Trip Overview
Departures
Click for Dates + Prices
Duration
8 Days
Activities
Boating/Rafting
Hiking
Kayaking
Physical Rating
Moderate–Challenging
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Highlights of the Highlands
The Scottish Highlands are easy to visualize. Misty moors, lush glens, ancient castles and the rapture of folklore (or is it folklore?) surrounding mythic sea creatures. The verdant isles, jagged coastline, shimmering cities and deep lochs are the views that a dram of whisky were designed for! Shaggy Highland cattle set the scene. Plockton. Old Man of Storr. Kelpie. Black Cuillin. These names are like a roll call of spirits.
Hike into the Mythical Moors
Challenge Your Inner Warrior
This is a place to recalibrate and be consumed by all that the Highlands have to offer. The tundra-like landscape gives way to remote beaches, still lakes and the hulking shadows of Ben Nevis Mountain. Elusive wildlife like the tabby-like Scottish wildcat, pine marten and red deer surprise the quiet hiker. We glide kayaks through the glass-like serenity of Sound of Arisaig. There will be castle ruins, rural villages and seafood hooked fresh from the denim-blue waters. Invite your inner warrior to the challenge and transformation that can only be found in our Highlands hiking adventure.
The trip was fabulous. Emy was the best! We would absolutely hike with her again. Scotland was breathtaking, and all the hikes were fabulous too. Can’t say enough good things about the experience from day 1 to day 7. Thank you!”
Cynthia P.
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Stories from Scotland: Handstands in the Highlands with Stephanie
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Itinerary
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Day 1
Eilean Donan Castle
Skippers and Serpents
Mid-morning, we meet our Wild Women guide in Inverness. We head south to the fabled Loch Ness for a high-speed Zodiac boat ride. Our skipper will stop at notable places of interest to share secret tidbits and tall tales along the way (about the one that got away, no doubt!).
After the thrill of the boat trip and goosebumpy accounts of the submarine serpent, we have an authentic lunch at a local cafe before making our way to the tiny coastal village of Plockton (population: 468!). En route, we stop at the iconic and instantly recognizable Eilean Donan Castle, one of Scotland’s most treasured attractions. Situated on an island where three great sea lochs (lakes) converge, four different versions of the castle have been built and rebuilt since the 13th century.
Included Meals
Lunch and dinner
Accommodations
The Plockton Inn
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Day 2
Loch Carron
Cattle and Castles
The twee fishing village of Plockton sits on the shores of Loch Carron. The painted cottages, pines and palms make for a curious mix. Yachties love this sheltered bay. Highland cattle, blooming heather and painters transfixed by the scene are a predictable sight.
We hike inland to two freshwater lochs. If the group is game, we can incorporate a summit of Cam a Bhealaich Mhoir, which looms at 1,125 feet (343 m) above sea level, to marvel at the stunning views across Loch Carron.
On our return loop, we pass the enormous 80-room Duncraig Castle, which was built in the 1860s. During WWII it served as a naval hospital and later as a science college and B&B.
Our remarkable day will draw to a close as we hike along the coastline and snap pics of Plockton’s harbor as local boats purr into the Old Pier with fresh fish and prawns.
Included Meals
Breakfast, lunch and dinner
Accommodations
The Plockton Inn
The Hike
Flexible distance of 6–9 miles (9–14 km), which takes about 3.5 to 5 hours, with a 1,427 foot (435 m) ascent. The paths are easy to navigate, though they can be muddy and rough in places.
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Day 3
Cauldron of Waters
Wee Hills and Wool Socks
We travel by boat from Elgol into the hidden Loch Coruisk, whose haunting Gaelic name (Coire Uisg) means “Cauldron of Waters.” This narrow freshwater loch lies at the foot of the Black Cuillin in the Isle of Skye. It’s only accessible by boat or by an 8-mile (13 km) hike. It’s common to see porpoises, seals, minke whales and basking sharks in this area. This lake is also the home of a “kelpie” or water horse—a shapeshifting creature that can assume human form. Most bodies of water in Scotland have something mystical lurking below.
We land at Loch Coruisk and follow the shoreline, hugged by the Cuillin Mountains, and hike around the loch or up a “wee hill,” as the Scots say. In the late afternoon, we settle into our accommodations at Loch Eyre House, enjoying a hot shower and a change of wool socks!
