About the Experience
Gallop along a deserted beach as you take in the turbulent coast and mist-shrouded lochs and heather in full bloom…this is just a teaser of the full embrace that horseback riding in the Scottish Highlands offers.
On this trip you’ll find your inner warrior by learning the fine art of archery on horseback! You’ll also learn how to distill a bespoke gin, make a twee wool keepsake and hear some of the tall tales rooted deep in the castles, abbeys and fishing boats of Kintyre. The Kintyre Peninsula is the ancient home of the Kings of Dalriada and the area is steeped in Scottish history. The landscape is hilly with wide open beaches, rocky crags and unmatched views out the Inner Hebrides islands.
This partial point-to-point ride moves through the most southwesterly point of Scotland’s ancient forests, winding rivers, time-sculpted cliffs and impossibly purple hillsides. Climb the ridges of mountain ranges and absorb the expansive views (all the way to Ireland) over the steely Atlantic. Expect hillside picnics with the horses, divine three-course dinners and a farmhouse stay made even cozier with new friends.
You’ll never ride the same route twice as we partially ride from the base–some nights we will leave the horses on the trail (but riders will return to the farmhouse for pampering!). Stay at the pastoral Glen Kerran Farm, a 150-year-old- traditional stone Scottish farmhouse in a secluded glen with a hyper local menu of produce from the on-site farm. Women will be encouraged to take care of their horse during the week which allows for intimate bonding. providing great time for bonding and empowerment.
Disconnect and reconnect with a horse in the peace of Glen Kerran Farm and discover the supernatural wild landscapes of Scotland in an intimate way–by horse and boat!
About the Experience
Gallop along a deserted beach as you take in the turbulent coast and mist-shrouded lochs and heather in full bloom…this is just a teaser of the full embrace that horseback riding in the Scottish Highlands offers.
On this trip you’ll find your inner warrior by learning the fine art of archery on horseback! You’ll also learn how to distill a bespoke gin, make a twee wool keepsake and hear some of the tall tales rooted deep in the castles, abbeys and fishing boats of Kintyre. The Kintyre Peninsula is the ancient home of the Kings of Dalriada and the area is steeped in Scottish history. The landscape is hilly with wide open beaches, rocky crags and unmatched views out the Inner Hebrides islands.
This partial point-to-point ride moves through the most southwesterly point of Scotland’s ancient forests, winding rivers, time-sculpted cliffs and impossibly purple hillsides. Climb the ridges of mountain ranges and absorb the expansive views (all the way to Ireland) over the steely Atlantic. Expect hillside picnics with the horses, divine three-course dinners and a farmhouse stay made even cozier with new friends.
You’ll never ride the same route twice as we partially ride from the base–some nights we will leave the horses on the trail (but riders will return to the farmhouse for pampering!). Stay at the pastoral Glen Kerran Farm, a 150-year-old- traditional stone Scottish farmhouse in a secluded glen with a hyper local menu of produce from the on-site farm. Women will be encouraged to take care of their horse during the week which allows for intimate bonding. providing great time for bonding and empowerment.
Disconnect and reconnect with a horse in the peace of Glen Kerran Farm and discover the supernatural wild landscapes of Scotland in an intimate way–by horse and boat!
DAY ONE: ARRIVAL
Upon arrival at the Campbeltown airport or bus depot, a shuttle will be available (based on late afternoon/early evening arrivals) to Glen Kerran Farm where we will meet our hosts Cara and Nikki (and the herd). Our group will gather for an authentic farmhouse dinner at 7PM. The dining table view overlooks the horses grazing in the fields below–now that’s ambience! We’ll share our horse history and after dinner (you won’t want it to end!), our guides will walk (and gallop) us through the itinerary and discuss general housekeeping so we can kick-off smoothly in the morning.
Meals Included: Dinner
Tonight’s Sweet Sleep: Glen Kerran Farm
DAY TWO: HORSEMANSHIP
After breakfast, we’ll start the day with some basic horsemanship training in the arena. We will play a game to explore the concept of communication without words before heading out and putting this into practice with some horses. This groundwork will allow us to better understand our own energy presence, precision and ability to bond with the horses via simple tricks and games. By the end of the session, we should be able to control our horses with a slight head nod or finger waggle. Building this relationship with our steeds will establish a solid foundation for the adventure ahead.
