guided hiking tours in scotland

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Scotland Walking Holidays

Walking holidays in scotland’s secret places, join us off the beaten track on our guided scotland walking holidays.

Our small group & private tours explore beautiful and remote landscapes in the Scottish Highlands & Islands. Discover wildlife and history, connect with local people and Scottish culture, and enjoy freedom and relaxation hiking in wide and open nature. Let us create your perfect Scottish walking holiday! 

Guided Walking Tours

Cornwall Walking Holiday – Hiking Along the South West Coast Path

Magic Of The Western Isles – The Outer Hebrides

Sailing and Walking Holiday – The Isle of Skye and the Small Isles

Loch Lomond’s Hills & Islands

Hiking Small Mount Ben A’an Trossachs National Park

Waterfalls, Goats & Whisky on the West Highland Way

Guided walking holidays.

Guided Hiking in Scotland. Connect with Nature, Explore, Experience, Relax. Hiking in the Highlands brings you up close and in touch with Scotland’s outstanding landscapes, nature, wildlife and people.

Tailor-Made Hiking Tours

Customised Private Tours. Explore Scotland with your personal guide, tailor made just for you, your family and friends. Tour with your own bespoke itinerary and travel at a pace that suits you.

Women's Tours

Hiking Adventures for Women. Welcome to Scotland, Ladies! We are a woman-owned tour company and have been designing walking holidays and hiking adventures since 2003.

Small Groups of Max 8

Local guides, hiking off the beaten track, authentic small hotels, sustainable tourism with walk wild scotland, we are committed to promoting and developing sustainable, responsible ways of travel.

Our knowledgeable guides are passionate about conveying a deep understanding of, and respect for, the environment. We keep our groups small to ensure that we leave a limited footprint, as well as creating a meaningful and authentic experience for our guests.

When planning your Scotland hiking trip, note that both Edinburgh and Glasgow are well connected to the European and international transport system. We encourage you to choose rail travel whenever possible. For those flying to Scotland, we invite you to consider offsetting the carbon emissions of your flights via Atmosfair . We are striving to become a carbon-neutral enterprise by 2030.

Learn more about Walk Wild Scotland’s  Green Tourism  commitment and sustainable tourism accreditation.

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We’re proud of our excellent Scotland Walking Tours reviews!

As a leading Scottish ecotourism business we are committed to promoting responsible and sustainable travel. We champion the ‘leave no trace’ initiative and much more.

History & Wildlife

Explore Scotland’s incredible flora and fauna. Meet Scottish people and get close to history, castles and culture. Join us on a journey of discovery.

Walking the West Highland Way

A Brief Guide To The Scottish Highlands

Scotland Off The Beaten Path

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                      Walking and Hiking Tours in Scotland

Scotland's Western Highlands and Isle of Skye

Scotland: Isle of Skye and the Outer Hebrides

Scotland: The Great Glen Way Self-Guided Tour

• Sup erb Guid es
• Over 30 years of experience
• Quaint and Authentic hotels, inns and B&B's
• "Pub" life
• Carefully created intineraries
• Moors, Woodland, Lakes, Lush Valley's, and Mountains
• History, Culture and Literature

Guided & Self-Guided Walking and Hiking Tours in Scotland

Scotland: Western HIghlands and Isle of Skye

GUIDED 

$3,975 - 7 NIGHTS / 8 DAYS

The Scottish Highlands-- a vast land of raw beauty and rugged mountains, unspoiled wilderness and majestic scenery. 

$3,975 - 7 Nights / 8 Days

And off-shore lie the Hebrides, a myriad of magical islands rugged landscapes that  slide unhurriedly into the Atlantic.

The Great Glen Way

SELF-GUIDED

$1,350 - 8 Nights / 9 Days / 7 Days Walking

Discovering the impressive castles on the route, including Uruhart Castle and Ardverikie Castle.

West Highland Way - North Section

$975 - 6 Nights / 7 Days / 5 Days Walking

Climbing the challenging highland section of the West Highland Way..

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HIKING TOURS IN SCOTLAND

The scottish highlands remain a mysterious frontier even after thousands of years of human settlement. somehow the sweeping moors, deep forests, mountain valleys, and deep lochs remain as interminable and intriguing as they were when the scottish so heartily rebuked both the romans and the english..

Explore the best of Scotland with Ryder-Walker’s Guided Scotland: Highlands and Islands and the Self-Guided Rob Roy Way . Immerse yourself in the captivating Highlands and Islands trek, featuring our favorite hikes around the charming market town of Callander before traveling to the iconic Isle of Skye. Alternately, embark on the historic Rob Roy Way, tracing the life of the legendary robber-outlaw Rob Roy MacGregor.

You can imagine the old legends of knights and faeries coming to life as you hike through the ancient Scottish woods beneath the summits of the highest peaks in Scotland, the Munros (mountains over 3,000 ft). The Munros are featured in both the Highlands and Islands and the Rob Roy Way itineraries. Meanwhile, the Isle of Skye is a legendary location for good reason – the landscape here is truly austere with jagged peaks, remote villages, and medieval castles all adding to the brooding atmosphere of the landscape. Whether you are starting out your hiking day with a sturdy Scottish breakfast or arriving at a village just in time to catch a sheepdog exhibition, the eternal charm of the Scottish Highlands is sure to inspire you to explore the hidden mysteries of Scotland.

As a cultural excursion, our tours in Scotland are some of Ryder-Walker’s richest hikes, full of historic locations, local lore, and vibrant living culture. It’s hard not to fall in love with the Scottish sense of life. At night cheery traditional Scottish music fills the pubs with the sounds of fiddles, guitars, pipes, flutes, and drums. Scottish food is also an unsung hero, with the local pies, pub fare, and farm-to-table restaurants far exceeding the United Kingdom’s dim reputation for cuisine. You might even get a chance to try the infamous haggis, a pudding of spiced sheep’s pluck. Overall, you won’t find more warmth and cheer than in the chilly reaches of the Scottish Highlands and Isle of Skye.

Our Highlands and Islands tour focuses on what we think is the absolute best hiking across Scotland. The section that travels through the Scottish Highlands explores the Trossachs National Park – the same national park that the Rob Roy Way traverses. Here you will hike some of the highest peaks in Scotland and wander through the beech forests that inspired the nature poems of legendary Scottish poet Alexander Campbell. On the Isle of Skye, the trek takes a turn for the more dramatic, as the landscape of the far northern island reveals its true majesty. Notably, the Torridan mountains are a low-lying, and surprisingly dramatic chain of mountains known for their twisted rock formations. Other features of note in Skye are the island’s massive vistas, roaming sheep flocks, and windswept coastline.

The Rob Roy Way follows the life of a real-life Robin Hood; a tale of clan politics and resisting the changing world from the insular world of the remote highlands. Rob Roy MacGregor himself gained notoriety as a cattle thief and would end his life as a hero to all of Scotland. Along the Rob Roy Way, we visit locations where Rob Roy did battle with Spanish pirates, hid, and escaped from the law. We visit the historic home of the MacGregor clan, and the site of his eventual burial. Along the route, the Rob Roy Way explores remote stretches of the Southern Scottish Highlands, across moorland, and along the shores of Loch Tay. The Rob Roy Way is the perfect hike for someone who is looking for an adventure without any grueling challenge. While the Scottish wilderness is impressive and often austere, the hiking maintains a certain levity, and the Scottish Munros are never so huge that the hiking becomes truly difficult for any reason other than distance.

Choose your adventure and discover the beauty, history, and allure of Scotland with Ryder-Walker. Whether you’re drawn to the mystique of the Highlands and Islands trek or the historical charm of the Rob Roy Way journey, both hikes promise an unforgettable exploration of Scotland’s hidden mysteries and lore.

GUIDED TRIPS

Self-guided trips.

Scotland | Highlands and Islands

Scotland is a unique country boasting 790 diverse islands, a rugged coastline, thousands of hidden lochs, a distinctive culture, imposing mountains looming stoically against the wilds of the infamous Scottish climate and vast stretches of uncharted trails. During this trek we traverse many miles of awe-inspiring mountains and precipitous glens, summit dramatic peaks and ramble through mossy forests. We visit...

Guided Tour Date

Scotland | Scotland: Rob Roy Way

Walk in the footsteps of one of Scotland’s most brilliant outdoorsmen, legendary outlaws, and greatest heroes – Rob Roy MacGregor. Through green meadows, along the coasts of sapphire lochs and across the feet of snowcapped Munros (peaks over 3,000 feet), you walk as he did during this nine-day hiking tour through a beautiful region of the Scottish Highlands called the Trossachs....

Self-Guided Tour Date

Hear It From Our Guests

Need some help deciding choose your hiking style , recent posts.

Explore Four Favorite Gems of Scotland’s Highlands and Islands

The Real Story of Rob Roy MacGregor

Our Scotland hiking tour was amazing—here are some photos

Treks you might like, find your trek.

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Walking holidays & hiking tours in Scotland

Highlands & islands.

14 day guided walking tour Our full Scottish tour incorporates the best of the Highlands & Islands and includes amazing experiences found on the Isle of Skye, The Cairngorms and Glen Coe.

Isle of Skye

7 day guided walking tour Explore the Cullin Mountains, view the vast Cullin ridge, enjoy a stunning walk along the Duirinish Peninsula, take an evening cruise on a beautiful sea loch and more.

The Cairngorms

7 day guided walking tour Explore the ancient Rothiemurcus pine forest, experience walking on the Cairngorm Mountain Plateau, cruise on the Moray Firth to look for dolphins.

7 day guided walking tour Explore Glencoe, climb Ben Nevis, travel through the great Caledonian Glen, experience ‘The jacobite Express’ steam train, Castle Urquhart, Loch Ness and more

Mountain Journey Scotland

Guided walking holidays in scotland.

Mountain Journey Scotland is an adventure walking tour company. Offering a unique range of spectacular walking holidays with professional mountain guides.  We specialize in walking holidays for small groups of people and offers a range of holidays of varied durations exploring different areas of the Scottish Highlands.

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Scotland Hiking Tours & Trips

Find a Hiking & Trekking trip that explores Scotland. There are 12 adventures to choose from, that range in length from 5 days up to 11 days. You will visit outstanding places like Inverness and Fort William!

12 Scotland hiking holidays with 38 reviews

• Hiking & Trekking

Classic Walks of Scotland

The classic Walks of Scotland was my husband’s and my first experience with a group trip, We felt that everything went well, from the booking of the trip with Tourradar to the rest of the trip, hikes and bookings though Intrepid. The Intrepid group we hiked with was great and our guide, Kate, was very professional, attentive and fun. Thanks to Carmen and Phil from Guisachan Guest house for the comfortable and homey accommodations.

Walking Scotland’s Orkney Islands

I had been looking forward to Orkney for years. It was wonderful, and I am able to say that because of the Explore! tour that we found through Tourradar. First, the leader of the tour (Marco) was friendly, courteous, personable and highly professional. His assistant leader (Richie) was the same. We did a great variety of walks and visited several of the islands. We saw all of the ancient Neolithic sites (incredible). We ate at really good restaurants. All of this happened without any problem or worry because Marco put it together for us. We didn’t have to worry about a thing. We took walks of multiple miles and enjoyed the cliffs and seascape, the flowers, the birds, the vast rolling country. The company (a group of 13) was compatible and fun. The rides, in Explore! vans, we’re full of laughter and conversation. We will definitely look to this group for future plans. Thanks!!

• 10% deposit on some dates Some departure dates offer you the chance to book this tour with a lower deposit.

Scotland Walking & Hiking Tour.

Walking the Rob Roy Way

Walk the North West Highlands and Skye

Tour was great. Angela is amazing. She’s so knowledgeable and looked after the group at all times.

Walking the Speyside Way

Walking the West Highland Way

Walking the Isle of Skye

Great Glen Way - A Scottish Fairy Tale (9 days)

Scotland - West Highland Way - 8 days (8 days)

• Intl. Flights Included

Hogmanay on the Scottish West Coast - 8 days

• Flights included

Walk the Cairngorms in Summer

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• Northern Scotland (5)

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Raise a dram to Scotland’s Stunning Landscapes with Boundless Journeys

Strap on your boots for a hiking journey into Scotland like no other. Boundless Journeys’ Highlands & Islands Hiking tour combines the breathtaking cliff-lined coasts of the Orkney Isles, the Isle of Skye, and the sylvan wilderness trails of the Scottish Highlands.

Enjoy the stunning coastal beauty of two jaw-dropping isles, Burray and Hoy, and marvel at the remarkably preserved Neolithic ruins of Skara Brae. More magnificence awaits you in the Scottish Highlands and on the Isle of Skye: vast glens draped in pines and graced by bonnie brooks, moors blanketed with moss, and serene lochs that just may harbor a fabled monster or two. Visit two of Scotland’s spectacular castles, Eilean Donan and Urquhart, and enjoy a hike above the village of Plocton with views to the Isle of Skye.

With ample opportunity to toast the culture with whiskey, song, and dance on this Boundless Journeys Highlands & Islands Hiking tour, you’ll soon discover why Scotland is world-renowned for its splendid hiking trails and its warm embrace.

Scotland: Highlands & Islands Hiking Highlights

• Expand Setting sail for the mythic Orkney Isles , home to some of Europe's oldest and best-preserved Neolithic sites
• Expand Visiting the dramatically beautiful Isle of Skye whose striking landscape has inspired the likes of Sir Walter Scott and Lord Tennyson over the years
• Expand Hiking a variety of trails on such places as the island of Hoy and Glen Affric , widely regarded as one of Scotland's most beautiful valleys
• Expand Visiting two of Scotland's spectacular castles, Eilean Donan and Urquhart
• Expand Enjoying day-boat catches and local specialties such as smoked salmon, sticky toffee pudding, haggis!

