Explorer Chick

Scotland - Skye, Loch Ness and beyond - 2026

Number of Travellers: 13

Duration: 8 Days / 7 Nights

Overview

Join us on an unforgettable adventure through the remote northern landscapes of Scotland, where camaraderie and shared achievements make the experience even more rewarding. From the iconic landscapes of the Isle of Skye to the rugged beauty of the North West Highlands and the rolling coastal scenery of the North East, we’ll immerse ourselves in Scotland’s rich history while exploring breathtaking views, crystal-clear waters, and pristine white sands. We’ll climb to towering peaks, supporting one another along the way and earning unparalleled vistas. We’ll visit fairy-tale castles framed by enchanting gardens, with the chance to stay in our own castle! This is more than a vacation; it’s an immersive experience, blending awe-inspiring landscapes, challenging hikes, and lasting connections in one of Scotland’s most remote and beautiful regions.

Highlights

Discover Skye’s Dramatic Landscapes and Fairy Pools
Relax on Achmelvich’s White Sands and Turquoise Waters
Hike the Rugged Peaks of Scotland’s Wild West Coast
Uncover History at Dunrobin Castle and the Witch’s Stone in Dornoch

Day by Day

Day 1 - Welcome to the Highlands!

Inverness, often referred to as the capital of the Highlands, is a vibrant city where the River Ness winds its way to the Moray Firth. Rich in history and alive with modern charm, it serves as the perfect gateway to the rugged beauty of the surrounding area. Here, you’ll meet your EC Tour Leader and fellow travellers at 3pm, before setting out to explore the city. Stroll through the bustling centre, visit the iconic castle, browse a local whisky shop, or hunt for souvenirs. For a hidden gem, don’t miss Leakey’s Bookshop, a treasure trove for book lovers is a must-see. This evening, you’re free to relax back at the hotel or join the group to dine at one of the city’s many eateries.

Overnight: Inverness | Glen Mhor Hotel
Meals Included: None

Day 2 - Loch Ness, in search of Nessie

Meeting your local guides at 9 a.m. at your accommodation, from here, we journey west toward the Isle of Skye. Our first stop is in the picturesque village of Dores, nestled on the southeastern shore of Loch Ness. Here, stunning loch views and a pebble beach provide the perfect backdrop for a scenic stroll, or perhaps a hopeful glance at the loch’s elusive resident, Nessie. A short but rewarding woodland loop offers a chance to stretch our legs, with beautiful views of the loch and opportunities to spot red squirrels, roe deer, and distant glimpses of Aldourie Castle, a striking 17th-century mansion perched gracefully on the shoreline. After lunch, we continue our journey, as today is largely a transfer day. We’ll pause for a photo opportunity at the iconic Eilean Donan Castle, its dramatic silhouette gracing countless postcards. Crossing the Skye Bridge, we’ll arrive at our destination in the early evening, with time to settle into our accommodation before gathering for tonight’s welcome dinner.

Overnight: Isle of Skye | Sligachan Hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Walk Details: 7 km / 4 miles | 65 m / 213 ft elevation gain | Approx: 2 hrs

Day 3 - Uncovering the Wonders of Skye

After a hearty Scottish breakfast, we’ll head out to explore the wonders of this beautiful island. The Isle of Skye is famed for its dramatic landscapes, from the rugged Cuillin Mountains to its striking coastline, towering sea cliffs, and jagged coves. Our first stop today is on the famous Trotternish Peninsula, a lesser-known climb offering a familiar yet stunning viewpoint. On our return, take some free time to explore the charming harbor town of Portree, the island’s capital. Known for its colorful waterfront and vibrant atmosphere. Here, we’ll enjoy an early alfresco supper from a traditional fish and chips shop, a perfect taste of local flavor, before continuing for a magical evening hike to the captivating Fairy Pools. If time allows, we’ll end the day with a dusk stroll along a windswept beach, and perhaps even a wee nightcap on the way back to our accommodation.

Overnight: Isle of Skye | Sligachan Hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Walk Details: 8 km / 5 miles | 640 m / 2,100 ft elevation gain | Approx: 4 hrs 30 mins

Day 4 - Glen Sligachan, Skye

Before leaving this enchanting island, there’s time for one last hike in Sligachan, where the Black Cuillin meets the western seaboard. This iconic spot, where we’ve based ourselves during our stay, offers stunning views of the Red and Black Cuillin with Glen Sligachan in between, a mountainscape that will be forever etched in our memories. The afternoon brings time to sit back, relax, and enjoy the breathtaking northwest Scotland coastline as we transfer north, hugging the cliff tops and sandy coves. There will be plenty of stops along the way to break up the journey, and the evening is free to unwind and explore our new surroundings.

