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Premium: The Ultimate Adventure in the Scottish Highlands

Hike, bike and SUP your way across Scotland’s Highlands from the Cairngorms National Park to Oban, stopping in at Loch Ness and Glencoe

What's Included?

  • Premium AccommodationGet cosy at three different boutique hotels and country houses, from Perthshire to the west coast
  • Standout StayUnwind with 2 nights at the historic Pine Trees Hotel, a retreat at the gateway to the Highlands
  • MealsAll breakfasts, 2 lunches and 3 dinners, including a haggis tasting and seafood farewell dinner
  • Activities & Certified GuidesAll itinerary activities with local, expert, English-speaking guides
  • TransfersAll transfers during the itinerary in a private vehicle, plus a short ferry crossing to the Isle of Kerrera
  • Maximum group size: 14Join small n’ sociable groups of like-minded, active and outdoorsy people – designed to be solo-friendly

…From…excluding flights

Highlights

  • Pull on your boots to hike through ancient forests and sweeping estates – eyes peeled for highland cows – and follow trails to mystical lochs and hidden waterfalls

  • Paddleboard across the legendary Loch Ness, cycle along the beautiful Caledonian Canal and canoe the tranquil waters of bonnie Loch Lomond

  • Take a boat to the tiny Isle of Kerrera for a wild coastal walk, rich with clan history, castles and sweeping views across the Hebrides

  • Unwind in historic, boutique hotels nestled amongst the rugged highland landscapes, sampling Scotch whisky, fresh seafood and haggis along the way

Itinerary

    Day 1

    Explore Edinburgh's Royal Mile before heading north

    Driving
    2hrs
    Walking Tour
    2hrs
    Hotel
    Twin share
    Dinner included
    Show Day 1 detail

    Your adventure begins in Edinburgh, where we recommend spending a couple of nights before the trip starts to explore in more depth. The trip kicks off with a walking tour with a difference. Your guide has experienced homelessness and now leads tours through the city they know and love, taking you up the Royal Mile with a perspective few visitors ever get. There's time to browse the wee shops and galleries lining the cobbles and grab some lunch before you leave the capital behind and transfer north into rural Perthshire, at the edge of the Highlands. You'll settle into your first hotel by late afternoon, then reunite with the group for a welcome dinner at a local restaurant, complete with your first taste of Scotland's most infamous delicacy: haggis.

    Day 2

    Hike across a Highland estate and past Blair Castle

    Hiking
    2hrs · 7km · 50m up · 50m down
    Tasting Experience
    1hr
    Hotel
    Twin share
    Breakfast included
    Show Day 2 detail

    After breakfast, head into the historic Atholl Estate, one of Perthshire's finest, to hike through magical forest trails past the turrets of Blair Castle. Keep your eyes peeled for Scotland's most iconic cattle: this is prime Highland cow territory. You'll be able to grab lunch at Blair Castle or in the village nearby, then in the afternoon, you'll head to a small Highland distillery to learn the story behind uisge beatha, the water of life, before raising a dram in a toast to the adventure ahead. Slàinte mhath! Afterwards, return to your Standout Stay for your second night in Perthshire, where the evening is yours to get dinner and enjoy the grounds of the property.

    Day 3

    Hike in the Cairngorms National Park then unwind with a sauna

    Hiking
    4hrs · 9km · 540m up · 540m down
    Sauna
    1hr
    Hotel
    Twin share
    Breakfast and dinner included
    Show Day 3 detail

    Checking out of your Perthshire retreat, continue north to Aviemore, the adventure capital of the Highlands. Today's main event is a hike up Meall a' Bhuachaille, a locals' favourite with sweeping views over the Cairngorm plateau. The ascent winds beneath ancient Caledonian pines to An Lochan Uaine (the Green Lochan), which – according to local legend – owes its emerald hue to fairies washing their clothes in its waters. After a breather at a rustic mountain bothy, you'll tackle a steeper, narrower stretch to the summit, where 360-degree views make every step worth it. Back down at loch level, you'll swap boots for swimwear and ease into a restorative sauna session, the perfect reward after a good day on the hill. There's time for lunch at one of the local cafes, before checking into your next hotel and gathering for a special Highlands supper.

