Classic Scotland - Hiking
Country
Scotland
Region
Edinburgh & Glasgow, Highlands
Theme
Classic
6
Days
5
Nights
Accommodation
4*
A walking experience that feels rich, varied and deeply Scottish.
A journey that blends historic cities, lochside paths and Highland valleys. We begin among cobbled streets and volcanic hills, then move steadily north through lochs, glens and quieter corners, where scenery opens out and the pace of life slows. Designed for walkers who enjoy moderate daily walks paired with cultural depth, this itinerary balances movement with moments of pause. Steamships, castles, distilleries and fireside pubs sit naturally alongside woodland trails and classic Highland routes. As always, we shape the flow together, fine-tuning the balance between walking and wandering so it feels just right for your guests.
Highlights
- Walk Edinburgh’s Royal Mile and climb Arthur’s Seat
- Summit Conic Hill for classic Loch Lomond views
- Cruise Loch Katrine aboard a historic steamship
- Explore Glencoe with insight into its dramatic history
- Walk a section of the West Highland Way
Handpicked Accommodation
The Lovat, Loch Ness
The Lovat was built in the late 19th century and is now recognised as one of Scotland’s leading sustainable hotels, balancing traditional Highland hospitality with a strong commitment to responsible travel
Why we chose it
One of the first hotels in Scotland to achieve B Corp certification, recognising its commitment to sustainability and community.
The Glencoe Inn, Glencoe
The name says it all! A characterful inn in one of Scotland’s most dramatic valleys, combining contemporary comfort with a strong sense of place.
Why we chose it
Few locations capture Highland drama like Glencoe. This is a night where scenery does the storytelling.
The Lodge on Loch Lomond
A calm, contemporary place to stay right by the water, where rooms are bright and views across the loch shift constantly with the light. There’s an easy, laid back feel throughout the property.
Why we chose it
Simple comfort, good food and a peaceful atmosphere make it an ideal base for lochside walks and woodland trails.
Stirling Highland Hotel, Stirling
This handsome former Victorian high school has been transformed into a comfortable and characterful hotel. Spacious public areas, relaxed bedrooms and a welcoming atmosphere make it an easy place to settle into.
Why we chose it
Historic character, dependable comfort and a sense of arrival without fuss, ideal for the opening night of a classic Scottish journey.
Itinerary
Day 1 – Edinburgh to Stirling
We meet in Edinburgh and ease into the journey with an afternoon exploring the Royal Mile, where closes and courtyards reveal layers of the city’s past. There’s the oppotunity to climb Arthur’s Seat which rises from the heart of Edinburgh and is part of Holyrood Park, shaped by volcanic activity over 300 million years ago. Later, we transfer to Stirling and settle into our hotel for the night. A relaxed first evening to gather, dine and look ahead to the days to come.
Day 2 – Stirling and Loch Lomond
This morning begins with a walk around Stirling Castle, one of Scotland’s most historically significant strongholds. After lunch in the city, we travel west to Balmaha on the shores of Loch Lomond. From here, we hike up Conic Hill, a short but rewarding walk that delivers some of the finest views over the loch and its scattered islands. We transfer on to our hotel for dinner and a peaceful night by the water.
Day 3 – Loch Katrine by Steamship
We drive to Loch Katrine, a beautifully secluded loch surrounded by wooded hills. Thanks to pioneering Victorian engineering, this Loch has provided drinking water to nearby Glasgow since the 19th century. Boarding the steamship Sir Walter Scott, we cruise to the far end of the loch for lunch in a local café. In the afternoon, we walk back along the shoreline through quiet woodland, with constant views across the water. A transfer in good time allows enough time to relax before dinner.
Day 4 – Into Glencoe
We travel north through the Trossachs, watching the landscape grow broader and more dramatic as we approach Glencoe. A stop at the visitor centre provides insight into the infamous Glencoe Massacre, a defining moment in Highland history. This afternoon we enjoy an easy walk through the valley, soaking up the scale of the surrounding mountains.
Day 5 – The Devil’s Staircase and Gin Distilling
After breakfast, we head to Kinlochleven to walk the Devil’s Staircase, a classic section of the West Highland Way. The climb is steady, the views expansive, and the sense of achievement unmistakable. After a pub lunch, we shift gears and visit a local distillery, where guests have the chance to create their own small batch gin. It is a playful, hands on contrast to the morning’s walk and a highlight for many. We return to Glencoe for a relaxed evening.
Day 6 – Glenfinnan and Loch Ness
This morning we cross to the West Highland peninsulas and take a short walk to the Glenfinnan Viaduct, completed in 1901 and famous for its 21 concrete arches, its been used in many a cinema blockbuster. We stop in Fort William for lunch before continuing to Urquhart Castle on the banks of Loch Ness. After exploring the ruins and lochside views, we settle into our hotel near Inverness for dinner.
Day 7 – The Southern Loch Ness Trail
Today we explore a quieter side of Loch Ness, walking a section of the southern Loch Ness Trail. The route winds through woodland, past waterfalls and along elevated viewpoints above the loch. The afternoon is free for rest, wandering or keeping an eye out for Nessie. This evening we gather for a farewell dinner, celebrating a week of shared walking and discovery
Day 8 – Departure from Inverness
After breakfast, we transfer to Inverness. Guests may choose to extend their stay in the Highlands or board a train back to Edinburgh.
Itinerary Designer
This route brings together the Scotland people imagine with the Scotland they’ll remember!
Harvey
Featured Experience
Loch Katrine by Steamship
Cruising Loch Katrine aboard a historic steamship (which celebrated its 125th anniversary in 2025) and walking its wooded shores captures Scotland’s history and natural beauty in just a few short hours.