Walking Tours

The Heart of the Highlands

This centre-based walking trip recognises the fact that many walkers appreciate the rugged beauty that mountain days in Scotland offer but equally appreciate the contrast of a comfortable hotel, good food and a dram in front of a roaring log fire while discussing their day. Our accommodation for the trip, Alvey House Hotel, is a small 3 star hotel in Newtonmore.While nominally in the Cairngorms area, from this base we have access to much of the best of Scottish mountains - the magnificent Cairngorm plateau to the east, the beauty of Loch Laggan and the Creag Meagaidh National Nature Reserve to the west and the wilderness of the Monadhliath just a stone's throw away.

In addition to some fine mountain scenery, this area has also provided the scenic setting for the BBC series 'Monarch of the Glen', now filming its fourth series. Our week would not be complete without an exploration of some of the country in and around the famous 'Glen Bogle' - the fictional estate filmed around Loch Laggan and the Strathspey area.

Our base for the week is the Alvey House Hotel in Newtonmore. Alvey House is a small, privately-run, three star hotel with an excellent reputation for high quality accommodation, excellent home cooking, first class service and an assured warm welcome from your hosts. All meals (breakfast, packed lunch and a 3 course dinner) are included in the cost of the holiday. Rooms are a mixture of single, double, twin and triple. Couples will always have their own room but this may be a double or a twin.

Day 1: Depart Edinburgh for the Drummochter Mountains.
We depart from Edinburgh city centre at 8.30 am and make our way north to the hills of the Drummochter pass - the highest point on the road from Edinburgh to Inverness. These 3000ft "Munro" hills have gentle rounded summits, long whaleback ridges and give excellent views west to the wilderness area of Ben Alder and Loch Ericht (6 hours, 10km/6 miles, 1011m/3100ft summit, 863/ 2700ft ascent/descent). After our day on the hills we then have only a short journey northwards to our hotel and base for the week where dinner awaits.

Day 2: Cairngorm Mountain Wander
Today we introduce you to the delights of the Cairngorms with a fairly easy but thoroughly enjoyable walk of hugely varied character into the foothills of the Cairngorm mountains. We head up through the beautiful Caledonian Forest above Loch Morlich and then into the Larig Ghru - a famous pass cutting right through the heart of the Cairngorms. Taking in a small summit along the way we then traverse the "Chalmain Gap" - a strange rocky incision where we have rough ground for a short distance before an easy descent back to transport home (6 hours: 13km/8 miles on mostly good paths, 720m/2350ft high point, 500m/ 1600 ft gradual ascent).

Day 3: Monadhliath Mountains
These mountains lie immediately west of our accommodation in Newtonmore, with a high plateau home to red deer and mountain hare, cut by deep glens with granite strewn mountain streams and birch woodland. This area of wilderness has a wide open feel and you are unlikely to meet many other walkers on your visit. Mountains in this area include Carn Dearg ("Ben Bogle!"), A' Chailleach and Carn Sgulain and we have a choice of summits to go for on easy undulating terrain. - either one, two or all of the above! (12km/7miles on tracks and moorland, 945m/3050ft summit, 600m/ 2000 ft ascent/descent)

Day 4: Easy Walking Day
Today we'll take things at an easier pace with the chance for a bit of a rest day if needed and take a lower level excursion to the idyllic Falls of Pattack at Loch Laggan. If you would like a complete break from walking then there are plenty of other activities on offer in and around Newtonmore - cycling, water sports, horse riding or perhaps just a bit of sightseeing along Scotland's whisky trail!


Day 5: Monarch of the Glen Country - Loch Laggan and Creag Meagiadh
We will be walking up from majestic Loch Laggan, through the National Nature Reserve up to Lochan a Choire, which lies encircled in Corrie Ardair by the great cliffs of Creag Meagaidh. This is a beautiful, eerie place made all the more dramatic by the steepness of Creag Meagiadh's eastern buttresses mirrored in the lochan. After descending back to Loch Laggan there will plenty of time for soaking up the views before heading back the short distance to Newtonmore. (6 hours, 10km/6miles, good path, 700m/2300ft high point, 400m/1200ft ascent/descent).