    Day 4

    Hike to a hidden waterfall then paddleboard across Loch Ness

    Hiking
    2hrs · 5km
    Stand Up Paddleboarding
    2hrs
    Hotel
    Twin share
    Breakfast and lunch included
    Show Day 4 detail

    This morning brings a classic Highland photo opportunity: a walk along the shores of Loch Ness to a hidden gorge and waterfall, with a picnic lunch along the way. In the afternoon, you'll see the famous loch from an entirely different angle, out on a stand up paddleboard. It's a short, relaxed session and the perfect way to soak up the scenery, Nessie-spotting optional. You're back at the hotel by late afternoon, with the evening free to enjoy at your own pace. You can either opt to dine at the hotel restaurant or head into town for more options.

    Day 5

    Cycle the Caledonian Canal and explore Glencoe

    Driving
    3hrs
    Cycling
    1hr · 15km
    Hiking
    1hr · 2km
    Hotel
    Twin share
    Breakfast included
    Show Day 5 detail

    Leaving the Cairngorms behind, head towards the west coast, stopping in Fort William at the foot of Ben Nevis. Here, you'll jump on two wheels for a leisurely bike ride along part of the Great Glen Way to the Caledonian Canal, passing sights including Old Inverlochy Castle. It's then back to Fort William where you can get lunch at a local cafe. In the afternoon, continue to Glencoe for a leg-stretch walk around the visitor centre, learning about the climbers who have tested themselves against Glencoe's mountains for over a century. From here, it's on towards Oban and your final hotel on Scotland's rugged west coast. This evening, you are free to grab dinner at the hotel restaurant or perhaps head into Oban to try one of their delicious seafood restaurants.

    Day 6

    Take a ferry to the hidden Isle of Kerrera

    Hiking
    3hrs · 7km
    Tasting Experience
    1hr
    Hotel
    Twin share
    All meals included
    Show Day 6 detail

    Today, board a small foot-passenger ferry for the short crossing over the Sound of Kerrera to one of Scotland's true hidden gems, an island of around 100 residents with an outsized history of kings, castles and feuding Highland clans, most of it centred on 16th-century Gylen Castle. A superb coastal walk brings views across to Mull, Jura and the Garvellachs, and along the way you'll help out with a beach clean to protect the marine life this small community depends on, before celebrating your efforts with tea and cake at the island's community tea room. Return across the Sound by ferry in the late afternoon, and gather that evening for a farewell dinner at the hotel's restaurant, which showcases some of Scotland's finest, freshest seafood.

    Day 7

    Canoe bonnie Loch Lomond before saying farewell

    Canoeing
    2hrs
    Driving
    3.5hrs
    Breakfast included
    Show Day 7 detail

    After a final hearty breakfast, leave the west coast behind and begin the journey back towards Edinburgh, stopping along the way on the peaceful banks of Loch Lomond. Here, you'll take to the water in an open canoe for a wonderful last taste of the Highlands, with views out to Ben Lomond rounding off the trip in style. Back on dry land, continue on to Edinburgh, where you'll say your goodbyes to your guide and fellow travellers. Haste ye back!

Part of our Premium Collection

Adventure,
refined

Wild days, seriously good stays. Think handpicked accommodation - from boutique gems to 4-5 star - with at least one Standout Stay and little touches of comfort along the way.

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Practical Stuff

Getting There

Nearest airport
Edinburgh Airport (EDI)
Pick up
10:00 at Waverley Train Station
or 15:00 at Edinburgh Airport on Day 1
Drop off
17:00 at Edinburgh Airport
or 17:30 in Edinburgh city centre on Day 7

Detailed Logistics

Transfers

Your trip starts in Edinburgh City Centre at 10:00 on Day 1, where your group meets for a unique walking tour through the Royal Mile. If your flight doesn't land in time to join this walking tour, this is not a problem – you have a couple of options. Either meet the group at a later time in the city, or be collected from the airport at 15:00 when the group will pass by on the way to Perthshire. We do strongly recommend spending additional time in Edinburgh at the start of the trip if your schedule allows.

