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Women-Only Walking Holiday in Scotland: Lochs, Isles, and Highland Castles

10 days | Moderate | 5.00
From $7,895 ()
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If you want a proper taste of Scotland, this 10-day women-only walking holiday delivers: lochs, glens, Skye, Glencoe, and a few well-earned pints along the way. I’ve linked the country’s most iconic landscapes with great daily hikes, a sea kayaking day, and stays in characterful local inns with amazing meals. One day we’re climbing above Loch Lomond, the next we’re out on Skye or deep in the Cairngorms. It’s active, varied, and just structured enough that you don’t have to think about anything except enjoying it.

Heather
Heather

Adventure Highlights

  • Highlands’ greatest hits: From Skye and Glencoe to Torridon and the Cairngorms, this route cuts straight to Scotland’s most iconic landscapes
  • Boots on, paddles out: We mix classic Highland hikes with a sea kayaking day and a castle stop for a more rounded experience
  • Zero planning, full experience: Guiding, transport, stays, and most meals are handled, so you can focus on the adventure and your fellow women hikers
Duration
10 days
Season
May through September
Group size
Up to 14 people
Accommodation
Comfort: Locally owned hotels, inns, and B&Bs
Difficulty
Moderate: Good fitness required, hiking up to 14.5 km (9 mi) & 7 hours per day, with up to 915 m (3,000 ft) of elevation gain
What's included
Guide, lodging, all activities, breakfasts, most lunches and dinners, and more

The adventure, day by day

This women-only walking holiday in Scotland brings together the country’s big landscapes and big personalities in one beautifully varied trip. Over 10 days, we hike established trails through Loch Lomond & The Trossachs, Glencoe, Skye, Torridon, Cairngorms, and Perthshire, with a sea kayaking day and cultural stops woven in. The walking is active but balanced with sightseeing, local food, and comfortable inns and hotels. It’s a smart choice for women who want a proper Scottish adventure without having to organize a thing.

Day 1: Arrival & Loch Lomond
Loch Lomond vista in Scotland

Upon arrival, you will meet your guide in Glasgow at 9 am at the hotel and head straight for Loch Lomond & The Trossachs National Park. After a quick drink by the water and a chance to settle into the group, we start our first hike above Luss, climbing a grassy ridge with wide views over Loch Lomond and the Arrochar Alps. It’s a strong opener: scenic, satisfying, and unmistakably Scottish. Afterwards, we transfer about an hour to our lochside hotel and settle in for the night.

Meals: Dinner
Accommodation: Loch Fyne Hotel & Spa (or similar)
Hiking: approx. 11 km (7 mi), 5 hrs
Elevation gain: approx. 762 m (2,500 ft)

Day 2: The Cobbler
panoramic view scotland

Today we take on one of the Southern Highlands’ best-known peaks: The Cobbler, also called Ben Arthur. Its jagged silhouette looks dramatic from a distance, but a good trail makes the climb manageable and hugely rewarding. This is one of those days that feels classic from start to finish: big scenery, memorable rock formations, and a proper sense of being in the Highlands. To top it off, we return to the hotel by water taxi, which is a fun little flourish after a big hiking day.

Meals: Breakfast, lunch, dinner
Accommodation: Loch Fyne Hotel & Spa (or similar)
Hiking: approx. 11 km (7 mi), 6 hrs
Elevation gain: approx. 914 m (3,000 ft)

Day 3: Glencoe and the Devil’s Staircase
Bog in Scotland

We transfer north to Glencoe, one of Scotland’s great show-off landscapes, and hike a spectacular section of the West Highland Way. Today’s route includes the Devil’s Staircase, a historic zigzag climb with huge Highland views and a name that’s much more dramatic than the trail itself. After the walk, we head to our inn in Glencoe, where a drink at the bar feels very well earned before dinner.

