Scotland by Trail

An Active Journey to the Highlands and Islands

TRIP DETAILS

10 days from $5,499

June 8–17, July 6–15, Aug. 17–26, Sept. 7–16, 2024

Maximum Travelers: 16

Highlights

• National Parks: Hike to hilltops, lochs, and hidden falls and learn about local flora and fauna in Scotland’s two national parks: Loch Lomond and the Trossachs and Cairngorms.

• Inner Hebrides: Discover the fabled Inner Hebrides on foot, trekking the emerald island of Kerrera and the mystical landscapes of the Isle of Skye.

• Historic Landmarks: Explore historic landmarks including Urquhart Castle, the site of the Glencoe massacre, and the legendary Royal Mile in the heart of Edinburgh.

• Legendary Distilleries: Sample Scottish whisky and learn how it is made during expert-led tours of historic distilleries in Oban and Pitlochry.

Itinerary

Days 1–2: Depart for Glasgow, Ireland

Arrive in Glasgow after an overnight flight, and transfer to your historic hotel in the city center.

After free time to explore the city and its unique architecture, meet your trip leader and fellow hikers for a welcome briefing and dinner. (D) vocoGrandCentralGlasgow

Day 3: Loch Lomond and the Trossachs National Park/Oban

After breakfast, head for beautiful Loch Lomond and the Trossachs National Park, named Scotland’s first national park in 2002. Set out on your first hike, following a section of the West Highland Way to the top of Conic Hill. Take an easy walk to the “hidden” Falls of Falloch and visit the intriguing St. Conan’s Kirk. Arrive in seaside Oban and check in to your hotel. (B,L) ObanBayHotel

Day 4: Inner Hebrides and Oban

Ride the ferry to Kerrera and follow a trail that circles the island’s southern half, exploring the interior and the coast. On a rocky promontory, see the tower of Gylen Castle, a stronghold of the MacDougall clan. Stop for a picnic or lunch at a tea garden at Lower Gylen. This afternoon, enjoy a guided tour and tasting at the Oban Distillery, founded in 1794. (B,L) ObanBayHotel

Day 5: Glencoe and Fort Augustus

From the Glencoe Viewpoint go on an easy hike along the River Etive. Continue by road to Glencoe, site of the notorious massacre of the MacDonald clan in 1692. After lunch, walk to the lake at the foot of Glencoe mountain, watching for interesting birds and other wildlife. Alternatively, visit Glencoe’s museum. Settle into your hotel in Fort Augustus this afternoon. (B,L) The Inch Hotel

Day 6: Isle of Skye

Soak up the magic of the Isle of Skye, beginning with a hike to the clear blue Fairy Pools. Take free time for lunch in the fishing village of Portree, then head north to the Trotternish Peninsula. Trek through an otherworldly landscape of soaring cliffs and sweeping green slopes to the narrow pinnacle known as the Old Man of Storr. Gather for dinner in Fort Augustus tonight. (B,D) The Inch Hotel

Day 7: Cairngorms National Park and Pitlochry

Trace the shores of Loch Ness, stopping to explore historic Urquhart Castle. Continue to Cairngorms National Park and pause for lunch in Aviemore. Take a walk through the ancient pines of Rothiemurchus forest and along the lake shore. Arrive in lively town of Pitlochry late this afternoon. (B,L)

Atholl Villa Guest House

Day 8: Pitlochry

Hike to the sites of Pitlochry and the surrounding countryside with a local guide, discovering Black Spout waterfall and the ruins of the Black Castle. Encounter a prehistoric standing stone in Moulin and cross the Pitlochry dam and fish ladder. After lunch, enjoy a guided visit and tasting at the Blair Atholl Distillery. (B,L) Atholl Villa Guest House

Day 9: Edinburgh

Travel to Edinburgh and take a walk along the Royal Mile, tracing Scotland’s turbulent history and the evolution of Edinburgh with a local guide. The remainder of the day is yours to explore Edinburgh as you wish. Toast your Scottish hiking adventure at a farewell dinner at one of the city’s great restaurants. (B,D) vocoEdinburghHaymarket

Day 10: Return home

After breakfast, transfer to the airport for your flight home. (B)

Activity Level: Moderate

This journey includes hiking options from 4–7 miles per day, sometimes over uneven terrain and with modest elevation gains.