What Our Guests Have To Say About This Tour

All of the days were fantastic, stunning scotland scenery, wonderful team, not to be missed, outstanding, exceeded my expectations, wonderful trip, great experience, a true pleasure, life affirming and never to be forgotten, this trip has much to offer, a very well ballanced trip., beynod expectations, our third boundless trip, i cannot say enough about how much i enjoyed the whole experience, best vacation ever, write a review, itinerary & accommodations.

Inverness to the Orkney Isles

• Activity Overview: Ferry ride to Burray
• Activity Level: Easy

We meet in Inverness, gateway to the Highlands, before traveling to the north coast to catch the ferry to Orkney. The Orkney Isles, about ten miles off the northern coast of Scotland, comprise an archipelago of about 70 islands. They boast some of Europe?s oldest and best-preserved Neolithic sites.

During our one-hour ferry crossing, we may spot a pod of dolphins riding the bow wave. Our destination is the island of Burray, just off the coast of Orkney?s main island, appropriately known by the locals simply as ?Mainland.? We settle in at our lovely hotel, built in 1860 as a fish store before it was renovated and transformed into a hotel in 1997. We enjoy a welcome dinner this evening.

Accommodations

Sands Hotel Burray, Scotland

Set in a 19th century building, the charming Sands Hotel is along the shore of Scapa Flow in the small fishing village of Burray. The modern and tastefully decorated rooms offer beautiful sea views overlooking Burray Harbor and Watersound Bay. The restaurant’s menu features the freshest local ingredients transformed into authentic Scottish specialties.

Coastal Hike & Skara Brae Stone Age Village

• Activity Overview: Hiking
• Activity Level: Easy to moderate
• Activity Length: 2 hours (about 2.5 miles) elevation gain up to 650’

We begin our exploration with a spectacular hike along the dramatic coast from Brough Head to Marwick Head. Have your binoculars ready, as this is home to one of the largest seabird colonies in Scotland, including Herring gulls, Lesser-backed gulls and Long-billed curlew. After our walk, we visit Skara Brae, a Stone Age village which thrived for 600 years, between 3200 and 2200 BC. It remained buried under coastal sands for millennia until 1850, when a winter storm battered Orkney and stripped away the grass and sediment that had hidden it for so long. Its structures remained incredibly preserved under the sand.

We end our day at the Scapa whisky distillery, witnessing what goes into making Scotland?s prized spirit and sampling a wee dram for ourselves.

The Old Man of Hoy

• Activity Level: Moderate
• Activity Length: 4 hours (about 6 miles); elevation gain up to 720’

A short morning drive takes us past Scapa Flow. Sheltered by five of the Orkney Isles, it is one of the world?s great natural harbors, having hosted naval fleets from the Viking era to the time of World War II. But with its shallow, sandy bottom, it has also been witness to many shipwrecks. Upon arrival in Houton, we embark on a ferry to Hoy, the archipelago?s second largest island.

Our hike today traces the island?s dramatic coast, with sweeping views of some of Britain?s highest and most spectacular cliffs. The day?s highlight is the sea stack known affectionately as the Old Man of Hoy, a 449-foot tower of basalt soaring from a rocky point at the foot of the sea. It was first climbed in 1966, in a daring ascent led by mountaineers Sir Charles Bonington and Dougal Haston, and televised by the BBC. We?ll have amazing views of the Old Man from nearby cliffs, and might even spot some climbers clinging to its vertical walls. We return via the picturesque Rackwick Bay, with its crescent beach.

Orkney to the West Highlands

• Activity Length: 1 hour (about 1.5 miles); elevation gain up to 165’

We ferry back to mainland Scotland today, then enjoy a scenic and leisurely four-hour transfer through the West Highlands to the picture-perfect village of Plockton. Along the way, we pause for photo opportunities and for a short hike into a cascading waterfall, where we might catch sight of salmon jumping against the torrent to get upriver.

In Plockton, there will be time to explore the waterfront lined with palm trees, perhaps meeting one of the artists who gather here to capture the area?s coastal charms on canvas. We close our day at the Plockton Inn, a cozy seaside spot boasting award-winning seafood and a friendly pub. If we a?re lucky, there wi?ll be local musicians playing traditional folk songs here.

Plockton Inn Plockton, Scotland

Set in the heart of the beautiful village of Plockton, in the West Highlands, the Plockton Inn is well known for its exceptional hospitality, award-winning seafood restaurant, and breathtaking sea views. Sample a local malt or ale in the lively pub while listening to traditional Scottish music of local musicians.

Isle of Skye

• Activity Length: 3 hours (about 4.3 miles); elevation gain up to 400’

Today we take our cue from the beloved folk tune, The Skye Boat Song, and speed 'over the sea to Skye' to the tiny settlement of Elgol. Here, we board a boat to the remote bay of Loch Scavaig, just as Queen Victoria herself once did. This beautiful body of water is surrounded by the Black Cuillin Mountains, which serve as the backdrop for our gently sloping hike along their base. The trail skirts the shores of Loch Coruisk, whose wild beauty and rugged mountains inspired Sir Walter Scott and Lord Tennyson to capture the gorgeous landscape in verse.

*If joining our August 2023 departure, this day will be devoted to attending the Isle of Skye Highland Games. This open-air event dates to 1877 and takes place on a scenic headland with views of the harbour. Locals and visitors alike flock to the 'Games Field' to watch an array of athletic and cultural competitions including Highland Dancing in full tartan regalia, bagpipping, and the 'Heavy Events,' in which athletes compete in areas such as hammer throw, weight over bar, caber toss, and tug of war, all while wearing a kilt! We are free to watch the spectacle at the field and meander the craft and food stalls.

Plockton to Loch Ness

• Activity Length: 3-4 hours, 6 miles, 1,000' elevation gain

Our day begins with a trail hike from our hotel in the village of Plockton. A steady and moderate ascent along even terrain rewards us at the summit with excellent views of Isle of Skye and the fishing village of Applecross. From here, we may peek at the village of Plockton a bit beyond the cairn. Our descent takes us through forested land and along the shore of a loch. We may be able to glimpse over the water to see a crannog — the remains of an ancient island dwelling.

A short drive after our hike delivers us to the Eilean Donan Castle. A Scottish icon set amidst magnificent vistas, it is easy to see why this is one of the country's most photographed spots. After a visit, we transfer to our lovely hotel in Fort Augustus — set at the southwest tip of the mysterious Loch Ness!

The Lovat Fort Augustus, Scotland

The Lovat is a landmark Victorian Loch Ness hotel overlooking the loch-side village of Fort Augustus. It is surrounded by stunning scenery, sitting at the southern tip of the mysterious deep waters of Loch Ness. This exceptional eco-friendly Highland hotel offers rooms of modern comfort combined with traditional aspects of Highland life, and views of the Highland mountains, Caledonian Canal or world-famous Loch Ness.

Glen Affric

• Activity Length: 4-7 hours (up to 10 miles); elevation gain up to 1300’

Today is one of our most scenic days as we hike the trails of Glen Affric, widely regarded as one of Scotland's most beautiful valleys. Blanketed by Scots pines, the glen's slopes reach up to resplendent peaks that overlook the pristine waters of Loch Affric. There are countless options for great hikes in this glen, so we're spoiled for choice. Our guide will decide on the best hike which will ensure magnificent views of this unique wilderness of pinewoods and moorland. If you're up for it, we may hike to a summit for an elevated panorama across the numerous peaks of the Highlands.

Loch Ness to Inverness

• Activity Overview: Scenic drive to Inverness and departures

After breakfast, we return to Inverness. But we can?t visit Loch Ness without pausing to look for the elusive monster in its waters. After stopping for a search, we continue to the lakeside ruins of Urquhart Castle, once a stronghold of Robert the Bruce, and one of Scotland?'s largest medieval castles. A final scenic drive returns us to Inverness and our journey?'s end.

Please note that this is a typical itinerary, and actual activities may vary due to weather conditions, local events, and to allow serendipity to play a hand in your experience. Accommodations are as outlined in the itinerary, although we reserve the right to change these or the order visited should the need arise.

Dates And Prices

Trip length.

Jun 8-15, 2024

Aug 3-10, 2024

Sep 7-14, 2024

*The Aug 3, 2024 and Aug 2, 2025 departures will attend the Highland Festival Games in Skye. Take over a date for your group! See "Make It Private" on Dates & Prices tab.

2024 Land Cost

From $ 5,495 Per Person

Single Supplement

First two reserved: $ 395

Additional: $ 895

See single supplement policy below .

Jun 7-14, 2025

Aug 2-9, 2025

Sep 6-13, 2025

2025 Land Cost

$ 5,495 Per Person

2025 PRICING GUARANTEE

2025 pricing is not yet set. Until it is, 2024 pricing will be honored for 2025 dates, up to a 5% increase.

MAKE IT PRIVATE

9+ Guests: $5,495 per person

5 to 8 Guests: $5,995 per person

Make it Private price is based on Land Cost only, and a guarantee of the specified number of guests in double occupancy. For groups smaller than the numbers shown, or those requiring single occupancy, we reserve the right to adjust the per person price. Additionally, some trips have minimum group sizes. Please call 1-800-941-8010 for details.

What's Included

• Expert leadership
• All accommodations
• All on-tour transportation
• All meals except one dinner (Day 6)
• Local beer and wine with included dinners
• Activities as noted in the itinerary
• Explorers Club savings on your next scheduled, small-group trip (conditions apply)

SINGLE SUPPLEMENT:  Accommodations are based on double occupancy. A single supplement is paid by participants who specifically request single accommodations, subject to availability.

Single Supplement for Scheduled Group Departures. If you reserve at least 120 days prior to departure, you may be eligible for a reduced or free single supplement. This is generally limited to the first one or two solo travelers to reserve, and the reduction is outlined in the pricing for each trip. Free or reduced single supplements are not combinable with other offers or promotions.

If you are traveling alone and wish to share accommodations, we will try to match you with a roommate of the same gender. If you reserve at least 120 days ahead and request a roommate but one is not available, you will receive a $500 reduction from the standard single supplement (unless otherwise noted in the detailed itinerary for your specific trip).

Single Supplement for Custom Tours . Custom Tour prices are generally based on two or more participants; therefore, single supplements for “solo” Custom Tours will vary and are available upon request.

What To Expect

Physical activity.

Boundless Journeys' trips are designed for energetic and flexible individuals who like to be active and have a spirit of adventure and a positive attitude. Scotland: Highlands & Islands Hiking is rated 3, moderate, on a scale of 1-5 (with 5 being the most strenuous). The hikes will be conducted at a leisurely pace, but average 4-7 hours per day on a full day of hiking. They are a mixture of hikes along coastal and loch paths, and through barren mountains and heather fields. Some days are planned as half-day hikes, and these are a bit easier.

The terrain in the Highlands is mountainous and rugged, and there are typically daily ascents and descents of up to 1,500 feet. Scotland has excellent walking paths, but not all trails have level footing. You may encounter roots, rocks, mud, and loose gravel. It is important that you are in generally fit aerobic shape. Our guides will select hikes that they feel will be enjoyable and appropriate for the ability level of the group. There are a wide variety of hikes available in each location, making it easy for our guides to pick the perfect outing each day.

Meeting Point

Inverness, Scotland

Departure Point

Traveling to and from.

Most Convenient Airport: Inverness, Scotland (airport code INV); or Edinburgh, Scotland (airport code EDI). Inverness is the most convenient as this is where the trip begins. Edinburgh may provide better flight options and will allow for exploration of this fascinating city before or after your trip.

Meeting Time and Place: Inverness, Scotland train station; 12:00 p.m. Your Boundless Journeys guide will meet you at the Inverness train station on Day 1 of our trip.

Departure Time and Place: Inverness, Scotland train station; 1:00 p.m.

Scotland's weather conditions can vary greatly, even in the course of a single afternoon. It is not uncommon to have deep blue skies followed by "soft" weather (the local term for a bit of rain). Then the cycle begins again. Therefore, it is essential to be prepared for a variety of conditions -- including dressing in layers and wearing quick-drying clothing. Waterproof hiking boots are not a bad idea either, as you may encounter water or mud along the trails. You can expect the average daytime temperatures to range from the low 60s to mid seventies (Fahrenheit), although it may feel colder on the hikes, especially if it is windy.

You may obtain more detailed weather information by visiting www.weatherbase.com.

High: 60 Low: 49

High: 63 Low: 52

Scotland enjoys a milder climate than you might expect, and spring comes quite early. We feel that spring and summer are ideal times to visit Scotland, as the temperatures are comfortable for walking.

Scottish cuisine has come a long way in the past decades, from a time when fish and chips, haggis, and meat pies where the only items to be found on the menu. Modern Scottish cuisine has grown from these traditional dishes and uses fresh local ingredients (seafood, lamb, and root vegetables) in culinary creations that are sure to delight. Vegetarians can be accommodated with advance notice, though choices tend to be more limited.

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About Our Guides

With a Boundless Journeys guide, your experience is that of friend and local adventurer. We believe strongly in working with local guides, experts in the areas to which we travel, and they hold the keys to unlocking the hidden delights of your chosen destination. Although you will never know they are at work—the mark of a truly great leader—our guides make magical things happen and add a dimension to your trip that you could not experience on your own. Over the years we have forged bonds with some of the best guides in the world, and we typically work with a small team of guides in each region. You will be informed of the guide for your trip one month prior to your departure.

