Picture vast, dramatic mountain peaks, serene lochs, lush forests, and ancient castles… Welcome to Scotland’s Highlands – a landscape that never fails to amaze its visitors. To truly connect with its raw beauty and fascinating history, however, there is no better method than a walking holiday through it. Here’s what you need to know!
What is a walking holiday?
A walking holiday is exactly what the name suggests – a type of holiday where you explore the country only by foot, getting from your starting point to your final destination of choice. Typically lasting between 7 and 10 days, walking holidays in Scotland are an amazing way to really take it all in.
Step by step, you do nothing but put one foot in front of another and enjoy the ever-changing landscapes around you. The trails also usually include a number of different stops at historical sites and viewpoints. Beyond the breathtaking views, these journeys are also an excellent way to challenge yourself both physically and mentally. In fact, many people believe these holidays help them achieve personal and spiritual growth, as they have the time to reflect as well as detox from the digital world.
Different walking routes
The Scottish Highlands are home to endless different trails, perfect for walks of varying lengths. The West Highland Way is undoubtedly one of the most popular, though. This long-distance route is 94 miles long and starts in Inverness taking you all the way to the historic town of Fort William. During this trip, you get to experience a wide range of the most iconic attractions, including the infamous Loch Lomond, Rannoch Moor, the valley of Glencoe, the Devil’s Staircase or, of course, Ben Nevis, highest peak in the UK.
However, if you prefer a less popular route, there are many other great options, including Great Glen Way, St Cuthbert’s Way, Isle of Skye Walk, and the Orkney Islands route. Each of these trails have something unique to offer, but you can be sure they are all as incredible as each other. You may also choose a trail based on your preferred length and amount of days, taking it at your own pace.
Booking your adventure
Booking a walking holiday independently can be a bit daunting in the Scottish Highlands, since you have to pre-book a hotel room for each night, estimating how far you will walk each day. You will also have to arrange the logistics, such as airport pick-up and drop-off as well as luggage transfers, if you wish to do so. This will require a fair bit of research and planning.
If planning is not your strongest suit, using a dedicated agency is the easier alternative. Orbis Ways, for instance, is a highly regarded agency in the industry, which specialises in organising walking holidays to make them as accessible and stress-free for you as possible. Consistently garnering positive customer reviews, Orbis Ways are known their excellent service.
A step in the right direction…
If Scotland and its breathtaking nature is something you’ve been dreaming of exploring, a walking holiday is undoubtedly one of the best ways to do it. It’s a chance to disconnect from digital world or rediscover yourself, all whilst enjoying beautiful landscapes.
