V2 - Luxury Walking in Scotland

Clare Trimbur

Sunday 7th September – Monday 15th September 2025

Number of Travellers: 2
Duration: 9 Days / 8 Nights

Overview

This luxury walking holiday combines rich cultural experiences, stunning landscapes, and indulgent relaxation. Begin with a guided walking tour of the historic Edinburgh city, before journeying to Perthshire for scenic hikes through woodlands and hills. Next, tackle the last two sections of the West Highland Way, soaking in the dramatic beauty of the Highlands. Your adventure culminates with a stay at a luxurious countryside hotel, and the chance to sample one of Britain’s best loved dining experiences – Afternoon Tea.

 

V2

Highlights

  • Tackle the final two sections of the famous West Highland Way
  • Sample a Great British Delicacy - Afternoon Tea
  • A private walking tour of Edinburgh with a local expert guide
  • Indulge in a private Whisky experience with a tutored tasting

Day by Day

Day 1 - Sunday 7th September - Welcome to Scotland

On arrival at the 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 | The Balmoral Hotel
Room Type: Deluxe Old Town View Room
Meals Included: None

Day 2 - Monday 8th September - Exploring Edinburgh

This morning you will meet your experienced local guide for the day and head out for your days adventure. You will begin by immersing yourselves in the winding cobbled streets of historic Old Town Edinburgh as you enjoy a private walking tour with an expert local guide. Discover the highlights of this unique capital city from the Palace of Holyroodhouse all the way up the ‘Royal Mile’ to the mighty ancient fortress which is Edinburgh Castle itself. Walk the ramparts atop castle rock and hear the tales of the One O’Clock gun and the stories of locals of times past.

After a morning exploring Edinburgh’s surface, it’s time to venture beneath the cobbled streets and uncover the city’s hidden, darker side. Step into a world where people once lived and worked beneath the bustling streets, and learn about the illicit stills where Scotland’s most famous drink, whisky, was secretly crafted. This immersive private experience brings history to life and concludes with a guided tasting of two distinctive drams, offering you the chance to savour this iconic Scottish delicacy.

Overnight: Edinburgh | The Balmoral Hotel
Room Type: Deluxe Old Town View Room
Meals Included: Breakfast

Day 3 - Tuesday 9th September - Leaving the City Behind - Welcome to the Scottish Countryside

After breakfast, you’ll meet your experienced guide in the foyer of your hotel. They will also act as your driver for the next few days in Scotland. Leaving the city behind, you’ll enjoy a seamless transfer to Highland Perthshire. Upon reaching Pitlochry, your adventure begins with a hike up Ben Vrackie, a nearby hill renowned for its breathtaking views. This well-marked trail leads you through enchanting woodlands, across open moorland, and past serene lochs, culminating at an elevation of 841 meters with panoramic vistas of the surrounding landscape.

In the evening spend some time relaxing in your accommodation and chat with your guide about your options for the following days exploration.

Overnight: Pitlochry | Fonab Castle Hotel
Room Type: Castle Superior Room
Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch

Day 4 - Wednesday 10th September - Walking in Perthshire

Today, you’ll have your choice of walks, depending on how you are feeling and how far you wish to travel. Options for the day could include:

  • Clunie Walk – venture up and away from Pitlochry itself, climbing high into the forest along the side of the River Tummel. This walk offers stunning views of the area, including out towards Ben Lawers, Scotland’s 10th highest mountain. This near 12km takes in roughly 450 metres of ascent and is sure to test your legs.
  • Linn of Tummel Circuit – This circuit visits the falls at the Linn of Tummel as the first stage of a loop around the wooded banks of Loch Faskally. The near 12km route can be extended if you wish, and climbs to a total ascent of 150 metres.
  • Loch Rannoch Forest Walk – This excellent way-marked walk combines easy walking on forest tracks with pleasant mixed woodland, including remnants of the ancient Caledonia forest with good views over Loch Rannoch.

In the afternoon, immerse yourself in the world of Scotland’s finest whiskies with a private distillery tour and tasting experience. Explore the craftsmanship behind this iconic drink as you learn about the intricate process of whisky-making. Then, indulge in a guided tasting of a carefully curated selection of whiskies, savouring the rich flavours and stories that make each dram unique. This exclusive experience offers a true taste of Scotland’s heritage.

Overnight: Pitlochry | Fonab Castle Hotel
Room Type: Castle Superior Room
Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch

Day 5 - Thursday 11th September - Glencoe Valley and All it's Beauty

This morning bid farewell to Perthshire and it’s rolling hills and head for the might of Glencoe Valley. As you pass through this spectacular valley, carved out by glaciers, take a moment to appreciate the rugged ridge lines of the towering mountains either side of you. There are plenty of options within the Glencoe area including:

  • Signal Rock and An Tor – this short walk takes in some of the woodland in the area and leads to some of the historical sites associated with the history of Glencoe.
  • Glencoe Lochan Trails -his hidden gem offers a delightful walk along way-marked trails through ornamental woodlands at the base of Glen Coe. The tranquil lochan, with its serene waters and wooded shores, provides a striking contrast to the rugged, dramatic mountains of the glen that rise majestically in the background.

In the evening your guide will bid their farewells, leaving you full of memories that will last a lifetime. Now take some time to relax at your accommodation, ahead of your long days walking to come.