• Departure Dates: Jun 8-15, 2024 Aug 3-10, 2024 Sep 7-14, 2024 Jun 7-14, 2025 Aug 2-9, 2025 Sep 6-13, 2025

Scotland: Highlands & Islands Hiking

Strap on your boots for a hiking journey into Scotland like no other. Boundless Journeys’ Highlands & Islands Hiking tour combines the breathtaking cliff-lined coasts of the Orkney Isles, the Isle of Skye, and the sylvan wilderness trails of the...

Hiking 4-7 hours per day on mountainous and rugged terrain with daily ascents and descents of up to 1,500 feet.

• Group Size: 4-14 Guests

Make it Your Own!

This trip can be your own adventure by taking over one of our scheduled dates, or we can request a fresh one.

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Outdoor holidays and guides across Scotland

Mountain Tours Scotland

Mountain Tours Scotland is a friendly and professional family run business operating from the beautiful Scottish Highlands on the shores of Loch Ness. We offer guided hikes up some of Scotland's most stunning mountains alongside full and half day walks for the more leisurely walker and suitable for all fitness levels. These include guide, transport and packed lunches. Our Great Glen Way hiking and cycling holidays are very popular and include accommodation, packed lunches, baggage transfer, walker support, person transfers, maps and detailed itinerary.

Torridon Outdoors

The mountain guides at Torridon Outdoors offer a unique and personal guiding service. With unique local knowledge of the Torridon area, including Liathach, Beinn Alligin and Beinn Eighe, and extensive experience of guiding across the rest of Scotland our fully qualified Summer and Winter Mountain Leaders will guide you safely and professional on any hill. We also offer packages and tailor made courses for those who are either looking for their first introduction to the hills or for those who are looking to take the next step in their adventures.

Contours Walking Holidays

Contours Holidays organise self-guided walking holidays in Scotland and the rest of the UK. We organise everything so you can walk your chosen route at your own pace, knowing that every detail is taken care of. We offer a broad variety of customisable holidays, complete with hand-picked service providers and excellent customer service. We cater for solo walkers, groups, families and walkers with dogs, thanks to our extensive selection of itineraries. With 20 long-distance Scottish trails to choose from, you are guaranteed to find your perfect walking holiday with Contours.

Alba Game Fishing

If you've ever considered combining hillwalking with fishing, we are Scotland's biggest supplier of fishing adventures and have a team of 20 guides throughout Scotland. We are Orvis Endorsed, and provide premium fishing tackle, waders, permits, transport in 4x4's, pro-photography and experienced fishing guides. We have access to some of the most exciting fishing in Scotland, in some extraordinary places, and can organise luxury accommodation, vacation planning and travel logistics. Target species, salmon, trout, pike, saltwater and sea trout.

Walk Wild Scotland

Walk Wild Scotland - walking holidays, hiking vacations and private tours in wild, remote and beautiful places in the Scottish Highlands & Islands. Small group tours offer a personal, diverse experience of Scotland exploring magnificent landscapes, spotting wildlife, relaxing over a delicious picnic, catching a boat to an island, connecting with Scottish folk, culture and history. We guide with expert care, experience, flexibility and passion.

Enjoy an exciting Scottish outdoor adventure - warm hospitality, excellent food, comfortable hotels. Your perfect holiday - relaxing in nature, fun, interesting, full of treats.

Atlas Mountaineering

Here at Atlas Mountaineering we are dedicated to bringing you the highest possible quality service, assuring that you get the most out of your trip, whether you want to try rock climbing for the first time or summit the highest mountain in the UK.

Not About The Summit

Eco-adventure specialist... Be empowered and enjoy inspirational walks, bike rides and expeditions with Lee from Not About The Summit, an enthusiastic and experienced Mountain Leader, Cycle Tourer and eco-adventurer. Specialising in bespoke guiding in remote, hard-to-reach locations like Knoydart, and making adventures more sustainable. Whatever your adventure idea, Not About The Summit will help you achieve your ambitions while being kind to the planet. I am based in Mallaig, so I'm your local guide for Knoydart, and I can travel anywhere in The Highlands, using public transport where possible.

About Argyll Walking Holidays

About Argyll Walking Holidays offers private guided walking holidays and hiking tours in beautiful but undiscovered parts of the Highlands and Islands of Scotland, from the Isle of Arran in the south, Argyll, many islands of the Inner Hebrides and all the way to the north-west Highlands and Orkney and Shetland. We will take you to quiet, remote corners that can only be reached on foot. Discover more about the history and culture, nature and landscape of what is one of the world's most excitingly varied small countries.

Thistle Trekking

We provide guided trekking and mountaineering throughout the UK. Whether you are walking your first long distance trail or climbing your final munro, let us organise everything for you. Our treks include fully qualified and friendly guides, your accommodation, luggage transfer and vehicle support, as well as a detailed information pack. Our treks include the West Highland Way, the Skye Trail, the Cape Wrath Trail and many more wonderful long distance trails. Our mountaineering holidays include the Cuillin summits of Skye, the giant mountains of Torridon, the Aonach Eagach Ridge and Ben Nevis.

Highland Wild Walks

We specialise in guided high and low level walks across the Highlands of Scotland for new and experienced walkers. Qualified Mountain Leaders, we love to share our knowledge of the landscape, flora, wildlife and hillcraft. Explore the mountains, glens, lochs and coast of the North and West Highlands and Cairngorms with us.

It isn't all about the walking. Just being in nature, sitting and watching, enjoying a wild swim or visiting historical sites can all be incorporated into your day out. We also offer navigation training and multi-day camping trips.

Roaming Scotland

Roaming Scotland specialises in single and multi-day hill hikes, with collection and drop off in our minivan from Edinburgh or Glasgow (and other places too by arrangement). We are a friendly, small family business including Zak, our friendly collie dog. Can include off-road sightseeing, along routes tailored for your ability and can take up to 8 people. Hill guide is fully qualified, insured and comes with 45 years of hill-walking experience in the Scottish Highlands. We cover all of Scotland - please visit our website and read our excellent TripAdvisor reviews.

James Orpwood Mountaineering

We provide guided summer and winter hill walking, and courses covering navigation, hill & mountain skills, and winter skills. We offer scheduled courses, available for individuals to book as part of an open group, and can run any course privately on dates to suit you. Private guided hill walking can be accommodated throughout the year. From the Cairngorms and the Eastern Highlands to the West Coast, Ben Nevis and beyond, we will plan a fantastic day for you and your group in the spectacular scenery of Scotland’s mountains.

Snowgoose Mountain Centre  Corpach, near Fort William

Snowgoose Mountain Centre is based near Fort William, 4 miles from Ben Nevis at the SW end of the Caledonian Canal. We offer a unique combination of quality mountain skills instruction courses, holidays and private guiding in summer & winter with John Cuthbertson who holds professional mountaineering qualifications with over 40 years active experience in the mountains world wide. We offer a wide range of mountain & water based courses from the total hill walking novice to the more advanced winter mountain skills for those wishing to extend their mountain skills into three or four seasons - along with canoeing, kayaking, sailing & expeditions

Glenmore Lodge

Glenmore Lodge is sportscotland's National Outdoor Training Centre. We provide high quality instruction and skills training to enable you to adventure independently and responsibly in the outdoors. Our wide variety of courses and guided trips are delivered by highly trained and knowledgeable instructors who tailor the experience to your personal goals. Whether you’re looking to discover a new way to enjoy the outdoors, build your confidence, achieve a qualification, learn how to take on a new challenge, or be inspired for your next adventure, join us for a course at Glenmore Lodge.

Trek Scotland

Bespoke and organised mountain guiding for Lightweight Multi-Day Trekking experiences, including wild-camping with all high-quality gear and food provided. We are a family run business based in the Cairngorms, offering highly experienced guiding across Scotland’s wilderness areas. Join a group Trek or design your own bespoke option for those big Munro rounds, or to simply spend time in remote and stunning areas, with the opportunity to learn mountain skills, navigation and camp craft.

Red Moon Cruises - Skye Lochalsh Wester Ross

Whether your interests lie in strenuous hill-walking or a shore line stroll, Red Moon offers a luxurious floating base for visiting the most stunning locations in Skye and Lochalsh. If you like we can drop you off at one point and pick you up elsewhere at the end of the day, to relax aboard with a well-earned drink as a gourmet supper is prepared. For a walking holiday with a difference, take an holistic approach and see Skye from the sea as well as being part of the land......

Highland Yaks

Welcome to Highland Yaks! Providing your Adventure Transport and logistic needs, whatever they may be. We are based in Aviemore, the adventure heart of the Cairngorms National Park and aim to make all your transport logistics as easy as possible. With a well equipped van and appropriate trailer (if needed), along with professional, friendly and courteous drivers, your Highland Yaks adventure is waiting for you.

Distant Hills Walking Holidays

We run stress-free, complete Scottish walking holiday packages holidays from our beautiful Guest House near Fort William. The package includes 6-nights bed and breakfast accommodation, 5 evening meals and 4 fabulous days of guided day walking, each in a different nearby stunning location.

All walks are expertly led by a local qualified guide and we offer a moderate and harder itinerary to suit differing levels of ability and experience. Ideal if you enjoy meeting new people and love walking without the pressure of route-finding.

Climb Torridon

Mountain Guiding and Instruction in The Scottish Highlands. For Hill Walking, Scrambling, Climbing and Mountaineering in Summer and Winter. Climb Torridon is based in the North West Highlands, home to some of the finest mountains in the UK. We offer guiding and instruction throughout this incredible wilderness. Our friendly instructors are members of The Association of Mountaineer Instructors (AMI), ensuring they are qualified under a rigorous training and assessment process. Mountains and Climbs we offer include; An Teallach, Liathach, The Skye Cuillin, Ben Nevis and More.

A family run outdoor activities provider based in Aberdeenshire, offering exciting events across Scotland. Be it guided walks in our beautiful landscapes, navigation tuition, Duke of Edinburgh’s Award, trail running events, winter skills or weddings, we have you covered! Book with confidence knowing you will be joining one of Scotland’s award winning outdoor activity providers.

Hamlet Mountaineering

The North West Highlands boasts some of the best scenery anywhere in Scotland. Let our local and experienced guides show you the best the landscape has to offer, from sea kayaking to multi-pitch rock climbing we've got it covered. So why not book with us for a more relaxed holiday.

AFS Mountaineering

AFS Mountaineering specialise on guiding the 282 Munros in Scotland. We also offer bespoke private hiking trips elsewhere including the Lakes, Yorkshire Dales and Snowdonia. We run accredited National Navigation Award Scheme courses to enable you to confidently plan and follow your own routes in the countryside, hills, moors and mountains. In winter, we offer introduction to winter courses for summer walkers wanting to expand their skills and knowledge. Our events and courses are relaxed, friendly and welcoming so you can return with some amazing memories, experiences and new skills!

Heathery Heights

Heathery Heights offers bespoke guided walks for individuals, small groups, and families seeking adventure and solace in Argyll. Explore rocky coasts carved by time, wild sandy beaches, ancient woodlands, historic remains and the rugged mountains, lochs and glens that create this complex tapestry. Find peace in nature by the sea, challenge yourself to a Munro, enjoy a walking holiday or join a discovery experience. We can lead you to hidden gems, teach foraging and navigation skills, keep you safe and enhance your outdoor adventure with knowledgeable guides along the way.

Strategically based in Stirlingshire and with an intimate knowledge of the long distance trails across Scotland, Easyways has been providing walkers worldwide with an experience that can only be delivered through being up close and personal.

With over 20 years’ experience the company has established a reputation of quality and trust within the walking community and whether you chose the familiarity of a Guided Group or alternatively prefer the freedom of a Self-Guided, rest assured that an EasyWays Tour will deliver on expectation.

Would you love to walk among some of the amazing hills in the Highlands but don't feel that you have the confidence or expertise? Then why not come on a mountain adventure with Walk North. We specialise in giving a true taste of mountain wilderness to anyone, whatever their experience. Contact us and we will create your unique mountain adventure - an incredible hill day, or backpacking and camping on a remote summit or even hammock camping. We cover a wide area including the Cairngorms, Torridon and Ullapool.

McKenzie Mountaineering

We offer a variety of adventures including long distance trails, multi activity days, hill walking experiences from one day to multi day trips in the Scottish mountains as well as tailor made packages to suit your needs. We aim to promote the beauty of the Scottish countryside environment whilst giving you an inspiring experience with fully qualified guides. Our ethos is to leave you with unforgettable memories by running our trips in an informative, alternative and ultimately friendly and informal way! We are also open to any special requests.

Hike Scotland

Hike Scotland offer small group or private customised hiking vacations. Our experienced local guides will lead you on awe-inspiring journeys through Scotland's finest landscapes, enjoying the hospitality of some of Scotland's finest rural retreats and country hotels, where all your needs are catered for and included in the cost of your Tour.

Explore the magic of the Outer Hebrides along 130 miles of Scotland's most stunning archipelago; traverse the Isle of Skye, boasting it's majestic scenery; or shimmering Loch Lomond through the West Highlands to beautiful, brooding Glencoe

Wild Roots Guiding

Summer & winter guided walking, mountain skills courses and multi- day trips in the Highlands of Scotland. Our central aim is to showcase the amazing landscapes of the Highlands whilst also helping you gain skills and confidence for your own adventures. Multi-day journeys focus on developing skills whilst also boosting your well-being. Accommodation is either wild camping or unique mountain settings e.g. CIC hut on Ben Nevis. Skills courses include navigation and route planning, landscape interpretation and movement on steep ground and technical walking terrain. Bespoke guiding also available.