On Day 7, the group drives from Loch Lomond back to Edinburgh, with a drop-off at the airport at 17:00 and a drop-off in the city centre at 17:30. We recommend booking flights that depart at 20:00 or later to allow for check-in and any delays. We strongly recommend spending at least one more night in Edinburgh at the end of the trip as there is much to explore in the city. If you book post-trip accommodation with your local host (see Optional Extras), they will arrange for you to be dropped at the hotel on arrival back into Edinburgh.

You can travel between Edinburgh Airport and the city centre by bus in about 30 minutes (approximately £5.50 per person), by tram in about 35 minutes (approximately £8 per person), or by licensed taxi from the rank outside the airport (£40-70 per vehicle). Alternatively, your host can arrange a private chauffeured transfer (see Optional Extras for pricing).

Travel options

There are direct flights to Edinburgh from many cities in North America and Europe, through many different airlines, including British Airways, which is the UK's national carrier.

If you're travelling from within the UK or Europe, you can opt to take the train. Trains to Edinburgh depart from Kings Cross in London and stop in many major English cities en route. If you're travelling from the European continent, you can take the Eurostar from Amsterdam, Brussels, Lille or Paris into St Pancras International London and from there transfer to Kings Cross Train Station (part of the same complex) for trains to Edinburgh. There are many different rail services to Edinburgh so head to the UK National Rail website to compare options, which will then guide you to the correct rail company website for the service you choose. Alternatively, if you'd prefer to take the train overnight, you can take the Caledonian Sleeper, which offers private rooms with lay flat beds.

We're aware that most travellers will want to spend additional time in Edinburgh at the start and end of the trip, so the trip timings have been designed with this opportunity in mind. Your host can assist with booking additional accommodation in Edinburgh.

Trip level explained

Level 1

Easy

This trip is designed for travellers who enjoy a balance of cultural discovery and gentle adventure. You'll have the opportunity to explore the wild Scottish Highlands, while also getting to know the culture the Scots are so proud of. This trip spends two nights in each of the three different hotels, so it takes a gentle pace and has plenty of time to relax and enjoy the facilities in your premium accommodation.

You'll hike, cycle and paddle across Scotland with activities being beginner friendly; the only pre-required skills are the ability to swim and ride a bike. The hikes are 2-9kms long, the bike ride is 15km and the paddle sports are 1-2 hours each. Activities should be achievable for anyone who is comfortable being active for 2-3 hours at a time. Please note that even in the summer, the weather can be wet and windy, which could potentially make some activities slightly harder i.e. if hiking on wet terrain. You'll get the most out of this trip if you are happy to embrace the elements.

What if i need to skip an activity?

On days that start and end at the same hotel, it is very much possible to skip the activities and spend the day relaxing in your accommodation instead. On journey days, your guide will do their best to find alternative activities if you do not wish to participate in an activity, but please note that due to the rugged and semi-remote landscapes the activities take place in, there will not always be another activity nearby.

What will I need to carry?

You’ll need a small daypack to carry personal items during hikes and daily activities. Your main luggage should be a soft duffel bag or suitcase, which will be transported throughout the trip by vehicle.

Remote environment: factors to consider

Some parts of this trip take place in areas where access to medical facilities and emergency services may be limited. This may mean that reaching medical care takes longer than you might normally expect, or that local medical facilities have fewer resources than those you may be used to at home.

If someone becomes unwell or injured, initial treatment may be provided locally before onward travel to a larger hospital or city for further care. Evacuation could involve changing the planned route or using different forms of transport to reach appropriate medical facilities. Mobile phone coverage may also be intermittent in some locations.

Your guide is trained to manage situations in remote environments and will monitor the group and respond appropriately if any issues arise. However, it’s important that you let your guide know straight away if you feel unwell or experience any health concerns during the trip.

Before booking, consider your personal health and ability to travel in locations where access to medical care may be delayed. If you have any pre-existing medical conditions or concerns, we recommend seeking advice from a medical professional and discussing them with your host before travelling.

