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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
Embark on the Ultimate Scottish Adventure!
Begin and end your journey in Glasgow and Edinburgh, tracing a breathtaking route through Loch Lomond & The Trossachs, Glencoe, and the spellbinding Isle of Skye. From shimmering lochs to rugged peaks and storybook villages, you’ll experience Scotland at its most iconic.
We’ll hike through dramatic glens and national parks, explore charming towns like Plockton and Pitlochry, and even have the chance to summit a Munro in Cairngorms National Park. Adding to the adventure, we’ll take to the water for a sea kayaking excursion in search of seabirds and marine life.
Each day brings a new way to connect with Scotland’s wild beauty and rich culture—from scenic hikes and coastal views to hearty local meals and the warm camaraderie of a Highland pub. Discover the best of Scotland, from bustling cities to tranquil lochs and windswept mountain trails.
Maximum group size: 14
Highlights
- Explore two of Scotland’s most beautiful national parks: Loch Lomond & The Trossachs and Cairngorms
- Hike through the dramatic landscapes of Glencoe and the Isle of Skye
- Enjoy a sea kayaking adventure in search of seabirds and marine life
- Experience vibrant cities, Highland villages, and Scotland’s warm hospitality
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, and Travel Insurance.
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
Curious about how we rate our trips and how to prepare for yours? Explore our AGC Fitness Guide for more details.
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.
Wondering what kind of gear works well for our trips? Our AGC Gear Guide highlights some of our go-to favorites.
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 Fyne Hotel & Spa, two nights at Clachaig Inn, 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
Ready to picture yourself on this adventure?
Download the detailed trip summary for a closer look — daily highlights, travel notes, and everything you need to know before you go. It’s the perfect way to dream, plan, and share with a friend!
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
Meet your local guides at 9am at the hotel before a short transfer carries us out of Glasgow, leaving the bustle of the city behind as we journey into Loch Lomond and The Trossachs National Park. We’ll pause on the loch’s shore for a drink and a chance to get acquainted before setting out on our first hike. This rewarding circuit climbs the grassy ridge above Luss, revealing sweeping views over Loch Lomond and the Arrochar Alps, a perfect beginning to our Scottish adventure. From here it’s about an hour transfer to our loch side, where we can check in and relax in the idyllic surroundings.
Included Meals: Dinner
Accommodations: Loch Fyne Hotel & Spa (or similar)
Daily Activities: Hiking (~7 miles, ~2,500 feet elevation gain, ~5 hrs)
Included Meals: Dinner
Accommodations: Loch Fyne Hotel & Spa (or similar)
Daily Activities: Hiking (~7 miles, ~2,500 feet elevation gain, ~5 hrs)
DAY 2
The Cobbler (Ben Arthur) is one of the best-loved hills in the Southern Highlands, and for good reason. Its distinctive “triple fang” outline can be seen for miles, luring walkers in for a closer look. From a distance it appears fierce and forbidding, yet a clear, well-made path makes the climb surprisingly accessible. And for those curious enough to look beyond the trail, the mountain’s dramatic silhouette tells a fascinating geological story, an irresistible mix of striking scenery, approachable adventure, and some of Scotland’s coolest rock formations. Afterwards, we’ll make our way back to the hotel by water taxi, a playful and memorable journey on these famous waters.
Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodations: Loch Fyne Hotel & Spa (or similar)
Daily Activities: Hiking (~7 miles, ~3,000 feet elevation gain, ~6 hrs) Transfer Time: 1 hour
Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodations: Loch Fyne Hotel & Spa (or similar)
Daily Activities: Hiking (~7 miles, ~3,000 feet elevation gain, ~6 hrs) Transfer Time: 1 hour
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 the bar, before this evenings meal.
Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodations: Clachaig Inn (or similar)
Daily Activities: Hiking (~6 miles, ~1,800 feet elevation gain, ~3 hrs)
Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodations: Clachaig Inn (or similar)
Daily Activities: Hiking (~6 miles, ~1,800 feet elevation gain, ~3 hrs)
DAY 4
Today’s hike, Buachaille Etive Beag is often overshadowed by its more famous neighbour, yet it deserves attention in its own right. This striking ridge rewards those who climb it with sweeping views down Loch Etive and across the rugged peaks of Glencoe. Unlike some of the wilder summits nearby, it benefits from a well-marked path, making the ascent and descent from the Lairig Èilde both accessible and enjoyable, while still offering a true sense of Highland drama and remoteness. From here, we’ll head to the eco-friendly Glencoe Visitor Centre in a peaceful woodland glade, enjoy a hot drink, and discover the reserve’s unique stories before returning to the hotel. This evening is free for you to dine at your leisure.