Day 6: Cairngorms and Ben Macdui
A suitable finale to the week is Ben Macdui - right in the heart of the Cairngorm plateau and Scotland's second highest mountain. The Cairngorm plateau is a large area of sub-arctic tundra at a height of around 3800 cut by deep glens and steep corries and is one of Scotland's key ski-ing areas. The central cairngorms area is particularly beautiful and while not far in distance from the busy ski centre seems very remote. The plateau offers easy walking in summer weather (but can be impossible in winter!) and access is simplified by the ski access road which reaches to 2400 ft! We have a choice of routes for the day, all on good paths and although high, the route up and across the plateau is not overly strenuous (14 km/8 miles on good path, 1295m/4300ft summit, 600m/2000ft ascent/descent).

Day 7: Return to Edinburgh
After breakfast you will travel back to Edinburgh, arriving back to the city at around 1 pm.

2005 Dates: May 1-7, June 5-11, July 3-9, July 17-23, July 31-Aug 6,Aug 28-Sept 3, Sept 25-Oct 2
Price: £595 for full board hotel accommodation (£565 if booked by Feb. 28) , based on a twin (or triple) share basis. Single room supplement £75 for the week if required.
Walking grade: The walking throughout this tour we class as “moderate” – suitable for people of reasonable fitness who enjoy walking or the outdoors but who needn’t necessarily have any previous hiking experience. Walks each day are between 6-8 hours, with most days involving some mountain ascent in the order of 2000-3000ft and distances covered each day of between 6-8 miles (10-14km). On most days we follow fairly good paths although some more rugged terrain should be expected. All our walks are within the capabilities of anyone with some limited mountain walking experience but we will offer both easier alternatives for those who prefer a shorter day or extensions for those who prefer a longer, more strenuous day. As always, your enjoyment of the trip is paramount and we aim to be flexible – we cater for a range of different fitness levels on our holidays and will provide additional guides if needed to enable different walking options throughout the week. If in doubt - just ask!

North West Highlands including Torridon and Assynt

Our week long walking holiday to the areas of Torridon and Assynt in the far North West Highlands of Scotland features some of the most inspiring mountain and coastal scenery found on Scotland 's mainland, with some classic mountain walking in these truly spectacular areas.

Four nights and three days are first spent in Torridon, an area of bulky red sandstone terraced mountains and beautiful rugged coastline. Located within north-west Scotland, these mountains rise straight from sea level out of a vast expanse of wilderness which offers tremendous scope for both lower level and mountain walking. There are sea-lochs and freshwater lochs, many fast flowing rivers, waterfalls and high mountain lochans. This is a remote and rugged setting and just being in this area is a humbling experience.

We then move even further north into the areas of Coigach an Assynt - one of the last remaining wilderness areas of Europe. If Torridon was impressive, then this area is truly remarkable - a rugged, rocky foreland sculpted by glaciers, now riddled with lochans and forming the backdrop to a series of distinctive solitary mountains - Cul Mhor, Stac Pollaidh and Suilven to name but a few. Of slightly smaller stature then the Torridon hills, what these mountains may lose in height, they make up for in character and for years this area has been an inspiration to painters, poets and walkers alike. You will not be disappointed.

This holiday includes 6 days of fully guided walking and 7 nights full board accommodation in the Torridon and Ullapool areas. All transport is provided from Edinburgh and throughout the trip. You have a choice of either Bed and Breakfast or youth hostel accommodation for the week.

Day 1: Travel to Torridon
Depart Edinburgh early afternoon (1.00 pm) from where we'll travel northwards to your accommodation at Torridon. The journey takes about 5 hours, including time for a short break along the way.

Day 2: Coire Mhic Fhearcair
Today will be our first full day's walking in the Torridon area and as a warm-up for possible more strenuous days later in the week you will be hiking into the majestic Coire Mhic Fhearchair. This one of the finest corries in Scotland, with an amphitheatre surrounded on three sides by the imposing cliffs and buttresses of Ben Eighe and offering wide open views across the Torridon landscape
(9 miles/14km, partial rough trail, 600m/2000ft ascent/descent).

Day 3: Ben Damph
Your options for today include a slightly more challenging hillwalk to Ben Damph, which lies immediately to the south of Loch Torridon and is a superb viewpoint for neighbouring giants Ben Alligin, Liathach and Ben Eighe.A good path leads up by a gorge through beautiful Caledonian pines before opening out to give wonderful views of Loch Torridon, the Applecross coastline and across to Skye. The final short ridgewalk includes some rougher ground but the views from the summit peak are simply spectacular and exhilarating. (7 miles/11km, good trail, some rough ground, 900m/3000ft ascent/descent).