Skye Adventure

Experience a real Skye adventure with us. Climb mountains, follow ridges and rivers towards amazing coastlines, swim in the sea. We are friendly local guides who have the knowledge, qualifications and skills to give you the freedom to explore a different side of Skye. Whether you want to bag a few Munros, climb on stunning sea cliffs, traverse the Cuillin ridge, or go gorge walking and coasteering, we can provide an unforgettable experience - and some good craic along the way.

Scot Mountain Holidays

Want to walk the wild areas? Want to experience the Highlands up close and personal? Want to hike the Lairig Ghru? Mix some hiking with some culture - visit a distillery, spot a pine marten or a red squirrel, see Nessie, try your hand at some weaving? Book a trip with Scot Mountain Holidays. We'll even guarantee your departure on an all-inclusive holiday and offer you single occupancy at our home base where possible.

Try your hand at new skills under Andy's expert guidance in the Cairngorms National Park.

Skylark Guiding

Whether you want to explore hidden glens or woods, or are after a more challenging hike in the mountains, I design guided walks (and trail runs) tailored to clients' interests, ability, availability and experience. A qualified and experienced Mountain Leader, I take care of the planning and guiding, so you can simply turn up and leave the rest to me. Half day, full day and multi day (with or without wild camping) options available. People of all abilities, backgrounds and identities are most welcome. Et je parle francais!

Elite Guides

Elite Guides is a Mountain Guiding and Instruction company delivering high-quality mountain adventures with a proven record of quality customer service. Based in Fort William on the West coast of Scotland, Elite Guides has some of Scotland's most famous mountains on its doorstep and loads more a short drive away.

Elite Guides offers Ben Nevis, Glencoe Mountains, Skye Cuillin and even MTB Guiding and Coaching. Elite Guides work throughout the year offering Rock Climbing, Scrambling, Winter Climbing and Mountaineering, Guiding and instruction. Get in touch to plan your next adventure.

Lochaber Guides

We pride ourselves in offering an unforgettable experience in the mountains. Whether just starting out or experienced, we aim to empower and support you as you fulfil your goals in the mountains in a safe, friendly and professional way. In Summer we specialise in ascents of technical routes on Ben Nevis, Glencoe and the Skye Cuillin. In Winter, we offer Winter Skills, Winter Mountaineering and Climbing Instruction and Guiding.

Lochaber Guides is run by Dave Anderson who holds the WMCI qualification and is experienced, friendly and enthusiastic about the mountains!

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Walking can be dangerous and all walkers must take personal responsibility for their own safety. You should always carry a backup means of navigation and not rely on a single phone, app or map. Walkhighlands strives to provide accurate information but cannot accept responsibility for changes, errors or omissions.

Walkabout Scotland escape to the hills

Walkabout Scotland

** UPDATE 9th September 2022 ** WS Adventures Ltd has ceased trading and will no longer be running hiking holidays. If you have a current booking with us please contact [email protected]

Exploring Scotland Join a small group of like-minded travellers and explore Scotland with the experts All our holidays are graded to allow you to choose between a relaxed and leisurely paced walking holiday to a challenging adventure.

Our Tours Select from our easier Walking Holidays and Weekends to our more challenging Hiking Adventures

Private & Custom Tours

Can’t find what you’re looking for? Customize any tour to fit your needs.

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Scotland Cultural Walking Tour

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We love the wide-screen scale of the Scottish Highlands. Great heather-covered moors roll into a broad, blue horizon. Ruined castles stand watch over silvery lochs. There’s a wonderful wildness to it all. But for all of that sweep and solitude, it’s the close-ups of local life that we remember best. You’ll meet the shepherd whose choreographed collies steer a flock with fluid grace. We walk with a naturalist along a windswept North Sea estuary famous for its salmon runs. And we’ll also introduce you to fascinating folks like the cashmere weavers of Elgin…the whisky aficionados at an artisanal distillery…and the groundskeepers who manicure a 600-year-old golf course to within a micron of perfection. Throughout, you’ll spend your nights in lovely country house hotels, and enjoy a wide range of walks from canal towpaths to Edinburgh’s lively High Street. We suspect you’ll join our honorary clan of travelers who count the Scottish Highlands as one of their favorite destinations ever.

• Enjoy an 'Only with Classic Journeys' afternoon as you savor traditional tea before ascending to the ancient Edinburgh Castle with your expert local guide for an up-close tour

• Spend a fascinating morning with a shepherd and his amazing team of collies in the quiet Highlands countryside.

• Cruise across infamous Loch Ness to Urquhart Castle and a scenic walk in a Caledonian forest

• Strike out on foot to explore historic Culloden Moor before meeting up with the craftsmen at a cashmere mill 

• Join a naturalist to go Puffin watching on the coastal footpaths along the shores of Isle of May

• Accept an invitation to St. Andrews, the legendary home of golf, for a guided walk on the 600-year-old Old Course

• Visit Falkland Palace, the country residence of Mary, Queen of Scots, before a whisky tasting at an artisanal distillery 

Starting Point:

Ending point:.

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Dates & Prices

The earlier you book, the more choice you’ll have and the lower your price. And you can always change your mind — you won’t be charged to transfer to a different trip before your final payment is due. Talk with one of our travel experts at 800-200-3887 .

Select our “Family Departure” to travel with other families.

Why Choose Classic Journeys

We believe in creating authentic connections by immersing you into the history and culture of a people and place. So we find the most well-connected local guides who share their relationships and knowledge with us. And with them, we handcraft walking tours in cinematic settings that allow you to see the world on foot and at eye level.

It’s why Travel + Leisure magazine has named Classic Journeys as the #1 World’s Best Tour Operator multiple times, and the editors of T+L say, "Classic Journeys provides unbeatable access to experiences around the globe." Here’s what that access means for you every time you travel with us.

• Experience the world on foot and at eye level. Each day, join your guide on the most cinematic footpaths in the region.
• Exceptional full-time local guides who become your well-connected friend. Our amazing guides are with you throughout each day of the tour, share their lifelong connections as well as engaging anecdotes about the history and culture of the region.
• Small groups that provide you unrivaled access. An average of fewer than 10 guests per departure means we can offer you special access to sites like Stonehenge so you experience the stone circle when it’s closed to the general public, a guided visit to Zion Narrows that other companies cannot arrange because of larger group sizes, and vineyard walks with a count and countess in Tuscany.
• Award-winning hotels are waiting for you at the end of every day. Luxuriate in the finest and most distinctive accommodations in the region you’re exploring, including rainforest lodges, 16th century villas, and award-winning properties that show up on World’s Best and Gold lists.
• Eat like (and with) the locals. Food is a foolproof way into the hearts, homes and history of the places you visit with us. From gourmet picnics to coveted local restaurants, our meals offer you opportunities to explore native food traditions and fine dining.
• Handcrafted itineraries with all activities included. With our long-term friendships, we know our walking tour regions more personally than anyone else. So you get thoughtfully curated itineraries that combine explorations of the villages, organic farms, archeological sites and the people who know them best.
• Sustainable travel that supports the places you’re visiting. We put our local currency into the pockets of the people who live where we travel. It’s your guarantee that you’ll have authentic, up-close experiences on your trip. Best of all, our person-to-person approach helps sustain their ways of life.

Accommodations

Rufflets Country House

One of the oldest and highest quality country house hotels in Scotland, this idyllic turreted mansion house is set in 10 acres of gardens. Rufflets has been in the same family ownership since 1952 and won Scottish Hotel of the Year in 2015.

Loch Ness Country House Hotel

Built in 1710, this country-house property is a haven of tranquility, elegant comfort and excellent food. The striking Georgian building is surrounded by six acres of beautiful gardens, and its main drawing room is a great setting for afternoon tea.

What’s Included

• Award-winning boutique hotels that provide you unlimited access to the people and places, culture and history you came to experience
• All breakfasts, 2 Lunches and 3 dinners
• Full-time experienced guide(s) who are with you throughout the trip and handle behind-the-scenes logistics
• Admissions to scheduled events as noted in the detailed daily itinerary
• Gratuities for hotels, meals, and baggage
• All land transportation during the trip

Above & Beyond Benefits

Invisible check-in.

• When your group arrives, we whisk you and your bags to your room immediately. No waiting – no tipping.

Privileged Access Events

• One-of-a-kind access to remarkable people, places and activities arranged just for you.

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• Great Glen Way & Loch Ness

Why go hiking on the Great Glen Way & Loch Ness?

• Experience timeless Scottish Highland scenery with lochs, forest trails and heather covered hills, and maybe even catch a glimpse of “Nessie”, the Loch Ness Monster!
• Follow this Coast-to-coast hiking trail all the way across Scotland, as you trace the route of the Caledonian Canal from Fort William on the Atlantic to Inverness on the North Sea.
• A great introduction to walking in the Highlands. Enjoy spectacular surroundings minus the climbing as most of this relatively gentle hike keeps to lower levels of the Great Glen.
• For those willing to spend a little more energy in exchange for more dramatic views across Loch Ness there is also a higher-level route option between Fort Augustus and Drumnadrochit.
• Visit Urquhart Castle on the shores of Loch Ness. The famous ruins of this 13th Century stronghold will give you a taste of how it felt to live in medieval Scotland.

What's Included:

• Top-Choice Accommodation
• Detailed Itinerary, Maps & GPS Tracks
• Baggage Transfer
• Insider Tips
• 24/7 Support
• Access your tour details & documents on the go with your designated Hillwalk Tours account

What's Excluded:

• Travel to and from tour start and end points
• Lunches, dinners, snacks & drinks
• Travel insurance
• Hiking equipment

The Great Glen Way & Loch Ness, which was opened in 2002, is one of Scotland’s official Great Trails. It follows the geological fault of the Great Glen for 127km (79 miles) from coast to coast across the Scottish Highlands, from Fort William in the west to Inverness in the east. The Great Glen Way & Loch Ness is generally walked in that direction to follow the direction of the prevailing wind.

This route is home to some of Scotland’s most spectacular and atmospheric scenery as it runs along the complete length of the lakes Loch Linnhe and Loch Oich and through the forests above the deep and mysterious Loch Ness, the largest lake by volume in the UK (keep an eye out for the famous ‘Loch Ness Monster’!).

Much of the trail is on lower ground and follows the towpaths of the Caledonian Canal, which was built in the early nineteenth century. Just outside of Fort William, you will pass ‘Neptune’s Staircase’, a ‘staircase lock’ comprising of eight connected locks, the longest staircase lock in the UK. There are another 21 locks along the length of the canal before it reaches the east coast near Inverness.

And for those who are fans of history, you will have the opportunity to learn about the Jacobites and their fight to restore of the House of Stuart to the British throne and visit Urquhart Castle, which has a bloody history from 1200s – 1600s, and remains an excellent example of a medieval stronghold.

Choose Your Hike

Prices / what's included, accommodation, extra days/activities, travel info, why choose hillwalk tours, more reading.

We offer different tour grading levels depending on the balance of physical challenge and comfort level that you require

Gentle Hikes

Our Gentle Hiking Tours are designed with the part-time hiker in mind.

People for whom taking photos, meeting the locals and enjoying a long lunch are as important as the hike itself.

Look out for the 👣 symbol: this itinerary covers the entire Great Glen Way & Loch Ness trail from Fort William to Inverness.

Average Hiking Distance: 15-17km (9.5-11 miles) per day Average Hiking Time: 4-6 hours per day

Moderate Hikes

Our Moderate Hiking Tours will suit people who are used to regular exercise.

Hikers will appreciate the chance to cover plenty of ground each day without going beyond their limits.

Average Hiking Distance: 18-22km (11-14 miles) per day Average Hiking Time: 4-7 hours per day

Challenging Hikes

Are you the type of hiker who sets off in the morning and doesn’t stop until they reach their destination?

If yes, then our Challenging Hiking Tours will be just right for you.

Average Hiking Distance: 26-30km (16-19 miles) per day Average Hiking Time: 5-8 hours per day

The walk starts from the edge of Loch Linnhe in Fort William, a sea loch that opens out onto the Atlantic Ocean. It follows the line of the Caledonian Canal for most of the way. This canal opens out into Loch Lochy, at Gairlochy, north-east of Fort William. Once past Loch Lochy, you will pass through Laggan, before arriving to Loch Oich. You will pass Loch Oich, and continue to follow the path of the canal to Fort Augustus, which lies at the southwestern end of Loch Ness.

The route follows the northern shore of Loch Ness to Invermoriston, and onwards to Drumnadrochit. The way leaves the shores of Loch Ness and heads west, shortly after Drumnadrochit, and takes a moor and farmland route before crossing the Caledonian Canal and the River Ness as the walk enters the city of Inverness. From here, both the canal and the river have no more than two miles left to run before they enter the sea at the Moray Firth.

Terrain Overview

Much of the route follows forest tracks and roads as well as the well-maintained and mostly level towpaths of the Caledonian Canal. The new higher route options (from Fort Augustus to Invermoriston, and Invermoriston to Drumnadrochit) offer a more challenging walking experience with more climbs and slightly more rugged terrain. The high level moorland around Blackfold between Drumnadrochit and Inverness can be exposed to the elements.