After lunch in the farmhouse, we will test and strengthen our newly minted friendships before spending the rest of the afternoon enjoying a hack around the farm.
This ride will help acquaint us with our horses over differing terrain and paces through the forests and rivers of Scotland’s big backyard.
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Tonight’s Sweet Sleep: Glen Kerran Farm
DAY THREE: A RIVER RUNS THROUGH IT
Today we will leave the familiarity of the farm and journey into the wilderness en route to the horses first night away from home. This will be an opportunity to test our horses over a range of terrain and paces as we navigate river crossings and encounter some hill work.
We’ll picnic with our horses on the trail in the calming hill lochs that are deep with history and looming legends. This will be a demanding but rewarding day for both horse and rider.
In the evening, we’ll return to the farmhouse for a satisfying homecooked meal.
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Tonight’s Sweet Sleep: Glen Kerran Farm
DAY FOUR: CALL OF THE WILD
We will hit the hills with a big, full-day trail ride across the countryside. Today is a beautiful opportunity to bond with our horses, take in the expansive views and the unforgettable heather in bloom. We will learn how to navigate the challenging wild terrain and unexpected natural obstacles as we traverse the peninsula east to west along one of its highest ridges. Be prepared for a long day in the saddle as this day is truly the “Call of the Wild”. Fret not–we’ll stop for a picnic lunch in the company of our stoic horses out in the wilds along the way.
Back at the farm, we’ll enjoy some well-deserved chill out time. Kick back, relax, sink into a hot bath and then we’ll feast!
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Tonight’s Sweet Sleep: Glen Kerran Farm
DAY FIVE: BOATING AROUND WEST KINTYRE
Today we will explore Kintyre’s west coast on our own private chartered boat. Sgarbh started her life in 1947 as a local herring boat and was converted and restored to a 20-tonne, 40-foot classic teak motor yacht. This bespoke opportunity will revolve around stunning scenery, a deep dive into local history and divine food and drink.
After a relaxed breakfast at Wilder Ways, we will be picked up by taxi at 11AM for a 90-minute drive up the west coast to the twee village of Crinan overlooking the Sound of Jura. Here, we’ll meet our salty dog Skipper, Ross Ryan. Ross has sailed all his life (Sgarbh has been helmed by Ross’s family for 40 years) and is extremely knowledgeable about the area–he’s a natural-born storyteller. As an artist, he is magnetically drawn to the dramatic seascapes of this coastline.
We’ll navigate the local islands on high alert for wildlife! Fun fact: the boat’s name is Scottish Gaelic for cormorant. Ross will regale us with a fun lunch and learn on the boat, sharing Sgarbh’s restoration process and the sea adventures they’ve shared.
Our boat trip will draw to a close in the historic Crinan Canal. Built in 1801, the Crinan Canal is considered Britain’s most beautiful short cut. It safely connects the Clyde to the Inner Hebrides, eliminating the need to navigate the often-treacherous Mull of Kintyre.
We will return to Campbeltown for a superb dining experience at No 42. Foodies will be thrilled with the local seafood offerings and a taste of Scotland’s finest grass-fed beef.
Satiated, we will return to Wilder Ways after our big taste of the west coast for a sound night’s sleep. We’ll be back in the saddle in the morning!
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Tonight’s Sweet Sleep: Glen Kerran Farm
DAY SIX: BEACH RIDE
Rested and recharged, we’ll pick up our steeds (who also had R&R) to enjoy a full day on the beach. We will feel the wind in our hair and the brine of the ocean deep in our nose. The pure freedom of horse and rider gunning down the sand without worry is an unmatched feeling of thundering hooves and pounding hearts. For those not yet comfortable with a full gallop, don’t worry, speed on the beach is optional! At a slower pace you embrace the tranquility and true sparkle of this stunning coastline and uninterrupted views of the Inner Hebrides. These teal waters are ideal for spotting seals and fishing seabirds along the way–we can even take the horses for a swim if the weather and tides allow. We’ll have lunch with our horses on the beach before returning to the farm for the evening.