Day 4: Ben Alligin
If you are looking for some really adventurous walking, then your last day in Torridon can be spent on an ascent of Ben Alligin - "The Jeweled Mountain". This peak stands alone on the north side of Upper Loch Torridon and is one of the classic Torridon mountains (4 miles/7km, steep, 984m/3050ft). Easier hillwalking options for the day include an ascent of Sgubh Dubh (782m/2566ft) or, if you would prefer a less strenuous option altogether then this day can be spent doing some lower level walking exploring the area's fine coastline.

Day 5: Travel to Ullapool
Today you will transfer north to Ullapool, a picturesque harbour town on the north-west coastline and your base for the second half of your holiday. The journey north takes a couple of hours at most and the day will essentially be left free for rest and relaxation or for you to explore Ullapool and the surrounding area. There are several excellent boat trips on offer from Ullapool round the coastline and islands, a small selection of shops, cafes and pubs along the harbour or your guide will be on hand to lead a short afternoon walk up the neighbouring hillsides.

Day 6: Cul Mor
There are many choices of walks throughout this area, however we shall aim firstly for Cul Mor - a distinctive landmark mountain within the heart of the Inverpolly National Nature Reserve. This fine sandstone massif is capped by two white quartzite peaks and offers a splendid panorama on all sides, including the Coigach hills and the Summer Isles to the south west, Loch Sionascaig and Ernard Bay to the west and the distinctive shapes of Suilven, Canisp and others to the north (7 miles/11km, partial rough trail, 849m/2785 ft ascent)

Day 7: Stac Pollaidh
Your final day's hillwalking and a suitable finale to the week will be spent on the small mountain of Stac Pollaidh. Despite its relatively remote location, this is one of the most popular mountains in Scotland and is relatively easy to ascend. Its jagged ridge is made up of a spectacular series of towers, pinnacles and ledges - the final remnants of this mountain after the last glaciation. Our route meanders up and round the mountain and we may spend a few hours exploring the various obstacles of the summit ridge (2 miles/3km, 613 m/2011 ft ascent). Upon our descent we'll then head slightly further west to the coastal peninsula of Rubha Mor. This rugged coastline contains the beautiful white sand of Achnahaird bay and looks back across to the mountains of Assynt. On a still summer's evening it's just the place to sit and enjoy the space.

Day 8: Return to Edinburgh
After breakfast you will travel back to Edinburgh via Inverness, arriving back to the city at around 2pm.

Dates for 2005:May 7-14, June 11-18, July 9-16, July 23-30, Aug 6-13, Sept 3-10

Price: £645 for full board* staying in local bed and breakfast house accommodation (£615 if booked by 28th Feb 2005). This is based on a twin share basis with a single room supplement of £60 for the week if required. Please note that single rooms are increasingly hard to find in this remote area and that en-suite facilities may not always be available.

* Full board includes packed lunches each day and evening meals organized at local inns or restaurants for 6 nights of the holiday. The last evening's meal is not included but left free for a degree of flexibility on the last night of the holiday.

Grading of Walks: The walking throughout this tour we class as “moderate” – suitable for people of reasonable fitness who enjoy walking or the outdoors but who needn’t necessarily have any previous hiking experience. Walks each day are between 6-8 hours, with most days involving some mountain ascent in the order of 2000-3000ft and distances covered of between 4-9 miles (10-14km), but with a couple of less strenuous days also (see above). Some rough ground and rugged terrain should be expected. This is always tailored to suit different abilities, with a choice of easier or more strenuous options for each day on offer throughout the week - there are a huge range of walks that can be done on this tour. For anyone seeking a real challenge, we also offer a more strenuous itinerary for this tour, including all the major Torridon peaks - further details on request! As always, your enjoyment of the trip is paramount and do we aim to be flexible – we cater for a range of different fitness levels on our holidays and will provide additional guides if needed to enable different walking options throughout the week. If in doubt - just ask!

Western Lochs and Highlands
Loch Lomond, the Trossachs and Glencoe

This week long walking holiday features the great variety of scenery found throughout the Southern and Western Highlands, from the tranquil beauty of Loch Lomond to the rugged and stunning peaks of Glencoe.

The first half of your trip will be spent in and around the area of Loch Lomond and the Trossachs. This is an area of tremendous beauty, now Scotland's first officially designated national park. Loch Lomond itself is the largest freshwater loch in Scotland and Britain and has a rich variety in scenery throughout its length. Its southern half is surrounded by low hills and has many small rocky, forested islands and fine beaches. The northern half of the loch is surrounded by 3000ft peaks including Ben Lomond to the east and Ben Vorlich and the Arrochar Alps to the west.

