Scottish Highlands Hiking Tour for Women
September 2-9, 2027
Trip Overview
Dates: September 2-9, 2027
Duration: 8 Days
Investment: Starting at $5,995
Activity Level: Energetic - Travelers should exercise regularly and train specifically for this hiking trip. Expect hiking over rough, boggy, and uneven terrain for approximately 2–5 hours per day, with total physical activity averaging 5–8 hours most days.
Availability: Book Now
Experience the Wild Beauty of the Scottish Highlands
Immerse yourself in the wild splendor of Scotland on this eight-day, women’s hiking journey through Edinburgh, the Cairngorms, Glencoe, and beyond.
Misty moors, heather-clad hillsides, verdant glens, and ancient castles steeped in folklore will fill your camera roll as you hike through some of Scotland’s most spectacular landscapes with experienced local guides.
But this is more than a hiking trip. Along the way, you’ll experience Scotland’s rich history and traditions, visit a women-led croft, stay at charming countryside hotels, and even take the plunge with a wild loch swim followed by a steamy shoreline sauna.
Each evening, unwind, reflect on the day’s adventures, and connect with your fellow travelers over Highland hospitality.
Our team takes care of the logistics so you can focus on the hiking, the scenery, and enjoying a much-needed vacation in beautiful Scotland.
Is This Scotland Hiking Journey Right for You?
You’ll enjoy this journey if you:
Love exploring a destination on foot and want hiking to be a major part of your trip.
Exercise regularly and are prepared to train specifically for several active days in a row.
Are comfortable hiking for 2–5 hours over rough, boggy, and uneven terrain.
Want to experience the Cairngorms, Glencoe, Glen Nevis, and Loch Lomond & The Trossachs with experienced local guides.
Like a mix of challenging hikes, beautiful scenery, Scottish history, local culture, and a little downtime.
Want the logistics, transportation, accommodations, and luggage transfers handled for you.
Are traveling solo and want the built-in community of a small group of women.
This is a energetic activity level journey. While the hikes vary in length and difficulty, you should expect 5–8 hours of total physical activity on most days and arrive prepared for an active week in the Highlands.
Scottish Hiking Journey Highlights
Hike the Scottish Highlands
Explore the rugged landscapes of Glencoe, Glen Nevis, the Cairngorms, and Loch Lomond & The Trossachs on privately guided hikes.
Discover Scotland’s History & Culture
Visit a medieval castle, explore historic villages, learn about women-led crofting, and experience Edinburgh before heading into the Highlands.
Experience the Beauty of the Cairngorms
Walk through ancient pine forests, visit picturesque Loch an Eilein, and explore the landscapes of Cairngorms National Park.
Chase Waterfalls Through Glencoe
Hike through dramatic Highland scenery to waterfalls including the Grey Mare’s Tail and Steall Falls.
Take a Wild Loch Swim
Take a refreshing plunge in a Scottish loch, then warm up with a steamy shoreline sauna. Prefer to stay dry? The swim is completely optional.
Connect With Other Women Who Love to Travel
Share the trails, meals, incredible views, and plenty of laughs with a small group of no more than 13 Bold Spirit women.
-
Welcome to Edinburgh. Meet your Bold Spirit tour leader(s) today in the afternoon. Orientation will be at 1:00PM so make sure you are at the hotel before then.
Your Scottish adventure begins with group orientation followed by a memorable hike up Arthur’s Seat, an ancient volcano that stands proudly in the heart of the city. This brisk ascent promises an invigorating experience and panoramic views from the summit.
This evening, we’ll get acquainted over dinner at a local restaurant nestled in the heart of Edinburgh.
Traveler’s Note: You may want to come to Edinburgh a day or two earlier to see the city and get over jet lag. There is much to see in Edinburgh, including the Royal Mile and Palace of Holyroodhouse. To get to the hotel, you can take a taxi from the Edinburgh airport.
Check-in is at 3:00PM. If you arrive early, store your luggage at the front desk until your room is ready.
Read more about how to get to Scotland here.
Meals included: Dinner
Hiking info: 3 miles / 915 feet elevation gain / 3 hours
Accommodation: Central Edinburgh hotel with bar & restaurant
-
Enjoy breakfast at the hotel.
Leaving Edinburgh's city lights behind, we head north to Perthshire.
Traveling in our own private van, we’ll arrive at a woodland area known as The Hermitage.
The Hermitage was initially conceived in the 18th century as a pleasure ground for the Duke of Atholl. Together, we will walk along forest paths flanked with ancient pines, to a crashing waterfall where the River Braan plunges into deep, frothy pools.
After the walk, we’ll head to the riverside village of Dunkeld for a bite to eat. You can take a stroll along the river, explore the historic cathedral, or simply relax and soak in the peaceful atmosphere of this charming town.
Continuing our journey, we’ll arrive in Aviemore in the heart of the Cairngorms and check into our hotel.
We will meet in the evening for a group dinner.
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Hiking info: 3 miles / 460 feet elevation gain / 2 hours
Accommodation: An Aviemore hotel offering traditional Scottish charm and easy access to the Cairngorms National Park
-
On our first full day in the Cairngorms, we’ll make a short drive to Rothiemurchus, one of the most beautiful areas of the National Park.