Overnight: Ullapool | Habour House
Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch
Walk Details: 12 km / 7 miles | 182 m / 597 ft elevation gain | Approx: 4 hrs

Day 5 - Stac Pollaidh, North West Highlands

Known as Scotland’s “miniature mountain,” Stac Pollaidh (Stac Polly) offers one of the quickest and easiest ascents in the area. At 2,011 feet, Stac Pollaidh is a popular summit for those seeking breathtaking panoramic vistas of Assynt to the north, the Summer Isles and Achiltibuie to the south and west, and even the Isle of Skye to the east. While it’s renowned for offering scramblers a rewarding challenge, the trail we follow showcases incredible views without needing to reach the highest point. Later, we’ll visit a working pottery that produces beautiful stoneware items. Watch the potters while they work away in the studio and browse the lovely wares in the shop. The rest of the afternoon is free time before dinner, to enjoy the bustling harbor village of Ullapool.

Overnight: Ullapool | Habour House
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Walk Details: 5 km / 3 miles | 510 m / 1,673 ft elevation gain | Approx: 4 hrs

Day 6 - The Old Man of Stoer, North West Highlands

Today, we journey along the rugged coastline, a hallmark of the North West Highlands. Our hike explores this wild landscape and leads us to a clifftop viewpoint to see an imposing sea stack called the Old Man of Stoer, and the Stoer Lighthouse. Relax and enjoy the sea views as we enjoy an al fresco lunch of delicious savory pies made in the local village. From here, we set off to explore one of the UK’s most breathtaking beaches—Achmelvich. With its brilliant white sands and crystal-clear, turquoise waters, it’s a scene so stunning, you might mistake it for the Caribbean. Ocean wildlife sightings are common, with porpoises, dolphins, and even the occasional minke whale making appearances. Whether you choose to dip your toes in the water or simply enjoy the sensation of sand beneath your feet, this coastline offers a truly special experience.

Overnight: Ullapool | Habour House
Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch
Walk Details: 7 km / 4 miles | 360 m / 1,181 ft elevation gain | Approx: 3 hrs 30 mins

Day 7 - Dunrobin Castle, Sutherland

This morning, we’ll leave the dramatic west coast behind and journey east to the charming fishing hamlet of Golspie. Like many villages along the east Sutherland coast, Golspie expanded in the early 19th century to accommodate those displaced during the Highland Clearances. From Golspie, we’ll meander along a picturesque coastal path, enjoying sweeping vistas out to sea. Our destination is Dunrobin Castle, Scotland’s northernmost grand house, adorned with enchanting turrets and elegant architecture. Nestled amidst beautifully landscaped gardens reminiscent of Versailles, this timeless castle invites visitors to explore its lavish interiors filled with historical treasures. Afterward, we’ll return for a farewell dinner at our own castle, where we can reflect on the unforgettable adventure we’ve shared in Scotland.

Overnight: Dornoch | Dornoch Castle Hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Walk Details: 6 km / 4 miles | 42 m / 138 ft elevation gain | Approx: 3 hrs

Day 8 - The Witch’s stone, Dornoch. Depart.

In the garden of a cottage in Littletown, along the route to Dornoch beach, stands a small stone marked with the year 1722, known as the Witch’s Stone. This marks the site of Scotland’s last witchcraft execution, which took place in 1727 when Janet Horne was accused of using witchcraft to turn her daughter into the devil’s pony. This will be our final visit on the tour, a poignant place etched in the history of Scotland’s women. Returning to the hotel for breakfast, we’ll check out, and your guide will transfer you to Inverness. We’ll arrive at Inverness Train Station late morning, where your guide’s services will end, and we will bid farewell.

Walk Details: 2 km / 1 miles

Trip Details

Inclusions Read More

A free place for the EC leader, including single supplement and the same inclusions as for travelers, as listed below
7 nights accommodation in twin share rooms, as described above
Meals as outlined in the proposal
1x coffee/ cake stop on one of the transfer days (D4 or D7)
D6 Traditional Scottish Piper
D7 Dunrobbin Castle & Gardens visit
D7 Glass of fizz (prosecco) at Farewell dinner
The services of qualified and experienced female guide (s) from Day 2 through to D8 (starting and finishing at Inverness)*
All transfers from D2 through to D8 (starting and finishing at Inverness)
All gratuities (except for the lead guides)
Trip design and delivery
24/7 in-country support

*Groups of 5–7 participants (including the team leader) will be supported by one guide, while groups of 8 or more will be accompanied by two guides.