The latter half of the week will be spent further north in the area of Glencoe, which is altogether more rugged country. In addition to having some of Scotland's most awe inspiring mountains, the Glencoe area is rich in both history and culture, being the site of the famous massacre of the Clan MacDonald in 1692 as well as having featured in movies such as Highlander and Braveheart. Our journey into this area will include a days walking along part of the West Highland Way, giving us time to soak in the scenery as we move north and truly appreciate our arrival in this part of the country.

Day 1: Trossachs
We will depart Edinburgh at 8:30 am and head off west to the Trossachs for a relatively easy first days walking up Ben A'an. This is a fine low 'mini mountain', with tremendous views overlooking Loch Katrine in the middle of the Trossach hills - a great reward for little effort! As well as walking up Ben A'an, we will also be taking in the moorland, forests and numerous lochs of this area. A short journey after our days walking will then see us on to our accommodation at Loch Lomond (475m/1500ft, 4 miles/6km, 4 to 6 hours).


Day 2: Ascent of Ben Lomond
"I'll take the High Road ..." Ben Lomond stands alone, a solitary distinctive mountain on the eastern side of Loch Lomond. This is a relatively long day's walk with a steady gradual climb up the south ridge leading to the summit. The views are spectacular however, looking out over the loch and to the many mountains further north. On the west side of the mountain, the steeper Ptarmigan ridge (first mapped by local legend Rob Roy himself) offers an interesting variation for the descent and leads us happily in the direction of the Rowardennan Hotel for some post walk refreshments (974m/3000ft, 6 miles/10km, 6 to 7 hours

Day 3: Ascent of the Cobbler
Situated within a small range of mountains to the west of Loch Lomond- 'The Arrochar Alps' - Ben Arthur, otherwise known as The Cobbler, has a character all of its own. Of moderate height, this small mountain provides a thoroughly enjoyable ascent that surpasses many of the surrounding higher 'Munros'. For those who enjoy heights, there is also an optional final pinnacle, accessed through a somewhat airy "window" near the summit - not for the faint hearted! This part of the country is riddled with long, fjord-like sea lochs between the mountains and there are excellent views west to the coast. (881m/2890ft, 5 miles/8km, 6 to 7 hours).

Day 4: West Highland Way
Today we'll transfer to your new accommodation in Glen Coe, but will take time on the way north to appreciate the changing scenery with a lower level walk along part of the West Highland Way. This is Scotland's most popular long distance walking route, a total of 152km (95 miles) long and stretching all the way from just north of Glasgow to Fort William. We'll follow what we consider to be the finest section of this route, starting from the Bridge of Orchy Hotel and finishing up at the head of Glen Coe at the Kingshouse Inn. The route takes us past Loch Tulla, with it's ancient Caledonian forest and over Rannoch Moor, where the scenery opens up beneath increasingly dramatic mountains. The final rise before the descent to the Kingshouse Inn at Glen Coe then gives us our first view of "The Buachaille" - our planned ascent for the Friday and a very humbling experience! (12 miles/18km, 5 to 6 hours).

Day 5: Ben Nevis
Your first day from Glen Coe offers the opportunity for an ascent of Ben Nevis, Scotland and the UK's highest mountain. Our ascent of 'The Ben' is straightforward and on good paths but is physically challenging. The view from the top, when not blanketed by mist, is well worth the effort. (6 miles/10km, good trail, 1344m/4500ft.). For those seeking a less strenuous option, an alternative walk through the upper glen, where the Water of Nevis river flows own from the spectacular Steall waterfall through the narrow Steall Gorge comes highly recommended...


Day 6: Ascent of Buachaille Etive Mhor
Buachaille Etive Mhor translates as 'The Great Herdsman of Glen Etive'. Towering above Rannoch Moor, this stunning peak dominates the entrance to Glen Coe and Glen Etive, with formidable rock buttresses providing numerous rock climbs and forming a most impressive skyline. Our easier ascent is by rough path and although challenging the effort is well worth it! The wide vista over Rannoch Moor is one of the most extensive in the country (1022m/3200ft, 4 miles/6km, 6-7 hours).For those seeking an easier last day we may take a shorter walk up to the hidden glen in Glencoe.

Day 7: Return to Edinburgh
Today is the final day on the tour. After our last breakfast we will head off back south, passing through Glen Coe on the way south and arriving back in Edinburgh at approximately 1:00 pm.

