Walking Holidays Scotland

Trip Comments
My trip was memorable for so many reasons. The absolutely stunning locations Lorraine and Will took us to, the quality of the accommodations and food, and the memories I made with my dad as we walked through the Highlands. Both Lorraine and Will are kind and passionate people who shared their love for the outdoors with us, and I'm so glad I had the chance to meet and spend time with both of them.

My biggest takeaway were the interactions we had with the Scots we met along the way who shared their passion for the land and their dedication to preserving and reforesting it. Coming from a country that doesn't always value the land we are so lucky to have been born on, I found it so inspiring to meet people who are spending their lives restoring the native forests.

I can't wait for my next Wilderness Scotland trip!

Accommodation and Food
The Lovat was gorgeous, absolute luxury after a long day of hiking! The food was amazing. I loved coming home to it every day.

Your Guide
Lorraine was with us on our first day, and I found her to be warm, bubbly and compassionate. Will joined us for our remaining days, and I really enjoyed his enthusiasm and sense of adventure. He's always smiling and because of that so are we! I would love to go on another adventure with both Lorraine and Will.

PS - on our last couple of days we were joined by a prospective guide, Leoni (sp?), who was also friendly, fun and a keen outdoor enthusiast. I'd be happy to join one of her tours in the future too! Keep up the amazing work in hiring your guides, they are exemplary people and represent your company beautifully.

The Bottom Line
Wilderness Scotland is the best way to experience the gorgeous landscape and people of Scotland. The guides are awesome people who want to ensure you have the best possible experience, the accommodations and food are top notch, and the locations are stunningly beautiful and will live in my memory forever. I can't thank Wilderness Scotland enough for the amazing experience I had on my trip.

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Pre-Trip Service
Queries were promptly answered.

Trip Comments
Many highlights, scones and clotted cream on Iron Age fort/ helping Ericksay horse/ boat trip to Mingulay and hike up Rueval on Benbecula.

Your Guide
Our guide Tim was knowledgeable and went that little bit extra to make the trip special eg scones and clotted cream on walk.

The Bottom Line
Enjoyed our time walking in the Outer Hebrides. Stunning scenery, great walks.

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Pre-Trip Service
The detailed list of items to pack was very useful. I was particularly thankful I had been advised to bring waterproof pants.

Your Guide
Gordon was a great guide. He was very knowledgeable and good humoured.

The Bottom Line
Our trip with Wilderness Scotland was wonderful. The locations were stunning, the hotels warm and welcoming and our guide was excellent. Everything was well organized from the moment we signed up until our goodbyes at the train station.

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Pre-Trip Service
WS was very responsive and also did a good job with the preparatory material. I ended up making some of the arrangements through a travel agent, and there may have been some issues in charging on a credit card from the US? (not sure about this however)

Trip Comments
Wilds of Assynt trip was great. The scenery, of course, the variety of the terrain we covered, the group of hikers and Sarah Crowsley was an outstanding guide. The weather was, of course, quite Scottish but in a way, that was part of the fun - to schedule each day in a way to maximize the most favorable conditions and then to chalk up the wind and rain to being a great adventure that we pushed through successfully. We interspersed higher elevation "up" days with less climbing "down" days, which was physically optimal for a group like ours. Because of wind conditions, we deferred the cruise around the Summer Isles to the last half-day of trip, which was a good way to end the week. WS might consider hard-wring this into the schedule on the last day rather than mid-week, although this might mean the trip would be missed if the last day is too windy.

Accommodation and Food
Ardvreck House was certainly not extravagant but it was just right for this trip. It was well located both for the ease of getting into Ullapool for dinners and supplies and then heading north to hiking venues, and also for the great views above Loch Broom. The rooms were clean and comfortable, the plumbing worked fine,and the staff was very friendly and helpful. On trip like this, you're not spending much time in the hotel, so modest and functional accommodations are all you need.

Your Guide
Sarah Crowsley was terrific. She was very energetic and organized (good at estimating time requirements for various aspects the daily plan and making sure we neither had not enough time or too much to get through the schedule. Sarah was particularly impressive at picking out the daily activities to take advantage of the most favorable wind and weather conditions to make the most of each day. This meant that we varied from the itinerary on the WS website, which was perfectly fine - I think everyone appreciated the flexibility we had. Sarah was also very attentive to coaching us across the more challenging terrain that we had to navigate and was attentive to the variable capabilities among members of the group (e.g.., one woman had a knee that had been injured right before the trip started and needed some additional care and attention). I also have to give Sarah high grades for her dedication and willingness to undertake a couple of longer linear hikes where she had to retrace our steps, running, to pick up the van to collect us (from a beer garden in Lochinvar, twice)

The Bottom Line
Wilds of Assynt was a perfected combination of indulging in the fantastic scenery and varied hiking experiences in the Northwest Highlands, in the company of a very congenial international group of hikers and a top notch, friendly guide.

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Your Guide
Chris was brilliant!

The Bottom Line
Absolutely no.compliants, except for the weather.

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Pre-Trip Service
I liked very much the hotel (very confortable) and the guide (Sarah C). She knew how to organize the best day-to-day hikes according to the weather.

Trip Comments
Very good trip. The boat trip (half-day) was less interesting ( 5 seals, 1 cave and a salmon farm).

Accommodation and Food
The hotel was very confortable but far from the town (Ullapool). You need a car to go shopping and get souvenirs.

Your Guide
The Guide is very kind, devoted and skilful. She organized the hickes very well according to the weather (wind and rain). She helped us a lot. We felt safe with her.

The Bottom Line
Very good organization. The guide is very friendly and very professionnal.
The hotel was confortable and quiet. The hikes were very interesting. We climbed on summits wher we could see a magnificent view. We have enjoyed the natural environment. We crossed a multitude of landscapes. Wonderful memory.

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The Bottom Line
We had a great time. Hard to think how it could be improved. If I had to mention one thing it would be that 10 of us all sorting very wet kit and washing, and showering all at the same, was a bit of a scrum. It didn’t really detract from the holiday for our group but maybe it could for some folk. Plus there was mention of lack of soundproofing of the loos!!
But the care we had from everyone and the food was all fantastic.

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Trip Comments
Lorraine was an incredible guide. She took time to share the history of where we were hiking and showed great passion for her country. Her passion for hiking was infectious and I would go on another Wilderness Scotland holiday with her in a second.

Accommodation and Food
Accommodations were excellent. Loved all the rooms and amenities.

Your Guide
Lorraine was amazing! Loved everything about her. Her smile was infectious. Loves the history she shared and she did everything she could to make sure the trip was great for everyone.

The Bottom Line
If you want to explore Scotland and get a bit of history book this trip! it will be one i talk about for a long time. Or at least until my next Wilderness Scotland trip.

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Pre-Trip Service
Every time I called or emailed, I got a timely response.

Trip Comments
Well organized and entertaining. Our guide went out of his way to ensure everyone was well looked after. It was a great mix of walking and learning.

Accommodation and Food
My only complaint is the negligible water pressure in the shower at the first hotel. The locations, the rooms, and the service were great.

Your Guide
Great job, Alan! Your sense of humor and attention to detail were greatly appreciated.

The Bottom Line
Just do it! The 6 of us on our trip met for the first time on day one. Now we are considering meeting for another Wilderness Scotland adventure.

