Knoydart, Skye and The Small Isles

Day 1 – The Sailing and Walking Holiday begins

Begin your adventure in Mallaig. Upon arrival, be welcomed on board Eda Frandsen by the crew and your wilderness guide. Following a trip briefing over afternoon tea, set sail towards your first anchorage. It is necessary to react to the weather while sailing, so please be aware that the itinerary may change depending on the forecast. Overnight off the Isle of Skye, enjoying a delicious dinner to celebrate your first evening on board.

Day 2 – Sail to the Isle of Rum and afternoon ashore

Today, sail to the largest of the Small Isles, the fascinating and beautiful Isle of Rum. With a rich and incredibly diverse history, the memories of what once was linger in the topography of the land. Enjoy lunch in the sheltered Loch Scresort before wandering into the tiny hamlet of Kinloch to explore. Tonight anchor in the sweeping bay, enjoying the view of the impressive Rum Cullin pressed against the sky. (B, L, D)

Walk details: 8km, approx 3hrs.

Day 3 – Walking on Rum and Sailing to the Isle of Canna

After a relaxing breakfast, journey ashore for a hike. With towering peaks that plunge down into deep glacial glens, beaches of powdery white sand and imposing sea cliffs – Rum is a wonderful place to explore on foot. Having been declared a National Nature Reserve in 1957, many of Rum’s features are considered to be of international importance, including its geology, habitats and seabirds. Hike up the hill of Hallival, populated by Europe’s largest colony of manx shearwaters; later this afternoon, set sail for Canna. (B, L, D)

Walk details: 12km, approx 6hrs

Day 4 – Walking on Canna, Sail to Loch Scavaig, Skye

Spend the morning hiking on the stunning Isle of Canna, the westernmost of the Small Isles archipelago. Apart from inland pasture, Canna is a designated Site of Special Scientific Interest for its geographical and biological importance. Hike to the summit of Compass Hill to enjoy beautiful panoramic views. From the top, you can look over to Loch Scavaig, our destination for this evening’s anchorage. (B, L, D)

Walk details: approx 5km, 2 hrs

Day 5 – Walking on Skye and Sailing to Knoydart

Wake up in what must be one of the most dramatic anchorages anywhere on the west coast. After breakfast, we will head ashore to enjoy a walk around the stunning Loch Coruisk nestled below the Black Cullin. Fabled to be home to a kelpie, ask your guide about the folklore that twists its way around this mystical, magical Isle. Return to Eda for lunch before sailing to the magnificent Loch Hourn on the mainland peninsula of Knoydart. (B, L, D)

Walk details: 8km, approx 4hrs

Day 6 – Hiking in Knoydart: The Mam Barrisdale Pass

Our aim for the day is to traverse the pristine wilderness of Knoydart on foot. Leaving Loch Hourn, we follow an ancient deer stalker’s path, crossing the Mam Barrisdale pass on our way to the village of Inverie, nestled on the shores of Loch Nevis. Enjoy a visit to the community-owned Old Forge, the most remote pub in Britain, for a well-deserved pint. Return to Eda for a delicious dinner to celebrate your final evening on your Scottish sailing adventure. (B, L, D)

Walk details: 12km, approx 5hrs

Day 7 – Short passage to Mallaig, travel home

After a morning swim (perhaps), bring your adventure to a close, arriving back in the pretty harbour of Mallaig this morning. Say goodbye to your crew and the beautiful Eda Frandsen, shaking off your sea legs and heading ashore towards home or your next adventure. (B)