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Exploring Scotland: Isles, Landscapes, and Lochs
Edinburgh, the Scottish Highlands and Skye
10 Days
From $7295
Hiking and Culture
Exploring Scotland: Isles, Landscapes, and Lochs
Edinburgh, the Scottish Highlands and Skye
10 Days
From $7295
Hiking and Culture
Trip Overview
This trip starts and finishes in Edinburgh, and takes in a grand circuit of the famous Scottish Highlands and the Isle of Skye. Along the way, we visit both of Scotland’s National Parks, view the lochs (an “arm” of the sea), hike in historic Glencoe, experience a lovely valley off the beaten path, and get our fair share of Scottish culture on a castle visit, hikes through history and perhaps a visit to a local pub or two!
Highlights
- Visiting the rolling hills and lush forests of the most beautiful glen in Scotland
- Hiking in a variety of iconic Scottish landscapes including the Isle of Skye, Mountains of Torridon, and Loch Lomond National Park
- Catching a glimpse of the mysterious and beautiful Loch Ness
- Cultural immersion through castle tours, picturesque village rambles, visits with artisans and musicians, and delicious meals.
Inclusions
- 1-2 local guides, and an AGC guide depending on group size
- Nine nights double occupancy accommodation with two single supplements available
- Transportation within Scotland
- All activities on the itinerary
- Breakfast each day, 8 lunches (Days 2-9 inclusive), 8 dinners (Day 8 and Day 10 not included)
- Drinks and snacks while hiking
- Tipping of hotels, restaurants, and castle tour
Not included: transportation to/from Edinburgh, beverages at dinner, meals excluded above, local guide gratuities, activities and entrance fees not mentioned on the itinerary, items of a personal nature
Trip Info
This trip has lots of activity, interspersed with time for sightseeing, and our days can be enjoyed by any active and fit woman in good health who has a good level of physical conditioning, loves being outdoors, and wants to see Scotland. This trip is rated 3, which requires aerobic conditioning such as walking vigorously up hills, jogging, cross country skiing or stair stepping for 30 - 45 minutes 3 - 4 days a week.
Rating: 1 2 [3]4 5.
This is primarily a hiking trip, designed to introduce you to the varied Scottish landscape. We have chosen moderate hikes on established paths. We will also be learning about Scottish history and culture.
We spend our nights in non-chain locally owned hotels, inns, and B&Bs with en suite bathrooms. We'll spend the first two nights at Loch Lomond Hotel, two nights at MacDonald Hotel, two nights at The Plockton Hotel or similar and two nights at the Glen Mhor Hotel in Inverness. We will spend the last night in Edinburgh at the Bruntsfield
Trip Resources
Itinerary
Below is the proposed itinerary for the trip. As is true on any adventure travel trip, plans for any specific day may be modified due to weather considerations, unforeseen circumstances, new opportunities, and group interests.
DAY 1
Your adventure begins in Edinburgh, where we’ll meet at 1 PM at the Bruntsfield Hotel. From here, we leave the city behind and journey west into the stunning landscapes of Loch Lomond & The Trossachs National Park (90-minute transfer).
After a warm welcome and trip briefing, we’ll stretch our legs with a scenic hike up Duncryne Hill, affectionately known as “The Dumpling.” Don’t let its modest height fool you—this short but rewarding trail offers breathtaking panoramic views over Loch Lomond, giving you a taste of the epic scenery to come.
Following our hike, we’ll settle into our charming accommodation in the village of Drymen, where a delicious welcome dinner awaits. Get to know your fellow adventurers, relax, and get ready for the incredible journey ahead!
Overnight: Buchanan Arms Hotel
Meals Included: Dinner
Hike Details: 3 miles, 100 ft elevation gain, Approx: 1 hrs
DAY 2
After a hearty Scottish breakfast, we take a short transfer to Balmaha, where today’s adventure begins. Our route follows a section of the legendary West Highland Way, leading us through lush forests and open moorland before ascending the striking Conic Hill.
This small but mighty peak rewards us with breathtaking panoramic views over Loch Lomond and its scattered islands, marking the natural boundary between the Lowlands and the Highlands. With its dramatic ridgeline and stunning vantage point, Conic Hill is the perfect introduction to the rugged beauty of Scotland’s landscapes.
After soaking in the views, we descend and enjoy a well-earned lunch before returning to Drymen for another relaxing evening at our charming accommodation.
