Overview
In Scotland’s realm of mist-shrouded crags and heathered moors, we’ve crafted a hiking trip from the legendary Isle of Skye to the wild seascapes of the Outer Hebrides, a haven of Scottish Gaelic culture on the outer edge of Europe. Our trails bring us to the glistening lochs of Glen Affric, the sandy beaches of Harris, and among the pinnacles of the Quiraing, a geological wonder and an icon of Scotland. Between hikes, we’ll be welcomed into the culture as we meet a tweed weaver, listen to a seanachaidh (storyteller), sample fresh scallops, sip fine single malt whisky, and hear tales of the Campbell and MacDonald clans.
We enjoyed the opportunity to interact with the storyteller, piper, weaver, and artist. Those were good chances to experience the local culture one on one and something we might have missed if we were on our own.
— Jim R., San Diego, CA
Itinerary at a Glance
Days 1-2
Loch Ness / Glen Affric
Our hikes bring us along Loch Ness, where we keep an eye out for Nessie, and into Glen Affric, Scotland’s most beautiful glen. One evening, we’ll be entertained by a local storyteller—storytelling is a beloved Scottish tradition.
Days 3-5
Outer Hebrides / Lewis and Harris / Callanish Standing Stones
On the Isle of Lewis in the Outer Hebrides, we hike along coastal cliffs to a village of thatched houses, then end our day at the Callanish Standing Stones, older than Stonehenge, which we can approach on foot—no fences! On the Isle of Harris, beaches and mountain tracks offer us fantastic hikes, and we visit a traditional Harris tweed weaver. Fine gin and whisky are created on Harris and we’ll sample some of the best.
Days 6-7
Isle of Skye / Quiraing / Cuillins
The Isle of Skye is a world of jagged mountain peaks and towering sea cliffs. We hike among the incredible rock pinnacles of the Quiraing, a place of wonder and amazement, and into the mysterious Black Cuillins, which rise straight out of the sea.
Days 8-9
Isle of Raasay
On our last day on Skye, we ferry out to the Isle of Raasay, an often-overlooked gem, for a hike amid the island’s breathtaking beauty, including iconic Dun Caan mountain and the picturesque ruins of Brochel Castle. Offshore, otters and seals play and hunt, and dolphins are regular visitors. Depart on Day 9 via the graceful Skye Bridge, with a photo stop at Eilean Donan Castle en route to Inverness.
Highlands and Islands of Scotland