Aggregate ascent over the whole route is approximately 1,800m (5,900 ft) for the lower route options and 2,600m (8,500 ft) for the higher route options. There are only a few sustained or steep climbs or descents, mainly at the start of the hikes from Fort Augustus and Invermoriston and between Drumnadrochit and Inverness. The highest point on the Way is 422m above sea level, on the slopes of Creag Dhearg, which is just above Alltsigh.

Elevation Profile

Terrain by Stages

Fort William – Gairlochy: Quiet roads and paths out of Fort William. Then a canal towpath as far as Gairlochy. No significant climbs.

Gairlochy – Laggan/Invergarry: Forest tracks, loch-side paths and some minor roads. Two steeper climbs at Clunes and Coire Glas and a long descent to Laggan. Optional detour to Clan Cameron Museum at Achnacarry adds 2 – 2.7km.

Laggan or Invergarry to Fort Augustus (via Invergarry): A gentle climb and descent on forestry tracks to Invergarry. A steep climb out of Invergarry and more forest tracks for the first 5.5km to Bridge of Oich, from there the trail follows a level canal towpath to Fort Augustus.

Fort Augustus – Invermoriston

• High Route: Waymarked forest tracks and good paths; some steep ascents and descents and sections across exposed hillside.
• Low Route: Sheltered forest tracks and paths with some short, steep climbs.

Invermoriston – Drumnadrochit

• High Route: Steep climb out of Invermoriston on tarmac followed by good tracks and paths through forestry, woodland and moorland for the first 10km, then forest tracks and later a long moorland road; some steep ascents and descents.
• Low Route: Mostly forest tracks for the first part and later along a moorland road; steep climb out of Invermoriston, relatively gentle slopes after that.

Drumnadrochit – Blackfold: A mixture of surfaces from woodland paths to minor roads and moorland tracks. There are some inclines but none as demanding as the previous two sections. The high level moorland on the way to Blackfold can be exposed.

Blackfold – Drumnadrochit: A long road walk to begin, followed by forest and moorland tracks. Some short climbs and a long descent into Drumnadrochit. The initial moorland section on the way from Blackfold can be exposed.

Blackfold – Inverness: Forest paths and tracks; then well-surfaced paths through parks and urban green areas and along the River Ness. Long, mostly gentle descent to Inverness for most of the hike.

Are you looking for an adventure that combines breathtaking scenery, beautiful landscapes, and the chance to immerse yourself in the local culture? Then look no further than a walking holiday with Hillwalk Tours! With over a decade of experience in the industry, we specialise in creating unique and unforgettable hiking tours throughout Ireland, Scotland, England, Wales, Spain and Portugal.

Whether you’re an experienced hiker or a beginner, we have a range of tours to suit all levels of fitness and interests, so we’re confident that a walking holiday with Hillwalk Tours will truly be an experience of a lifetime. What’s more, our core purpose at Hillwalk Tours is to “create experiences that make people happy”. So take a look at some of the ways we try to ensure you have the best possible experience with us:

The biggest choice of itineraries for the trails we offer, guaranteed!

We want you to explore these areas of outstanding natural beauty at your own pace, with nearly 400 itineraries to choose from across 21 different trails (and we’re always looking to add more).

We book your tour direct, always!

We don’t book third-party companies to organise tours for our customers. We don’t resell tours from other third-party companies. We always directly book and operate all of our tours ourselves.

Creating memorable self-guided hiking tours is all we focus on, nothing else!

We just focus on creating and organising self-guided hiking tours, and nothing else! And we’ve been doing it for quite some time (since 2008), with over 20,000 hiking tours taken with us so far, and growing…

You can access your tour information easily!

You will receive a designated Hillwalk Tours account where you can login to access all your tour documents, trail GPS file, and other important details. Access your tour information anytime, anywhere, and on any device.

We don’t do off-the-shelf guidebooks!

We personally walk each trail we offer & create our own detailed route notes. By doing so, it allows us to provide you with more itineraries, route options and alternatives than any other walking tour company!

We come highly recommended by other hikers!

Our tours & service have consistently received 5* reviews from walkers. Check out our reviews on Google ,  Facebook  &  Tripadvisor .

You can start your tour on any day / date you like!

We don’t confine you to book your tour on specific dates. Instead you can book your tour to start on any day / date you like during the walking season.

We have itineraries to match your fitness levels!

We provide 3 levels of hiking tours; ‘Gentle’, ‘Moderate’ & ‘Challenging’, which are designed to suit all types of fitness levels and abilities of hikers – so whether you’re an experienced hiker or a beginner, there’s something for everyone.

You can walk at your own pace!

As all our tours are self-guided, you can walk the trails at your own pace as opposed to adhering to a strict schedule, allowing you the freedom to enjoy the beautiful nature & surrounds.

We’re here to support you 24/7!

You can reach us by phone 24/7 if you ever need additional support while on the trail.

We have a very low booking deposit!

Our booking deposit of €100/£100 is one of the lowest, if not the lowest, in the industry.

What’s Included in the Price?

• Stay in our friendly, family-run guesthouses
• Relax in comfortable en-suite bedrooms *
• Big breakfasts will keep you going all day long
• Luggage? Don’t worry, we’ll move it for you!
• Detailed maps, route notes and GPS tracks mean you’ll never get lost
• Walking directions written and updated by the Hillwalk Tours team
• Local alternative/supplementary route options based on local knowledge
• Our waterproof map-case keeps your maps and documents dry
• If you need to contact us, we’re here 24/7 to help
• Insider tips on the best places to eat and drink **
• Explore the local history and culture in our fascinating guides
• Discover the most interesting attractions on the trail
• Need info on transport ? We’re happy to help

* Unless already booked out in which case we’ll try to secure a private bathroom

** You will have the opportunity to purchase picnic lunches and evening meals each day. If you are staying in a remote location, the B&B owner will prepare a tasty surprise for you upon request.

Please Note:

We occasionally charge additional supplements on the Great Glen Way & Loch Ness for tours starting during the high season. This is due to higher costs involved in booking our upgrade option or in cases where our normal accommodation suppliers do not have availability, and an alternative, more expensive, supplier is sourced with your approval.

Give those weary legs some respite and explore some of the other attractions of the Great Glen!

Here are some places we recommend you stop and spend an extra day. We will organise any additional accommodation required – just let us know when you are booking your hiking tour.

Fort William: Booking an extra night in Fort William is a very popular choice among hikers! Not only is the bustling Highland town known as the gateway to Ben Nevis, the UK’s highest peak at 1,344m (4,409ft), and a gateway to the Glen Nevis Valley, home to Steall Falls, it’s also a popular location for Harry Potter fans & travellers alike to hop on & ride the magical Hogwarts Express steam train from Fort William to Mallaig (considered one of the most scenic train journeys in the world).

Whether you spend your time hiking the UK’s largest peak* , taking in the outstanding natural beauty of the Glen Nevis Valley , or riding on one of the world’s most scenic train journeys , some additional time spent in Fort William is not to be missed! (Please note that we do not book tickets for the Hogwarts Express / Jacobite Steam Train.)

Fort Augustus/Drumnadrochit: Go on a cruise in search of the Loch Ness Monster visit the two award-winning exhibition centres dedicated to ‘Nessie’ in Drumnadrochit.

Inverness: Take a guided day trip to the Isle of Skye or the Orkney Isles**– two of the most beautiful places in all of Scotland.

Booking Extra Days

• Choose WHERE you wish to stay.
• Decide HOW MANY NIGHTS you need.
• Go to the BOOKING FORM and fill in the ‘Extra Nights Required/Other Requests’ section.

The costs of extra nights during your Great Glen Way & Loch Ness hiking tour start from £65 per person per night and from £80 for single hikers who will have their own private room. 

Please note that if you book any extra nights in a location not included in your tour itinerary, you will have to make your own arrangements to transfer your bags to this location.

* Climbing Ben Nevis should only be attempted in favourable weather conditions (good visibility, low winds, bright & clear weather). Hikers should be in good physical shape and will need excellent navigational skills in the event of bad weather unexpectedly affecting visibility.

** Day trips to the Orkney Isles from June to mid-September only.

Staying at the very best accommodation during your time in Scotland can transform a “good” hiking tour into a “great” hiking tour.

That’s why, at Hillwalk Tours, we take the quality of our accommodation partners seriously. So much so that you will find we strive to only work with high-quality and well-reviewed accommodation. Additionally, most of our accommodation partners have been personally checked by a member of the Hillwalk Tours team to ensure your comfort.

As keen hikers ourselves we know you’ll want somewhere relaxing to put your feet up in the evening. A place where a warm smile from your hosts makes you feel welcome as soon as you step through the door. If your hiking gear gets wet, it’s nice to know that you can dry it or, if you ask, it may even be taken from you and returned nice and dry the next morning.

Comfy beds, en-suite bathrooms (where available), tasty breakfast menus, and a friendly & cosy atmosphere – these are all the things that we like so you can rest assured that we’ll do our best to find them for you as well.

To find out more about the types of accommodation you can expect to find on a Hillwalk Tours walking holiday, read here: Accommodation on your Walking Tour

In addition, if you’d like to stay an extra night at any location during your hiking tour, just let us know.

Due to limited accommodation options in some locations on your tour, we may need to book you into accommodation which will require transfers to/from your hike start/end point or where you will have private bathroom facilities instead of an ensuite. We may also need to book you into the same accommodation for more than one night to cover multiple locations. The cost of this is covered in your basic tour price and will not affect your tour itinerary.

In general, we try to book accommodation which is as close to the local amenities as possible. If you are staying in a remote location (where access to local pubs/restaurants is not feasible), the hosts of the accommodation that you are staying at will ensure that you are well fed.

Getting to and from your Great Glen Way & Loch Ness hiking tour is easy… when you know how!

In your hiking pack, you will receive all the necessary public transport information you need to make your journey as convenient as possible.

In the meantime, if you’d like to do some advance planning yourself, here are our tips:

Most Convenient Airports

• Inverness Airport
• Glasgow International
• Glasgow Prestwick
• Edinburgh Airport

Sustainable Travel (from Europe)

• Travel by Ferry to the UK Sail from ports in the Netherlands, France, Ireland and Spain to Dover, Hull, Harwich, Portsmouth & others in the UK. See list of Routes from Continental Europe & Ireland to UK Ports
• Travel by Train to the UK From Paris, Brussels, Rotterdam or Amsterdam to London via Eurostar
• Travel by Bus to the UK From Europe to London / Manchester From Europe to the UK From the Netherlands & France to London

Public Transport

• Fort William Train Private Bus
• Spean Bridge Train Private Bus
• Laggan Private bus from Fort William
• Fort Augustus Private bus from Fort William
• Invermoriston Private bus from Fort William
• Drumnadrochit Private bus from Fort William

Departing from Inverness after your Great Glen Way & Loch Ness Hiking Tour:

Use train or private bus services to Edinburgh

Travelling by car?

If you would like to leave your car at the first or last accommodation on your tour, for the duration of the tour, then you can directly contact the accommodation owners before the start of your tour to check that this is possible. We will provide contact details for the accommodation provider.

About Our Hiking Tours

About accommodation and luggage transfers, about your walking pack, about fitness levels, about money, flights and insurance, how to book, process after booking, don't forget, during your tour, climate / weather, trail specific questions.

A self-guided hiking tour means you are hiking without a guide.

Hillwalk Tours will provide you with all the resources you need to successfully complete the trail alone or in the company of good friends. We’ll plan your route, transfer your bags and show you all the best places to visit but you decide whether you want that extra hour in bed in the morning! All this gives you the freedom to enjoy the trails and the wonderful countryside at your own pace.

Find out more about the benefits of a self-guided hiking tour in comparison to a guided tour here .

Choosing the right hiking tour can be tricky. It’s important to consider the balance of physical challenge and comfort level that you require. To make your decision easier, we have drawn up a menu of Gentle, Moderate and Challenging hiking tours.

Before we explain the difference between the various grades, it is important to note that each hiking tour within a specific region follows the same official hiking trail. For example, if you choose to go walking in Kerry in Ireland, it doesn’t matter whether you pick a ‘Gentle’ tour or a ‘Challenging’ tour – you will still be walking along the official ‘Kerry Way’ trail. To make these walking trails more accessible to all walkers, we have either 1) picked out the sections of the walking trails that are less demanding or 2) shortened the average daily hike between accommodations.

• Same Trail, Easier Sections: For example, on the Kerry Way in Ireland, our ‘Gentle’ tours are restricted to the less demanding sections of the trail while our ‘Challenging’ tours cover the entire trail including the most difficult sections.
• Same Trail, Shorter Distances: For example, on the Hadrian’s Wall Path in England, you can walk the entire trail on a 8-Day Challenging Tour, a 10-Day Moderate Tour or a 11-Day Gentle Tour. However, while the Challenging tour requires you to keep up a brisk pace of 23km (14.5 miles) per day on average, the Moderate tour has a more leisurely average of 18km (11.25 miles) per day and the Gentle tour only requires an average walking distance of 15km per day.

Below is a general overview of each tour grading level. Note that the figures for ‘Average Daily Hike’ and ‘Hiking Time’ may vary between regions. Poor weather conditions can affect the average hiking time which is based on a person of normal fitness walking at a moderate speed of around 4km/h (2.5 mph). The hiking time takes into account the terrain covered but not the time required for lunch stops, photos, etc. For more details on daily distances, the level of ascent and the terrain the trail crosses; refer to the itinerary page of each individual tour.