All travellers must have suitable travel insurance that covers the activities included in the trip and emergency medical evacuation if required.

What is and isn't Included?

What's included

  • Heritage walking tour of Edinburgh's Royal Mile, hosted by a social enterprise that trains people who have experienced homelessness as guides
  • Guided hike through the Atholl Estate past Blair Castle, with a chance to spot Highland cows
  • Tour and tasting at a small Highland whisky distillery
  • Guided hike to the summit of Meall a' Buachaille in the Cairngorms
  • A restorative sauna session beside a Highland loch
  • Guided walk to a gorge and waterfall on the shores of Loch Ness
  • Stand up paddleboarding session on Loch Ness
  • Cycle along part of the Great Glen Way to the Caledonian Canal
  • Ferry crossing and guided walk on the Isle of Kerrera, including a beach clean
  • Canoeing on Loch Lomond

  • Expert local guide for the duration of the trip
  • Specialist activity guides for the walking tour, paddle-boarding, canoeing and bike rides

  • Your Standout Stay: 2 nights at Pine Trees Hotel, a beautifully restored Victorian mansion
  • 2 nights at Muckrach Country House in the Cairngorms National Park
  • 2 nights at Knipoch House on Scotland's rugged west coast

  • All (6) hearty Scottish breakfasts
  • 2 lunches, including a picnic beside Loch Ness
  • A post-beach-clean celebration at a community tea room on the Isle of Kerrera
  • 3 evening meals, including a welcome dinner with haggis tasting, a Highlands supper in the Cairngorms and a seafood farewell dinner on the west coast

  • All transfers from Day 1 to Day 7 in a private vehicle
  • Ferry crossing to and from the Isle of Kerrera

  • Standard touring bike and helmet for the Caledonian Canal ride
  • A paddleboard and canoe as well as a helmet and life jacket for water-based activities

Where You'll Stay

Looking for a private room? See Optional Extras for details and pricing.

  • Double room at Pine Trees Hotel, Scotland.

    Standout Stay: boutique luxe at a Victorian mansion

    Stay

    Standout Stay: boutique luxe at a Victorian mansion

    Spend your first two nights at Pine Trees Hotel, a welcoming retreat in rural Perthshire. The hotel is situated in Pitlochry, at the edge of the Highlands. The main house is a renovated Victorian mansion with 18 rooms, home to Fauna Restaurant and Bar Flora, where you can settle in front of an open fire with a dram after a day outdoors. You'll stay in twin-share ensuite rooms as standard. The hotel keeps a coorie ethos throughout: offering warmth, comfort and simple pleasures.

  • Library at Muckrach Country House.

    A luxury country house in the Cairngorms National Park

    Stay

    A luxury country house in the Cairngorms National Park

    Come nightfall on Day 3 and Day 4, you'll bed down at Muckrach Country House. Sitting beside the village of Dulnain Bridge in the Cairngorms National Park, Grantown-on-Spey and Aviemore are both close by. The house has 11 ensuite bedrooms, along with a drawing room, library, cinema room and a bar, plus log burners throughout the public spaces. Outside, there's a fire pit, terrace furniture and space to store your own kit, and you'll likely cross paths with Hamish and Dougal, the estate's two resident Highland cows. You'll stay in twin-share ensuite rooms, which have been decorated with traditional Scottish design in mind.

  • Loch view from Knipoch House, Scotland.

    A deluxe family-run property overlooking Loch Feochan

    Stay

    A deluxe family-run property overlooking Loch Feochan

    Your final two nights will be spent at Knipoch House, a family-run country house hotel just south of Oban, looking out over Loch Feochan. Rooms combine modern furnishings with loch views and small touches that add up to a comfortable stay. You'll stay in twin-share, ensuite rooms, which have each been lovingly restored with modern amenities. The hotel features a bar, restaurant and a room for spa treatments (your local guide can help to organise these, which are payable locally).