Included Meals: Breakfast, and Lunch
Accommodations: Clachaig Inn (or similar)
Daily Activities: Hiking (~5 miles, ~3,000 feet elevation gain, ~6 hrs)
Included Meals: Breakfast, and Lunch
Accommodations: Clachaig Inn (or similar)
Daily Activities: Hiking (~5 miles, ~3,000 feet elevation gain, ~6 hrs)
DAY 5
Our first stop today, Fort William, often called the “Outdoor Capital of the UK” as the town lies at the foot of Ben Nevis, the highest mountain in the British Isles. From here, we’ll explore by sea kayak the tidal channel linking Loch Linnhe and Loch Eil, with the Corpach Basin offering stunning views of Ben Nevis. The narrows are rich in wildlife, from seals and otters to the occasional porpoise. After lunch, we travel north through spectacular Kintail to Eilean Donan, where we tour the dramatic castle perched on a small island, before continuing to the picturesque village of Plockton, our base for the next two nights, and if time allows, an easy stroll before dinner.
Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodations: The Plockton Hotel (or similar)
Daily Activities: Hiking (~2 miles, ~150 feet elevation gain, ~2 hrs)
Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodations: The Plockton Hotel (or similar)
Daily Activities: Hiking (~2 miles, ~150 feet elevation gain, ~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.
Included Meals: Breakfast, and Lunch
Accommodations: The Plockton Hotel (or similar)
Daily Activities: Hiking (~5 miles, ~1,200 feet elevation gain, ~4 hrs)
Included Meals: Breakfast, and Lunch
Accommodations: The Plockton Hotel (or similar)
Daily Activities: Hiking (~5 miles, ~1,200 feet elevation gain, ~4 hrs)
DAY 7
Leaving Plockton, we head north to the mountains of Torridon, an area that has long drawn hikers and climbers and is seen by many as the essence of the North Highland landscape. The rugged mountains are primarily made of Torridonian sandstone, around 750 million years old. Here, we enjoy a fantastic low-level hike around Loch Coulin and beautiful Loch Clair, which is surrounded by several towering peaks. If the weather is still, the mountain of Liathach reflects beautifully on the loch. After the hike we travel onwards to Inverness.
Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodations: Glen Mhor Hotel (or similar)
Daily Activities: Hiking (~4 miles, ~400 feet elevation gain, ~4 hrs) Transfer Time: 2 hours
Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodations: Glen Mhor Hotel (or similar)
Daily Activities: Hiking (~4 miles, ~400 feet elevation gain, ~4 hrs) Transfer Time: 2 hours
DAY 8
Munros are Scotland’s peaks rising above 3,000 feet (914 m), with 282 summits in total. “Munro bagging” draws hikers from around the world, and today we take on the mighty Sgòr Gaoith. The route climbs through magnificent pinewoods to open slopes and a vast plateau, with a summit perched dramatically above crags plunging to Loch Einich. The hike returns us to Glen Feshie, often overlooked despite being one of Scotland’s most beautiful glens. It is also a pioneering site for ‘re-wilding,’ where ecosystems are restored with minimal human intervention. Along the way we’ll explore conservation efforts and, on our descent, discover the hidden falls of Achlean deep in the forest. From here, straight to the pub, a locals firm favourite to enjoy dinner and drink before we transfer back to Inverness.
Included Meals: Lunch and Dinner
Accommodations: Glen Mhor Hotel (or similar)
Daily Activities: Hiking (~9 miles, ~3,000 feet elevation gain, ~7 hrs)
Included Meals: Lunch and Dinner
Accommodations: Glen Mhor Hotel (or similar)
Daily Activities: Hiking (~9 miles, ~3,000 feet elevation gain, ~7 hrs)
DAY 9
On our penultimate day, the last in the mountains, we head to Pitlochry, a picturesque town on the banks of the River Tummel. Perthshire, often called Scotland’s “tree country,” is rich in wildlife, from red squirrels to roe deer. Today’s hike takes us up Ben Vrackie, which towers above the town; well-maintained paths lead to a summit with superb views on a clear day, the perfect peak to finish on. For those resting weary legs, Pitlochry offers a bustling high street, charming Victorian architecture, and the famous dam and fish ladder to explore. Later, we travel together to Edinburgh, Scotland’s capital, for a farewell dinner to remember.
Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodations: Bruntsfield Hotel (or similar)
Daily Activities: Hiking (~6 miles, ~2,500 feet elevation gain, ~4.5 hrs)
Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodations: Bruntsfield Hotel (or similar)
Daily Activities: Hiking (~6 miles, ~2,500 feet elevation gain, ~4.5 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!
Included Meals: Breakfast
Included Meals: Breakfast
Reviews
4.8
(26 reviews)
5
(21)
4
(4)
3
(1)
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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Indra C.
2 months ago
Our guide was wonderful.
Linda C.
3 months ago
Our guide, Emy McLeod, was wonderful! Her intimate experience with and knowledge of the area saved the day on at least two occasions. She is kind, mature, able to flex, competent, and resourceful. I strongly recommend that the boat trip and hike that Emy arranged on Skye be incorporated into this trip... It was excellent!
Rebecca P.
4 months 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
Phyllis T.
4 months ago
Lori M.
5 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.
1 year 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
| Year | Departure Date | Availability | Price | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
|
2026 |
September 01 to September 10 |
Available |
$7295.00 |
Year
2026
Departure Date
September 01 to September 10, 2026
Availability
Available
Price
$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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