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Tonight’s Sweet Sleep: Glen Kerran Farm
DAY SEVEN: HORSEBACK ARCHERY
It’s time to channel our inner warriors! Nothing can prepare you for the thrill and satisfaction of shooting arrows from a running horse. It’s an instant connection to our warrior past–it’s feral and exhilarating! Cue up Robin Wright as General Antiope in Wonder Woman 1984! We’ll spend the morning practicing ground archery skills before mounting our trusted steeds in the afternoon. In between, we’ll have a farmhouse lunch before carrying on, empowered, ready for battle!
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Tonight’s Sweet Sleep: Glen Kerran Farm
DAY EIGHT: CASTLES, GIN & ROCK AND ROLL
After breakfast at Wilder Ways, we will be picked up at 10:30AM by our gracious host Emma Macalister Hall, the chatelaine of Torrisdale Castle Estate. Emma is a gushing ambassador for Kintyre and will quickly pull us in for some good ‘craic’ (Scottish banter).
Emma will accompany us on a magical minibus ride up the east coast of the Kintyre peninsula to Saddell Estate where we will learn about the intriguing history of the castle and abbey. For Beatlemaniacs, we will also walk along the very beach where Paul McCartney’s “Mull of Kintyre” music video was shot!
If the tide permits, we’ll see the life-size brooding (and naked) Anthony Gormley sculpture–it’s one of five commissioned by Landmark Trust to celebrate their 50th anniversary and the only Gormley sculpture in Scotland.
Next, we will head to Emma’s home, Torrisdale Castle Estate and grab a hot coffee or tea before a tour around the impeccable grounds of her castle. She’ll share generational stories and the evolution of the castle to include an on-site gin distillery and renewable energy generation.
We’ll have a light lunch at the estate’s distillery café before a totally unique experience – gin school! This is the only Wild Women Expedition trip that offers such higher learning! We will spend the afternoon tasting and blending our very own original gin, have a tour of the sustainable distillery and learn about the practices used by Beinn an Tuirc Distillers Ltd.
Emma will accompany us back to Campeltown to enjoy a memorable two-course dinner at the Ardshiel Hotel. This award-winning whisky bar has been run by proprietors Flora and Marion for several years and is the ideal place to kick back and end our day. And what a day! From gin school to a whisky bar!
After dinner we will be dropped off at Wilder Ways for zzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzz’s.
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Tonight’s Sweet Sleep: Glen Kerran Farm
DAY NINE: BEHIND THE SCENES
On our last full day together, Nikki and Cara, our hosts, will take us behind the scenes. After breakfast, we’ll take a leisurely walk around the farm to learn how the women use the land for growing food, foraging, feeding the herd and supporting the natural environment in a sustainable way. Nikki, is a bonafide botanist who has surveyed most of the Scottish uplands and coastline over her 25 years in the field.
We will also have some intimate time with the horses out at pasture before returning to the farmhouse for a hyper local lunch, enjoying the natural ingredients we have foraged. This meal is worth the sweat equity and open-air “grocery shopping” experience.
After lunch, we can relax by the open fire, listen to Celtic music and swap stories as we play with “home-grown wool” to make a wee keepsake from our truly wild Scottish adventure.
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Tonight’s Sweet Sleep: Glen Kerran Farm
DAY TEN: DEPARTURE
After our last breakfast together (sigh), we will say goodbye to our beloved steeds, guides and fellow Wild Women warriors. Our group will be dropped off in Campbeltown around 7:30-8:00AM at the local bus station or airport. Please book your departure flights accordingly!
Please note: This drop-off time is based on current bus and flight schedules departing Campbeltown. Loganair flights (subject to change) currently depart Campbeltown at 9:05AM (arriving in Glasgow 9:45AM, except Sundays when only evening flights are available). The current bus schedule (subject to change) departs Campbeltown at 8:35am arriving in Glasgow at 12:48PM.
Where will the herd gather next?