What You'll Eat

The food on this trip is designed to give you an insight into traditional Scottish cuisine. You'll have the opportunity to taste haggis, the national dish of Scotland, on Day 1. Haggis is a savoury, spiced pudding made from sheep's heart, liver, and…

Food and Dietary info

The food on this trip is designed to give you an insight into traditional Scottish cuisine. You'll have the opportunity to taste haggis, the national dish of Scotland, on Day 1. Haggis is a savoury, spiced pudding made from sheep's heart, liver, and lungs, mixed with oats, onions, and suet. It originated as a meal for peasants, but is now considered a fine delicacy. Scotland is also well known for its fresh seafood, thanks to its bountiful coastlines. It is particularly renowned for salmon, haddock and langoustines. You'll have a chance to try this for yourself during your seafood farewell dinner on Day 6, but there is ample opportunity in other places too. Other meals tend to be hearty and comforting, influenced by the cool climate. This extends to breakfast, where you'll usually have both cooked and continental options, along with fruit, pastries and coffees.

If you have any dietary requirements, intolerances or allergies, please check the FAQ below: ‘Can my dietary requirements be catered for on this adventure?’ for specific advice relating to this trip. The availability of foods you may get at home varies in different destinations, so please read the FAQ in full before making your booking to ensure that this trip can accommodate your dietary needs.

Optional Extras

Pre/Post Trip Accommodation

Pre/post trip accommodation at The Brunstfield Hotel in Edinburgh (starting from)
…/per night

Upgrades

Private Room Upgrade
…

Solo travellers who prefer their own space can book a private room for an additional charge. Please request the single supplement at the time of booking, and your host will confirm if there is availability.

Transfers

Transfer between Edinburgh Airport and the city centre
…

To request any extras, message your host via your Much Better Adventures account once you have booked your trip.

All extras must be paid before your trip starts.

Ratings & Reviews

This trip is brand new!

So new, in fact, that it's not got any reviews yet. But rest assured, it's been designed with the same care, quality and attention to detail as all of our highly rated adventures.

4.8
Our average trip score20,000+ reviews

This trip is brand new!

So new, in fact, that it's not got any reviews yet. But rest assured, it's been designed with the same care, quality and attention to detail as all of our highly rated adventures.

4.8
Our average trip score20,000+ reviews
Showing all 0 reviews

Before You Travel

What to Pack

Backpack with hiking gear laid out

Know before you go! Some stuff we'll provide, other things you'll need to bring.

Kit List

What's included?
  • Paddleboards and paddles for the SUP session on Day 4
  • Bike and helmet for cycling on Day 5
  • Canoes and paddles for canoeing on Day 7
What do I need to bring?

BAGS

  • Suitcase or soft overnight duffel bag or rucksack
  • Daypack (15-20 litres) with a waterproof cover

CLOTHES

  • Moisture wicking base layers
  • Light insulation layer, such as a microfleece
  • Heavier insulation layer or jacket (particularly at the start or end of the season)
  • Fully waterproof rain jacket
  • Lightweight, quick drying trousers
  • Waterproof rain pants
  • Waterproof walking boots
  • Hiking socks
  • Wool hat
  • Gloves (optional)
  • Sun cap
  • Sunglasses
  • Casual clothes for the evening
  • Sleepwear
  • Underwear and socks
  • Swimwear

OTHER

  • Sunscreen and SPF lip balm
  • Universal travel plug adapter
  • Power bank or solar charger
  • Passports (and visas)
  • Travel insurance documents
  • Insect repellent
  • Personal first-aid kit (inc. blister treatment)
  • Personal items (sanitary wear etc)
  • Quick-dry towel
  • Reusable water bottle x1 litre (or x2)

FAQs

At Much Better Adventures, we work hard to accommodate dietary requirements and allergies so your trip is safe, inclusive and enjoyable. That said, options can vary by country, location and accommodation, and in some places options may be limited or unavailable. The information below has been provided by your host so you’re fully informed about what will be possible on your trip depending on your individual requirements. This information should be read carefully prior to your trip to ensure that you are adequately prepared for the situation ‘on the ground’.