Dates for 2005: May 15-21, June 19- 25, July 3-9, July 17-23, July 31-Aug 6, Aug 14-20, Sept 11-17

Prices: £595 for full board* staying in local guest house/bed and breakfast house accommodation (£565 if booked by 28th Feb 2005). This is based on a twin share basis with a single room supplement of £70 for the week if required.

* Full board includes packed lunches each day and evening meals organized at local inns or restaurants for 5 nights of the holiday. The last evening's meal is not included but left free for a degree of flexibility on the last night of the trip.

Grading of Walks: The walking throughout this tour we class as “moderate” – suitable for people of reasonable fitness who enjoy walking or the outdoors but who needn’t necessarily have any previous hiking experience. Walks each day are between 6-8 hours, with most days involving some mountain ascent in the order of 2000-3000ft and distances covered of between 4-12 miles (6-18km), but with a couple of less strenuous days also (see above). Some rough ground and rugged terrain should be expected. As always, your enjoyment of the trip is paramount and do we aim to be flexible – we cater for a range of different fitness levels on our holidays and will provide additional guides if needed to enable different walking options throughout the week. If in doubt - just ask!

Isle of Skye Discovery

A week long walking holiday to the most famous of Scotland 's Islands - Skye. Wild coastal scenery, jagged mountain ranges and a wealth of history make this an easy choice of destination to visit for a week's walking and the chance to explore the many different aspects of this diverse island. To the ancient Celts, Skye was known as An t’Eilan Sgitheanach - the Winged Isle. To the Vikings the Island was Skuyo – the Cloud Island and to the Gaelic poets she was Eilean a’ Cheo – the Island of the Mist. Maybe you'll have your own ideas.

Skye possesses an immense range of scenery and diverse walking to suit all abilities for a spectacular hiking holiday. The jagged Cuillin mountains form what is undisputedly the most impressive ridge on the British Isles. The adjacent Red Hills are less dramatic but no less beautiful. To the north runs the Trotternish ridge escarpment, with the Stoerr and the Quirang en-route and their awe-inspiring rock pinnacle formations. Wild coastlines, deep fjords and secluded windswept bays all make for a wild hiking experience through a very unique landscape. We will take in as much of this scenery as possible with a superb range of walks throughout the length of the island to give you a full Skye experience!

Take in the island's wildlife and incredible geology, its' turbulent history, strong tradition and thriving Gaelic culture which all combine to make this a fascinating place to visit.

We could easily spend 2 weeks on Skye - but we only have a week! The itinerary below gives you a flavour for some of the walks we are likely to do during your week, with some easier walks and more challenging mountain hikes, but this should be regarded as flexible. We will be hiking for between 5-7 hours each day, mainly on good paths but with some rougher ground on certain days. Our programme will be tailored to suit different abilities throughout the week, to provide for easier or more challenging alternatives as required.

Day 1 (Sunday): Travel to Skye.
We will depart Edinburgh at 9:00 am and head off to Skye with some sightseeing stops en-route. Highlights along the way include a visit to the Falls of Dochart at Killin, the dramatic Glen Coe and Eilan-Donan Castle. We will arrive in Skye late afternoon/early evening in time for dinner.

Day 2 (Monday): Boreraig and Suisnish.
This is a very fine coastal walk in the southwest of Skye to the deserted villages of Boreraig and Suisnish - former crofting communities destroyed during the "Highland Clearances" of the mid 1900's.Easy walking on good paths and superb views out to Loch Eishort, the Isle of Rhum and across to adjacent mountains Bla Bheinn and Clach Glas.10m /17km on good paths, 170m ascent/descent. 6 hours.

Day 3 (Tuesday): Elgol Coast walk to Camasunary Bay
This is a superb coastal walk into the southern end of the Cuillin hills. The cliff path leading to Camasunary is spectacular and gives fantastic views of the Cuillin mountains, culminating in the peaceful setting of Camasunary bay - a remote sanctuary under the slopes of Bla Bheinn in the midst of dramatic mountain scenery. The bay is a great place just to rest, take in the scenery and take endless photographs before continuing out over the hill to Kilmarie.6 miles/11km, 150m ascent/descent, 5-6 hours.

Day 4 (Wednesday): Corrie Lagan and Ullinish Point
Today’s walks gives you the chance to enter into the heart of the Cuillin mountains and also to see some of the island’s west coast. Corrie Laggan is one of the many bowl shaped hollows (corries) leading up into the higher peaks and is deserved in it’s reputation as the most spectacular of them all. Along the way, the Eas Mor waterfall is encountered, which is also considered to be the most spectacular waterfall on Skye. The way to the Corrie is initially on good paths, but with some rough walking in its upper stages as this is a rugged setting. 6m/10km, 570 m ascent/descent, 4-5 hours. In the afternoon we may take a visit and a short walk to Ullinish point and Oronsay Island- the most beautiful stretch of grass on Skye! 3m/5km.