12-18km (8-11 miles)  3-6 hours

Our Gentle Hiking Tours are designed with the part-time hiker in mind. While you can still expect some climbs, these tours offer the shortest average daily hikes, which in turn means less ups and downs. This will give you plenty time to enjoy the sights and scenery, take photos, have a long lunch and, if necessary, negotiate the more tricky sections of a walk.

 16-23km (10-14 miles)   4-7 hours

Challenging

 22-30km (14-19 miles)   5-9 hours

Our core purpose at Hillwalk Tours is to create experiences that make people happy. Some of the ways we try to achieve this, and ensure you have the best possible experience with us, include;

The biggest choice of itineraries for the trails we offer, guaranteed –  We want you to explore these areas of outstanding natural beauty at your own pace, with nearly 400 itineraries to choose from across 21 different trails (and we’re always looking to add more).

We book your tour direct, always –  We don’t book third-party companies to organise tours for our customers. We don’t resell tours from other third-party companies. We always directly book and operate all of our tours ourselves.

Creating memorable self-guided hiking tours is all we focus on, nothing else! –  We just focus on creating and organising self-guided hiking tours, and nothing else! And we’ve been doing it for quite some time (since 2008), with over 20,000 hiking tours taken with us so far, and growing…

You can access your tour information easily –  You will receive a designated Hillwalk Tours account where you can login to access all your tour documents, trail GPS file, and other important details. Access your tour information anytime, anywhere, and on any device.

We don’t do off-the-shelf guidebooks  – We personally walk each trail we offer & create our own detailed route notes. By doing so, it allows us to provide you with more itineraries, route options and alternatives than any other walking tour company!

We come highly recommended by other hikers  – Our tours & service have consistently received 5* reviews from walkers. Check out our reviews on  Google ,  Facebook  &  Tripadvisor .

You can start your tour on any day / date you like  – We don’t confine you to book your tour on specific dates. Instead, you can book your tour to start on any day / date you like during the walking season.

We have itineraries to match your fitness levels  – We provide 3 levels of hiking; ‘Gentle’, ‘Moderate’ & ‘Challenging’, which are designed to suit all types of fitness levels and abilities of hikers.

You can walk at your own pace  – As all our tours are self-guided, you can walk the trails at your own pace as opposed to adhering to a strict schedule, allowing you the freedom to enjoy the beautiful nature & surrounds.

We’re here to support you 24/7  – You can reach us by phone 24/7 if you ever need additional support while on the trail.

We have a very low booking deposit – Our booking deposit of €100/£100 is one of the lowest, if not the lowest, in the industry.

Guided hiking tours are not available from Hillwalk Tours.

However, don’t be put off doing a self-guided hiking tour. With help from the documentation that you are provided in advance i.e. Route Notes & Directions, Local History & Attractions, Places To Eat / Evening Meal Suggestions etc., you are well prepared, making it perfectly manageable to complete the trail by yourself – and without missing out on any of the local information & history as you walk along the trail!

You can start your hiking tour on any day / date you wish within the walking season. Generally, the walking season for most of our hiking tours takes place between March to October, but there are some exceptions. Please see the individual trail pages for further information on the start and end dates of the walking season for each individual trail.

Our 7-Day tours include 5 days of hiking. The first and last days of all our hiking tours are travel days used to transfer to/from the town where your hike will begin/end. If you would like to hike for 7 days, simply select one of our 9-Day tours.

Our 7-Day tours include 6 nights of accommodation – specifically the first 6 nights on your hiking tour. Your tour finishes on the seventh day when you check out of your last accommodation.

A single supplement is an additional charge for walkers booking single accommodation (a room for one person).

This is due to the fact that most accommodation providers price their rooms for double occupancy, meaning that they don’t discount the rooms even if they are only occupied by one person. Furthermore, accommodation providers have outlined that the cost of cleaning the room is the same regardless of how many people are in it, and also the potential cost of giving up a double occupancy (or more) sized room for just one person at a cheaper rate, when they could sell the room to more than one person at the normal rate, is too high.

Therefore, the total tour price for individuals who request a single room is “the price per person plus the single supplement”. This added supplement covers the extra costs associated with accommodating a single person in their own room.

It is not possible to bring your dog on a Hillwalk Tours hiking holiday. Unfortunately, the majority of our accommodation providers do not accept pets of any kind. Furthermore, on many of the trails you will pass through farmlands where livestock are present, and where dogs are not permitted as a result.

Yes, most bus and train tickets can be purchased online in advance of your trip. Specific transport information is available on the tour pages of each hiking region. See the Travel Info section for each tour for more information.

Upon booking you will also receive a step by step public transport guide which will outline some potential public transport options you can take in order to get you from your arrival airport to the start location of your tour.

We can generally arrange for you to park at your first accommodation.

If you are bringing your car, please contact us in advance.

No, on all our hiking tours your luggage will be transported to your next accommodation each day as you walk and will arrive before 4pm. Weight limits apply to each piece of luggage, and vary from trail to trail, so please refer to your walking pack documents and communications sent to you in advance of your tour for the maximum weight limit allowed per bag on your selected tour.

You will mostly be staying in traditional Bed & Breakfasts (B&B’s) / Guesthouses and small Hotels during your hiking trip. B&Bs / Guesthouses are often private lodging houses, where the friendly hosts welcome travellers into their homes. To ensure your comfort, most accommodation you will stay in has been personally checked by a member of the Hillwalk Tours team. At your accommodation, you can expect a warm welcome, en-suite facilities (where available) and a tasty breakfast each morning (but usually no other meals).

If you are planning to walk the Camino Francés pilgrimage trail in Spain, you will mostly be staying in family-owned hotels, boutique pensiones (guesthouses), casas rurales (country cottages) and traditional pazos (manor houses) during your hiking trip.

For more details on the types of accommodation you can expect to find on a Hillwalk Tours walking holiday, read here: Accommodation on your Walking Tour

Yes, you will receive a list of all accommodation that you will be staying in prior to the departure of your travels. Once final payment for your tour has been received, you will be sent an email with a digital PDF copy of your walking pack documents such as your route notes, accommodation details and evening meal suggestions etc. It’s within the PDF copy of your walking pack documents that you’ll be able to find what accommodation you will be staying in each night*. You will also be posted a walking pack (either to your home address or the first accommodation on your tour) which will include essential physical items for your tour such as the required maps for the trail and luggage tags.

*If you’d prefer to receive a physical copy of your full walking pack documents too, it’s essential that you reply by email within 48 hours of booking your tour in order to let us know.

In general, we try to book accommodation which is as close to the local amenities as possible. If you are staying in a remote location (where access to local pubs/restaurants is not feasible), the owner of the B&B / Guesthouse or Hotel that you are staying at will ensure that you are well fed.

Please be aware that occasionally, due to the limited supply of accommodation, we may have to make reservations for you at a nearby B&B / Guesthouse or Hotel and arrange transfers to and from the walking trail accordingly. In most locations, this is not a concern but in certain places, availability can be an issue. For more information, just have a chat with the person who is booking your tour.

A ‘twin’ room is a room for two people with two separate beds. A ‘double’ room has just one large bed (for two people).

For more detailed information on the different room type options, please see the following page: Room Types

Once final payment for your tour has been received, you will be sent an email with a digital PDF copy of your walking pack documents such as your route notes, accommodation details and evening meal suggestions etc. You will also be posted a walking pack (either to your home address or first accommodation on your tour) which will include essential physical items for your tour such as the required maps for the trail and luggage tags*.

A breakdown of the documents and items you can expect to find in your walking pack are as follows; – Route notes (prepared by a member the Hillwalk Tours team who has walked every step of your tour) – Detailed hiking map(s) – A high-quality waterproof map-case – Full details of your accommodations and where you will be staying – Our tips on the most interesting attractions to visit along the trail – A look at fascinating local history – A guide to the best places to eat and drink – Safety information, emergency contact details & the country code for walkers

You will find GPS coordinates for each overnight accommodation on your tour in your walking pack, which you will receive prior to departure. Additionally, you will find the GPS coordinates for the trailheads (i.e. the start and end points of your daily hikes) for most of our tours.

GPS tracks for your walking route will also be provided and available to download prior to your tour. Please note that while we are reasonably confident that the tracks are correct and up-to-date, we recommend that they are not used as the only tool for navigation. The most important means for navigation should be the way markers along the trail, our route notes and the maps we provide in the walking pack.

Once final payment for your tour has been received, you will be sent an email with a PDF copy of your hiking documents. This PDF document can then be forwarded to as many people within your walking group as you’d like.

For the walking pack which includes physical items such as luggage tags, map-case, maps etc. and which will be posted to you (or awaiting at your first accommodation) – one walking pack will be provided per four people. Therefore, for a group of 1 – 4 people, one walking pack will be sent. For 5 – 8 people, two walking packs will be sent, etc.

The contents of your walking pack (route notes, accommodation information, history, etc.) will all be in English .

We try to provide trail itineraries that cater to a large range of hikers & abilities. To achieve this, we provide 3 different levels of difficulty i.e. Gentle, Moderate, and Challenging itineraries. The difference between each level of difficulty is in the average distance that you will walk each day. It does not differ in relation to the elevation, as the exact trail will still be followed. Therefore, the same elevations (the up’s and down’s) of the trail are usually present regardless of the level of difficulty. Depending on the trail, you may find in your route notes some alternative & easier route options for sections of the trail in order to help you navigate & bypass more difficult parts of the trail, but this isn’t always the case.

It’s important to note that levels of difficulty provided by Hillwalk Tours should only be used as a guide against where your own level of fitness is at, and what you feel you will be able to manage on a daily basis. At the end of the day, it’s you that knows your own level of fitness best. We strongly encourage you to review the distances & walking times for each itinerary that you may be considering, along with any additional notes on the specific tour page, in advance of booking.

The difference between these tours is the distance that you will hike each day:

• Gentle tours cover an average of 12-18 km (8-11 miles) per day
• Moderate tours cover an average of 16-23 km (10-14 miles) per day
• Challenging Tours cover an average of 22-30 km (14-19 miles) per day

For a more detailed breakdown of how we grade our hiking tours, please see the following question: Tour Grading

Yes, we are more than happy to organise an additional night for you at any location along your tour.

For those undertaking a hiking tour in Ireland, if required, we can also book you extra nights in Dublin, at the picturesque seaside village of Dún Laoghaire which is only a short 25 minute train journey from Dublin City Centre, or also in the popular cities of Galway and Belfast.

Suggestions on interesting places to take a rest day are available on the tour pages of each hiking region. See the ‘Extra Days/Activities’ section of each tour for more information.

ATMs (cash machines) are available in most larger cities, towns and villages. Remember that your home bank will likely charge you for withdrawing money overseas. Additionally, if you have a debit card, you can often get cash through the ‘cashback’ system at some shops and pubs when you make a purchase with the card (ask for ‘cashback’).

Credit and debit cards can now be used for payment almost everywhere. However, there are still some smaller businesses that may only accept cash, such as smaller shops, B&Bs (for packed lunches) or taxis (for transfers to or from restaurants). We therefore recommend that you carry some cash (local currency) with you as a back-up.

Contactless card payments are also increasingly accepted in many places (please check daily card limits in advance of use).

The currency used in the Republic of Ireland is the Euro (€). Therefore, if you are taking any hiking tour in Ireland (except the Antrim Glens & Coastline tour), you will need Euros.

The currency used in Northern Ireland is the Pound Sterling (£). Therefore, if you are taking an Antrim Glens & Causeway Coast hiking tour, you will need Pound Sterling. Please note: If you are travelling to Northern Ireland via an airport in the Republic of Ireland, it is advised to bring Euros also.

The currency used in the United Kingdom (i.e. England, Scotland, Wales, Northern Ireland) is Pound Sterling (£). Therefore, if you are taking any hiking tour in England, Scotland, Wales or Northern Ireland, you will need Pound Sterling.

The currency used in Spain is the Euro (€). Therefore, if you are taking a Camino Francés tour, you will need Euros.

Flights and transport to the start and from the end of your hiking tour are not included on our tours. However, we do provide a detailed step-by-step guide of suggested options on how you can make it to the start location of your hike by public transport from numerous major airports. In addition, for further travel information, see the ‘Travel Info’ section on the individual tour page for each trail.

Although travel insurance is not required to take a hiking holiday, we strongly encourage you to take out adequate insurance cover prior to travel.

Unfortunately 3rd party travel insurance is not available through Hillwalk Tours, and must be booked separately.

1. Browse through our website to find your preferred hiking trail.

2. Choose the type of hiking tour you want to take: ‘Gentle’, ‘Moderate’ or ‘Challenging’.

3. Next, identify the number of days you want to spend on your hiking tour.

4. Click the ‘Make a Booking’ button on the top right of our webpage.

5. Finally, fill out our booking form and make a €100 deposit per person.

Deposits and Final Payments can be made using:

1. Credit Card – through PayPal, for Euro Payments, or through Stripe, for Sterling Payments

Paypal is used by 180 million people worldwide to make secure online credit card payments. Please note if you have opened a PayPal account at any stage in the past, you must log in to your account in order to make the payment.

Stripe is a quick and secure way to accept credit card and debit card payments online. Stripe handles millions of transactions every year for businesses around the world and is now the preferred payment partner for many major companies.

2. Bank Transfer – Instructions & account details on how to make a bank transfer payment can be found on our booking form and also within the final payment email. Alternatively, you can contact us directly for the required account details.

1. If you paid by credit card or debit card, you will receive an e-mail within 24 hours verifying receipt of your booking form and deposit payment.