Meals Included: Breakfast
Please note: Riders must be fit, adventurous and competent riders, at least to rising trot. Cantering and galloping are optional. No prior archery experience is necessary. The order of activities may alter depending on Mother Nature’s mood (weather and tides).
Click here to see upcoming trip dates to book your spot!
- via bus (West Coast Motors; book through https://www.citylink.co.uk/): currently, the bus leaves from Buchannan Bus Station in Glasgow at 2 PM arriving in Campbeltown at 6.17 PM.
- via plane (Loganair): currently there is a flight that departs Glasgow at 4.30 PM arriving Campbeltown 5.15 PM.
Please note that bus and flight times are subject to change, and all options may not be available on weekends and holidays.
If you are driving, you can head straight to Glen Kerran farm anytime after 5:30 PM. Take the A82 out of Glasgow, turning left (looks straight on) at Tarbet (Loch Lomond) onto the A83 signposted Campbeltown and follow the long coast-road down the peninsula. From Campbeltown take the B842 towards Southend until you see the turn-off for Glen Kerran Farm – PA28 6PJ.
If you prefer to make your way to the farm by taxi, you can arrange your own transport. Rates are £15 from Campbeltown and £20 from the airport. Roys Taxis | A Reliable Campbeltown Taxi Service | Campbeltown, Argyll & Bute
Note: If you are arriving independently, please do not check into the Glen Kerran Farm before 5:30 PM on Day 1.
Group Rendezvous Point
- Date: Day 1
- Time: Between 6 – 7 PM
- Location: Glen Kerran Farm
Notes about Pick-Up:
- A partner waiver for Wilder Ways to be filled upon arrival.
- You will be met by taxi at either the Campbeltown Airport, or the Campbeltown Bus Station. Pickup time will be between 5 – 7 PM, depending when most women are arriving. This time will be confirmed in a final pre-trip bulletin sent out about one month before your trip.
- Look for a sign saying Wild Women Expeditions.
- Campbeltown: https://machrihanishdunes.com/stay/the-royal-hotel/
- Glasgow: There are many hotels in Glasgow near the airport and in the city centre. Search online to find one that suits your budget and location.
Drop-Off Point:
- Date: Day 10
- Time: Between 7:00-8:00 AM
- Location: Campbeltown Airport or Bus Station
Flight: Current Loganair schedule (subject to change) departs Campbeltown 9.05am arriving in Glasgow 9.45am (except Sundays – evening fight only at 5:35 PM, arriving in Glasgow at 6:15 PM).
Bus: Current Citylink schedule (subject to change) departs Campbeltown at 8.35 AM arriving Glasgow at 12.48 PM.
- Campbeltown: https://machrihanishdunes.com/stay/the-royal-hotel/
- Glasgow: There are many hotels in Glasgow near the airport and in the city centre. Search online to find one that suits your budget and location.
Should you require assistance with your travel arrangements, please contact:
Megan and Zale | Now Boarding Travel Travel Specialist
Email: wildwomen@nowboarding.travel
Note: Now Boarding Travel only provides services of 3-star quality or greater. For budget alternatives, please refer to the Lonely Planet guide for your destination.
Important: For international and remote destinations, there is always the risk of flight delays, baggage delays and flight schedule changes which may cause late arrivals, which may, in return, result in you missing the group tour departure. For these reasons, we encourage you to consider arriving a day early, which will also help you overcome any jet lag from traveling!
- Passport
Most countries and airlines recommend passports be valid for at least six months beyond the date of your expected return to your home country. Before you leave, ask your transportation company about its requirements related to passport validity, which may be more stringent than the country’s entry rules.
- Visa
Visa information is available via VisitScotland.com
Note: As fees and policies can change, we highly recommend that you contact your local embassy or consulate for the most up-to-date visa requirements, or see your travel agent.
There is no obligation to tip your guides, but many participants do when they feel they were provided great service. We are often asked what an appropriate amount is; most participants who provide a gratuity for their guides have each tipped in the range of £5-£10 per day per guide. There will be 2-3 guides on your trip.
