Mountains and Glens of Scotland - v4

Day 1 - Friday 3^rd October - Welcome to the Highlands!

Today marks the commencement of your thrilling Scottish adventure, with Aviemore serving as our meeting point nestled within the Cairngorms National Park, the UK’s largest national park. What better setting to meet your guide than a local pub, at 12pm, conveniently situated just across the road from Aviemore train station! Following a warm welcome briefing, we’ll bond over a light lunch before embarking on a leisurely trail walk to stretch our legs on a short, local hike.

The Loch an Eilein Ord Ban hike is a popular route favoured by locals, winding through towering pines, often with glimpses of wildlife such as red squirrels and deer. Situated on the island within the loch are the historic ruins of Loch an Eilein Castle. The exact date of construction is uncertain, but it is believed to have been built in the 13th or 14th century. It was constructed on the small island, to provide natural protection and defence.

The hike should take approximately 2-3 hours and is particularly stunning at this time of year. Afterwards, it’s a short transfer back to our accommodation and home for the next four nights. Dinner is out this evening in one of the towns many eateries.

Overnight: Aviemore | Ravenscraig Guest House
Room Type: Standard twin share
Meals Included: Lunch and Dinner
Walk Details: 7 km / 5 miles | 275 m / 902 ft elevation gain | Approx: 3 hrs

Day 2 - Saturday 4^th October - Bag your first Munros! Ben MacDui and Cairngorm

Bag your first Munro! Munro’s are Scotland’s peaks standing tall at 3,000 feet (914.4 meters) or more, currently there are 282 summits which hit the criteria. ‘Munro bagging’ is a popular activity among hikers and mountaineers from all over the world, and today we’re tackling two; Cairngorm and Ben Macdui.

Cairngorm, soaring at 4,081 feet, boasts a granite plateau known for its Arctic-like conditions at altitude, home to rare wildlife such as ptarmigans and mountain hares. The ascent takes us on varied terrain, occasionally boggy and heather-clad slopes but mostly rocky paths. The summit boasts panoramic views of the valley below, none more famous than Loch Morlich, with it’s glistening water and the highest beach in the UK.

We’ll continue onward to Ben Macdui, standing tall at 4,295 feet. The second-highest peak in the UK, with only Ben Nevis towering higher. The hike demands endurance with its steep ascents, ridges and unpredictable weather so reaching the summit is a monumental achievement in itself, and one which should be celebrated. What better way to do that, than a drink in a local pub before returning to our accommodation.

Overnight: Aviemore | Ravenscraig Guest House
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Walk Details: 18 km / 11 miles | 932 m / 3,058 ft elevation gain | Approx: 8 hrs

Day 3 - Sunday 5^th October - Relax and invigorate with a dip to remember!

After the exhilaration of yesterday’s summit, we opt for a more grounded day, and make our way to Glenmore, a stunning forested area known for its ancient pine trees, enchanting emerald lochans, scenic trails, and rich wildlife. Today’s hike is a local favorite: Meall a Bhuachaille. This accessible trail features well-maintained paths leading to the summit,passing through heather-covered slopes and along a rugged, windswept ridge.

It offers a taste of the Cairngorms’ wild beauty without the distance or isolation of some of the more remote Munros. Afterward, we’ll enjoy a well-earned treat by Loch Morlich, where golden sands stretch along the UK’s highest beach, framed by towering mountains.

In the afternoon, we’ll switch things up with a refreshing experience. The national park is home to numerous pristine spots perfect for wild swimming, an activity renowned for its physical and mental benefits. Not only does it improve cardiovascular health, but it also helps reduce stress and boost your mood, offering a natural way to recharge in these tranquil surroundings. Warmed up from the beach sauna, and with time to get changed, dinner is not included this evening, leaving you free to explore the town.

Overnight: Aviemore | Ravenscraig Guest House
Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch
Walk Details: 8 km / 5 miles | 543 m / 1,781 ft elevation gain | Approx: 4.5 hrs

Day 4 - Monday 6^th October - Meet two inspirational women, then search for Nessie!