Once you have booked on your trip, please fill out your passenger information form ASAP with any dietary requirements. Once you complete your passenger information, your dietary needs and any allergies are automatically shared with your host and, in turn, your guide. Please submit this as early as possible so they can plan accordingly and deliver the best experience. Please also remind your guide about your dietary requirements upon arrival, as mentioning these in person allows your guide to comprehend individual preferences and limitations as soon as you arrive.

BACKGROUND

Scottish cuisine has been shaped by a maritime climate, extensive coastline and rich farmland, favouring hearty, produce-driven meals built around seafood, game, root vegetables and oats. Historically a practical cuisine suited to cold, changeable weather, it tends towards warming, substantial dishes rather than light or delicate fare. Dietary requirements are generally well accommodated, as Scotland's food culture is increasingly attuned to vegetarian, vegan and allergen-aware dining, particularly in towns and cities. In more remote or rural areas, options can be simpler, so it helps to flag requirements in advance; your guide will also liaise with local providers throughout to help ensure meals suit your needs.

SPECIAL DIETS

Vegetarian
Vegetarian diets can be catered for on this trip, provided that your host is made aware in advance.

Vegan
Vegan diets can be catered for on this trip, provided that your host is made aware in advance.

Kosher
Fully certified Kosher kitchens and supervision are rare and usually cannot be guaranteed unless expressly confirmed in advance by your host. Vegetarian or vegan options can often be the most reliable alternative if this is acceptable to you. Please read the related sections above.

Halal
Certified Halal supply varies by location and may not always be possible. Vegetarian or vegan options can often be the most reliable alternative if this is acceptable to you. Please read the related sections above.

INTOLERANCES

Gluten-free (for Coeliac, please see Allergies section below)
Gluten-free diets can be catered for on this trip, provided that your host is made aware in advance.

Lactose-free
Lactose-free diets can be catered for on this trip, provided that your host is made aware in advance.

ALLERGIES

Our host has confirmed that they are able to accommodate mild allergies to the 14 allergens (opens in new tab) identified by the UK Food Standards Agency, where these are disclosed in advance. However, if you have a severe or life-threatening food allergy, please get in touch with our Customer Experience team prior to booking, to discuss whether your requirements can be accommodated safely on this trip. This will allow us to carefully consider the sensitivity and severity of your allergy, the available provision on the trip and the accessibility of medical care should a reaction occur. Your safety is always our top priority. Please note that when travelling overseas, local ingredients, food preparation methods and labelling standards may vary, particularly in remote areas. It is also worth noting that any allergies may result in more limited options and repetitive provision in some areas. Whilst your guide will help communicate dietary requirements where possible, customers remain responsible for managing their own allergies during the trip.

Tap water is potable at all hotels on this trip so make sure to bring a reusable water bottle to use throughout the adventure.

Most activities will go ahead, even in wet weather. Occasionally, in extreme weather conditions, scheduled activities may need to differ from those on the itinerary and you may visit a local museum or another activity instead. Your local guide will make this kind of decision with your safety in mind.

There will be one driver-guide per vehicle, with a maximum of seven customers per vehicle and up to two vehicles per group. You will partake in all activities together. Guides will have a summer Mountain Leader Qualification. Guides for activities such as cycling and paddleboarding will have other relevant qualifications, so you're always in good hands.

You will be provided with a Cube Touring bike for the cycling on Day 5, along with a helmet.

The maximum weight limit for the bikes is 120kgs (19 stone) and the weight limit for paddleboards and canoes is 114kgs (18 stone). Please reach out to the host if you are concerned about weight limits for a particular activity.

Sure can! Over 70% of our travellers travel solo, it’s a great way to meet like-minded people.

Our team of Adventure Hunters co-create exclusive adventures which are run by highly vetted, specialist hosts. The trip is run by our trusted host partner in the destination. We only work with independent, local, in-destination experts who know the very best places to explore and how to stay safe. Read more information about the local teams we partner with (opens in new tab). You’ll be introduced to the host straight after making a booking via the Much Better Adventures platform.

Much Better Adventures refer to the UK Government’s official travel advice when designing trips and monitoring trip operations. We recommend that all customers are familiar with the practical information provided on the Government’s FCDO website (opens in new tab), where current travel advice can be found by searching for the applicable destination(s).

