Patraruedee Pornprasit– Exploring the Cairngorms and Glencoe

Day 1 - Welcome to Aviemore and the Cairngorms National Park

Arriving in Aviemore by train, you’ll be met by your Wilderness Scotland guide and, time permitting, embark on a short hike to immerse yourself in the breathtaking landscapes of the Cairngorms National Park. Expect ancient Caledonian pine forests, heather-clad moorlands, and rolling hills framed by the towering peaks of the Cairngorm mountains. Keep an eye out for red squirrels darting through the trees and soaring golden eagles overhead before settling into your accommodation for the evening

Overnight: Cairngorms

Day 2 - Hiking in the Cairngorms

Today, enjoy a hike in the beautiful Cairngorms National Park. At over 4500 sq km it is the largest National Park in the UK and with miles of winding rivers, make it Scotland’s most prolific whisky-making region. 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 while listening to some traditional folk music.

Overnight: Cairngorms

Day 3 - Into the Highlands

After breakfast we will head out for a short but spectacular walk. The Uath Lochans, known locally as the Paw Print Lochans, are a hive of biodiversity. Raised boardwalks wind through reedy marshlands. Look out for a glimpse of the occasional frog and the glittering wings of dragonflies as they dart over the wetlands. Climbing a short way to Farleitter Crag, this small hill offers incredible elevated views of the water, forest and surrounding Cairngorm Mountains.

Overnight: Cairngorms

Day 4 - Journey West

Today you’ll leave the Cairngorms National Park for the west coast, but not before enjoying a visit to the Highland Folk Museum. A different type of museum, this mile-long township invites you to walk into the past. Consisting of 30 frozen-in-time dwellings, you’ll journey from the early 1900s to the 1700s, and experience Highland life over three centuries. Later, stop at Creag Meagaidh Nature Reserve for a hike. A spectacular upland habitat, it is home to over 100 species of birds, as well as red, roe and sika deer. Continue on this afternoon to the infamous and hauntingly beautiful Glencoe.

Overnight: Glencoe

Day 5 - Hiking in Glencoe

Over hot coffee and tea, chat with your guide about some walking options for today. The spectacular Glencoe, carved out centuries ago by glaciers and volcanic eruptions, offers some wild and scenic hiking. You may wish to summit the iconic Pap of Glencoe, or head up to the Lost Valley where the MacDonald clan used to hide their rustled cattle. As ethereal mists blow over rugged peaks, keep an eye out for the soaring shape of a golden eagle or the silhouette of a stag, learning about the landscape’s captivating and haunting history. This evening, enjoy a well-earned dram, perhaps stepping outside after dinner to look up at a night sky full of the sharpest stars.

Overnight: Glencoe

Day 6 - Back to Edinburgh

Take the morning to visit the Glencoe Centre and see how the landscape here was shaped by fire and ice before starting the journey back to Edinburgh. On the way, stop at Doune Castle, a mediaeval stronghold which has since been used as a location of film and TV. Stretch your legs as you explore the impressive castle and grounds. On return to Edinburgh, your guide will drop you off  and you will say your farewells. You will spend your final night in this wonderful city.

Overnight: Edinburgh

Day 7 - Depart Edinburgh

After breakfast, head to the airport and depart for home.