Enjoy a gentle walk through the ancient pine forest, following the popular Beaver Trail before continuing to picturesque Loch an Eilein. With its peaceful setting, woodland reflections, and atmospheric ruined island castle, it’s easy to see why this is one of Scotland’s favorite walks.
After lunch, rejuvenate your body and mind with a refreshing dip. The National Park offers a variety of pristine locations ideal for wild swimming, which is celebrated for its numerous benefits including enhanced cardiovascular health, reduced stress, and an uplifted mood.
Take a cold plunge and then warm up at the beach sauna. (*If you don’t feel like a cold plunge, you can just do the sauna or simply enjoy the loch views.)
Later, we return to Aviemore for free time to explore the village and have dinner on your own.
Your tour leaders will have restaurant recommendations for you.
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch
Hiking info: 7 miles / 500 feet elevation gain / 4 hours
Accommodation: An Aviemore hotel offering traditional Scottish charm and easy access to the Cairngorms National Park
-
Enjoy breakfast at the hotel.
Crofting, once common across the Scottish Highlands, has dwindled over time. This morning, we’ll visit a croft being lovingly restored by two inspiring women.
During our visit, we’ll explore the croft and learn how they blend traditional methods with modern rewilding principles for pasture management, fertilization, and rotation. Don’t miss the chance to see their innovative hen mobile in action!
Lunch comes from a much-loved local artisan bakery. To walk off those irresistible sweet treats we’ll venture into the heart of Abernethy Forest for a short hike down to the shores of Loch Garten.
If time allows, we’ll also stop at a RSPB hide to learn about the rich birdlife of the area.
From here, we continue west. The journey to our next destination takes around 2.5 hours, giving you plenty of time to sit back, relax, and soak up the scenery.
Dinner will be served at our hotel this evening.
Meals included: Breakfast, Dinner
Hiking info: 3 miles / 360 feet elevation gain / 2.5 hours
Accommodation: 3-star hotel set at the foot of Glencoe along the shores of Loch Leven
-
After breakfast at the hotel, lace up those boots and grab your walking sticks for a day of hiking.
Glencoe is a magical Scottish Highland glen known for its dramatic scenery and rugged beauty. The lush landscapes have been featured in films such as Skyfall and Harry Potter.
We begin trekking in the village of Kinlochleven where we’ll follow a well-maintained trail winding through a verdant forest. As we ascend, the roar of The Grey Mare’s Tail waterfall will soon capture our attention. The waterfall’s 50-foot drop is a dramatic and awe-inspiring sight.
As our route becomes steeper, we’ll pop above the tree line, leaving the woods behind to reach a remote loch. The views are worth the climb.
We will have a picnic lunch today.
On our return journey, we’ll be rewarded with vistas of Loch Leven framed by the striking silhouette of the Pap of Glencoe.
After a day in the hills, there is time to relax for a bit in the hotel before meeting in the hotel restaurant for dinner together.
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Hiking info: 8 miles / 1,150 feet elevation gain / 5 hours
Accommodation: 3-star hotel set at the foot of Glencoe along the shores of Loch Leven
-
Pull on your boots for another beautiful day exploring Glen Nevis and the Highlands.
This morning we’ll start early but at a leisurely pace as we take a gentle stroll to explore the Glencoe Lochans. The path winds among magnificent redwoods, their towering trunks framing views of mountain peaks mirrored in the still waters of the lochan.
Once we’ve collected our picnic lunch, the afternoon is all about the Glen as we set out on today’s main hike to the cascading Steall Falls. One of the best short walks in Scotland, this route leads through the dramatic and beautiful Nevis Gorge to the breathtaking Steall Falls.
After the hike, enjoy an evening back at the hotel to relax and have dinner at your leisure.
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch
Hiking info: 4 miles / 1,050 feet elevation gain / 4.5 hours
Accommodation: 3-star hotel set at the foot of Glencoe along the shores of Loch Leven
-
Enjoy breakfast at the hotel this morning before packing up. We depart the Highlands today and will make our way south.
Leaving the wilds of Glencoe, the journey offers the perfect opportunity for one last hike in Loch Lomond & The Trossachs National Park.
This beautiful area, often celebrated as the “gateway” to the Scottish Highlands, provides a more tranquil yet equally stunning contrast to Glencoe. A hike up Ben A’an, the “mountain in miniature,” is a wonderful trail. Though short, it rewards with panoramic views over Loch Katrine, a stellar way to conclude your hiking vacay in Scotland.
We will have a picnic lunch today.
In the afternoon, we move onward to Edinburgh, but not without a visit to Doune Castle, located near Stirling. This well-preserved 14th-century fortress is instantly recognizable to fans of Outlander and Game of Thrones thanks to its prominent roles in both series.
Arriving back in Edinburgh, there’s time to relax with a drink at the bar, sharing stories and celebrating the many miles we’ve covered together. It’s a moment to reflect on new friendships and the discoveries made throughout Scotland.