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Pre-Trip Service
liked the clarity provided

Trip Comments
boat transfers and the hiking.
Making the most of the varying Scottish weather/conditions to maximise what we got out of the hiking by varying the itineray as appropriate

Accommodation and Food
good food and great setting

Your Guide
Peter was very good, great knowledge of flora and fauna exhibited, kept the group walking at the required pace. Dealt efficiently with any issues and group dynamics. Particular highligths wwere his motivational poems/talks every morning and the passion he displyed for his job and the coumtryside.

The Bottom Line
Excellent, I and my 3 walking companions will use Wilderness Scotland/Ireland again.

One final request/suggestion for the future, it would be great to be able to choose from a jacket or rucksac as the pre-trip freebie to suit individual needs, a small point I appreciate.

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Pre-Trip Service
The pre-trip customer service was excellent. The trip notes and advice were good including the list of Hotels in Inverness the night before the trip was due to start, tips on clothing and details for the week.

Trip Comments
The holiday to the Orkney Islands provided me with an uplifting and exhilarating experience and the Scottish weather only added to the drama of the sea cliffs and the sense of being somewhere wild and remote.
It was fascinating to see the neolithic excavations and the subsequent Pictish and Norse influence in Orkney and the neighbouring Islands.
I came away with many new experiences including sightings of the sea eagle and hen harrier, the common seal and sea otter, together with sampling the local Orcadian Art and jewellery and a taste of magical Orcadian music and not to forget of course the whisky.
The Hotel was delightful with tastefully furnished bedrooms, good food and a welcoming fire and we were treated to great culinary experiences through the week at other local restaurants.
The hiking was fun and not too demanding and afforded those great vistas that one associates with the Scottish Isles.
And finally many thanks to our guide Tim Francis who brought the whole holiday together and so expertly shepherded us around Orkney whilst providing a detailed account everything anyone wanted to know about Orkney.; he was a font of all knowledge.

Accommodation and Food
the hotel was warm and welcoming, with lovely open fires, tastefully furnished bedrooms and bathrooms and great food and service

Your Guide
Tim Francis was excellent. He managed to guide us round all the walks and archaeological sites with precision timing so we always achieved our goals every day. We never went hungry as he organised the lunch stops well. Moreover, he was most informative on all topics regarding the archaeology, history, wildlife, birds and flora.

The Bottom Line
I'll be back
The trip was without fault.

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Trip Comments
The whole trip was wonderful, from start to finish. I especially loved the way the trip itinerary was flexible and sometimes changed to include the group's wishes.

Accommodation and Food
Both hotels were unique in their own way, with beautiful views of the sea, great food and helpful staff.

Your Guide
Craig was very knowldgeable and friendly. Both he and Chantal made sure everybody felt included. I especially appreciate the way he never hurried us and gave us time to explore each spot and take pictures.

The Bottom Line
The best travelling experience I've had in my life!

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Your Guide
Andy was a great guide - friendly, informative and fun.

The Bottom Line
Great trip - wonderful lodge in a beautiful location, fabulous walks, great company. Its just a pity the weather on the tops could not be guaranteed but we had one glorious day and only two miserable ones so not bad for the Cairngorms!

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Pre-Trip Service
We were not able to book the trip online initially and had to book over phone. The original invoice confirmation was written as if it was for one person when I was booking for two people. It was sorted out, however, and worked fine.

Accommodation and Food
It would have been helpful to have the name and address of the accommodations ahead of time. They were not sent to us and customs gave us a hard time entering the country.

The Bottom Line
The trip was amazing and our guide was great. A little more information about the accommodations ahead of time would have been very helpful however.

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Pre-Trip Service
The holiday itinerary was well outlined and matched the experience I had. My experience booking the holiday was smooth and unproblematic.

Trip Comments
Good walking. Good food and accommodation. The group gelled we’ll. No problems and the weather was pretty good tool. Good mix of walking, other activities and sightseeing.

Accommodation and Food
Comfortable, friendly and quiet.

Your Guide
Cory was excellent. Confident, accommodating and cheerful throughout.

The Bottom Line
Highly recommended.

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Accommodation and Food
Lodge was very comfortable in al ways. Interesting to be in a relatively remote location.

Your Guide
Andy fitted the planned days to the weather very well. He led the walks well at a good pace with suitable breaks.

The Bottom Line
Excellent trip in all respects; very glad I was there. Compared to some others, prices may be a bit high (which is why I might hesitate to recommend to all) but very good quality. In the past I've tended to view WS trips as rather too easy for me, but being now 76, I'm finding the level more suitable. This trip was exactly the right level for my current ability. I hope to manage some others in future years.

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Your Guide
Excellent in every respect

The Bottom Line
Excellent

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Pre-Trip Service
Everything was great on the trip. Big thanks to our guide Kenny for his knowledge, expertise, organisation and wit.

No suggested improvements.

Trip Comments
Many highlights.
Dealing with the adverse conditions in such a professional and humorous manner.
Hike at Hushinish was particularly great.
Accommodations and food outstanding.

Accommodation and Food
See previous comment - all outstanding

Your Guide
Kenny was a brilliant guide on the trip - couldn't have had anyone better.

Dealt with adversities caused by the weather in a professional manner.

Led the hikes at a pace that suited all and was always informative throughout.

Loved his wit and poems!!

The Bottom Line
Outstanding. Everything I'd hoped it would be.

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Pre-Trip Service
No complications! Accomodations were marvelous at the Lynnview Hotel in Kirkwall. Our guide, Pete, took the best care of all of us, and I appreciated that he had so much knowledge about not just the land and history of Orkney, but the flora and fauna too.

Trip Comments
It was all good.

Your Guide
Any minor detours made during the course of our travels only enhanced the overall experience.

The Bottom Line
Many 'thumbs-up' for Pete and everyone at Wilderness Scotland! I hope to be able to take another walk with you all again!

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Pre-Trip Service
Our trip was organized through a travel agent, so we didn’t use your website very much, except when links were sent to us, and then it was fine

Trip Comments
The walks took us to many places in Orkney, and combined nature, history and culinary experiences. The trip was made all the better by the experience of our guide Mark, who balanced the itinerary with the needs and wants of the group and the weather.

Your Guide
Mark was knowledgeable on a range of relevant information - plants, animals, birds, history and knowledge of the trails ( and a lot of good stories). He was very respectful of the needs of the group and had a consultative style.

The Bottom Line
This trip exceeded our expectations. We were lucky in the beautiful weather and the group dynamics which played an important part in our enjoyment. We were also fortunate in being able to complete the planned itinerary because of the favourable weather conditions.
The Orkney Islands came as a lovely surprise. They were more sophisticated, had great infastructure, and were totally unspoilt.

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Pre-Trip Service
Our guide Tim Francis made the trip, nothing was too much trouble for him. His knowledge of the Orkneys was very impressive and his keenness to build on his knowledge base was wonderful to experience.

Trip Comments
One of the highlights for me was on approaching The Old Man of Hoy after a prolonged walk over stones and wet boggy ground to see the stone stack rising above the cliffs in the distance, my initial response was disappointment, my thought, "is that it, what's the fuss about?". Only to reach the cliff edge and to see The Old man in his entirety, I then realised that he is really worth making a fuss over!

Accommodation and Food
Accommodation was of a very high standard, food was good but on occasion inconsistent.

Your Guide
Excellent, see previous comments, no more to be said.

The Bottom Line
"My Orkney Experience", a trip of a lifetime. Leaving me with a very definite thirst, not for whisky, of which there was plenty, but for another Wilderness trip ASAP!