In this email, you will be asked to confirm your tour details. If you paid by bank transfer, payment will take a few days to reach us. Therefore you will receive your email confirmation and request to confirm your tour details shortly after we have assigned the bank payment to your booking form. In this case, you may receive an automatic email outlining that a booking form has been received, but no deposit has been received – you can disregard this email.

2. Once your confirmation is received that all details on your booking form are correct, we will begin making the arrangements for your tour. Therefore, the sooner you send us this confirmation, the sooner we can start to book your tour.

3. After all the arrangements for your tour have been confirmed (this process can normally takes between five to ten working days) you will be sent a breakdown of the balance outstanding for your tour and a due date for payment.

4. Once your final payment has been received, we will send you an e-mail confirming receipt.

5. PDF soft copies of your walking pack will then be sent to you by email which will include all your tour details, and physical items required for your tour (e.g. maps, luggage tags etc.) will be posted to your home address, or to the first accommodation on your tour where it will be waiting for you on arrival. Alternatively, if you have requested that your full walking pack be printed, this will also be either sent to your home address or to your first accommodation on the tour where it will be waiting for you on arrival.

6. You will receive an automated email from us, one week in advance of your tour start date, providing you with some additional information to help with your preparation before travel.

7. During your tour, if you have any issues, you can reach us 24/7 on our emergency contact number which is found in your walking pack.

8. After your tour has finished, we will send you a feedback form in relation to your tour and how it all went. We place a huge importance on our customers feedback and experience of our tours, so when you have some free time, we strongly encourage you to fill out this feedback form as it helps us to continue to provide a high quality service and to further improve where necessary.

9. Lastly, if you would like to tell others about your experience with Hillwalk Tours, you can leave an online review on our Google , Facebook or Tripadvisor pages.

ESSENTIALS: Please note: A detailed ‘Recommended Equipment List’ will be included in your walking pack.

WATERPROOF JACKET AND OVER-TROUSERS – You never know when you will need protection from wind and rain – so prepare for unpredictable weather by packing a waterproof, breathable jacket and over-trousers. You may not need them, but you will be happy to have them if you do.

BASE LAYER  – This is what you wear against your skin and the best options are breathable and wicking fabrics instead of cotton. They will move moisture away from the skin so that you feel more comfortable when you are walking.

FLEECE – It keeps you warm in the cooler months and on top of the hills, and will allow you to shed layers when you are working hard in the summer.

LIGHT AND COMFORTABLE TROUSERS – Make sure you choose trousers that are stretchy or allow enough space to move your legs freely. Jeans/Denims are not suitable for hill walking.

WICKING SOCKS  – Choose non-cotton socks that fit well and will move moisture away from your feet to stop them feeling sweaty. This will help to reduce the likelihood of blisters and ‘hot spots’.

FOOTWEAR – We recommend you bring comfortable, waterproof, lightweight shoes or boots, that provide good ankle support and offer good grip on rock, grass and mud. Remember that the trails in many of our regions, but especially along the west coast of Ireland, can become quite wet and muddy, after periods of rain.

• If you are taking a walking tour in the Burren , the West of Ireland , Dingle or on the Great Glen Way , we recommend you choose your footwear carefully and bring something suitable for prolonged sections of hiking on asphalt or hard packed dirt.
• (T) Many walkers find hiking shoes sufficient and often more comfortable for the Speyside Way Whisky Trail, and for walkers hiking the asphalt section from Callander to Lochearnhead on the Rob Roy Way
• For the South Downs Way we recommend good soles to help with sections of exposed flint stones. Some walkers bring both light shoes AND boots to be prepared for different terrain.
• Our tip: If you buy new boots or shoes for you holiday, make sure to try them out on one or two longer walks before your tour!

GAITERS – By covering your upper boot and lower leg these help to keep your feet and trousers dry in wet grass and boggy terrain. We recommend you bring gaiters especially for our tours along the western coast of Ireland and the Cotswolds Way, but they are are a good thing to have on your feet wherever the ground gets especially wet.

BACKPACK / RUCKSACK (with Waterproof Cover or liner) – To store all your essentials and keep them dry – including extra layers of clothing, your waterproofs, first aid kit, camera and your lunch, snacks and drinks. A size of around 20 litres is usually good for day hikes. Don’t forget how important it is to stay hydrated and bring at least 1 – 2 litres of water per person each day, depending on the weather!

WARM HAT & GLOVES – Essential, even in summer, at higher altitudes and on exposed places.

CASH – Bring some cash to pay for lunch packs, taxis, etc. as ATM & credit cards services may be limited in some places (see your Welcome Letter for more details).

FIRST AID KIT – It’s a good idea to have a small, basic first aid kit to deal with little injuries such as sprains, scrapes, cuts and blisters. Good things to bring are plasters & wound dressings, sterile cleansing wipes, pain killers, tweezers (for splinters & ticks), bandages, and zinc oxide tape or elastoplast tape (for blisters or sprains).

WHISTLE – This standard piece of hiking equipment is for the very unlikely event you need to signal for help (the standard signal is three long blasts).

HIGH VISIBILITY VESTS & TORCH  – Many trails, particularly in Ireland, have sections that follow roads. For those hikes you may wish to bring a High Visibility Vest which will increase your visibility, especially in bad weather or if it gets dark when your walk takes longer than expected. A torch can help on off-road sections.

PLUG ADAPTER (/CONVERTER) – 3 square pin plugs are used in Ireland and the UK – voltage is 230V.

MOBILE PHONE / CELL PHONE:

We strongly recommend that you bring or purchase a mobile/cell phone. It will allow you to contact your accommodation and transfer providers from the trail and call for help in an emergency.

Visitors from European Countries: European mobile phone users can use roaming in Ireland without additional costs. As it stands many European network operators also don’t charge for roaming in the UK (Scotland, England, Wales & Northern Ireland), but please check this with your operator before you travel.

Visitors from the United States, Canada and elsewhere: Make sure that you have a GSM/UMTS phone compatible with European networks and a roaming service / suitable phone plan for the country you are travelling to.

If your phone is unlocked and GSM/UMTS compatible, you can also purchase an Irish or UK SIM card from a variety of mobile phone stores and supermarkets and use it in your own phone. Alternatively, you can purchase a cheap pre-pay phone when you arrive. It is often possible to buy a very basic pre-pay phone for as little as €20 or £15. You can then top-up with vouchers or a credit/debit card.

If you phone supports digital eSIM cards, you may be able to purchase a separate plan from your phone network provider for use abroad or a prepaid plan from local network provider in your destination country.

To make international calls in Europe you must dial 00 as the international access code (and not 011 as in the US or Canada). If you are dialling from a cell phone, enter + instead of 00, or simply hold down the 0. Make sure your phone is fully charged before you start your walk. Please note that you might not always have a phone signal on the trail but, in general, the level of coverage is quite good.

If you have a smartphone, we recommend you have a mapping app like Google Maps installed and your location/GPS service turned on. This will let us better help you should you need assistance while on the trail by identifying your location.

ADDITIONAL SUGGESTIONS:

SUN CREAM, SUNGLASSES AND SUNHAT  (April to Sept) – Let’s hope you’ll need those!

MIDGE/INSECT REPELLENT & MIDGE NET (May to September only) – More important for Scotland, but can also be useful for other regions. Our tip: Smidge – a product developed in Scotland and considered the UK’s #1 Midge Repellent Spray.

CAMERA  – Vital for capturing photos of the stunning scenery along your trip, which help you brag to your friends about your holiday.

COMPASS  – A compass (and the ability to use it) is a good idea but not a requirement for our Irish tours.

WALKING POLES  – Assist forward movement, reduce impact on your knees, and help with balance in difficult terrain. A pair is best but many hikers also just use one.

EARPLUGS  – We know how important it is to get a good night’s rest. However, as there may be other guests in the guesthouse with different plans for their night, we recommend bringing a pair of earplugs to ensure sweet dreams!

Your room will be ready each day from 4pm at the latest and sometimes sooner.

Check-in times to your accommodation is generally not before 4pm. You may be able to check-in a bit earlier (e.g. around 3pm), but this is not guaranteed. To request an earlier check-in time, please contact your accommodation host in advance to discuss.

If you expect to arrive later than 6pm to your accommodation, please inform you accommodation hosts in advance (in particular B&B’s & Guesthouses). Reasons for this can be that your flight is delayed, that you are still on the trail or because you might have stopped for food or a drink before check-in. By letting them know in advance, it allows the hosts to plan accordingly and to also put their minds at ease that you are OK.

Check-out time is usually 10am , but it can vary, therefore it’s often best to discuss check-out times with your accommodation hosts directly.

Your luggage will arrive by 4pm each day.

A tasty breakfast is important to prepare you for the day of hiking & adventure ahead. At your accommodation you can find either, a hot breakfast, a continental breakfast, or perhaps even both!

In some cases, where we have no other option but to book you into accommodation where no breakfast is served, we will deduct the cost of the breakfast from your tour price which can instead be used to purchase breakfast in a nearby café / restaurant.

Most accommodation hosts will always try and cater for dietary requirements as best they can, provided they are notified in advance. Therefore, if you do have any dietary requirements (e.g. vegan, vegetarian, etc.) please let us know in the “Any Dietary Requirements/Allergies?” field on our booking form when booking.

Please note, not all businesses may readily accommodate dietary requirements, such as vegetarian, vegan, gluten free, etc., especially in more remote and rural areas. If you require a specific diet, we recommend you enquire in advance or talk to your hosts. You may also find it useful to download an app such as Vanilla Bean or Happy Cow , both available on Android and iOS, to help you find a venue which meets your needs.

In your Route Notes, we list places where you should expect to find at least one café, pub, shop or restaurant along each day’s hike. However, opening times can change, some places may only open in afternoon, and businesses can close unexpectedly. We therefore recommend you also check with your accommodation hosts where you can get lunch the next day, either along the route or at the start of the hike.

If it is unlikely that you will be able to purchase food or drink during the day, you may wish to purchase a packed lunch before you start in the morning, especially if it is a long hike. If there are no shops nearby, your host will be able to provide a packed lunch at a reasonable price on request.

You can generally buy an evening meal in one of the local restaurants, cafes or pubs close to your accommodation. If there aren’t any restaurants/cafes/pubs in the local area, evening meals can be obtained from your host.

The majority of accommodation hosts will be able to assist you in drying your clothes and boots.

1 kilometre = 0.62 mile 1 mile = 1.61 kilometres

Many of the hiking trails can pass through private farmland. This means that farmers can have their livestock (such as cattle, sheep, goats etc.) grazing in the same fields that you walk through. Some livestock may look intimidating. However, don’t worry, you will find these animals are actually quite timid. Continue walking in a normal fashion (do not run) and you should have no problems. In addition, take note of any signs which the farmer may have put up.

You can find more information on how to deal with animals on your hike in the Safety Information & Country Code document you find in your walking pack.

Most areas have mobile / cell phone reception, even while you are hiking. However, you may pass through some remote areas where reception will be either limited or unavailable entirely.

It is important to note that, if you are ever in an emergency, mobile/cell phones can still contact the emergency service numbers even without mobile/cell phone reception.

Yes, in most accommodation Wi-Fi is available, however it’s not guaranteed. In addition, due to the remote locations of some accommodations, the Wi-Fi quality may not always be the best.

Yes, in general most routes are very clearly way-marked with a marker directly before and after each turn. If you are ever in doubt, you can also check the Hillwalk Tours route notes or maps provided in your walking pack.

Yes, it is possible that your tour may include taxi transfers to bring you to and from the trail. The reason for this is;

•  Due to limited accommodation options in some locations on your tour, we may need to book you into an accommodation which will require transfers to/from your hike start/end point.
•  Due to limited accommodation options or no availability in accommodation, we may need to book you into the same accommodation for more than one night to cover multiple locations, in which case taxi transfers will be required to bring you to and from the trail.
•  Due to minimum night stay requirements in accommodations on certain trails, we sometimes have no other option but for you to stay multiple nights in the same location and use transfers to get you to and from the trail.

The cost of these taxi transfers bringing you to and from the trail is covered in the tour price, and they will not affect your tour itinerary i.e. you will still walk the exact route as listed.

Ireland, known as the Emerald Isle, enjoys a mild, maritime climate, due to its proximity to the Atlantic Ocean and the Gulf Stream. The warmest months are July and August with temperature averages between 16 and 20°C. Rain falls throughout the year and the weather in Ireland can change very quickly. Annual rainfall in the mountains and the west can be more than 2,000mm, but many other areas receive an average of less than 1,000mm. The driest months are April, May and June.

The climate of Scotland is temperate, and tends to be very changeable. It’s not uncommon to experience all four seasons in one day! The warmest months are July and August with temperatures at an average 17 °C. Rain falls throughout the year and April, May and June are normally the driest months. Annual rainfall in the western Highlands can be more than 3,000mm while the east coast receives an average of less than 800mm. The prevailing winds are from the west and southwest, and are a constant feature in the islands and Highlands.

In England, famous for its rain and the lush green of its countryside, the Gulf Stream ensures mild, maritime influenced weather. The warmest months are July and August with temperature averages between 16 and 21°C. Rain falls throughout the year, and the weather in England can sometimes change very quickly. Average annual rainfall in the north is more than 1,600mm, but central and southern England receive an average of less than 800mm. April, May and June are the driest months.

Wales is surrounded on three sides by the sea and experiences a maritime climate. It can get quite windy at times but the coasts are generally milder, while the inland areas tend to get a little colder. Overall the temperatures are generally quite mild but it can be relatively warm during the summer months. The warmest months are June, July and August. Rainfall can be expected throughout the year and the weather in Wales can be quite changeable, even over the space of one day. The driest months are April May June.

