Scotland: Hiking the Hidden Gems of the Highlands and Coasts

Location: Europe
Duration: 8 Days
Price: From $6,395
Activity Level: Level 3 – Dynamic

Scotland: Hiking the Hidden Gems of the Highlands and Coasts

Location: Europe
Duration: 8 Days
Price: From $6,395
Activity Level: Level 3 – Dynamic

Overview

From storybook streets to wind-swept landscapes, this journey reveals Scotland at its most breathtaking. Begin in Edinburgh, experiencing the city’s history and character. Then venture north into the nature-rich Cairngorm National Park, where vast moorlands and forested trails promise gorgeous hiking days. Continue to the Isle of Skye, walking beneath dramatic ridgelines and along coastal paths shaped by sea and sky. In Glencoe, explore a rugged, cinematic wilderness where towering peaks and deep glens create an unforgettable finale to this hiking adventure.

Main Attractions

Rugged Beauty

Step into the heart of the Highlands in Cairngorm National Park, a vast wilderness of ancient forests, open moorlands, and wildlife-rich trails.

Edinburgh’s Hidden Corners

Explore Scotland’s captivating capital, where medieval lanes and Georgian streets reveal stories beyond the guidebooks.

Sweeping Sea Views

Create memories among the ever-changing light, raw beauty, and dramatic ridgelines on the Isle of Skye.

Map showing flight routes from Edinburgh, Scotland to various locations in the Scottish Highlands, including Aviemore, Glencoe, and Isle of Skye.
A group of hikers pose together on a grassy hill with rocky formations and cloudy sky in the background.
Three people stand on a stone footbridge with an arched gate, surrounded by lush green forest.
A woman with a backpack and trekking poles stands on a rocky hiking trail, overlooking a vast, grassy landscape with hills under a partly cloudy sky.
A group of hikers stands on a grassy trail overlooking a lake, winding road, and rolling hills under a cloudy sky.
Three people walk and take photos along a gravel path winding through green, grassy hills under a cloudy, overcast sky.
A group of hikers pose together on a grassy hill with rocky formations and cloudy sky in the background.
Three people stand on a stone footbridge with an arched gate, surrounded by lush green forest.
A woman with a backpack and trekking poles stands on a rocky hiking trail, overlooking a vast, grassy landscape with hills under a partly cloudy sky.
A group of hikers stands on a grassy trail overlooking a lake, winding road, and rolling hills under a cloudy sky.
Three people walk and take photos along a gravel path winding through green, grassy hills under a cloudy, overcast sky.

Itinerary

A row of colorful storefronts with flower boxes lines a curved cobblestone street in an urban area, with decorative flags hanging overhead.

Welcome to Edinburgh

Arrive at Edinburgh Airport and enjoy an 11 a.m. private transfer to your centrally located hotel, where luggage storage allows time to explore or grab lunch before regrouping at 2 p.m. Set out with your AdventureWomen group on a guided walk through the UNESCO-listed Old and New Towns, beginning at Calton Hill for sweeping city views of the city’s landmarks. Stroll the Royal Mile lined with unique shops and cafes to Edinburgh Castle, then gather for a relaxed welcome dinner and trip briefing.

Meals dinner
A stone arch bridge crosses a river in a rural landscape, with a large stone house and hills in the background under a cloudy sky.

Into the Highlands & Cairngorm Trails

After an early breakfast, journey north into the Scottish Highlands, crossing the iconic Queensferry Crossing with sweeping views of the Firth of Forth below. Stop at Blair Castle for a guided visit through its 700-year history, followed by time for lunch. Continue to Aviemore, the gateway to the Cairngorms, for a 2–3-hour hike through pine forests to the atmospheric ruins of Loch an Eilein Castle. Settle in for a three-night stay and dinner in town.
Hike Details: 5 miles | 902 ft elevation gain | Approx: 2.5 hrs

Meals breakfast, lunch, dinner
A scenic landscape with rolling hills, rocky outcrops, green grass, and purple heather under a cloudy sky.