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Trip Comments
On this trip we saw so many beautiful places--it was a bit difficult to take in so much beauty in such a short time, but I know we could not have visited all these places without our guide. Our guide was another highlight--she is so skilled in every aspect of her work. We learned more about Scotland than I know about our country during that week and I loved having her knowledge of wildflowers and birds. I also give her bonus points for her flexibility throughout the trip. The meals were excellent for the most, especially the dinner at Chris and Nicola's--plus a pleasure to make their acquaintance.

Accommodation and Food
The hotel on Skye was very nice in most regards but it would have been helpful to be able to control the towel heaters in the bathroom as it made the entire space too warm. Also the beds there were a bit unsatisfactory for my husband who does have a bad back--I did fine. (I think this was room 104).
On Harris, the arrangements were good overall. Sharing a bathroom was a little challenging (we knew the couple we were on the tour with, but not extremely well). The main concern was going down steep stairs to use the bathroom at night--some of us thought that was more dangerous than the hiking on steep hillsides!

Your Guide
See my earlier comments as well as these: Gill was just so exceptional--she more than met our expectations. From sharing beautiful poems, to telling engaging stories, and sharing some of her own life experiences, I felt that she was more of a fellow traveler than our guide. Her sense of humor is delightful. Her sensing of unique needs and then finding ways to meet them was appreciated. We were a very diverse group and yet, she made sure that the trip worked for each of us. The trip was a bit highly structured, but she made it possible for some of us to move outside of the structure so we could maintain our personal grounding--or at least that's how it felt to me. I think she has found her calling and I hope she continues to provide her mountaineering leadership for many years to come.

The Bottom Line
Scotland has so much wilderness--I'm grateful that you make it accessible to people like us who wouldn't know where to start. Since the focus of the trip was hiking, the relatively fast pace (seeing quite a few different places) makes sense. I really appreciated that we spent time in certain beautiful spots to savor their beauty and I believe this is essential for many who enjoy wilderness. We want to be in it and not just move through it. Our group had a relatively relaxed pace--had it been any faster, the trip would have been overwhelming (not physically so much as emotionally.) This trip did stretch me with all that I took in each day--but I believe it was a good stretch as I left feeling a new confidence in myself.

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Pre-Trip Service
Looking good.

Trip Comments
Paul was especially helpful with his knowledge of the local history, geology and plantlife. His sense of humor always helps!

Accommodation and Food
Coul House and Glencanisp Lodge were excellent!

Your Guide
Paul was very good! We all enjoyed his knowledge. He was able to tailor the hikes to our abilities.

The Bottom Line
I would highly recommend the hiking trips for people who are not familiar with Scotland (as were my wife and I). We intend to return to the Highlands and western Islands for more hiking! Scotland is a great country and we enjoyed seeing the pastoral farms as both us grew up on farms in Iowa USA.

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Trip Comments
In addition to the wonderful scenery, cozy inns and great meals, our guide, Dave, knew his terrain and had a warm sense of humor.

Accommodation and Food
For this particular trip ending at the Inn on the Lake was great! Very luxurious. But I enjoyed all the accommodations. Lots of heat, nice folks, comfy beds.

Your Guide
Knowledgeable, welcoming, with a great sense of humor. What more do you need?

The Bottom Line
I feel like I got to experience Scotland in a way I wouldn't have by staying on the beaten path or only in cities. It's a beautiful country well worth exploring. On the down side, I wish they would stop eating all those adorable sheep :)

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The Bottom Line
Lorraine made our adventure an excellent experience.
Thank you,
Bruce

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Your Guide
TIM was great as usual- top noch and very grateful to his efforts in recovering my camera that I left on a walk

The Bottom Line
Orkney is a special place and our first trip there was memorable in many ways. The organisation and presentation by Wilderness Scotland is first class.

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Accommodation and Food
Stunning location, excellent food and staff

Your Guide
Calm, knowledgeable and supportive to all members of the group

The Bottom Line
Excellent

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Pre-Trip Service
I was happy with the service received

Trip Comments
Our Guide, Craig was excellent in that he was knowledgeable, informative, professional and with a great sense of humour.

Accommodation and Food
I was happy with all my accommodation.

Your Guide
As previously stated Craig was knowledgeable, professional with a great sense of humour.

The Bottom Line
This was my first trip with Wilderness Scotland, having been recommended by a traveller who did Skye and the Outer Hebrides with you. Your grading was unfamiliar to me and so I erred on the cautious side. I had a wonderful experience and was satisfied with all arrangements. Many thanks.

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Pre-Trip Service
Lots of helpful information in the dossier and equipment list and you kindly sent it all again after I had a computer meltdown and lost everything!

Trip Comments
The scenery was fantastic and never ending!

Accommodation and Food
Coul House was superb. Clean, comfortable, well appointed rooms and staff that were readily available to help or answer questions.
I had some issues with the room Glencanisp put me in. It was their wheelchair accessible room, so the bathroom was not very comfortable for an able bodied person; the room had no key so I couldn't lock it when we left for the day and the mattress was poor. I assumed they put me there because all the other rooms were full, but found out after two nights that there were quite lovely rooms sitting empty so I asked to be moved for the final night. That room was very nice, but the experience was not as positive as it could have been

TEAM WILDERNESS RESPONSE:

Thanks very much for your comments, and we are glad to read that you enjoyed both accommodations overall. We are sorry however that you did not like your room at Glencanisp as much as we would have hoped, and we would like to ensure you that we have noted this for the future. Hope to be able to welcome you back to Scotland very soon!

Your Guide
Alan was an absolute delight! He is very knowledgeable about flora and fauna, history and culture - he even read us poetry by Norman McCaig as we lunched at Loch Fionn. He was kind and patient, able to adapt to our varied needs and the changing weather with aplomb.

The Bottom Line
The trip was completely enjoyable and I would be happy to hike with Wilderness Scotland any time!

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Pre-Trip Service
Our guide, Gordon Anderson was fantastic. He kept us motivated, even in torrential rain and galeforce winds. The accommodations were very nice and the food was fantastic!

Trip Comments
Our guide, Gordon Anderson was great. The accommodations were excellent and the food was fanrastic. We also had a great group pf people!

Accommodation and Food
Both hotels were much better than we expected. Especially liked the Hotel Hebrides.

Your Guide
Gordon was always optimistic and positive. He had a great ability to read the crowd and make sure everyone was happy.

The Bottom Line
Had a great time, but I do feel that the trip rating was a bit inaccurate. The distance and climb descriptions werevfine, but this was not a walk on country paths on even trails. The trail was often rocky underfot and required a lot of hopping from rock to rock to avoid deep bits of bog.

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Pre-Trip Service
No hassles and reminders on time

Trip Comments
From the time Mark picked us up at the Inverness train station until he dropped us off after the trip we knew we were in the hands of a professional who lived his job and wanted us to get the most out of our trip! Once he knew my grandma lived near Kirkwall before she left for the US in 1901, he was almost determined as I was to find the "tumbledown" she had been born in as I was. And he helped me find it.

Mark was great on the hikes and really watched out for our safety. Once, near a cliff, my baseball cap blew off and he immediately took control of me and made me sit down. I wasn't ready to go over the cliff for my hat but Mark made sure I wouldn't do anything responsive or stupid.

Mark encouraged us all to March at our own pace, but keep up making it challenging and fun for us all.