Overnight: Glencoe | Kingshouse Hotel
Room Type: Signature Double Room
Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch

Day 6 - Friday 12th September - The West Highland Way - Self Guided Walking

Today begins your self-guided walking along the final two sections of the famous West Highland Way, one of Scotland’s long distance walking routes.

Today you tackle Glencoe to Kinlochleven – traversing 14km and 1,411 ft of elevation. This is an especially rewarding day and, although shorter than the other sections, contains the biggest amount of ascent. Zig-zag up a trail known as the ‘Devil’s Staircase’ to the top of the pass at 547m. The views from here are incredible and arresting; the mountain summits are often misted in snow, even in the height of summer. Descend on a good trail to the small village of Kinlochleven, settling into your accommodation for the night.

Arrangements will be made to transfer your luggage to your next hotel while you are hiking.

Overnight: Kinlochleven | MacDonald Hotel & Cabins
Room Type: Double Hotel Room
Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch
Walk Details: 14 km / 9 miles | 430 m / 1,411 ft elevation gain

Day 7 - Saturday 13th September - The West Highland Way - Self Guided Walking - Day 2

Today you continue on and tackle the final leg of your self guided walking, traveling from Kinlochleven to Fort William, along the final section of the West Highland Way.

Begin by walking through the woods above Kinlochleven before strolling along a great glen, which provides captivating views of Ben Nevis and the surrounding mountains. Descend steadily towards Fort William, where a bronze sculpture of a walker marks the celebratory end of your adventure.

Upon arrival into Fort William, depending on your arrival time, you could explore some of the shops and cafes in the town, or alternatively, head straight for your accommodation and some well earned rest. A taxi will be arranged to transfer you from the centre of town to your accommodation.

Arrangements will be made to transfer your luggage to your next hotel while you are hiking.

Overnight: Near Fort William | Inverlochy Castle Hotel
Room Type: Large Double Room
Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch
Walk Details: 24 km / 15 miles | 475 m / 1,558 ft elevation gain

Day 8 - Sunday 14th September - Transfer to Gleneagles and a British Delicacy

This morning after a leisurely breakfast, a private transfer will collect you from the hotel foyer and transfer you on towards Gleneagles. Take some time along the way to relax and reflect upon your adventures so far and the hiking you have done in some of Scotland’s most breathtaking and wild landscapes.

Upon arrival at your accommodation it’s time to sample one of Britain’s best loved dining experiences, Afternoon Tea. Sit down in luxurious comfort and take your time to enjoy a variety of delicately made cakes and savoury dishes, while enjoying views across Scottish lawns, all while sipping down your choice of tea and a glass of bubbly. This is an existentially British luxury experience, and the perfect reward following your long days hiking, and a lovely way to celebrate the end of your Scottish adventure.

Overnight: Auchterarder | Gleneagles Hotel
Room Type: Large Manor Double
Meals Included: Breakfast

Day 9 - Monday 15th September - Depart

A private transfer will collect you from your accommodation and take you to the airport to make your onward connections. Waving farewell for now but taking with you special memories and wonderful stories of your explorations.

Meals Included: Breakfast

Trip Details

Inclusions Read More
  • 8 nights accommodation, as stated in the itinerary above
  • Most meals, as stated in the itinerary above
  • The services of a qualified and experienced guide from Day 3 to Day 5 inclusive
  • All transfers in a private vehicle driven by our guide on guided days
  • Airport Transfer on Arrival Day, includes Meet & Greet
  • Airport Transfer on Departure Day
  • Private Transfer from Inverlochy Castle to Gleneagles Hotel
  • All guided hikes mentioned in the itinerary
  • Luggage transfer on self-guided walking days:
    • Day 6 & Day 7
  • Entrance fees and activities mentioned in the itinerary, specifically:
    • Day 2 – A full day with an experienced local guide
    • Day 2 – A guided walking tour of Edinburgh with a local and knowledgable expert
    • Day 2 – Entrance to Edinburgh Castle
    • Day 2 – A private tour of Edinburgh’s underground streets, including a 2 dram Whisky tasting
    • Day 4 – A private tasting and tour of a local Perthshire Distillery
    • Day 8 – An afternoon tea experience at Gleneagles Hotel, including a glass of champagne
  • Personalised trip design and delivery
  • 24/7 In-Country Support from the Wilderness Team
Exclusions Read More
  • Flights
  • Travel insurance
  • Meals not mentioned in the inclusions
  • Activities and entrance fees not mentioned in the inclusions
  • Gratuities for the main driver guide
Notes Read More
  • All suggested accommodations and services are subject to availability at the time of booking.
  • A 20% deposit is required before any accommodation and services will be confirmed.
  • This quote is valid for 14 days from the date quoted, after this time pricing may be subject to revision.
  • Activities are only private if so specified
Optional Upgrades Read More
  • Room Upgrades are available in some locations, subject to availability. Pricing on request.
Pricing Read More

Pricing:

The total price for this itinerary, based on 2 clients on a twin-share basis, and including a £12 per person conservation contribution is:

  • £10,135 GBP per person.

Conservation ContributionThis voluntary donation of £12 per person goes towards conservation projects in the locations we operate.  If you would like to opt out just let your trip designer know. Click here for more information.