Cairngorm Peaks & Sustainable Highlands

Begin with an early drive to Glenmore Forest Park, deep within Cairngorms National Park. Hike the beloved local trail up Meall a’ Bhuachaille, following well-kept paths across heathered slopes to a windswept ridge alive with Highland beauty. Pause at Lochan Uaine, steeped in folklore, before a hilltop picnic. In the afternoon, visit Lynbreck Croft, where pioneering women showcase regenerative farming, biodiversity, and their ingenious henmobile in action.
Hike Details: 5 miles | 1,781 ft elevation gain | Approx: 4.5 hrs

Meals breakfast, lunch, dinner
A stone castle sits on a small island connected by a bridge, surrounded by calm water and mountains under a cloudy sky.

Loch Ness and the Isle of Skye

Depart the Cairngorms National Park and journey north, stopping in the charming village of Invermoriston, known for its waterfall and welcoming café. Skirt the shores of Loch Ness, then pause for photos at iconic Eilean Donan Castle. Cross to the Isle of Skye for an easy hike in Glen Sligachan, framed by the Black and Red Cuillin. Settle into Uig with sweeping bay views
Hiking Details: 4 miles | 728 ft elevation gain | Approx: 3 hrs

Meals breakfast, lunch, dinner
Three people hike along a narrow coastal trail beside green hills, rocky shoreline, and calm blue sea under a partly cloudy sky.

Skye’s Incredible Coastline

Spend the day discovering the remote western reaches of the Isle of Skye, exploring the tranquil Waternish Peninsula. Walk along a dramatic coastline where rugged cliffs soften into hidden coves, beginning at the atmospheric ruins of an ancient church rich in history. Continue to a secluded headland with sweeping views across The Minch toward the Outer Hebrides. Watch for whales, dolphins, and seabirds riding the coastal winds. Routes may adapt to conditions, ensuring a memorable Skye experience before dinner at the hotel.
Hiking Details: 8 miles | 1,275 ft elevation gain | Approx: 5 hrs

Meals breakfast, lunch, dinner
A person stands on rocky terrain with dramatic jagged rock formations and a sprawling green valley under a cloudy sky in the background.

Trotternish Icons & Journey to Glencoe

Set out early to explore the legendary Trotternish Peninsula, Skye’s northernmost reach, where surreal landscapes unfold from Portree to the wild headland of Rubha Hunish. Hike beneath the soaring Old Man of Storr, with views toward Raasay and Rona, and pass dramatic formations like The Prison and The Needle. In the afternoon, ferry back to the mainland and enjoy a scenic drive to GlencoeHiking Details: 3 miles | 945 ft elevation gain | Approx: 2 hrs

Meals breakfast, lunch
A group of hikers with backpacks and walking poles walk uphill on a dirt trail through grassy, hilly terrain under a cloudy sky.

Glencoe Beauty & A Farewell Dinner

Explore the powerful landscapes of Glencoe, where dramatic peaks and turbulent history intertwine. Hike into the secluded Lost Valley, once a refuge for the MacDonald clan after the Massacre of Glencoe during the Jacobite era. The scenery is as cinematic as it is historic, having appeared in films like Harry Potter, Braveheart, and Skyfall. Afterward, visit the eco-friendly Glencoe Visitor Centre before transferring south to Edinburgh. Celebrate your Scottish hiking journey with a farewell dinner shared among fellow travelers.
Hiking Details: 2 miles | 1,099 ft elevation gain | Approx: 3 hrs

Meals breakfast, lunch, dinner
Two women sit on a rug in front of a lit stone fireplace, smiling at the camera in a cozy, warmly decorated room.

Farewell to Scotland

Enjoy a final breakfast in beautiful Edinburgh before saying goodbye to Scotland. A group transfer departs the hotel at 10:30 a.m. for Edinburgh Airport, connecting you with onward travel after an unforgettable journey through cities, coastlines, and Highlands. Please schedule departing flights for 2:00 p.m. or later to allow ample transfer time. For guests requiring an earlier departure, your hotel or guide team can gladly assist with arranging a private taxi.

Meals breakfast
Three sheep graze on a grassy hillside beneath cloudy skies, with rolling green hills and a rocky peak in the background.