Galicia is located on the Atlantic coastline in north-western Spain meaning that the climate is different from that of many other popular Spanish tourist destinations. The region experiences relatively mild and rainy winters and quite sunny summers with temperatures generally lower than found in other parts of Spain.

Spring can be wet and windy but also offers cooler walking conditions than the summer. Nights are often cold and rain is plentiful especially in mountain areas. August is the hottest month in Galicia with an average temperature of 18°C (64°F) but short heatwaves are possible during the summer, with highs around or above 30 °C (86 °F). At these times the wooded and shaded landscape of Galicia makes temperatures much more bearable than conditions in other regions of Spain. Early autumn offers more stable and cooler weather but later months also bring once again the risk of heavy rain.

In recent years, it has become increasingly difficult to book a single room along the West Highland Way. Many B&B’s along the trail do not have single rooms and are simply unwilling to take solo walkers in their double/twin rooms, unless they are part of a larger group (e.g. a group of three people). For this reason, Hillwalk Tours can only offer walking tours for solo walkers along the West Highland Way in the months of March, April & October. Unfortunately it’s not possible for us to book West Highland Way tours for solo walkers in all other months. For a solo walker who is part of a larger group, we will continue to try and book a single room (maximum of one) throughout all months of the walking season. We are of course still offering walking holidays for solo walkers, without restrictions, in all of our other hiking regions in Scotland, England, Ireland and Spain. Thank you for your understanding.

The Credencial del Peregrino or Pilgrim’s Passport is a small booklet that allows you to document your progress along the Camino by collecting stamps or sellos from many accommodations, cafes, shops, churches, etc. on the route. If your itinerary covers at least the last 100km of the walk to Santiago, the Credencial (stamped at least twice per day) will serve as the necessary proof required to obtain your Compostela (the certificate of completion of the Camino offered by the Pilgrim’s Office in Santiago).

Antrim is located in Northern Ireland, which is part of the United Kingdom (UK). The currency used in Northern Ireland is Pound Sterling (£) and not Euros (€).

If you are entering Northern Ireland directly by ferry or plane, a passport is required. If you are an EU Citizen, a national identity card will not suffice, as the UK is no longer in the EU.

Travelling to Northern Ireland from the Republic of Ireland: Under the Northern Ireland Protocol, the island of Ireland will continue to have no land border between Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland. This means that people can travel freely between Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland without any land border check.

The Hadrian’s Wall Path can be hiked both from East to West (towards Bowness-on-Solway) or from West to East (towards Newcastle). The ‘original direction’ was to start from Newcastle and hike towards Bowness, but recently many hikers are hiking the trail from West to East, towards Newcastle.

If you are looking for Hadrian’s Wall Tours running from East to West (Newcastle to Bowness-on-Solway), please click here .

If you are looking for Hadrian’s Wall Tours running from West to East (Bowness-on-Solway to Newcastle), please click here .

There are arguments that can be made for either direction and it really is down to personal preference:

Why walk the trail in a West to East direction?

In recent years many hikers choose to walk the trail from west to east, i.e. starting from Bowness-on-Solway and hiking towards Newcastle. The main reason for this direction is that the prevailing winds in the UK are usually blowing from the west. If you are walking from west to east you will therefore generally have the wind at your back.

Another reason is that many of the best views along the centre section of the route are from west to east and some say that you also get a better understanding of how the Wall was laid out by travelling in this direction. Lastly, it is a lot easier to travel onwards after finishing in Newcastle, when compared to Bowness, and some hikers feel that there may be something poetic about finishing a hike along the Wall in a place called ‘Wallsend.’

Why walk the trail in an East to West direction?

The official guidebook describes the route of the Hadrian’s Wall Path from east to west, i.e. starting from Newcastle. Many hikers feel that it is ‘more natural’ to walk out of a big city into the open country, and to finish on the quiet Solway estuary, which seems a better place to reflect on your achievement than urban and industrial Wallsend in Newcastle.

It usually also makes getting to the start of the walk easier due to the better transport connections to Newcastle. Furthermore, starting this way, you get the long stretch along the B6318 Military Road out of your way early on in your tour. You also get a little more Roman archaeology from each day to the next and the scenery improves the further west you go – up to a point. Lastly, you will be following the direction in which the Romans built the Wall, which is why the turrets and milecastles are also numbered from east to west.

Our “Slow Adventure” hiking tours of the Hadrian’s Wall Path focus on the most exciting central section and cover less daily distance than our standard Gentle itineraries. They are designed to provide hikers with a more immersive and relaxed experience while exploring the rich history and stunning landscapes of this iconic UNESCO World Heritage Site. This type of tour is perfect for those who prefer a slower pace, allowing them more time to enjoy and explore the archaeology and attractions along the central section of Hadrian’s Wall.

Highlights and Features

• Leisurely Pace: The primary focus of this “Slow Adventure” tour is to encourage a more leisurely pace, allowing participants to take their time to appreciate the sites and scenery. This means shorter daily walking distances of 12-13 km (7.5-8 miles)
• In-Depth Exploration: The shorter distances give you more time to explore the history and archaeology of Hadrian’s Wall and visit the attractions along the route where in-depth explanations and stories bring the fascinating history of the Wall back to life.
• Hidden Gems: This tour is designed to let you spend more time at some of the lesser-known and less-visited sections of Hadrian’s Wall where you have the opportunity to discover hidden archaeological treasures and enjoy moments of solitude.
• Flexible Daily Itinerary: The daily hikes are short, which allows you to adapt to your own pace and interests. This means more time to linger at a fascinating ruin, enjoy a breathtaking view, or chat with fellow travelers.
• Leave No Trace: Emphasis on responsible and sustainable tourism practices, ensuring that the natural and cultural heritage of Hadrian’s Wall is preserved for future generations.

In summary, our “Slow Adventure” hiking tours of the Hadrian’s Wall Path are all about taking your time, immersing yourself in the history and beauty of the area, and savoring every moment of the journey. It’s an opportunity to connect with the landscape, the archaeology, and the stories that make Hadrian’s Wall such a unique and captivating destination.

Ultimate Guide to the Great Glen Way

The Great Glen Way, one of Scotland's Great Trails, is a 127km (79 miles) hiking trail which stretches from Fort William to Inverness in Scotland. Sit back, relax, and read all about this beautiful trail in our in-depth guide.

Hiking around Loch Ness

Walks around Loch Ness are not only an opportunity to slowly creep up on the Loch Ness Monster or “Nessie”...

The Great Glen Way: Lakes, Rivers & Canals

The Great Glen Way takes you to the fabled Loch Ness but the other sections of this popular Scottish hiking trail...

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Hiking Tours in Scotland

• Walk the 'bonnie banks' of Loch Lomond on the iconic West Highland Way
• Explore the Isle of Skye - from secluded glens to must-see spots 
• Stay in Inverness, near mysterious Loch Ness and Culloden Battlefield
• Visit the distilleries that produce Islay's world-renowned single-malt whisky
• Wander the country's historic capital, Edinburgh, complete with hilltop castle
• Discover the white-sand beaches and turquoise waters of far-flung islands

A hiking tour in Scotland immerses you in the very fabric of its wild beauty and rich culture through a patchwork of stunning footpaths. Scotland is bursting with coastal routes, rugged and dramatic landscapes, ancient abbeys and historic castles converted into splendid hotels.

In Scotland you can hike some of Europe’s most iconic long-distance trails including the impressive West Highland Way up to the base of the mighty Ben Nevis and the Great Glen Way along the shores of Loch Ness. These locations are where many blockbusters were filmed, like Harry Potter and Braveheart!

Macs Adventure was founded in Scotland in 2003, and over the years we have researched and refined our self-guided itineraries into a unique and brilliant collection of hand-picked hiking tours . We have a hiking tour for every ability and preference!

Our Rail & Hike  trips combine world-class train journeys with classic hikes, and this is showcased beautifully in our Highlands & Isle of Skye tour which starts in historic Edinburgh. Whether you'd like to hop between Scottish islands , experience Whisky & Walks tours  or are looking for some In Style accommodation with smoked Scottish salmon and hand-dived scallops on your vacation, we can arrange a hiking tour in Scotland that will leave an everlasting impression.

Our Hiking Tours in Scotland

Featured Tours - Scotland

Walking in the Scottish Highlands

West Highland Way - 9 Days & 8 Nights

Grand Tour of Scotland: Rail & Hike

Great Glen Way - 9 Days & 8 Nights

Highlands and Isle of Skye Rail & Hike In Style

Fife Coastal Path - 8 Days & 7 Nights

Discover scotland.

Macs Adventure is company with roots in Scotland and full of exceptional and knowledgeable experts!  Since our foundation in 2003, our professional team has researched and refined our self-guided itineraries in Scotland to bring you a unique collection of  hand-picked hiking tours  that allow you to explore everything Scotland has to offer. 

On your Macs tour you’ll stay in comfortable, friendly, locally-owned B&B’s, guesthouses, and In Style hotels. We’ll take care of transferring your heavy bags each day so you can just march to the tune of your own…bagpipe!?

Self-guided travel is low impact. Learn more about our Sustainable Travel  journey.

We love Scotland with a passion and our main aim is to make sure that you do too.  

1. Best for classic long-distance (& bragging rights!): West Highland Way

2. Best for history, legends & scenery: The Highlands & Isle of Skye

3. Best for iconic train journeys: Rail & Hike collection

4. Best for the mighty Loch Ness: The Great Glen Way

5. Best for a touch of comfort: Hiking In Style Tours

Top tip: Book tours back-to-back if you can’t choose!

If you’d like to speak to one of our experts,  inquire here or give us a call at (720) 487-9898.

1.  Highlands & Isle of Skye: Rail & Hike – 8 days of exciting hikes, castles, history and a Jacobite steam train over Glenfinnan viaduct. Edinburgh to Glasgow. 

2.  Highlands & Isle of Skye: Rail & Hike in Style – All the same enriching history, culture and hikes as the above, but with higher-grade accommodation - castle hotels and beautifully appointed lodges.

3.  Skye Highs Short Break – 4 nights immersed in Scottish culture and landscapes, a hop aboard the Jacobite steam train and, optional short day hikes.

4.  Skye & The Outer Hebrides – 8 days of point to point walks, views of Cuillin Ridge on Skye, visits to remote and wild Isles of Harris and Lewis, and unbelievable white-sandy beaches.

Head over to our  Hiking on the Isle of Skye page for more information.

This exclusive collection is designed for a little comfort at the end of the days hiking. They include converted castle hotels, country house hotels and boutique guesthouses.

Highlands & Isle of Skye: Rail & Hike In Style : Experience world-class rail journeys, with hand-picked hikes by day and fabulous accommodations in the evening.  

Best of Skye In Style : Stay in 4* hotels and soak up this remote island on our favorite hikes.

Great Glen Way In Comfort :  Hike the entire Great Glen Way from Fort William to Inverness, overnighting in the best 3-5* accommodation right off the trail. 

Have have teamed up with organizations to support the paths our customers walk on. We're donating $5 for every customer traveling along the West Highland Way in 2024.

These paths are like the lifeblood of our business, and we want to make sure they're here for generations to come.

Learn more about the importance of trail maintenance .

Countless happy hikers have completed The West Highland Way with Macs. It continues to be one of our most popular routes and is a favorite with our team and guests.

For a taste of the experience watch father and daughter on their West Highland Way adventure.

Join Ewan on his travels from the west coastal town of Fort William and alongside the vast Loch Ness to Inverness on the east coast.

Hike past canal locks, mountain scenery with panoramic views and stop in traditional pubs.

Don’t forget to keep an eye out for Nessie as well!

A great insight to the roads in the Highlands as we drive with Taylor past towering mountains to white-sand beaches around Scotland.

Keep watching to find out her selection of the hand-picked day hikes that’ll be sure to help stretch your legs.

The Jacobite steam train to Mallaig is one of the greatest rail journeys in the world! It crosses over the historic Glenfinnan viaduct, which made international fame in the Harry Potter films.

Follow Caroline on her hike in the wild beauty of the Isle of Skye.

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Minibus Tours & Hiking Trips 

What's better than getting away from it all?  Whether it be a leisurely minibus tour of castles, distilleries, cathedrals and lochs or an active few days away, walking the hills, wild camping in glens or high plateaus, taking in the solitude of the mountains

Up n About Scotland can help. 

We arrange single & multi day trips in our 9-seater minibus or lead you on hikes, hills and trails.  Arrange low level or high wild camps and organise day and night navigation courses.  Whether you are new to the hills and need to start at the bottom, or looking to refresh/enhance your existing experience, we are happy to help.  Find us on the VisitScotland and Harvey Maps website.

Be guided through the stunning Scottish Highlands by mountain leader John or one of our carefully selected guides. John is an experienced hill walker and compleated all 282 Munro's (hills over 3000ft) in 2015.  He spent six years as a tour driver on excursions around Scotland and further afield. He holds the Scotland Mountain Leader qualification, NNAS (National Navigation Award Scheme) tutor award and is a qualified Outdoor First Aider with BASP.  

We are a member of the Scotland Independent Tour Operator Association.

Guided walking  and sightseeing tours all over Scotland including:

Ben Nevis | West Highland Way | Arrochar Alps | An Teallach | Cairngorms | Lochnagar | Lochaber

Edinburgh | Glasgow | Stirling Castle | Doune | Fort William | Isle of Skye | Thurso | Ullapool | Dumfries