Accommodation and Food
The hotel and staff were great. Our room was big enough to stretch out at the end of the day, the beds were very comfortable and meals were great, usually. The sandwiches were pretty dry, however. They could use some condiments to help them out.

Your Guide
Once again - Mark was fantastic and a real catalyst for the group

The Bottom Line
Wilderness Scotland will see me again! Great experience

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Pre-Trip Service
Website is easy to navigate and provides an immense amount of information.
I appreciated the friendly and personal responses to my email enquiries.

Accommodation and Food
We stayed in four different locations during the tour. Each one was very comfortable and excelled for different reasons-comfort, location, food. For location I was really pleased to stay at the Rowardennan Hotel below Ben Lomond.

Your Guide
Excellent leadership! Dave had everything quietly and efficiently organised on a daily basis. I think we all felt comfortable to walking at our own pace during the day.

The Bottom Line
I selected this tour because it provided the opportunity to combine a holiday in Scotland with an opportunity to also explore the Yorkshire Dales and Lakes. It was a very well designed tour, providing a good variety of landscapes and walking challenges. Staying two or more nights in each area allowed us to adjust the walking itinerary to allow for the changing weather conditions. Our guide Dave, the accommodation, food and additional touring experiences all combined to provide a wonderful experience. Cant wait to come back!

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Pre-Trip Service
All very efficient and friendly, as per my previous experience with WS

Trip Comments
My third trip with WS (the other two in Assynt and Torridon) so my expectations were already high and I wasn't disappointed. If anything, Knoydart was even better than the previous two - due largely to the huge variety of scenery and walks, the boat trips and the superb accommodation and food at Doune Lodge, not to mention Tim, our guide, who continued WS's excellent guiding reputation. I could have perhaps done with a few more challenging walks but the weather conditions prevented this and this didn't detract from my overall enjoyment of the trip. April turned out to be an excellent time to be there - no midges and some snow on the tops adding to the beauty of the place.

Accommodation and Food
Beautiful spot at Doune, fairly basic accommodation but everything you need and food is quite exceptional - all very fresh, locally sourced where possible, and extremely tasty. I'd come here for the food alone.

Your Guide
I've come to expect excellent guides on WS trips and Tim Francis was no exception. Sociable, engaging, knowledgeable and caring - sums up Tim - and tuned into client's needs.

The Bottom Line
Another great trip with WS. Couldn't fault the location, organisation, trip itinerary, or guide. The owners and staff at Doune Lodge are first class. The icing on the cake was the train ride from Glasgow to Mallaig and back - the West Highland Line - 'most beautiful train journey in the world' is no hype - it's quite stunning.

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Pre-Trip Service
Bridget is always ready to answer any queries promptly.

Trip Comments
Exactly as I'd hoped! Stunning landscapes, golden eagles, perfect weather, peace and quiet and a delightful sense of remoteness. The walks were varied in terms of terrain and scenery, so something for everyone. We were also lucky enough to have a great group of like minded walkers who clicked from the first day. However, that is the luck of the draw!

Accommodation and Food
Kinloch Lodge is set in a beautiful landscape with Ben Loyal overlooking the pretty conservatory. The staff could not have done more for us and were always happy and smiling. As for the food - we were well and truly spoilt at every meal, every day. The whole lodge had a welcoming home from home atmosphere with lovely walks from the door. Sharing a bathroom was certainly not a problem.

Your Guide
This was my second trip with WS and Ken. Ken always goes the extra mile to ensure that the whole group gets the maximum from each trip. After the first day he seems to know, intuitively, what each person is physically capable of achieving with enjoyment and makes sure everybody is happy with the walks planned. His knowledge of flora, fauna and Scottish history is wide and he even entertained us with short poetry readings whilst out on the hill! That was certainly an added bonus!

The Bottom Line
I'm about to book a third trip!

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Pre-Trip Service
On-line booking procedure for 2 people was not very clear. I mentioned this to Colin White on the trip and he said he had already sorted it out. It needed it!

otherwise, very prompt and helpful responses to all specific queries and timely and relevant pre-trip information.

Trip Comments
Excellent guide, excellent company (fellow walkers) and excellent accommodation.

Accommodation and Food
It was excellent but for us, it was unnecessarily luxurious. We would have been equally, or more, happy with lower grade accommodation. I appreciate that does not apply to all your clients, and that you take the best that is available. Practical details, it would have been good to have had a less thick duvet. I admit I did not ask, as I don't like to be demanding and awkward, but what was available in the room was winter weight and much too hot, even for a normal summer.

Drying room and boot room much appreciated

Your Guide
Can't imagine a better guide, enthusiastic, friendly, knowledgeable, skilful, and always willing to go the extra kilometre or 10, on the ground and metaphorically in tracking down eg flower species, word origins etc.

The Bottom Line
Re last score of 4/5. It could be 5/5 but a number of my friends have to watch their finances and others would prefer less comfort.

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Pre-Trip Service
I booked sometime before my holiday but was kept informed of any details I needed to know nearing my holiday.

Trip Comments
Each day was good walking views and general knowledge of the area from our Wilderness guide.

Accommodation and Food
The Hotel and staff were excellant and very friendly. I would have preferred a single room but will remember for next time!

Your Guide
Lorraine was an excellant and informative Guide. She made us all feel very relaxed and welcome. She was fun to be with and I felt totally safe in her knowledge of the mountains and weather conditions etc. I am tempted to go on one of her trips to Orkney!

The Bottom Line
I had a wonderful 5 days and will be booking a longer trip as soon as possible!

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Pre-Trip Service
All advice was accurate and timely. The tone used in all correspondence was a nice balance of friendly informality and professionalism.

Trip Comments
This was my first group holiday and it exceeded my expectations. I laughed more in that one week than I’ve laughed in a year. I loved all of the walks and by the end of the week I was ready for more. Such a great group with a great guide in a beautiful and interesting place, what could possibly go wrong?

Accommodation and Food
The accommodation exceeded my expectations. The room we got was fantastic with plenty of space so that we never felt like we couldn’t get away from each other. The food, amenity and service were all fabulous. The sight of the owner driving up the drive way in his vintage convertible car with his spaniel in the passengers seat, well that was priceless!

Your Guide
Our guide Lorraine was wonderful. Her passion for the country was evident and infectious. She gently encouraged all of us to challenge ourselves and taught us skills that will hold us all in good stead in the future. She also provided some welcome comic relief by almost disappearing in a bog and then advising us not to follow her.

The Bottom Line
I would have no hesitation in recommending Wilderness Scotland to others and I will definitely be back for another trip.

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Pre-Trip Service
Clear instructions and guidance - can't think of anything that could have better

Trip Comments
All of it but especially:
Old Man of Hoy
Guide's knowledge and expertise
Bird watching and Neolithic remains

Accommodation and Food
But we experienced problems with smelly drains in the room. Whilst this was not immediately resolved we were generously compensated by the hotel.

TEAM WILDERNESS RESPONSE:

Thanks for sharing your experience. The Lynnfield is a really lovely hotel, so we are very sorry that you had this situation during your stay. Having raised with the hotel, we believe this to be a one-off, however we have noted it for the future.

Your Guide
Mark was a brilliant guide and was one of the key reasons the holiday was so successful. Knowledgeable, great company, great at judging when to engage with people and when to give them space, when to encourage and advise. I'm sure that all your guides are great but fnd it hard to believe they are as good as Mark - a terrific ambassador for your company and an absolute star!