- Rooming Arrangements
Rooms are available as follows:
- Downstairs Triple = Large room with 3 people in 3 twin beds
- Upstairs Double Loft = 2 people, 1 in a double bed, 1 in a twin bed
- Upstairs Single = 1 person in 1 double bed (or couple)
- Upstairs Double = 2 people in 2 twin beds
- The Upstairs Single room is available for an upgrade fee, on a first come, first served basis. If no one selects the single upgrade, the rooms will be allocated based on roommate preferences first (those traveling together in twos and threes) and then by random selection. Please contact support@wildwomenexpeditions.com to enquire about this upgrade.
- Bathrooms
Rooms have either ensuite bathroom or adjacent bathroom shared with the other room.
- Electricity / Internet / WiFi / Cell Coverage
Scotland enjoys a constant electricity supply throughout the country (including the Highlands and Islands). Power cuts are rare and are usually fixed very quickly. You will need a Type G electrical adapter will be required. Voltage is 220-240 Volts. For North American appliances (110-120V electronics) you will also need a step-down transformer unless otherwise specified on the electrical device. Wifi is available at Glen Kerran Farmhouse and cell coverage is quite good in the area.
- Power Plugs and Sockets
- Potable Water
Tap water throughout is drinkable, unless otherwise specified.
If you would like to join Wild Women Expeditions in its commitment to reducing single-use plastic, you can travel prepared with your own water treatment system!
Each night, we will be staying in a traditional, 150-year-old stone farmhouse. There is ‘point to point’ riding and activities in different locations, and you will get to come back to the same venue each night.
The farm sits in beautiful countryside which you are welcome to roam in your spare time. There is an eclectic menagerie of animals for you to pet and care for as much as you wish during your stay. During the evenings there is plenty of time and space to enjoy the company of like-minded folk, reflect on your adventures and have the chance to be creative, whether that is writing poetry, playing some music, singing, painting or just hanging out and chatting in the tranquillity of the farm. Why not even try it the old Scottish way of the women and learn to sing Scottish songs whilst you spin some wool from our very own flock of Shetland Sheep.
Please note that ATM cash machines are not available in the area where you will be staying, and not everyone accepts credit cards, so it’s important to make sure you plan ahead.
- Scotland’s Currency
Being a part of the UK, Scotland uses the British Pound Sterling (£).
- Currency Exchange Offices & Banks
If you need to change currency you will usually find a currency exchange counter at international airports. You may have to show your passport in order to be able to exchange money and a fee is usually associated. Best to change large amounts so you only pay the fee once.
Please check online for current exchange rates. Wild Women Expeditions likes XE Currency Converter
We highly suggest you read this article: Where to Exchange Currency Without Paying Huge Fees for more information about this for your trip.
- Automated Teller Machine (ATM)
One of the most convenient ways to get cash is by using an ATM. You will often receive better exchange rates, even though you have to pay a service fee, as with most ATMs outside your bank network. Ask your bank if there are branches at your destination where you can take advantage of free cash withdrawals. (ex. Scotiabank (in Canada) and Barclay’s Bank (in the UK) have this arrangement).
If you plan to use an ATM on arrival, do so at the airport or city centre, before you head out to the farm, where you will not have access to cash.
- Credit Cards
Widely (but not universally) accepted in Scotland. If you have a credit card, you can use the ATM to purchase local currency directly. Your monthly balance usually shows the exchange rate you received on purchases made with the credit card.
- Cash
Cash machines are very infrequent in this part of the world so we recommend you carry some cash.
This is the best way to pay for items in the communities we will be visiting. Local artisans and craft shops may not have credit/debit machines. As well, cash is best for tipping your guides.
- Taxes
Scotland (part of the United Kingdom) is subject to VAT (Value Added Tax). VAT is included in prices and is redeemable on purchases over £50 upon exiting the UK. Ask for the VAT return slip at point of sale.
A medical emergency situation is extremely unlikely; however, should it arise we need to be prepared with the necessary information to help you.
Important Note: If you choose not to disclose a condition, infirmity, injury, or ailment herein and are subsequently deemed to be unfit for expedition travel due in whole or in part to such condition, infirmity, injury or ailment, Wild Women Expeditions guides, and partners shall have the right to remove you from the trip with no refund or compensation payable. Any evacuation expenses incurred are payable by the evacuee via their medical travel insurance or personal expense.