Day 5 (Thursday): The Quirang and Meall na Suiramach.
The Quirang is an incredible maze of rock pinnacles and cliffs towards the northern end of the Trotternish peninsula in the north of the Island. We'll take as much time as we need to explore this amazing area before returning via the spectacular viewpoint and clifftop walk of Meall na Suiramach. 5 miles/8 km on good paths. 543m ascent/descent. Time allowing, we may then take a short walk to the most northerly point of the island.

Day 6 (Friday): Bruach na Frithe
The peak of Bruth na Frith offers the one summit along the Cuillin Ridge that can still be classed as a mountain walk rather than a climb! The ascent is steady and straightforward and offers us the chance to gain the famous "Cuillin Ridge" without any serious climbing. A suitable finale to the week! 8 miles (13 km) good mountain path, 958m (3143 ft).

Day 7 (Saturday): Return to Edinburgh to arrive approximately 2pm back in the city.

Dates for 2005: April 18-24, May 22-28, June 26 - July 2, July 10-16, July 24-30, Aug 7-13, Aug 21-27, Sept 18-24, Oct 9-15

Price: £625 for full board staying in bed and breakfast/guest house accommodation (£595 if booked (by 28th Feb 2005), based on a twin share basis, with a single room supplement of £60 for the week if required.
£425 for full board staying in hostel accommodation Packed lunches and all transport from Edinburgh are included.

Grading of Walks: The walking throughout this tour we class as “easy to moderate” – suitable for people of reasonable fitness who enjoy walking or the outdoors but who needn’t necessarily have any previous hiking experience. Walks each day are between 5-7 hours, with some lower level walks with little ascent and a couple more challenging days involving some mountain ascent (see above). Some rough ground should be expected. As always, your enjoyment of the trip is paramount and we aim to be flexible – we cater for a range of different fitness levels on our holidays and will provide additional guides if needed to enable different walking options throughout the week. If in doubt - just ask!

The Big Highland Tour!

A fabulous 2 week walking, hiking and cultural tour covering some of the best scenery to be found in the highlands of Scotland. From the southern to western highlands, the isle of Skye and the northwest highlands, this tour includes highlights from many of our other holidays and will still leave you longing for more! Truly discover Scotland with this new 14 day moderate walking and hiking tour featuring what we consider to be some of the most scenic and dramatic parts of Scotland!

We’ve included as much as possible within this holiday to let you experience the many different landscapes of the Scottish Highlands, but without it being a mad rush!You’ll experience stunning mountains, deep lochs, beautiful forests, wild coastlines and some of the most remote and rugged parts of Scotland. Highlights include Loch Lomond and the Trossachs, the West Highland Way, Glencoe, an ascent of Ben Nevis, the Isle of Skye, the wilderness of the north west highlands and finally the majestic mountains of the Cairngroms National Park area. This walking holiday will not only feature a superb range of mountain and lower level walks but will also include several rest and sightseeing days, giving you the chance to appreciate highlights along the way such as Eilan Donan Castle, Loch Ness, Culloden battlefield and other areas of interest.

The holiday includes 14 nights accommodation and a total of 11 days walking, with several days between for accommodation transfer and a bit of rest and sightseeing. You’ll be seeing a lot of Scotland, but mostly on foot with no real big drives or days traveling on the road! With the exception of the last few days, the journey taken is mostly south to north, following the west coast route all the way and the scenery throughout is spectacular!

The first 2 days and nights are spent in the Loch Lomond and Trossachs area – now officially Scotland’s first National Park and extremely beautiful, with a widespread mosaic of forests, lochs and mountains. We then move further north to Glencoe, which is more rugged and dramatic and will include a section of the West Highland way en-route. From Glencoe, you’ll have the chance to ascend Ben Nevis, Scotland and the UK’s highest mountain, as well as explore the glen. Four nights are then spent on Skye – the most famous of all Scottish islands! Although 2 weeks could easily be spent here, we have just 3 days to give you a taste of what this island can offer in all it’s variety. Crossing back over to the mainland we then head even further north into the wilderness area of Torridon, where we have 2 days walking amongst these huge and rugged mountains. Our final few days then see us heading east via Inverness and south into the Cairngorms area – Scotland’s second National park and also extremely beautiful. Our last afternoon and evening is spent in Edinburgh where there may be the option of a final night out with a ceilidh in the city.

