Small Group
Northern Scotland Hiking
Hike the remote and rugged
8 Days, 7 Nights
Maximum Group Size
14
Activity Level:
B&R Activity Levels
Priced per person from
$8,995 USD
Single Supplement: $2,500 USD
Available Months
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Carbon Neutral Trip
Hike through Scotland’s untamed north, where Viking whispers and ghostly gold ships linger on the wind. From Loch Ness to the Orkneys, ramble moody moors, Neolithic wonders, and coastal cliffs that dare you not to feel dramatic. Raise a glass of fine Highland malt in Rackwick—because a trip this legendary deserves a proper dram.
Day by Day
No two trips are ever the same, but this will give you a taste of what your journey will be like.
Rendezvous
Airport City: To be confirmed
Trip Start: To be confirmed
Time: To be confirmed
Farewell
Airport City: To be confirmed
Trip End: To be confirmed
Time: To be confirmed
* Itineraries are subject to change. Please confirm exact Rendezvous and Farewell locations upon booking.
Day 1
After a welcome briefing along the backdrop of the stunning Loch Ness beach, we’ll set off on our first walk. Venture to the far north, past wind-swept moors, dark rivers and lonely tors. Eventually, we’ll reach Tongue and settle in for our first dinner together at the hotel.
Activity:
4 km (2.5 mi) walk along Loch Ness
Day 2
Start the day with a stunning walk exploring the coastline and crofting villages, keeping an eye out for ancient gold coins from sunken ships in Portvasgo. Later, hike to the ruins of Castle Varrich and stroll along the best as the sun begins to set before heading back to the hotel for dinner.
Activity:
10 km (6 mi.) circular coastal hike from Talmine Bay
Day 3
Embark on a windswept walk at the beautiful Dunnet Bay and visit the striking Castle of Mey. Then, we’ll board the ferry and venture further north to Orkney Islands and visit the incredible Italian Chapel. This evening, wander through the flagstone-paved streets in Kirkwall before dining at the Lynnfield Hotel.
Activity:
3 km (2 mi.) walk in Dunnet Bay
Day 4
Explore the UNESCO World Heritage site on Orkney’s mainland, visiting the historic village of Skara Brae, Maes Howe and the Ring of Brodgar. Later, we’ll set off on a hike along Yesnaby’s cliffs coastline and sea stacks. Tonight, explore the wonderful town of Kirkwall for dinner.
Activity:
4 km (2.5 mi.) coastal hike from Yesnaby
Day 5
Catch a quick ferry to the island of Hoy, where we’ll hike to the famous Old May of Hoy and some of Britain’s highest sea cliffs. Then we’re off to Rackwick Bay, one of the most remote and beautiful beaches in Orkney. Back in Kirkwall, we’ll dine at an incredible restaurant that focuses on local produce.
Activity:
10 km (6 mi). Old Man of Hoy hike
Day 6
After one last walk around Kirkwall, we’re back on the ferry to head to the mainland. Upon arrival, we’ll set off on a beautiful coastal hike from John O’Groats, taking in the spectacular Duncansby Stacks. Then, we're off on a beautiful drive to Glenmorangie House, home to the eponymous whisky.
Activity:
6 km (4 mi.) Duncansby Head hike
Day 7
Embark on a hike up a small hill to explore a 200-year-old monument and embrace the beautiful views of the landscape below. Later, we’ll learn about one of the Highlands’ most celebrated malt whiskies, followed by an incredible final night celebration.
Activity:
6 km (4 mi) hike to a local monument with views over the Cromarty Firthwith | Elevation gain: 274 m (900 ft.)
Day 8
After one final breakfast, we’ll catch a ride back to Inverness for onward travels.
Dates & availability
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Featured stays
Lundies House
Location: North Coast 500, United Kingdom
The Lynnfield Hotel
Location: Orkney, United Kingdom
Glenmorangie House
Location: North Coast 500, United Kingdom
What's included
Accommodation & Dining
All breakfasts, lunches and dinners as indicated on the itinerary.
All accommodation as indicated on the itinerary.
All wines, cocktails and beer with included meals.
Active Essentials
Use of two lightweight, telescoping walking sticks and a backpack.
A reusable B&R water bottle.
Use of a smartphone with downloaded GPS routes provided via RideWithGPS.
Guided Services
Services of B&R guide(s).
All special events, private tours, guest experts and entrance fees.
All gratuities for baggage, porters and hotel services.
Logistics and Gratuities
Transportation from pick up to drop off.
Baggage transportation.
Access to the B&R support van every step of the way.
What's Not Included: International flights, travel protection, gratuity for your B&R guides.
This trip is carbon neutral. Learn more about our Sustainability commitment.
Good to know
Hotel
Due to the remote nature of the Orkney Islands, this trip sources the best hotels available in the region.
Puffins
Our coastal walks offer the opportunity to spot cliff-dwelling birdlife, although only the May departure will see puffins in residence.
Walking
Walking is gentle and mostly coastal. Expect an equal focus between walking and the unique cultural and historical activities of the trip.
Why choose a Small Group trip?
An Effortless Journey
Our expert Experience Designers are perfectionists, using first-hand knowledge of routes, restaurants and hotels to create an unforgettable experience. This means all the planning is taken care of for you. All you need to do is enjoy.
Active Exploration
From emerging destinations to iconic sights, B&R trips show you the world in a new way on our expertly developed cycling, walking and hiking routes. Travelling through historic villages and romantic vineyards and up to striking viewpoints, our routes offer a variety of challenges for every activity level.
Friends for Life
Your fellow travellers are as passionate and curious about the world as you are, which means the conversations and laughs will be as free flowing as your drink of choice. Don't be surprised if your group starts planning a reunion before the trip is done.
Room for Surprises
We love a plan, but we adore a spontaneous moment even more. Whether it’s an impromptu al fresco meal or a moon-lit musical performance, our advice is to expect the unexpected.
Experience Designer
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