Meals: Breakfast, lunch, dinner
Accommodation: Clachaig Inn (or similar)
Hiking: approx. 10 km (6 mi), 3 hrs
Elevation gain: approx. 549 m (1,800 ft)

Day 4: Buachaille Etive Beag
group women pic scotland

We hike the ridge of Buachaille Etive Beag today, an excellent Highland outing with sweeping views toward Loch Etive and the peaks around Glencoe. It’s overshadowed by its more famous neighbor, which works in our favor. The path is clear, the setting feels wild, and the whole day has that lovely mix of accessibility and remoteness. Later, we stop at the eco-friendly Glencoe Visitor Centre for a hot drink and a bit of the area’s story before returning to the inn. Dinner is on your own tonight.

Meals: Breakfast, lunch
Accommodation: Clachaig Inn (or similar)
Hiking: approx. 8 km (5 mi), 6 hrs
Elevation gain: approx. 914 m (3,000 ft)

Day 5: Kayaks, castle, and Plockton
Donan castle in Scotland

We begin in Fort William, then swap hiking boots for sea kayaks and paddle the tidal channel between Loch Linnhe and Loch Eil, keeping an eye out for seals, otters, seabirds, and maybe even a porpoise. After lunch, we continue north through Kintail, stop to visit Eilean Donan Castle, and then carry on to Plockton, one of the prettiest villages on the west coast. If time allows, we squeeze in a short walk before dinner.

Meals: Breakfast, lunch, dinner
Accommodation: The Plockton Hotel (or similar)
Hiking: approx. 3 km (2 mi), 2 hrs
Elevation gain: approx. 46 m (150 ft)

Day 6: Isle of Skye
Boarding the boat in Scotland

A short transfer takes us across the Skye Bridge to the Isle of Skye, where the day’s exact hike depends on the group and conditions. That flexibility works well here because Skye has no shortage of dramatic trail options. Wherever we go, we can count on striking scenery, a strong sense of place, and a day immersed in one of Scotland’s most storied landscapes. On the way back, we may stop at Camas Daraich beach before returning to Plockton for the evening.

Meals: Breakfast, lunch
Accommodation: The Plockton Hotel (or similar)
Hiking: approx. 8 km (5 mi), 4 hrs
Elevation gain: approx. 366 m (1,200 ft)

Day 7: Torridon lochs and Inverness
Hiker on a path in Scotland

We leave Plockton and head north to Torridon, a landscape many hikers would argue is peak Highlands. Today’s walk is a lower-level route around Loch Coulin and Loch Clair, with the towering sandstone peaks of the Torridon massif rising all around us. If the air is still, Liathach reflects beautifully in the water. After the hike, we continue on to Inverness for the night.

Meals: Breakfast, lunch, dinner
Accommodation: Glen Mhor Hotel (or similar)
Hiking: approx. 6.5 km (4 mi), 4 hrs
Elevation gain: approx. 122 m (400 ft)

Day 8: Munro day in Cairngorms National Park
River trail in Scotland

Today is the biggest hiking day of the trip as we head into Cairngorms National Park to climb Sgòr Gaoith, one of Scotland’s 3,000-foot-plus Munros. We hike through pinewoods, out onto open slopes, and up to a dramatic summit perched above crags dropping to Loch Einich. On the way down, we explore Glen Feshie and the Achlean Falls while also learning a bit about local rewilding efforts. Then it’s straight to a favorite local pub for dinner before returning to Inverness.

Meals: Lunch, dinner
Accommodation: Glen Mhor Hotel (or similar)
Hiking: approx. 14.5 km (9 mi), 7 hrs
Elevation gain: approx. 914 m (3,000 ft)

Day 9: Ben Vrackie and Edinburgh
Victoria Street in Edinburgh

For our final mountain day, we head to Pitlochry and hike Ben Vrackie, the shapely hill that rises above town. It’s a fitting finale: a straightforward but rewarding climb on good paths, with broad views if the weather plays nice. Anyone wanting an easier day can stay in Pitlochry and explore town, including the fish ladder and dam. Later, we travel on to Edinburgh for a farewell dinner and one last night together.