The Bottom Line
A great trip that exceeded our expectations as Mark Cox was such a fantastic guide, everything was very well organised although flexible to reflect conditions. Also we were blessed with great weather to boot!

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Pre-Trip Service
David was quick to respond to all our questions

Trip Comments
Cant fault trip. Adam did a great job guiding. The hospitality at Doune was excellent. Special mention to the skills of Andy who skippered the boat in some quite rough conditions but we never felt worried with him at the helm

The Bottom Line
Our first experience with Wilderness Scotland was extremely positive in all aspects. A very memorable holiday

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Pre-Trip Service
Overall it was good. I would like to have had a trip info link that would print without graphics (the hike descriptions, meeting place info, etc). The photos in the document use a lot of ink to print

Trip Comments
The guide was excellent. The trip matched the description. Only minor issue was that the room for first 3 nights was really small.

Accommodation and Food
I shared with another guest to avoid paying single supplement. Our room at Coul House was tiny. The bathroom door hit one of the beds when it was opened, not great if you want to get up during the night with out waking your roommate. The hotel was nice overall, and the staff was really good. I liked the other lodge..

Your Guide
Alan was very knowledgeable about the areas we hiked.

The Bottom Line
Overall, I enjoyed the trip. It matched the description on the website, so I knew what to expect for difficulty of hikes. The Lochinver area is really lovely.

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Pre-Trip Service
Including end dates on trips would be helpful.

Accommodation and Food
Given the locations, our accommodations were okay- I want a safe, clean comfortable room.

Your Guide
Rosie was skilled, knowledgeable, good humored, organized. I felt comfortable and safe under her leadership which was important to me as I was not quite as skilled as some of my fellow travelers.

The Bottom Line
The entire experience from start to finish was smooth, professionally managed, met and exceeded my expectations, beautiful, awe inspiring and fun.

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Pre-Trip Service
Prompt responses and friendly office staff, thorough information readily available on website

Trip Comments
I really enjoyed finding out about the history, geology, wildlife and current state of the areas we were walking through. Our guide Alastair was fantastic!

Your Guide
Very knowledgeable and friendly. I appreciated Alastair’s straightforward approach and his patience even though we had a very wide range of fitness levels within our group.

The Bottom Line
This was a great experience - I came away from the week having not only seen the Highlands in a very unique way, but also having made some fantastic friends and learned a tremendous amount about the area along the way. I would happily come back for another one!

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Pre-Trip Service
Ease of finding more details about cost, options, travel connections, etc.

Trip Comments
Our guide, Mr. David Murray Greer, was just the best fit for our small trekking group.

Accommodation and Food
The hosts at the two B&B's used for our group were sincere, hardworking professionals who took our comfort and appetites fully into consideration. These were some of the finest accommodations we've ever enjoyed in such small out of the way destinations.

Your Guide
As mentioned already, Dave Greer was a superbly qualified and even gifted trekking team leader. His deep personal knowledge of the Cairngorms permitted daily and more frequent adjustments in calendar and routes to maximize content and minimize our risks for calamity on the trails. He never approached us as someone who "knew it all" but was eager for our own inputs and dialogue that made the days go too quickly! He earned my highest recommendation and we would very strongly attempt to work with him should we choose another WS adventure on foot or bike.

The Bottom Line
We have already done so, and will very much encourage some of our family and friends to consider joining us on another or organizing their own unforgettable escape.

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Pre-Trip Service
The Trips were descriped very good. We got the information of our guide. That was very nice to know the person

Trip Comments
We were a really nice group. Our guide Tim was great. He was so thoughtful, friendly and told us great stories about Scotland. He was sooo helpful. Even when we lost our umbrella or if we had to reach our train in time, Tim was there for us. He was a really good friend to us. We appreciate him and are lucky to know Tim.
The bed and breakfast were also wonderful. Food was excellent. The landscape is fascinating .All in all it was gorgeous!!! We were sad when we had to leave. But we are sure, we will come back :-)

Accommodation and Food
b&b was excellent , marvelous , fantastic. Especially we loved the accomodation ,where we stayed two nights . I´ve lost the name , sorry. The rooms were so cute.
I´ve to mention, than all the Scotish people are so friendly!!

Your Guide
I´ve already said, that Tim was so nice, thoughtful, helpful and humorous. We loved his stories, and my husband and I are from Austria, so we often needed an extra explanation or repetition of stories to understand. Tim did that for us as often we asked for something,,,,and we had a lot of questions. Thank you :-)

The Bottom Line
We had a lot of wonderful trips in our life. Scotland and Ireland belongs to the favourite :-)

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Trip Comments
This was my third trip with Wilderness Scotland, and the first time I brought 4 family members along with me. We had a great time! I continue to recommend this company to anyone who asks about my Scotland travels.

Accommodation and Food
Loved the two hotels where we stayed! Each had a good restaurant and pub attached, and each was clean, comfy and charming with friendly staff. Can't beat the lake views at the Loch Melfort!

Your Guide
Andy was a superb guide -- very knowledgeable, personable, patient and accommodating!

The Bottom Line
This was my third trip with Wilderness Scotland, and the first one on which I brought along four extended family members. We had a great time! All of us agreed that this company provides a fantastic value for the money, and works hard to ensure that all guests have a terrific experience with great attention to detail and a lovely personal touch. I will continue to recommend Wilderness Scotland to all who ask about my Scotland travels.

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Pre-Trip Service
We weren’t sure we could manage the challenges of this trip so Wilderness Scotland wisely contacted our guide from a previous trip who remembered us and assured us we could!

Trip Comments
What wonderful peaks: Cul Mor, Stac Pollaidh. Suilven was the greatest challenge and all who started managed to finish, with much mutual encouragement and fears conquered!
Even on our “rest day” we watched a White Tailed eage soaring and saw climbers scaling The Old Man of Stoer.

Accommodation and Food
I don’t think the accommodation could be improved at all - good food, good rooms, great views.

Your Guide
Thank you Susie for your gentle patience and your wisdom in estimating what we could achieve. I think you were very busy at times organising things in the background but it never seemed to show, everything just happened!

The Bottom Line
Challenging but highly worthwhile.

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Pre-Trip Service
Always quick to respond and answer questions

Trip Comments
We had a great guide, Pete. I admired his ability to assess interests and ability/fitness level and tweak the days accordingly. His all round general knowledge is impressive.

Accommodation and Food
Lovely hotel with excellent food and very pleasant staff

Your Guide
We were very happy with Pete. He was very in tune with the group.

The Bottom Line
We love Wilderness Scotland. This was our second trip. We went to the Outer Hebrides last year. We will definitely do more. The guides have been excellent, as has the accommodation. The trip planning and organisation works seamlessly.

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Pre-Trip Service
Clear helpful information.

Accommodation and Food
Comfortable, welcoming, excellent breakfasts. It would have been helpful if the last place we stayed had a drying area.

Your Guide
Alistair was informative about the areas we were walking through , managed to cater for various walking abilities, knowledgeable about whisky and had a good sense of humour.

The Bottom Line
Reliable, well organised organisation.

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Pre-Trip Service
Web site was easy to navigate.

Trip Comments
I loved the hikes and the views. Our guide, Don, was knowledgeable and very helpful. He was able to cater for everyone in the group so that we all got the most out of the experience.