Getting Fit
You don’t have to be a professional athlete to enjoy your Wild Women expedition. Not by a long shot! You’ll be surprised at what you can achieve with our experienced guides at your side and a little camaraderie.
That said, you’ll definitely enjoy yourself far more if you do some preparation so your body is conditioned and ready to enjoy and make the most of the outdoors.
Here are a few ideas to help you get ready:
- Ride!
You will be spending 4-5 hours each riding day with your bum in a saddle, so please ensure you get some riding in before this trip.
- Work your Core.
Keeping good posture and balance on a horse requires a strong core, especially when going up and down steep trails. Doing pilates, or a balanced (focused on strength as well as flexibility) yoga program, can be a great way to prepare for this trip.
- Take every opportunity you can to be active.
You can improve your fitness a lot just by adopting some new habits; take the stairs at work, go for a walk at lunchtime, park your car away from work and walk. Aim for 30 minutes a day and keep a diary so you can look back on it and feel proud. These may sound trivial but they’re all building blocks!
- Join a local walking or running group.
This is a great way to get fit and you’ll also see new places, meet great people… and make them all jealous when they find out what you’re about to go on your travels.
- Warm up, cool down and stretch.
If you’re doing a workout then make sure you start and finish gently and stretch any tight muscles – this will help you avoid any aches, pains and pulled muscles. If you’re a member of a gym try some yoga, tai chi or pilates classes to build up your flexibility, stability and balance.
- Hydration.
When you suddenly ask your body to walk or be active, it needs a bit more fuel than it needs when, say, sitting at a desk all day! The main thing your body needs is water, so stay hydrated and practice sipping water often. Getting a water bottle or hydration bladder is a great way to make sure you have it on hand at all times. Make a habit out of taking a bottle of water with you wherever you go.
- Nutrition.
Eating little and often will keep your body well fuelled for outdoor exercise, especially food like nuts, dried fruit and bread. The odd bit of chocolate and a few boiled lollies are good for keeping your blood sugar levels up while you’re hiking as well!
- Have fun!
The most important point of all! You are about to embark on the trip of a lifetime. You’re going to meet some amazing people, see some wonderful places and create memories that will stay with you for life. The more prepared you are to tackle the various challenges, the more fun you will have. Also, with all the endorphins you create from all this training, you’ll be smiling from ear to ear! It’s a great way to boost your happy vibes.
- For more information on getting fit!
Check out our blog, Getting Fit: For a Horseback Riding Trip, which includes a 20 minute workout video specifically aimed at preparing the muscles you’ll need for riding.
Riding Skills
This trip can accommodate intermediate and advanced riders. The ability to comfortably trot (rising trot) is essential, and the ability to canter comfortably in the open is desirable. Adventurous riders will have opportunities to gallop on the beach, while others choose to trot or canter. All riders must be confident stopping a strong horse, and riding with distractions such as traffic, farm equipment, other animals and people. It is recommended that participants have as much time in the saddle (English style) before the trip as possible. You will spend 5 – 6 hours/day in the saddle for 5 days, which is demanding on the body even for a regular rider.
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BOOK NOW -
Starting At$6,495Deposit$995Duration10 DAYS
- 🇺🇸USD PRICEFOREIGN EXCHANGE FEES MAY APPLY
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What's Included
- All decadent meals from dinner on Day 1 to breakfast day 10. Breakfasts will be at the farmhouse, some lunches will be packed when riding, and dinners will be mixed: 2-course (5 nights), 3-course (two nights) and two additional dinners of non-set menus
- 3 full days of trail riding (English-style)
- 1 day of horsemanship, arena lessons and short hack day
- Gin distilling lesson and (optional) tasting
- Private chartered west coast boat tour
- 9 sweet nights in a traditional 150-year-old stone farmhouse
- 1 day horseback archery (with on-ground lesson)
- Maximum group size: 6 Wild Women
- *Please note: You must weigh no more than 180 pounds to participate in this riding trip
- Airport transfers (arrival and departure)
- All applicable taxes are included in the trip price