Included Meals
Breakfast, lunch and dinner
Accommodations
Loch Eyre House
The Hike
Flexible distance up to 4.5 miles (7 km), which takes about 3–4 hours, with a 400 foot (122 m) ascent. Expect a boggy and rough path with rocky slopes; depending on the route, there may also be a river crossing over stepping stones. Our guide will decide which hiking route is best for the group depending on our pace, fitness level and comfort on the boggy terrain.
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Day 4
Skye High
Pinnacles and Pubs
Trotternish is a dramatic rugged peninsula located on the northern tip of the Isle of Skye, renowned for its alluring coastal landscapes and unique rock formations. One of the most notable geological landmarks is the Quiraing. Created millions of years ago by landslides and geological upheavals, the towering cliffs and peculiar pinnacles remain as evolutionary evidence. This is the area we explore today as our guide leads us on The Quirang, one of Skye’s classic routes.This trail offers views of what appears to be the fortress walls of a prison, but the rock structure is 100% natural. Dare we say…it’s jailhouse rock? The Prison, turf steps, island views and hidden plateaus (that were once used to hide sheep and cattle from invaders) make for a super scenic hike.
Late afternoon, we return to our hotel to refresh and change out of our hiking gear. We may have some free time to wander the harbor and squeeze in a pint in the former fishing village of Portree, the largest town and capital of the Island of Skye before returning to our hotel for dinner. For those who wish to just relax at the hotel, that’s okay too.
Included Meals
Breakfast, lunch and dinner
Accommodations
Loch Eyre House
The Hike
4.5 miles (7.25 km), which takes about 3–5 hours, with a 1,115 foot (340 m) ascent. Note: The Quirang hike has challenging sections of slippery rock and steep and narrow pathways.
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Day 5
Black Cuillin
Hiking up an Appetite
This morning we hike in one of the secluded glens to the north of the legendary Black Cuillin Mountains, known as the United Kingdom’s most challenging range. We stick to the lower paths with a backdrop of craggy mountain peaks and sweet views of the Small Isles and Outer Hebrides.
Late afternoon, we leave the island’s magical grip and journey to Fort William, the “outdoor capital of Scotland” and the gateway to Ben Nevis. The town is also loved by film directors, distillers and sunsetters who gather to celebrate the burning of the day with sundowners over the Isles of Frum, Eigg, Muck, Canna and Skye.
Our guest house is close to the town center of Fort William. Tonight’s dinner is independent and there are several tempting options to choose from: Thai, Indian, vegan, traditional grub and community pubs serving heaps of comfort food.
Included Meals
Breakfast and lunch
Accommodations
Guisachan Guest House or Lime Tree An Ealdhain in Fort William
The Hike
Option 1 – Glen Sligachan Hike: Flexible distance up to 10 miles (16 km), around 6 hours, with a 984 foot (300 m) ascent. The trail is easy to cover through the glen, but it can be rough and boggy in places.
Option 2 – Boreraig and Suisnish: 10.25 miles (16.5 km), around 5–6 hours, with a 1,148 foot (350 m) ascent. The trail is mostly clear paths, tracks and minor roads. It can be boggy and wet underfoot in some places.
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Day 6
Hiking Ben or Glen Nevis
The Peak Moment
Today, we have two guides and two hike options—we may choose to boldly trek to the summit or take the slow and steady low road. Those with a bounce in their step can choose to ascend Scotland’s highest and most famous peaks, Ben Nevis. Starting from almost sea level and rising to 4,409 feet (1,344 m), this hike is not for the faint-hearted or flat-footed.
The alternative hike follows the lower level route (but equally scenically impressive) of Glen Nevis and Steall Falls. The rugged beauty of this glen has been captured in many films including the Harry Potter series and Braveheart, so this majestic trek will not disappoint.
Our guide will lead us through a whiskey tasting back at our guesthouse, introducing us to the subtle smoky notes and fiery history of Scotch whisky. This evening, we make our way to a lively local pub to celebrate our efforts in the mountains and moors.
Included Meals
Breakfast, lunch and dinner
Accommodations
Guisachan Guest House or Lime Tree An Ealdhain in Fort William
The Hike
Option 1 – Ben Nevis Hike: 11 miles (18 km), which takes about 7–9 hours, with a 4, 435 foot (1,352 m) ascent. It is a steep path throughout, rough and rocky near the top and often snow-covered on the higher areas with some powder patches remaining in summer months. Note: The Ben Nevis hike will only be possible if weather permits. An alternative will be offered if the high level hike isn’t recommended by the guide.