Accommodation and Food
Both hotels were clean and comfortable, and the food was good.

Your Guide
Don was excellent. He explained all our walks beforehand, showing us on the map, and also explained the gradient and going. He ensured we were all able to hike to our own abilities, and it was obvious that safety was a top priority.

The Bottom Line
Visiting Skye has long been a goal of mine. To see this beautiful island in a hiking trip allowed me to truly appreciate the splendour of it. Wilderness Scotland also allowed me to access lesser known parts, and, often, we were the only people on the trail. To have a guide who was able to discuss the local flora and fauna, the geology and history of the island enhanced the experience. Already looking in to holidays for next year!

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Pre-Trip Service
We got great help from Chantal in the booking and arrangments to catch up wih the group one day late du to ou attendance at the international pipe and drum competition.

Trip Comments
Our guide Jonny was informative, knowledgeable, fun loving. The weather was pretty good, and we were prepared in case it wasn't. The hotels were lovely, the food good.

Accommodation and Food
good food, great views, nice people,

Your Guide
Johny was a great guide, who shared enough knowledge to be informative, but not a lecture. he obviously enjoys his work. Couldn't have asked for a better guide

The Bottom Line
It was my first trip with a guide and in Scotland. I can't wait to go back- more hiking or sea kayaking possibly. It was so beautiful that I had to stop taking photographs and just take mental pictures! Do it!

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Trip Comments
There was one hotel that was quite dirty.

Accommodation and Food
The hotel by the banks of Loch Lomond not well kept up.

TEAM WILDERNESS RESPONSE:

Sorry to read about your experience about the Loch Lomond hotel. We have passed on your comments to ensure that they are aware of this issue, and we will monitor feedback to ensure that this is not recurring.

Your Guide
Allen had some difficult hurdles this trip: Storm Ali, hikers not being able to make the walks, my food issues. He did a great job managing all of it.

The Bottom Line
You are doing a good job. Thanks.

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Pre-Trip Service
Your staff was very patient and eager to help during the Pre-Trip orientation.

Trip Comments
Our time in Scotland was truly a remarkable adventure! The only snag occurred when we lost some valuable luggage on our flight to Scotland. John Walker, our remarkable WS guide 'went to bat' for us in efforts to recover our luggage from the commercial air line. He even loaned us some gear and helped us to locally purchase the other trail necessities at a shop in Killin. We are very grateful for his kind support and expertise.

Accommodation and Food
We absolutely LOVED the accommodations that were provided!

Your Guide
Stu and John were wonderful! We loved their knowledge of the history, geography, culture, and spirit of the Scottish people.

The Bottom Line
My wife and I had a remarkable and unforgettable experience of journeying through the highlands. John and Stu were excellent teachers and led us on some wonderful hikes. They were very organized and anticipated every need along the way. We are returning to Scotland next year with Wilderness Scotland and look forward to more remarkable times with them.

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Pre-Trip Service
Friendly and helpful

Trip Comments
We had a fantastic time! The group got on really well and Tim was a fabulous guide/host - helpful, considerate, knowledgeable and funny.

Accommodation and Food
Generally thought all the accommodation exceeded expectations. Food everywhere was really good. Felt the Tyndrum hotel was a bit "tired", however again food in the restaurant and service was good. Guesthouse in Kinlochleven was a hoot - everything you could ever need and enough going on to keep us talking for days!

Your Guide
As before, Tim was great. Very helpful and really knowledgeable. The evening briefings were good and he was always good company. He kept things moving and ensured everyone was doing ok, encouraging plenty of snacks and water breaks. Also, he was enthusiastically Scottish, which (as the only other Scots in the group) we thought was brilliant. Its important that people leave singing the praises of Scotland and Tim played a big part in ensuring they did so.

The Bottom Line
We had a wonderful time on the West Highland Way. The scenery (and the weather!) was stunning, the company was great and the accommodation and food excellent. Tim was the perfect guide and host. Would definitely recommend this trip to others.

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Pre-Trip Service
Everyone's responses to queries were timely and exactly what I needed. I don't see how anyone could have done better!

Trip Comments
The best part of our trip was Andrew, our guide. His facility with logistics and with educating and gently and expertly taking care of ten different persons for an entire week on the West Highland Way was nothing short of amazing. The scenery, natural history, and human history of the West Highland Way, of our area of Scotland, and of Scotland in general was made all the richer to me under Andrew's care. I am grateful to him and to Wilderness Scotland for an amazing walking holiday that exceeded all of my already high expectations!

Accommodation and Food
All accommodations were outstanding. It's amazing what one can do knowing that such accommodations await one at the end of the day.

Your Guide
As I mentioned previously, Andrew was amazing. His organizational skills, his kindness, his cheer-leading of us all, his professionalism, his knowledge of the trail and of the human and natural history of Scotland, all combined to make this an amazing holiday that far exceeded my already high expectations. There are too many fun anecdotes to tell, but one stands out: walking on Rannoch Moor before dropping down into Glen Coe, we encountered a persistently driving rain that came in torrents, and I began to drag a bit in the rain and fighting a blister or two. With a few encouraging words from Andrew, including an appropriate line or two of poetry (music to the ears of this writer who majored in English at university), I was invigorated and completed the day's walk with, well, nothing short of joy.

The Bottom Line
This trip along the West Highland Way, exemplified by our guide and our stunning surroundings, exceeded all expectations. I cannot recommend it highly enough, and I fervently hope to return soon!

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Pre-Trip Service
Website had an error re: number of participants needed for a trip to be confirmed. The error persisted well past a reasonable time to have had it. My conclusion: technical staff has weak skills or administrative staff are a bit casual about the accuracy of the website.

TEAM WILDERNESS RESPONCE:

Thanks so much for your feedback. I am sorry that there was confusion here that caused worry but I do know my collage spoke to you in person and clarified the issue. I can assure you that none of the team are casual about admin but rather technical issues are generally more complex than they look! It sounds like you had an amazing trip over all and it’s great that you are keen to travel with us again.

Trip Comments
Our guide (John Walker) was excellent. The itinerary was spectacular. The lodging (room and board) was good, but not excellent. The food could have been improved (bananas and meat are not a good combination!). There was no place to dry clothes. Our room had only one small towel rack, and the minimal electrical outlets limited our ability to charge our electronics.

Accommodation and Food
see prior comments

Your Guide
John Walker is a fantastic guide: professional, experienced, compassionate, and extremely capable of meeting the needs of a diverse group of hikers. He's also a excellent driver; I'd rate him in the top 2% of all drivers I've experienced in my lifetime.

The Bottom Line
Amazing trip. The Cairngorms are stunningly beautiful. The itinerary chosen by Wilderness Scotland gave us the opportunity to experience many of the splendors of this area. Fantastic guide (John Walker). Good lodgings and meals. We'd happily book another trip with Wilderness Scotland.

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Pre-Trip Service
Not having been to the U.K. before, we had many questions about travel arrangements at the beginning and end of the trip. All our questions were answered beforehand and we received money and time saving tips for train travel, i.e. booking flexible tickets.

Trip Comments
The trip itinerary was very well conceived as it allowed us to experience a variety of landscapes and local cultures in Scotland and Northern England. Even better was the guide who made it all happen and tailored every day to the weather and our interests, i.e. identification of birds, wildflowers, and a distillery tour. Highlights included a hike through the Yorkshire dales with some of the most beautiful trees and wildflowers we have seen and a high elevation hike to St. Sunday Crag in the romantic Lake District. Also, our stay at the Black Swan in Ravenstonedale was simply stunning. Our accomodations were lovely, the staff 4-star, and the food the best of the trip. The Black Swan kitchen is worth a visit in its own right. The dinners were worthy of a top-end restaurant and even the porridge at breakfast was memorable.