Accommodations

Please note that all amenities were current when written and are subject to change at any time.

A large stone hotel building with pointed gables and bay windows, labeled "The Bruntsfield," with parked cars in front under a clear blue sky.

Bruntsfield Hotel

The Bruntsfield Hotel, set in a historic townhouse overlooking Bruntsfield Links, offers stylish comfort in one of Edinburgh’s liveliest neighborhoods. Its Bisque Brasserie serves modern Scottish dishes, and the city center is just a short stroll away, making it an ideal base for exploring

Amenities: complimentary toiletries, slippers, hair dryer, bathrobe, electric kettle, bottled water, flatscreen TV, cable / satellite TV, Wi-Fi

A stone building with multiple chimneys and peaked roofs under a blue sky, with a sign reading “Ravenscraig” visible on the left side.

Ravenscraig Guest House

Ravenscraig Guest House is a warm and inviting fully restored Victorian villa, nestled in Aviemore, an adventurer’s heaven, right in the heart of the Cairngorms National Park. This family-run guest house blends traditional charm with modern comforts, offering beautifully appointed rooms and hearty breakfasts. Ideally located for exploring the area’s outdoor adventures, it’s a perfect base for hikers, skiers, and nature lovers alike. 

Amenities: Complimentary toiletries, hair dryer, coffee / tea maker, flatscreen TV, Wi-Fi

Large white house on a green grassy landscape near a sandy beach, with rolling hills and blue sky in the background.

Uig Hotel

The Uig Hotel, a charming family-run establishment on the Isle of Skye, is steeped in history as a former coaching inn dating back to 1831. Perched on a hillside overlooking Uig Bay, it offers stunning views, cozy rooms, a traditional bar, and a restaurant serving locally inspired cuisine. Ideally located for exploring Skye’s dramatic landscapes and catching the ferry to the Outer Hebrides, it’s a perfect base for a memorable Highland escape.

Amenities: complimentary toiletries, hair dryer, tea / coffee maker, Wi-Fi

A white house, parked cars, and a brown building are set among trees and large mossy rocks, with a grassy hill and mountain in the background under a partly cloudy sky.

Clachaig Inn

Nestled in the heart of Glencoe, Clachaig Inn has welcomed travelers for over 300 years. It offers modern en suite rooms, hearty breakfasts, and two lively bars serving local dishes, cask ales, and over 260 whiskies. With live music, beer festivals, and stunning mountain views, it’s a true Highland gem. Daily included meals (located at the bottom left of each page) and the accompanying meal descriptions and locations within the text.

Amenities: complimentary toiletries, tea and coffee making facilities, flatscreen TV, Wi-Fi

What People Are Saying

“The camaraderie on this all-women’s Scotland trip was unforgettable. We started as strangers and quickly became a supportive, laughing group of friends, encouraging each other every step of the way.”

What People Are Saying

“This was my first active trip traveling solo, and AdventureWomen made it so empowering! Hiking with such a supportive group gave me confidence, pride, and a real sense of accomplishment which I’ll carry forward.”

What People Are Saying

“From my very first inquiry to the farewell dinner with my fellow travelers, the AdventureWomen team was just incredible. Every step of my trip was thoughtfully planned down to the smallest detail, which let us fully enjoy every day of my adventure!”

Dates & Pricing

Start Date End Date Availability Starting At Booking Link
May 18, 2027 May 25, 2027
Space Available
$6,395
Standard Double
$6,395 total, $800 deposit
Standard Single
$8,095 total, $800 deposit
Aug 31, 2027 Sep 7, 2027
Space Available
$6,395
Standard Double
$6,395 total, $800 deposit
Standard Single | Only 3 left
$8,095 total, $800 deposit

Arrival: Arrive in Edinburgh, Scotland (EDI) on Day 1 by 11:00 AM.

Departure: Depart from Edinburgh, Scotland (EDI) on Day 8 after 2:00 PM.