Meals: Breakfast, lunch, dinner
Accommodation: Bruntsfield Hotel (or similar)
Hiking: approx. 10 km (6 mi), 4.5 hrs
Elevation gain: approx. 762 m (2,500 ft)

Day 10: Departure
Charming Edinburgh skyline

After breakfast, the trip wraps up in Edinburgh. Depending on your travel plans, you can head onward or stay a little longer to explore the city on your own.

Meals: Breakfast

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Meet your guides

Seasoned pros, local legends, and passionate adventurers—your trip is in the best hands.
Heather
5.00
Heather
Heather has decades of experience helping women and girls explore the Pacific Northwest. She's passionate about kayaking, sailing, hiking, and paddleboarding. When not guiding, she volunteers in K9 search and rescue, helping recover outdoor adventurers near her home in Seattle.  

What others say about this adventure

5.00 (4 reviews)
R
Rebecca P.

Fellow travelers great, food great, accomindations great. The best thing was Heather and Kristy Heather knew all about the mountains, tundra and foliage, etc. Kristy was deep into Scotish history, how the Scotland became, what happened with the Brits and currently what the struggles are

P
Peggy A.

The trip was special due to the two leaders Astrid and Kirsty. They were knowledgeable, and so willing to help. The other part of this trip that made it so special was the group of wonderful women on this trip. We got along so well!

I
Indra C.

Our guide was wonderful.

5.00(4 reviews)
R
Rebecca P.

Fellow travelers great, food great, accomindations great. The best thing was Heather and Kristy Heather knew all about the mountains, tundra and foliage, etc. Kristy was deep into Scotish history, how the Scotland became, what happened with the Brits and currently what the struggles are

P
Peggy A.

The trip was special due to the two leaders Astrid and Kirsty. They were knowledgeable, and so willing to help. The other part of this trip that made it so special was the group of wonderful women on this trip. We got along so well!

I
Indra C.

Our guide was wonderful.

S
Sharon C.

Meeting amazing women, from the guides to the participants, who were all interested in having experiences in Scotland – including hiking, exploring castles, eating regional food and enjoying each others company.

Things to know

  • Included:

      • An experienced, local hiking guide with extensive knowledge of the area
      • 10-day all-women walking holiday in Scotland
      • Accommodation for 9 nights at local hotels, inns, and B&Bs (double occupancy rooms)
      • Almost all meals, as in the itinerary — 9 breakfasts, 8 lunches, and 8 dinners
      • Drinks and snacks while hiking
      • Transportation within Scotland
      • Activities listed in the itinerary
      • Tipping of hotels, restaurants, and castle tour

    Add-ons (pricing shown at checkout):

      • Single occupancy room
      • Hotel nights before the trip — leave a note at checkout if interested

    Not included:

      • Flights
      • Transportation to and from Edinburgh
      • Beverages at dinner
      • Activities and entrance fees not mentioned in the itinerary
      • Personal expenses
      • Anything not mentioned in the “Included” section above
      • Insurance — recommended, available to add at checkout
      • Guide gratuities — optional
  • Good fitness is required for this all-women walking holiday in Scotland. The hiking is varied rather than extreme, but you should feel comfortable being active on most days of the tour and hiking up to 14.5 km (9 mi) & 7 hours in a day, with up to 915 m (3,000 ft) of elevation gain. 

    A solid baseline is being able to do cardio such as brisk uphill walking, jogging, cross-country skiing, or stair workouts for 30-45 minutes, 3-4 times a week before the trip.

    Want to see what else is there in the area? Discover more Scotland walking tours here!

  • Clothing:

      • 1-2 pairs comfortable, synthetic long pants for hiking (zip offs work well)
      • 1 pair of shorts or 3/4 pants (lightweight and quick drying)
      • 1-2 lightweight, long-sleeved shirt for sun/bug protection (button up front is the best)
      • 2-3 synthetic or lightweight merino wool T-shirts or shortsleeved shirts
      • 1 pair lightweight long underwear top and bottoms (silk, wool or synthetic equivalent)
      • 1 lightweight jacket or vest
      • 1 midweight fleece jacket or sweater
      • 1 puffy jacket
      • 1 rain jacket and rain pants
      • Cap or hat
      • Underwear and nightwear
      • 1 pair wool, Capilene, or Polartec gloves
      • 1 lightweight wool or fleece hat
      • 2-3 changes of comfortable clothes for casual wear (e.g. pants and/or skirt, with a couple of tops)
      • Swimsuit