Overnight: Buchanan Arms Hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Hike Details: 7 miles, 1,200 ft elevation gain, Approx: 4 hrs
DAY 3
We transfer north (90 minutes) to Glencoe, where we enjoy a scenic hike through one of Scotland’s most striking landscapes, featured in the film Skyfall. Our walk follows a section of the West Highland Way, Scotland’s best-known long-distance trail. Today we take on arguably the most scenic section, known as the Devil’s Staircase. The zigzagging ascent was named by General Wade’s soldiers and later dreaded by dam workers returning from the Kingshouse Hotel in winter. After a day in this dramatic landscape, enjoy a well deserved drink at a local pub, before a short transfer brings us to our hotel.
Overnight: Clachaig Inn
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Hike Details: 6 miles, 1,804 ft elevation gain, Approx: 3 hrs
DAY 4
We hike directly from the hotel today, starting with an ascent out of the village on a good trail through the forest. You’ll soon be able to hear the thunder of falling water – The Grey Mare’s Tail is an impressive waterfall, dropping almost 50 feet. We’ll continue on our hike as the path comes out of the woods and eventually reaches a remote loch, surrounded by mountains and wild moorlands. On the return, we’ll enjoy stunning views down the length of Loch Leven to the Pap of Glencoe.
Overnight: Clachaig Inn
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Hike Details: 8 miles, 1,200 ft elevation gain, Approx: 5 hrs
DAY 5
An easier day today as we transfer north through spectacular Kintail to reach Eilean Donan, a dramatic castle perched on a small island. After a tour of the castle, we stop by a local cafe for lunch before reaching the picturesque village of Plockton, our base for the next 2 nights. There will be time for an easy hike exploring the hills and coastline around the village before we check in and gather for dinner.
Overnight: The Plockton Hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Hike Details: 2 miles, 149 ft elevation gain, Approx: 2 hrs
DAY 6
A short transfer takes us over the graceful arc of the Skye Bridge to the famous Isle of Skye, takes us to the Isle of Skye, the largest and northernmost of Scotland’s Inner Hebrides, is famed for its dramatic mountain landscapes. Rich in wildlife and birdlife, Skye never fails to captivate. Today, the island invites you to explore one of its many stunning, scenic trails and immerse yourself in a landscape steeped in culture and history. Today, the choice of route will be left to the guides and the group, with several enticing options to consider. On our return, we may detour to the pretty beach at Camas Daraich, with a chance to dip your toes in! Back in Plockton, wander along the waterfront before this evening’s meal.
Overnight: The Plockton Hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Hike Details: 5 miles, 1,200 ft elevation gain, Approx: 4 hrs
DAY 7
Leaving Plockton, we head north to the mountains of Torridon. Here, we enjoy a fantastic low-level hike around Loch Coulin and beautiful Loch Clair, which is surrounded by the towering peaks of Torridon. If the weather is still, the mountain of Liathach reflects beautifully on the loch. Afterwards, we continue west, arriving in Inverness late afternoon.
Overnight: Glen Mhor Hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Hike Details: 4 miles, 400 ft elevation gain, Approx: 4 hrs
DAY 8
We visit Glen Affric, said to be the prettiest valley in Scotland! A lovely hike takes in the ancient pine forest and a small summit with incredible views. On the way back to Inverness, we travel via Loch Ness to try and spot the monster before returning to the hotel. A free evening to explore local restaurants at your leisure.
Overnight: Glen Mhor Hotel
Meals Included: Lunch and Dinner
Hike Details: 7 miles, 1,500 ft elevation gain, Approx: 5 hrs
DAY 9
We transfer south to Edinburgh, a journey of around 3.5 hours. We break the journey with a short but stunning walk in the Cairngorms National Park. Our route explores the peaceful Uath Lochans and hikes up the small peak of Farleitter Crag for stunning views towards the high plateau of the Cairngorms. We continue south to Edinburgh, arriving late in the afternoon. After we settle into the hotel, we can take a walk towards the city center on our way to dinner.
Overnight: Bruntsfield Hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
Hike Details: 4 miles, 600 ft elevation gain, Approx: 2 hrs
DAY 10
Farewell, Scotland! After a final hearty breakfast, it’s time to say goodbye Scotland, reflecting on an unforgettable journey filled with breathtaking landscapes, invigorating hikes, and new friendships. Waking up in the city, you’ll have plenty of time for onward travel or to explore more of Scotland’s vibrant capital. Until next time, haste ye back!
Meals Included: Breakfast
Reviews
4.7
(25 reviews)
5
(20)
4
(3)
3
(2)
2
(0)
1
(0)
*These are the unfiltered reviews of women who have been on this trip in answer to the question "What made this trip special for you?". We take reviews very seriously and often tweak itineraries based on feedback. Please feel free to contact us about any questions you have.