After breakfast, no hiking today as we’ll venture to a croft undergoing loving restoration by two inspiring women. Crofting, once widespread across the Scottish Highlands, has diminished significantly over time. Here we spend time in their company, exploring the croft and learning of their utilization of traditional methods fused with modern rewilding principles. Seeing the innovative hen mobile is a must! Lunch is at a local cafe, renowned for its delicious tray bakes and charming atmosphere.

The journey to Fort William takes us along the scenic shores of Loch Ness, where you might catch a glimpse of its legendary resident lurking beneath the dark, mysterious waters. Our next stop is Urquhart Castle, one of Scotland’s largest and most iconic ruins. Steeped in history, the site has been the backdrop for significant events dating back to the 6th century when St. Columba visited the original fort. During your visit, you can climb the Grant Tower for sweeping views, explore the great hall, and peer into the grim depths of a former prison cell that once held captives.

Upon arriving at our guest house, there will be time to check in and settle before we head out to enjoy an evening meal in the heart of this adventure-filled hub.

Overnight: Fort William | Guisachan Guesthouse
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Day 5 - Tuesday 7^th October - Hike in the iconic Glencoe

Glencoe is a breathtaking glen (valley) in the Scottish Highlands, known for its steep mountains, stunning scenery, and turbulent, significant history, notably for the infamous Glencoe Massacre of 1692. Its rugged landscape features dramatic peaks, cascading waterfalls, and sparkling lochs, making a stunning backdrop to many films such as ‘Skyfall’, ‘Braveheart’ and the popular TV series, ‘Outlander’.

Today’s hike, Buachaille Etive Beag is frequently overshadowed by its renowned neighbor.  Nonetheless, it stands as a magnificent ridge in its own regard, boasting exceptional vistas overlooking Loch Etive and the surrounding peaks. Terrain-wise, there’s a well-constructed rocky path leading to the bealach, followed by relatively straightforward ridge-walking on rocky terrain in favorable conditions. Descending back the way we came, if time allows we’ll drop into a local inn for drink before transferring back to Fort William.

This evening, take the opportunity to explore the lively town center and enjoy a meal at a restaurant of your choosing.

Overnight: Fort William | Guisachan Guesthouse
Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch
Walk Details: 8 km / 5 miles | 900 m / 2,953 ft elevation gain | Approx: 6 hrs

Day 6 - Wednesday 8^th October - Climb Ben Nevis, the UK's highest mountain

The day has arrived, as we reach our final of the big three mountains in this incredible challenge adventure. Climbing Ben Nevis, the UK’s highest mountain, towering at 4,413 feet, is a sought-after aspirational goal for many travelers. The clear and obvious mountain track, means it is a surprisingly easy route to follow. However the task ahead should not be taken lightly as this is by no means an easy day out. It is a steep and unrelenting mountain that will test both your legs and perseverance. Underfoot is surprisingly tough, with rocky sections and boulders to contend with, and a few jaggy sections that require careful foot placement.

The summit is worth the effort, views are simply breath-taking; surrounded on all sides by peaks as far as the eye can see; on over the islands of the Hebrides and out to sea. Scotland’s ever-changing weather patterns inject a note of caution, but again we are joined by an additional guide to support throughout the day.

And what a day it will be! A celebratory, farewell dinner awaits our return, and maybe even a wee glass of fizz!

Overnight: Fort William | Guisachan Guesthouse
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Walk Details: 18 km / 11 miles | 1,352 m / 4,435 ft elevation gain | Approx: 9 hrs

Day 7 - Thursday 9^th October - A fond farewell to the Highlands

Following a well-deserved rest and a hearty Scottish breakfast, it’s time to bid farewell to your guide team and the majestic Scottish Highlands.

One final adventure awaits: the Highland Line train ride from Fort William to Glasgow. As you travel south, the landscape unfolds, from picturesque glens to rolling hills and farmland, much of which is immortalized in the Harry Potter films. The journey ends in Glasgow, Scotland’s dynamic cultural hub. Take the opportunity to explore the city, or easily hop on a train back to Edinburgh to continue your onward travels.

Meals Included: Breakfast