Day 1: (Sunday) Ben A’an and The Trossachs
We will depart Edinburgh at 8:30 am and head off west to the Trossachs for a relatively easy first days walking up Ben A'an. This is a fine low 'mini mountain' in the heart of the Trossach hills –often referred to as “Scotland in miniature” due to the numerous lochs across the area and range of small mountains. There are simply tremendous views overlooking Loch Katrine from the summit of Ben A’an. A short journey after our days walking will then see us on to our hotel accommodation at Loch Lomond (475m, 4 miles on steep but good path, 4 to 5 hours).

Day 2: (Monday) Ascent of Ben Lomond
Ben Lomond is a relatively high mountain and a long day’s walk, however the views from this summit are spectacular, looking out over Loch Lomond and to the many mountains further north. This mountain also happens to be our most southerly “Munro” (mountain over 3000ft) and is a worthy challenge for the start of our week! (974m, 6 miles/10 km, good trail, 6 to 7 hours)

Day 3: (Tuesday) West Highland Way
Today we'll transfer to your new accommodation in Glen Coe, but will take time on the way north to appreciate the changing scenery with a lower level walk along part of the West Highland Way. This is Scotland's most popular long distance walking route, a total of 152km (95 miles) long and stretching all the way from just north of Glasgow to Fort William. We'll follow what we consider to be the finest section of this route, starting from Bridge of Orchy and finishing up at the Kingshouse Inn at the head of Glen Coe. (12 miles/18 km on good trail, minor ascent, 5-6 hours).

Day 4: (Wednesday) Ben Nevis
Today offers the opportunity for an ascent of Ben Nevis, Scotland and the UK's highest mountain. Our ascent of 'The Ben' is straightforward and on good paths but is physically challenging. The view from the top however (when not blanketed by mist), is well worth the effort. (1344m, 6 miles/10 km, good trail, 8 hours.) For those seeking a less strenuous option, an alternative walk to the spectacular Steall waterfall in upper Glen Nevis is highly recommended.

Day 5: (Thursday). Transfer to Skye
With time for a little shopping in Fort William and a look around the town, mid morning will see us on our way to Skye – or Eilan a’ Cheo as it was named by the Gaelic poets. Amidst much controversy, a bridge across to the island was constructed in 1995, however we’ll still take the seaward route - via boat from Mallaig and ‘over the sea to Skye’ – surely the best way to arrive on the island! We arrive on the southernmost part of the island at Armadale and may visit the Clan Donald Visitor Centre here or perhaps go for a short walk before heading on to our accommodation in Broadford.

Day 6: (Friday): Boreraig and Suisnish
This is a fine coastal walk in the south west of Skye to the deserted villages of Boreraig and Suisnish – former crofting communities destroyed during the “Highland Clearances” of the mid 1900’s. Now just scattered ruins, these places give testimony to a bleak period of Scottish history and are wild, lonely places to visit. The views throughout the walk are wonderful and varied - Loch Eishort to the south, the Isle of Rhum not far away and adjacent mountains Bla Bheinn and Clach Glas to the west. (10m /17km, easy walking on good paths, 170m ascent/descent, 6 hours). Accommodation in Broadford.

Day 7: Camasunary Bay and Glen Sligachan
This is a superb walk through the heart of the Cuillin hills. The path leading to Camasunary bay gives fantastic views of the southern Cuillin mountains, culminating in the peaceful setting of Camasunary - a remote sanctuary under the slopes of Bla Bheinn and in the midst of dramatic mountain scenery. Once the bay is reached, a good path heads northwards for several hours through the Cuillin mountains to the Sligachan Hotel and the northern end of the Cuillins. 10 miles/16km. 150m ascent/descent. 7 hours. Accommodation Carbost area hostel. Should the weather permit, then this walk may be varied by including a boat journey to Loch Coruisk as an alternative to walking via Camasunary. This loch is situated within the heart of the Cuillin mountains and is the jewel of the Cuillins - a truly spectacular location but not easily reached on foot! Should we take this journey then the price of the boat journey in to Coruisk (£15) is additional. Accommodation Portree.