Option 2 – Glen Nevis Hike: 2.25 miles (3.5 km), which takes about 1.5–2 hours, with a 721 foot (220 m) ascent. It’s a clear path but very rough and rocky with steep drops in some places. Expect some rock and roll!
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Day 7
The Sound of Arisaig
Paddling into Peace
We can air our punky hiking boots for the day! In the morning we have a guided sea kayaking experience in the serene Sound of Arisaig. There are intimate coves, rock skerries and remote beaches to discover and a resident colony of curious seals that we will float past.
After an alfresco lunch, we can poke along the white sand beaches of the Morar coastline searching for fascinating rock formations and tidal seaside creatures for one hour and then spend some free time in Fort William. The town center has several traditional Scottish stores selling crafts, clothing and outdoor gear.
Tonight we gather for a celebratory farewell dinner in Fort William before returning to our guest house.
Included Meals
Breakfast, lunch and dinner
Accommodations
Guisachan Guest House or Lime Tree An Ealdhain in Fort William
The Hike
Beach Hike: 1.25 miles (2 km) which takes about one hour along dune paths and sandy beach.
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Day 8
Inverness
Departure
Today brings our Highlands hiking journey to a close. But what a high it was! After one last leisurely breakfast together, we transfer back to our starting point in Inverness and for a drop-off at the Inverness Railway Station (in the city center) around 12:30 p.m. The train to Inverness Airport is 10 minutes. Please do not book flights before 3:30 p.m. from Inverness Airport to allow for any potential travel delays. If you are departing from Edinburgh, please take into consideration the additional train travel international flight check-in times.
Included Meals
Breakfast
Take a Deeper Dive
Want all the details in one handy package? Download the full itinerary here.
What’s Included
- Awesome and professional female trip guide(s)
- Loch Ness Zodiac ride
- Entry to Eilean Donan Castle
- Scenic boat trip to Loch Coruisk
- All local ferries as required by itinerary
- Privately guided hikes in different regions of the Highlands and islands
- Half-day guided sea kayak experience in the Arisaig Skerries
- Seven nights shared accommodation in cozy hotels and guesthouses
- Seven breakfasts, seven lunches and six dinners
- Hiking Poles
- Snacks and fruit throughout
- One soft drink with Day 1 lunch and evening meals
- Guide-led whisky tasting
- Gratuities for included meals
- Return local transportation from Inverness including local ferries
Please Note:
All applicable taxes are included in the trip price.
Optional single room upgrade, subject to availability.
Itineraries may be subject to change without notice due to weather and other environmental conditions. Please review our Booking Terms.
Trip Details
Know Before You Go
Click HERE for all of the logistical details you’ll need to know prior to departure—including the packing list, arrival and departure details and suggested tipping information.
This trip starts in Inverness, Scotland an finishes in Inverness, Scotland. Please refer to the “Know Before You Go” link above for directions on how to get to Inverness.
Hiking
There are several hiking options on this trip, but the group must collectively decide on which route they will hike together. The guide will offer detailed information on the terrain, length and technical aspects of each hike; she will also assess the group’s skill, pace and weather conditions, which will influence which hike is the best for everyone.
The Wild Women Way
If you’re wondering how we roll, it’s together. The Wild Women Way is our modus operandi, our mantra and our rock solid foundation. You can learn more about our Wild Ways HERE.
How We Support You
Ready for a big adventure? We’re in it together. On this trip, we hike over rugged terrain for long stretches at a time, several days in a row. We’ll also be exploring the coastline via kayak on one of the days. Yes, it’s a challenge, but you’re never alone. Like thousands of women before you, you’ll draw on strength you didn’t know you had and come out feeling like the goddess you are.
Like all our trips, this trip can be scaled to suit different abilities and comfort levels. If you have concerns or reservations about your ability to complete or enjoy this trip due to any physical or medical reasons, please contact us and let’s talk about it.
What the Trip Entails
This is an active adventure. You must be comfortable with the following:
- Hiking over rough, boggy and uneven terrain for an average of 2–10 hours per day
- Climbing uphill to heights of 4,436 feet (1,352 meters) on the Ben Nevis hike (optional activity)
- Carrying a 13–30L daypack each day
- Paddling in a solo kayak for 2–4 hours
- Being in and on the water; there may be unexpected swims
- If you don’t swim, please let us know!
- Physical Rating: Moderate – Challenging (Be prepared for active physical activity. Trips average 5 to 8 hours of physical activity most days, and depending on the shape you are in, they typically require activity specific training ahead of the trip.)
