Complete Cairngorms

xplore Britain’s largest and most biologically diverse National Park.. At more than 3 times the size of London and with an altitude variation of nearly 4000ft, the Cairngorms National Park is a land of huge variety; the ancient Forest of Caledon with its noble pines, the dramatic high Cairngorm peaks with their tundra flora, the expansive heather moors and their secluded glens and distilleries. It’s home to 25% of Britain’s rarest wildlife - this guided hiking in the Cairngorms holiday gives you the full flavour of this wonderful area.

Most of our clients who spend time with us in the Cairngorms National Park are astonished by a great many things:

a) there are far fewer midges here than most of our guests expect to encounter. One of the most common pre-conceptions we deal with is the midge factor. Many of our clients approach their trip with some trepidation and come equipped with copious quantities of insect repellent; only to take most (if not all) of it home with them

b) "haven't we been lucky with the weather" - actually, no - there are an astonishing number of sunny days here if you pick your route and time right. We're very much in the "rain-shadow" of the main Cairngorm massif.

c) the right purple hue of the mountains in the main summer season - due of course to the heather bloom

Why not come up and experience some of the peace and tranquility of the Cairngorms National Park for yourself? We've taken care when designing the trip to make sure you're well away from the tourist hotspots and won't be troubled by crowds.

Arrive: On evening before walking begins. Try to aim for between 5 and 7pm so that you have time to settle in and meet the other members of the group before dinner at 7.30m.

Day 1: Ascent of Carn Daimh and visit to GLENLIVET DISTILLERY

470m of ascent and 9 miles (14km) on footpaths and tracks with some moderate gradients. Approx walking time excluding breaks: 4:30

Day 2: A hike to the Munro summit of Cairngorm followed by a visit to the STRATHSPEY WILDLIFE HIDE for a chance to spot red deer, pine marten and badgers at close quarters.

941m of ascent & 8 miles (13km) on footpaths and moderately rough ground. Some steeper ascents. Approx walking time excluding breaks: 5:15

Day 3: This is a rest day, a day to yourself, a chance to explore the local area under your own steam; pop up to Inverness for the day; or simply relax. Alternatively we can organise another activity for you.

Day 4: A walk in Royal Deeside on the BALMORAL Estate bought by Queen Victoria and still owned by our current Queen. We may also tour the castle if it is open.

9 miles (15km) & 454m of ascent on footpaths and tracks with mostly gentle gradient. Approx walking time excluding breaks: 5:00

Day 5: We will hike in Glen Feshie is regarded by many as the most beautiful in the area and stronghold to the most elusive of all, the native Scottish Wildcat.

706m of ascent & 13 miles (21km) generally gentle gradients on footpaths, tracks and moderately rough ground but with some steeper ascents. Approx walking time excluding breaks: 6:30

Depart: we will take you to connect with your onward travel or return transport. It's a shame you have to leave, but we hope to see you again on one of our future trips.