Day 8 (Sunday): The Quirang and Meall na Suiramach.
The Quirang is an incredible maze of rock pinnacles and cliffs towards the northern end of the Trotternish peninsula in the north of the Island. Wandering among the cliffs, we'll take as much time as we need to explore this fascinating area before returning via the spectacular viewpoint and clifftop walk of Meall na Suiramach. (5 miles/8 km on good paths, 543m ascent/descent, 4-6 hours. Time allowing, we may then take a visit to the most northerly point of the island. Accommodation Portree.

Day 9: (Monday): Transfer to Torridon Area
Sad to leave though it will be, an early morning start will see us off back over to the mainland and heading further north into the rugged mountains of Torridon and the north-west highlands. The drive is beautiful and through some remote scenery. En route we will also stop at Eilan Donan Castle – one of the most picturesque castles in Scotland. Once established at our accommodation further north, there may be time for a late afternoon short stroll before dinner.Accommodation Loch Maree

Day 10: (Tuesday): Coire Mhic Fhearchair.
Today’s hike in the Torridon area is into the majestic Coire Mhic Fhearchair - one of the finest and most impressive corries in Scotland. The corrie lies at the northern end of Ben Eigh - one of the three Torridon “giants” - and has a large amphitheatre, surrounded on three sides by the imposing cliffs of the mountain. The walk into the Corrie is extremely pleasant, with wide open views across the Torridon landscape and down to Loch Maree (9 miles/14km, partial rough trail, 600m ascent/descent, 6-7 hours). Accommodation Loch Maree

Day 11 (Wednesday): Letterewe wilderness.
A wonderfully varied circular walk from Kinlochewe into the heart of this wilderness area.This is an area seldom visited by other walkers and despite the generally easy nature of the walk, a real sense of remoteness is felt when the shores of Loch Maree are left far behind. Non-strenuous but a long day (12 miles/19km, 9 hours on good paths). Accommodation Loch Maree

Day 12 (Thursday): Transfer to Newtonmore.
Having reached the far northern extremities of your tour, the gradual journey back down southwards is begun today. We will be journeying to Newtonmore, but will take time along the way to explore some of Scotland’s history, with visits to Culloden battlefield, the Clava Cairns and of course the obligatory stop at Loch Ness! Accommodation in Newtonmore.

Day 13 (Friday): Cairngorm Mountain Wander
Today we introduce you to the delights of the Cairngorms with a fairly easy but thoroughly enjoyable and hugely varied walk into the foothills of the Cairngorm Mountains. We start from the picturesque Loch an Eilan, up through the beautiful Caledonian Forest above Loch Morlich and then into the Larig Ghru - a famous pass cutting right through the heart of the Cairngorms. Taking in a small summit along the way we then traverse the "Chalmain Gap" - a strange rocky incision where we have rough ground for a short distance before an easy descent back to transport home (13km/8 miles, mainly good paths, 500m ascent, 6 hours). Accommodation Newtonmore.

Day 14 (Saturday): Transfer to Edinburgh. Final Evening of Tour
After breakfast we depart for Edinburgh, with a visit to the whisky distillery at Dalwhinnie en-route. We arrive Edinburgh early afternoon, giving you time to spend in the city. In the evening there may be the option of going to an informal Ceilidh (Scottish dance) – these are held regularly in Edinburgh and involve plenty of participation! This is also the last evening you will spend with your guide but will be a great way to end the week! Overnight accommodation in Edinburgh for this final night is included, however if you wish to catch a flight from Edinburgh mid to late Saturday afternoon please let us know and this can be arranged.

Dates for 2005: May 8-21, June 12-25, July 10-23, Aug 7-20, Sept 4-17.

Price: £1,395 for full board* guest house or hotel accommodation (£1,325 if booked by 28th Feb 2005). This is based on a twin share basis with a single room supplement of £150 for the trip if required.
* Includes: all transport, guiding and 14 nights full board guest house or small hotel accommodation throughout.
Excludes: Final night evening meal in Edinburgh, additional tourist attractions, castle entrance fees etc.

Grading of Walks: The walking throughout this tour we class as “easy to moderate” – suitable for people of reasonable fitness who enjoy walking or the outdoors but who needn’t necessarily have any previous hiking experience. Walks each day are between 5-7 hours, with a couple of longer days (e.g. Ben Nevis is 8-9 hours) and are varied throughout the tour, with some lower level walks with little ascent and several more challenging days involving mountain ascents of around 3000ft (Ben Nevis 4,400ft!) – see our full itinerary above. Distances covered each day vary between 6-12 miles (9-18km). As always, our mantra is flexibility – we cater for a range of different fitness levels and will provide additional guides to enable different walking options throughout the tour if needed