Accommodation and Food
Our accomodations were, on balance, very good. These ranged from the sublime at the previously mentioned Black Swan, excellent at a very posh hotel right on the water at Ullswater, to a comfortable B&B. However, despite its beautiful location right on Loch Lomond, the Rowardennan Lodge disappointed with its very disorganized operations, confused staff, and only passable food and drink.

TEAM WILDERNESS RESPONSE:

Thanks very much for your feedback. Delighted to hear that overall you enjoyed the accommodations. We have worked with the Rowardennan for a number of years on a few of our trips, and feedback has generally been positive, but your comments have been noted. Having said this, for various operational reasons, we have decided to change the accommodation we stay at in Loch Lomond next year.

Your Guide
Keith Miller was the ultimate guide. His thorough knowledge of the flora, fauna, terrain, history, and land management issues of each place we visited is truly outstanding. We hike independently in the U.S. and take many self-guided trips abroad; but this trip would have been very difficult and much less enjoyable without a guide of his caliber. This trip is an outstanding value. For those of us used to hiking in national parks in the U.S., the British trail systems appear very difficult to navigate with so many private property access restrictions and the general absence of signs. Mr. Miller was always well prepared with weather forecasts, multiple maps, and an unerring sense of where to go and what we might experience. He was also very flexible and tailored the itinerary to the weather and our interests -- immediately identifying birds by their song and plants by both their Latin and English names en route. He even provided us a complete list of these at the end of the trip. Outstanding is the only word to describe his knowledge, experience and expertise as a guide!

The Bottom Line
This was the first trip with Wilderness Scotland and it was a tremendous introduction to some of the wild places in Northern England and Scotland. In addition to gaining familiarity with these beautiful places, we learned a great deal about their flora, fauna, geology, people, and land management practices ( including stone fence building)! This trip is also an outstanding value given the quality of most of the accomodations and especially the food. I even learned to love porridge.

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Pre-Trip Service
Clerk I spoke to was very helpful in guiding me to a walk that I would be comfortable with in terms of distance walked each day, etc.

Trip Comments
My guide Alan Smith was very good - informative, friendly, easy-going, listened to the group.

Accommodation and Food
I can't quite get over the British preoccupation with single beds. (And they are much smaller than the single bed version in North America!) Not much you can do about this part of travel in Scotland. In the future I will likely choose the single supplement to avoid the single bed experience.

Your Guide
Alan Smith listened to the group, he is friendly and relaxed, and full of information.

The Bottom Line
I had a wonderful time walking the Outer Hebrides from July 14 to July 20. The weather was lovely, the group was a fun collection of people, and the guide was excellent.

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Pre-Trip Service
No it was good. Fast response to queries

Trip Comments
Having the use of the boat to the islands with the flexibility between Tim the guide and Andy the boatman to choose the itinerary according to the weather forecast.
I really enjoyed Eigg and the remoteness of Knoydart and the food was amazing. As a vegetarian who prefers little dairy the care over the food choice was second to none. Even though the walking is my main objective it did make a welcome difference overall.

Accommodation and Food
Good but glad I could have my own room which might not always be possible.

Your Guide
Tim is a very good guide and aware of everyones needs and abilities.Also Tim went the extra mile over many small things.

The Bottom Line
A good trip which enables clients to access parts of Knoydart which would be harder to do by oneself without knowledge of the area.Everyone involved on the whole trip from booking to being dropped off at the station was a pleasure to deal/be with.
Thank you

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Pre-Trip Service
Gil was the most competent and likable guide ever. She is perfect!

Trip Comments
I loved hearing Gil read stories and poems. She is such an interesting person and it was a pleasure getting to know her. In addition she is an excellent driver and I miss her. The time we spent at the clearances was a moving and sobering experience. She has such heart. The pace of the walks was suitable to our group. In addition the group experience was so good. We really liked each other and met as strangers and left as friends. thanks for the pictures. and thank you for such a wonderful experience.

Accommodation and Food
Our accommodation exceeded my expectations. The food was good and staff very helpful and welcoming.

Your Guide
Gill was fabulous. She has a great reading voice and I enjoyed the poems and stories. I learned a lot from her about Scotland, flora and fauna and history of the country. She had a lending library of books and I appreciated that. If I lived near her, we would be best friends. She is all heart!

The Bottom Line
This trip could not have been better. I loved every micro second.

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Pre-Trip Service
Would have said excellent if it were not for the little slip-up of sending an out-of date dossier with confirmation email that incorrectly said all dinners were included! Otherwise very prompt and efficient.

Trip Comments
Highlight was revisiting Sutherland after 45 years absence!

Accommodation and Food
Both very high standard. I could not believe I was actually going to stay in Glencanisp Lodge with view of my favourite mountain.

Your Guide
Paul was brilliant. I could not fault him.

The Bottom Line
Great trip but I would have preferred it more of it (preferably all!) was in Sutherland. I think the title of the trip gives a false impression of the focus of it, though obviously I had realised before booking that first half was in the East.

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Trip Comments
The panoramas atop Cul Mor, Suilven and Quinag were incredible. I'll never forget the full rainbow on Quinag...truly a once in a lifetime experience.

Accommodation and Food
Ardvreck House was lovely. Breakfast choices were varied and service was super efficient.

Your Guide
Can't say enough good things about David (first two days) and Billy (remaining days). Both suggested the best hiking options for the day considering the weather and conditions. Billy in particular did a great job accommodating the various abilities of trip participants, keeping the group together on the tougher sections and being flexible about participants going ahead, or staying behind, at other times. When appropriate, he pointed out hazards without being alarmist.

The Bottom Line
I would highly recommend Wilderness Scotland for anyone wishing to take an active vacation in Scotland. The Wilds of Assynt exceeded my expectations!

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Pre-Trip Service
Everything was clear and straightforward and my emails were answered quickly and questions were dealt with.

Trip Comments
The location was sublime. The opportunity to see wildlife in its natural habitat so up close - dolphins, porpoises, stags, seals, birds, otters, wild goats.

Accommodation and Food
The Knoydart lodge was comfortable enough but it had the feel of a bunkhouse, with very thin walls. Beds were comfortable but the wash room got a bit crowded. The communal living room was nice.

Your Guide
Dave coped well with a mix of abilities and personalities, and bad weather. He encouraged us to push ourselves.

The Bottom Line
Knoydart is a fascinating place and outstandingly beautiful. I loved the food and all the wildlife we saw. It's a unique place. We had wild stags come down to graze outside our front door. We sailed through a pod of about 100 dolphins. These wildlife experiences were unique.

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Pre-Trip Service
Payment didn't go through and after I had to start all over again. Function to restart process would be standard today.

Accommodation and Food
Loved the lodge and the banana-fanatic cook was great as well.

Your Guide
Maybe some further golf-course navigation lessons might be necessary. Besides that, great trip!

The Bottom Line
My friends are far more fit than I am and even I wasn't anywhere near my limit at any of the days... Even though that would have certainly changed in bad weather.

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Trip Comments
Walking through Glen Affric with fantastic autumn colours and great views.