Tonight, meet up with Bold Spirit friends for our farewell dinner, marking the end of an unforgettable journey.
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Hiking info: 2 miles / 1,115 feet elevation gain / 3 hours
Accommodation: Central Edinburgh hotel with bar & restaurant
-
Enjoy breakfast at the hotel.
Check-out time at the hotel is 11:00AM.
There will be one group transfer to the Edinburgh airport this morning. To take advantage of this group transfer, book your international departure for 2:30pm or later (domestic departures can be booked for 12:30pm or later). If your flight departs outside of this window, taxis and buses are both convenient options to get the airport. You may choose to stay on a few more days in Edinburgh or travel from Edinburgh to other parts of the UK.
Meals included: Breakfast
Your Eight-Day Scottish Highlands Hiking Tour Itinerary
What's Included in Your Scottish Highlands Journey?
What’s Included:
Seven nights accommodation in charming hotels and inns
Bold Spirit tour leader(s) accompanying you every step of the way
All meals as indicated in the detailed itinerary
Private land transfers for the Bold Spirit group throughout the entire adventure
A small group experience (no more than 13 guests)
Privately guided hikes in the Highlands and the Cairngorms
Luggage transfers between hotels
Snacks in the van during the day
Gratuities for included meals
A private Zoom meeting to meet other guests before the trip
A packing list to get you ready for this Bold Spirit adventure
Group airport transfer at the end of the trip
What’s NOT Included:
Round-trip airfare (most guests fly into Edinburgh)
Airport pick-up upon arrival
Gratuities for tour leaders
Cost for additional activities not included in the itinerary
Meals not outlined in the detailed itinerary
Alcoholic beverages
Personal expenses, such as souvenirs
Travel insurance (must have emergency evacuation medical insurance)
Early hotel check-in
Telephone charges
Room service/minibar
Laundry
Traveling Solo in The Scottish Highlands
“My trip to the Scottish Highlands was absolutely amazing. Everything was so well organized from start to finish, which made the experience smooth and stress-free. The service was phenomenal — every detail was handled with care, and it really showed. The experiences throughout the trip were unforgettable, and I couldn’t have asked for a better way to explore such a beautiful part of Scotland. Highly recommend!”
— Gabriella M.
Activity Level, Accessibility, and Preparation
Activity Level & Accessibility:
This is an energetic activity level journey. Expect hiking over rough, boggy, and uneven terrain for approximately 2–5 hours per day, with total physical activity averaging 5–8 hours most days. Travelers should exercise regularly and train specifically for this trip. You’ll be required to sign an Acknowledgement of Physical Demands when booking.
What to Bring:
Comfortable trekking shoes and sneakers
Day pack (25-25 liters capacity)
Reusable water bottle
Travel Insurance
Insurance is recommended for your Bold Spirit trip. We highly recommend that you obtain adequate coverage for cancellation, curtailment, and loss of luggage, and personal effects. Your deposit and final trip balance can then be recovered via a claim to your insurance provider in the event that you must cancel your adventure due to unforeseen circumstances.
Learn more about travel insurance here.
*Note that if you want Cancel for Any Reason insurance, you need to get it within 10 days of your first deposit for the trip.
Internet & Data
You’ll need internet access on your phone while traveling, either through an international data plan or a SIM/eSIM. Bold Spirit uses WhatsApp to communicate with the group throughout the journey, so you’ll need reliable data access while in Greece.
Private Rooms
We know that some women need their own space. We pay the same amount for the room whether there are 2 people in it or just 1. When you get the private room package, you are paying for the entire room rather than just ½ of it. This is why it costs more. Thanks for understanding.
Roommate Matching
We are happy to pair guests with a roommate which allows you to save money and make a friend (we must have two women requesting this to pair you together). Solo travelers wanting to share with another solo female can book a private room and request a match with a fellow traveler. If a match comes up, we can move you both into a shared room and adjust the package price. Ask us about this.
Minimum Requirement
Bold Spirit Travel requires a minimum number of guests in order to confirm a trip departure. A trip will be officially confirmed once the minimum guest count has been met (6 guests).
Bold Spirit Travel reserves the right to cancel any trip that does not meet the required minimum attendance. In such cases, all payments made to Bold Spirit Travel will be fully refunded.
Guests are advised not to book airfare or other travel arrangements until their trip has been confirmed. Bold Spirit Travel cannot be held responsible for any personal expenses, including airline tickets, incurred as a result of changes to itineraries or trip cancellations.
Luggage Limits
You can bring 1 piece of luggage no more than 40 lbs + your day pack + a purse. Soft-sided luggage is preferred (hard-sided luggage is very difficult to pack in the van).
Deposit & Refund Policy
Payment dates:
Deposit: $700 upon registering
2 subsequent payments
Refund amounts are determined as follows:
120+ days before trip: Full refund minus non-refundable deposit
120–90 days before trip: 50% of balance minus non-refundable deposit
90 days or fewer before trip: No refund
Ready to Hike the Highlands of Scotland With Bold Spirit Travel?
Have questions about traveling to the Scottish Highlands with Bold Spirit Travel? Book a free discovery call!