For customers joining this trip from other international destinations – please also read the official travel advice applicable to your country of residence/origin, as this may differ.

We recommend checking out the country-specific information (opens in new tab) and also talking to a travel nurse.

We automatically convert prices from the local currency that a host receives to your chosen currency. We update our exchange rates on a daily basis so this does mean that prices displayed on the site are subject to currency fluctuations, which is why you may see them change over time.

If you wish to change the currency you pay in, head to the bottom of the page.

All of our group adventures are specially designed for adults to enjoy as we want these adventures to bring together outdoorsy people who are truly like-minded. You must be over 18 to join one of our trips.

You're always in good company on one of our adventures.

Our trips are typically made up of a mixture of solo travellers and small groups of 2 or 3 friends, with most in their 30s-50s.

Our sociable adventures are solo-friendly by design and naturally attract outdoorsy people with a shared mindset; a love for adventure, a desire to push themselves and meet awesome, like-minded people along the way. Check out our Community Values (opens in new tab) – a shared code to make sure that everyone's experience is safe, inclusive and brilliantly unforgettable.

It’s this camaraderie that has so often turned a great adventure into a life-changing one.

Don't just take our word for it:

  • 95% of people rate the group dynamics on our trips 5/5
  • 90% of people recommend joining a trip to make new friends
  • 75% of people have met people on our trips that they would now consider friends

See here (opens in new tab) for more info about the Much Better Adventures tribe.

Scotland's Highlands have a changeable, temperate maritime climate, and conditions can shift within a single day regardless of season. As a general guide, spring (April to May) tends to run cool with average highs of around 11-14°C (52-57°F) and a real chance of rain or even late snow on higher ground. Summer (June to August) is milder, typically 15-19°C (59-66°F), with long daylight hours but no guarantee of dry weather. Early autumn (September) cools back down to around 13-16°C (55-61°F). Waterproofs are recommended at any time of year.

We partner with the World Land Trust to ensure this trip achieves Net-Zero emissions. We also support their Buy an Acre programme, helping local communities to buy and protect natural habitats in perpetuity.

What's the number?
It works out on average at 167kg of CO2 emissions per person, including all local transport, accommodation, food, activities, guides, staff and office operations.

The only thing it doesn’t include right now is flights and travel to the destination. We do make an overall estimate across all our customers separately, but as we don’t book flights, have customers from all corners of the world, and no way of reliably knowing their travel plans, we simply can’t include an individual number in the figure on display here. We’ve got a goal to fix that, so that when you book, there is a way to measure and mitigate the carbon emitted by your flight too.

But what does the number mean?
Yep, hard to picture eh? To give you an idea:

  • Driving 1000 miles/1609km would be approximately 281kg of CO2 in an average car (or 140.5kg per person, if there were two of you in it).
  • A return economy class flight between London and New York would be approximately 1619kg (1.66 tonnes) per person.
  • 10 trees in a temperate forest are estimated to remove approximately 250kg of CO2 from the air in a period of 5-10 years.

What are we doing about it?
Our trips are relatively low-carbon by design, and we're working with all our hosts to develop long term carbon reduction plans. We partner with the World Land Trust (opens in new tab) to ensure this trip achieves Net-Zero emissions. We also support their Buy an Acre (opens in new tab) programme, helping local communities to buy and protect natural habitats in perpetuity, ensuring the protection of the reserve and its wildlife.

Want to know more?
Amazingly, no international travel company has ever publicly published their carbon measurements before, as far as we know. We believe that must change, quickly. So we’re openly sharing the method we used in the hope that other companies will be able to more easily follow suit and build on what we've done so far. You'll find it all here (opens in new tab).

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Departure dates

  • Sunday 18th April 2027

    to Saturday 24th April 2027

    Early Bird Offer - Next 2 spots available at 10% off

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Responsible travel has always been at the core of what we do. Travelling with Much Better Adventures means not just better trips for you, it's better for local communities, better for wildlife and better for the planet.
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