What's Included

  • Accommodations as per itinerary based on double occupancy
  • All meals as listed in the itinerary
  • Activities as indicated in the itinerary
  • English-speaking guide(s) throughout the trip
  • Guided sightseeing and activities as indicated in the itinerary
  • An alcoholic drink at the Welcome and Farewell dinner
  • All ground transportation
  • Entrance fees
  • All gratuities except for the main guide

What's Not Included

  • Items of a personal nature
  • International flights
  • Meals not specified in the itinerary
  • Fees for passport, visas, immunizations, or travel insurance
  • Cost of hospitalization or evacuation
  • Alcoholic beverages (unless otherwise specified)
  • Optional activities
  • Gratuities for the main guide

FAQs

Absolutely! You belong here. AdventureWomen welcomes all women and individuals who identify as part of the women’s community. We celebrate all races, backgrounds, orientations, abilities, and ages. Our adventures reflect the vibrant diversity of our travelers.

You can process your registration on our online booking system or over the phone. Most deposits are $800. In many cases, and unless otherwise indicated, your deposit is transferable if you notify us in writing 120 before your trip departs.

Be sure to check the ‘What’s Included’ section of the trip you are interested in. Once you get to the departure city and meet the group, we often include most meals, all accommodations, all activities (although there might be an optional activity at an additional cost), transportation while on the adventure, qualified local guide(s) and some trips also include an AdventureWomen Ambassador. Our trips do not include airfare to/from the arrival and departure cities. Internal flights are included.

Absolutely! In fact, we encourage it! Many of the women who travel with AdventureWomen come solo. For those that do not choose a single supplement, we pair you with a roommate. Usually, when we change accommodations on a trip, we will change roommates if we can, so you get a chance to know others in our group. A limited number of single supplements may be available for an additional charge.

That depends entirely on the trip! AdventureWomen adventure travel trips are rated according to the physical fitness level demanded by the included activities.

  • Level One: Easy Pace Our Easy Pace trips are thoughtfully designed for women who enjoy gentle activity, cultural immersion, and plenty of time to savor the scenery. They feature light walking, easy terrain like cobblestone streets or flat nature trails, and optional activities such as city tours, wildlife safaris, and scenic boat rides. This level offers a relaxed pace with flexible itineraries and minimal physical exertion.
  • Level Two: Moderate For women who enjoy staying active, balanced with some downtime, our Moderate trips offer a blend of movement and relaxation. Activities may include walking on gently rolling trails, with occasional uneven terrain like forest paths or shallow creek crossings. With activities like beginner kayaking or short e-bike excursions, this level is perfect for those eager to explore while trying something new.
  • Level Three: Dynamic Designed for adventurous women ready for a challenge, our Dynamic trips feature regular activity on varied terrain with moderate elevation gains. Expect natural obstacles such as rocky paths and shallow creek crossings. From glacier walks and whitewater rafting to ziplining and kayaking in calm to lightly-choppy waters, this level is perfect for those with hiking and outdoor experience and a sense of adventure.
  • Level Four: High Energy Our High Energy adventures are designed for women who crave being on the go! You should be prepared for full days of hiking across rugged, moderate-altitude terrain. With some steeper inclines and rocky paths, these trips often feature back-to-back adrenaline-fueled activities like canyoneering, multi-day treks, and Class IV whitewater rafting—perfect for experienced adventurers and hikers with good stamina and a passion for pushing their limits.
  • Level Five: Challenging Our Challenging trips are crafted for seasoned adventurers ready to take on remote, high-altitude terrain, and full-day treks. These trips are demanding yet deeply rewarding and designed for seasoned outdoor enthusiasts. You should be in excellent physical condition and be able to hike up to 14 miles per day with steep ascents, rugged trails, and elevations reaching 19,500 feet. These are strenuous trips that require endurance and a commitment to training before departure.

A trip extension is an optional add-on to your main AdventureWomen itinerary. Extensions allow you to explore a destination more deeply, visit nearby regions, or enjoy additional activities before or after your scheduled trip. You can request an extension by contacting your Trip Manager. We’ll confirm availability with our local partners and send you the details, pricing, and next steps. For more information about AdventureWomen extensions, please visit our FAQs.