www.hollytreehotel.co.uk/

Please pay locally

Day 11 - Thursday 20th June - Back to Edinburgh

This morning start your journey back to Edinburgh. On the way, you may want to stop at Doune Castle, a mediaeval stronghold which Outlander fans will recognise from the TV series. Stretch your legs as you explore the impressive castle and grounds and have lunch in the nearby village. Return to Edinburgh where your trip ends.

Meals Included: Breakfast

Day 11 - Directions Read More +

 

Trip Details

Inclusions Read More
  • All accommodation from day 1 to day 11
  • Meals as indicated above
  • Services of an experienced and knowledgeable qualified guide on days 2 and 3
  • All guided hike and cycling days, including bike hire
  • Cairngorms distillery tour and tasting
  • Skye ferry
  • Personalised trip design and delivery
  • 24 hour in-country support from the Wilderness Team

 

Exclusions Read More
  • Flights
  • Train tickets
  • Car hire
  • Travel insurance
  • Meals not mentioned in the inclusions
  • Activities and entrance fees not listed in the inclusions above
  • Gratuities

 

Important Additional Information Read More
Terms & Conditions Read More

Please see our booking terms here.

Accommodation

The Seelies

15-17 High Street | Kingussie | Highland |
PH21 1HS | Scotland
Phone: +44 (0) 7745 921431
Web: theseelies.co.uk

Summer Isles Hotel

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

Redwood House

Greshornish | Nr Edinbane | Isle of Skye |
IV51 9NP | Scotland
Phone: +44 (0) 1470582203
Web: skye-hotel-accommodation.com

Holly Tree Hotel

Kentallen Pier | Glencoe | Argyll |
PA38 4BY | Scotland
Phone: +44 (0) 1631 740292
Web: hollytreehotel.co.uk

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Meet Your Guide

Andy Stotesbury

Contact Number: +44 (0) 7980 574506

I am an enthusiastic climber/ mountaineer and cyclist. The Cairngorms have been my home for the last 8 years. Before this, I was in North Wales and the South West of England, and visiting Scotland every Winter for 3 or 4 months. Working part-time and having a portfolio career gives me time for adventures around the Cairngorms and around Scotland.

Full Web Bio

Virtuoso

Highland Adventure

Monday 10th June – Thursday 20th June 2024