Exclusions Read More

D1 – Dinner (WS services start D2)
D4 – Dinner
D6 – Dinner
Meals not mentioned in the inclusions
All drinks (soft and/or alcoholic drinks)*
Flights and train travel pre/ post trip
Travel insurance
Activities and entrance fees not mentioned in the inclusions
Tips for the guide team

Notes Read More

Things to see & do in Inverness;

Inverness Castle – Explore the historic castle and enjoy panoramic views of the city and River Ness.
Loch Ness – Take a boat trip or visit the Loch Ness Centre and Exhibition to learn about the legend of Nessie.
Culloden Battlefield – Visit the site of the 1746 Battle of Culloden, a significant event in Scottish history (reachable by public bus or taxi)
Inverness Museum and Art Gallery – Discover the history, culture, and art of the region.
Botanic Gardens – Relax in these beautifully landscaped gardens, with tropical and alpine plants.
River Ness Walk – Stroll along the scenic River Ness, passing over charming bridges and green spaces.
Eden Court Theatre – Catch a performance at this vibrant venue, hosting live shows, films, and more.
Clava Cairns – Explore these ancient burial cairns, which predate even the pyramids of Egypt (transport required)
Great Glen Way – Hike or cycle some of this scenic trail stretching from Inverness to Fort William.
The Victorian Market – Wander through this charming covered market with local shops and eateries.

In the hills – important: Mountain terrain and weather conditions in Scotland should be taken very seriously, an excellent level of fitness will be required for this itinerary and it should be recognised that weather conditions can change dramatically within minutes. Your guide reserves the right to change the itinerary based on the weather conditions and fitness and the ability of the group, the guide’s decision is final.

To undertake this trip we ask that all participants can commit to the following grading and requirements:

All participants will need a good level of fitness
All participants must be comfortable with rough and terrain, in Scotland this can often be wet and boggy or loose and rocky
There may be exposed ridge walks and elements of non-technical scrambling
Daily hikes may include the ascent of a major peak of approx 800m of elevation.
All participants must have full waterproofs, waterproof hiking boots with ankle protection and hiking poles*

*Wilderness can provide hiking poles ‘on-request’

Important Contact Numbers Read More

Your guide will meet you at Inverness Hotel TBC at 9:00 am on the first day of your trip.

You will be returned to Inverness Train station at 11:00 am on the final day of your trip.

Pricing Read More

5 guests £3,100pp
6 guests £2,900pp
7 guests £2,900pp
8 guests £2,950pp
9 guests £2,850pp
10 guests £2,750pp
11 guests £2,700pp
12 guests £2,675pp
Single supplement £820pp
Forced single, charged at the same rate as a standard single supplement £820pp
FOC place for EC TL
Confirms on 6 (5 paying guests + TL)

Pre and post trip services available:

Private airport transfer from Inverness: £65 per car (up to 3 people). For a more budget-friendly option, travelers may choose to book an Uber or a standard taxi directly.

For a pre & post trip hotel in Inverness at the start / end of the tour, we can offer:

Glen Mhor Hotel (Inverness) – standard double or standard twin room
Breakfast included
Prices as follows: £300 per room per night for twin occupancy; or £280 per night for single occupancy

Rates may be slightly higher than rates guests may find online if they book directly as they include a small booking fee.

Please note that all bookings are subject to availability and will be on an ‘on-request’ basis.

Planned Departure Dates Read More

Departure Code: July 18th | 18 Jul 2026 – 25 Jul 2026
Departure Code: September 12th | 12 Sep 2026 – 19 Sep 2026

Explorer Chick

Scotland - Skye, Loch Ness and beyond - 2026

Overview

Highlights

Day by Day

Day 1 - Welcome to the Highlands!

Day 2 - Loch Ness, in search of Nessie

Day 3 - Uncovering the Wonders of Skye

Day 4 - Glen Sligachan, Skye

Day 5 - Stac Pollaidh, North West Highlands

Day 6 - The Old Man of Stoer, North West Highlands

Day 7 - Dunrobin Castle, Sutherland

Day 8 - The Witch’s stone, Dornoch. Depart.

Trip Details

Wilderness Scotland Office | 9:00am – 5:30pm

Out of Office Hours | 5:30pm – 9:00am

Emergency Services

Accommodation

Glen Mhor Hotel

Sligachan Hotel

Habour House

Dornoch Castle Hotel

Scotland – Skye, Loch Ness and beyond – 2026