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Rebecca P.
1 month ago
Fellow travelers great, food great, accomindations great. The best thing was Heather and Kristy Heather knew all about the mountains, tundra and foliage, etc. Kristy was deep into Scotish history, how the Scotland became, what happened with the Brits and currently what the struggles are
Karen H.
1 month ago
The location, and the guides!
Phyllis T.
1 month ago
Lori M.
2 months ago
Our guides were fabulous, scenery beautiful, Scottish people are extremely friendly, always a wonder walking around such old building and two particularly great hikes
Peggy A.
10 months ago
The trip was special due to the two leaders Astrid and Kirsty. They were knowledgeable, and so willing to help. The other part of this trip that made it so special was the group of wonderful women on this trip. We got along so well!
Catherine S.
1 year ago
The group was very easy going and the guides were excellent.
Cynthia A.
1 year ago
Traveling with my daughter.
Sharon C.
1 year ago
Meeting amazing women, from the guides to the participants, who were all interested in having experiences in Scotland - including hiking, exploring castles, eating regional food and enjoying each others company.
Beverly H.
1 year ago
Went to a part of Scotland I had never been and loved the hiking.
Carol H.
1 year ago
This was an exceptional group of women who were on time, flexible, and delightful. Astrid and Kirsty kept us informed about any changes in our days. They had lots of information that they were happy to share with us.
Amy A.
1 year ago
Being able to do some challenging hikes for me while still getting to see some cultural sites in Scotland.
Ruth S.
1 year ago
I really enjoyed the different types of hikes and varied scenery. We were able to experience hiking in the mountains, valleys, lakes and seashores. Kirsty was very informative about the historical highlights of Scotland, and Astrid's humor and energy kept our spirits high while Lindsay kept track of us all. The group dynamic was fun, easy going and amenable. The weather cooperated. We had a little time to walk the cities and experience a lot of the local delicious foods. A lot of activity was packed into the trip. It left me wanting to visit more of Scotland.
Christine C.
1 year ago
This AGC trip to Scotland was the absolute best way to see several areas of the country, while appreciating the stunning scenery and learning all about the history.
Tracy H.
1 year ago
Elizabeth L.
1 year ago
Alisa H.
1 year ago
Angela P.
2 years ago
The other ladies and the beautiful scenery.
Jean C.
2 years ago
I loved all the views of Scotland that we saw on our hikes. I have seen the beauty of Scotland in a that few visitors have been able to do.
Susan S.
2 years ago
Meeting new friends was definitely great, and experiencing hiking to beautiful places was absolutely an awesome privilege.
Pat E.
2 years ago
Debbie B.
2 years ago
Roberta H.
2 years ago
We had 1 AGC guide and 2 local guides so we had some flexibility in our itinerary that made the trip more special.
Karen G.
2 years ago
Meeting people, old friends and making new friends.
Barbara R.
2 years ago
I’ve been wanting to visit Scotland and have been following ACG for years. When I saw the 2023 list of trips ,I signed up to celebrate some personal milestones this year . I wasn’t disappointed ! It was a trip of a lifetime for me.
Deborah M.
2 years ago
great guides and hikes, haunting landscapes, good food and lodging
Dates & Prices
| Departure Date | Availability | Price | |
|---|---|---|---|
|
July 07 to July 16, 2025 |
FULL |
$6995.00 |
|
|
July 07 to July 16, 2026 |
Available |
$7295.00 |
|
|
September 01 to September 10, 2026 |
Available |
$7295.00 |
Make It Your Adventure
Turn any trip into a private experience for your group, or let us design a custom itinerary just for you! Whether it’s friends, family, or colleagues, we’ll make your journey unforgettable.
Common Questions
If we know well in advance, we can accommodate vegetarian, lactose-free, and gluten-sensitive diets. We cannot guarantee a completely gluten-free diet and we cannot provide a kitchen guaranteed to be free of cross-contamination. If you are vegan, we ask that you bring some additional protein bars; and if you are gluten-sensitive, please bring some gluten-free snacks. If you have severe allergies, Celiac disease and/or other significant dietary restrictions, please call the office before you register.
You only need to pay a single supplement if you want to guarantee you have your own room. Otherwise we’ll pair you up with someone and then switch roommates every time we switch lodging.
Your ears will delight in the merry Scottish music we'll hear in the bustling city of Edinburgh, where musicians gather for concert festivals throughout the year!
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