    Footwear:

      • 1 pair of lightweight to midweight hiking boots or shoes (waterproof and broken in)
      • 1 pair of alternate trail running shoes (In case you get blisters from your main hiking shoes. Can be helpful to have a size slightly larger than your hiking shoes)
      • 1 pair of comfortable athletic shoes, Keens, or Teva/Chaco sandals: for sightseeing, walking & general use
      • 2 pairs of thin liner socks: silk or synthetic equivalent – optional
      • 2-3 pairs of hiking socks: (wool or synthetic equivalent: Smartwool, Bridgedale, Darn Tough)

    Equipment/essentials:

      • Hiking poles
      • Daypack (24-30L) with a rain cover
      • Water bottle or a hydration bladder (2-3L)
      • Sunglasses
      • 1-2 bandannas or buffs
      • Sunscreen and lip balm
      • Earplugs
      • Plastic or Tupperware container
      • Spork (for trail lunches)

    Toiletries:

      • Toothbrush and toothpaste
      • Dental floss
      • Hand sanitizer
      • Shampoo and conditioner
      • Personal items (contact lens supplies, sanitary items, personal medications)
      • Personal first aid/patch kit: Band-Aids, 1 safety pin, moleskin, Compeed (or blister bandages), ibuprofen, etc.

    Optional:

      • Camera and film/memory card (extra batteries)
      • Pocketknife
      • Short ankle gaiters
      • Cell phone, charger
      • Wristwatch/travel alarm clock
      • Compact binoculars
      • Book/journal and pen
      • Lightweight umbrella
      • Small headlamp or flashlight
      • Kula cloth
      • Sit pad
      • Extra snacks

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  • Group sizes and pricing

      • For this all-women walking holiday in Scotland, the usual client-to-guide ratio is 7:1. 
      • It takes a minimum of 8 people for this tour to operate. The maximum group size is set at 14 participants.
      • Solo travelers can share a room with another same-gender solo traveler at no extra cost, or guarantee a private room by paying a single occupancy fee.

    An all-women walking holiday in Scotland can be arranged for larger groups. Contact us to make arrangements.

    Min. age requirements

      • If you are older than 18, you’re good to go.
  • The price for this all-women walking holiday in Scotland is based on twin-share rooms, but a single occupancy room can be arranged at an additional fee. You can add it to your booking at checkout.

    Solo travelers are welcome—they can either share a room with another same-gender solo traveler at no extra cost, or guarantee a private room by paying a single occupancy fee.

  • The starting point of your all-women walking holiday in Scotland is Glasgow. To get there, most people fly into Glasgow Airport (GLA). From there, you can take a shuttle service or a taxi to reach Glasgow.

    You will meet your guide at 9 am at the hotel in Glasgow on Day 1.

  • We highly recommend that you cover all your bases with insurance. To make your booking and traveling experience as carefree as possible, you’ll be offered to simply insure your trip with Redpoint at checkout.

    Redpoint—the official 57hours insurance partner—tailors protection packages for adventure travel, offering a comprehensive travel program, even in remote locations! Trip cancellation, natural disasters, pandemic coverage, medical evacuation, primary medical expenses—regardless of the travel interruption that may happen, Redpoint will have you covered.

  • Deposits 

    Secure your spot either by paying in full or with a 50% deposit! The remaining 50% of the trip price must be paid 120 days prior to departure, at the latest. If booking within 120 days of departure, the full amount is required at the time of booking.

    Cancellations

      • If cancelled within 48 hours of booking, a full refund will be issued.
      • If cancelled 120 or more days before departure, a 50% refund of the total trip price will be issued.
      • If cancelled within 119 days of departure, no refund will be issued.
      • Booking fees are non-refundable after a 48-hour grace period.
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