Accommodation and Food
High quality accommodation and food. The Lovat Hotel was very good - especially enjoyed lounging in large comfy chairs in front of an open fire after a day's walk.

Your Guide
Kirsty was an excellent guide - so knowledgeable and professional but most importantly good fun.

The Bottom Line
This was another great trip with Wilderness Scotland. Lovely walks in a small group who got on so well together enjoying the forests in all their brilliant autumn colours.

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Trip Comments
Gil and Hayley were very knowledgeable and attentive to our needs. The experiences, restaurants, and facilities were first rate. Balmoral was a surprise treat.

Accommodation and Food
Ravenstonedale and Rowardennan stood out.

Your Guide
Gil was very experienced, knowledgeable, flexible and kind.

Hayley was very knowledgeable on the Lake District and we really enjoyed her taking us on backroads.

Both were dynamic and very attentive and adaptable to the group’s needs.

The Bottom Line
This trip is an excellent blend of experienced staff, careful planning, and flexibility. An example: with recent focus on the royal family, our guides adjusted our schedule to enable us to visit Balmoral. It was a memorable tour, and led to a scenic and idyllic hike on the grounds, a visit to the Queen’s place of worship, lovely tea and scones served by locals, and a chance to purchase iconic Lochnagar single malt, all the while enjoying unscripted chats with locals about their queen and country.

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Pre-Trip Service
Great customer service in terms of response time. Took great care to ensure that the trip was appropriate for my abilities. Easy to make payments and provided helpful information on-line to prepare for the trip.

Trip Comments
It was an awesome trip! The scenery was so gorgeous with the many waterfalls, lochs, mountains, and rainbows we saw. It became more and more beautiful each day. The trip was just challenging enough for me and though I felt tired after each day, after a good dinner and a wee dram, I woke up each day ready for the next leg. It was great meeting people on the trail and hearing their stories, too.

Accommodation and Food
With the exception of Tyndrum Inn, all the lodging was excellent. Tyndrum Inn wasn't bad. It just was dingier, and the rooms were more cramped. The layout was also confusing with the hallways leading to the restaurant and the bar in the front and back.

Your Guide
Alan Wright was an excellent guide. We were a small group with the majority being friends or friends/family of friends plus two additional women. Our safety and comfort were his primary concern. He took care of every detail even when the weather dictated that we cancel our walk for the day and we had to get to the next night's lodging, which was challenging given all the other hikers who were in the same boat and then we were stranded at Drovers Inn because the bridge to our next lodging was flooded. He also assisted those who could not walk on specific days due to illness or minor disability. I appreciated his detailed preview of the walks, what to expect, his advice on how to prepare for the varying weather, and his combination of knowledge of history, local communities, Scottish culture, and nature. He made sure each of us had some of his personal attention, too!

The Bottom Line
Excellent! I do recommend that the trips be kept to this size of less than 10. It was perfect for the walking part (we were all pretty evenly matched and no one was way out ahead or behind) and for the logistics (nice to stay in some smaller accommodations where we would have most of the place to ourselves). Also, with our small size and amiable group, it was easy to reach consensus when decisions needed to be made. Wilderness Scotland did a great job of addressing every detail and the trip went very smoothly in spite of some potential wrenches being thrown.

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Pre-Trip Service
Helpful and informative all round

Trip Comments
Walking on the Quirang, Trotternish peninsula, boat and two ferry trips I had not done before! Seeing ancient brochs, ruined and preserved. Listening to some live Scottish music in a friendly pub. A well paced easy going walking experience.

Accommodation and Food
The second hotel Eileen Iarmain was a good hotel but not to my taste personally. A bit staid, old-fashioned and stuffy. Lovely location mind.

Your Guide
Our guide Jude was the best ever guide I have been with on any guided tour. So cheerful, positive, helpful and responsive to everyone’s needs. Such a pleasure to be with her company.

The Bottom Line
Fantastic trip to Skye and we had the weather as well! Just wonderful.

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Pre-Trip Service
I really appreciated how fast the team were in answering my questions!

Trip Comments
The guide, itinerary and weather were brilliant! I know you cannot do anything about the weather, but we were so lucky. I also found the accommodation really lovely, and was grateful for all my gluten-free meals.

Your Guide
Don was brilliant! He was also really aware of different needs and wants along the way and very patient.

The Bottom Line
I cannot wait to book another adventure with Wilderness Scotland, thank you!

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Your Guide
Mark was a great guide, very informative and helpful.

The Bottom Line
The trip far exceeded my expectations, and I loved it. The Orkneys are a very special place.

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Pre-Trip Service
Rachel Gavan's is amazing! She always got back to me promptly and efficiently. She was very friendly and helpful. Your website could use some tweaking. If vacationers could make an account (similar to what cruise ships offer) where you can go in to see what you owe, specifics about the trip including itinerary, equipment needed, etc., basically a one stop shop, it would be helpful.

Trip Comments
Kirsty was a wonderful guide! Very knowledgeable, tailored our itinerary based upon the weather to get the best views/experience, briefed us each evening on our walk for the next day. She was with us 24/7 and always accessible. She was motivational, kind and fun. We had a nice group of people with varying aptitudes and Kirsty tailored the walks to meet all needs. The food was amazing, accommodations were clean and comfortable.

Accommodation and Food
Accommodations were clean and comfortable. Nothing fancy but suited our needs. It was fine.

Your Guide
Cannot say enough about Kirsty. Kirsty was a wonderful guide! Very knowledgeable about the geography, wild life, birds and flowers. She tailored our itinerary based upon the weather to get the best views/experience and briefed us each evening on our walk for the next day (type of climb, what clothes to wear or bring). She was with us 24/7 and always accessible. She was motivational, kind and fun. We had a nice group of people with varying aptitudes and Kirsty tailored the walks to meet all needs. .

The Bottom Line
Knoydart was an amazing trip! The location was breathtaking, the food was superb, the company fun, accommodations clean and comfortable and the guide (Kirsty) was wonderful. Everything was well executed and went off without issue.

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Pre-Trip Service
Initial phone calls were handled in a freindly way, and all required information and documentation was sent promptly.

Trip Comments
Good food and hotel, comfortable transport and good itinerary

Your Guide
Pete worked very hard to give us a good holiday, and was always friendly

The Bottom Line
Well worth taking this holiday, it has a comfortable hotel and visits most the major important sites

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Pre-Trip Service
I appreciate the fact that I was able to speak on the phone to David Russel to get things settled. I always got a prompt response to any questions I had. One thing: I would have liked to know who was going to be on the trip - I didn't ask, but sometimes you get a list or some bio info about people.

Trip Comments
FIrst of all, James, our guide, was excellent. I also enjoyed Lyle who was with us for a day. Very informative, but not overbearing. James worked with our group and our capabilities to make the best possible trip. He didn't rush our pace. James and the other attendees were the highlight of the trip. The hiking and the accommodations were also top notch.

Accommodation and Food
Both places - Cranford House (and I can't remember the second spot) had very friendly hosts and were comfortable and accommodating. Breakfast was top notch and I really enjoyed the closing meal at our second location. It was such a special evening.

Your Guide
As I said, James was an excellent guide and I would recommend him to others and would look forward to doing another trip with him.

The Bottom Line
This trip was everything I hoped for. I was traveling solo and I had a little trepidation about that. However when you are traveling with people who love the outdoors and being active, you stand a better chance of getting a good group. The trip itself was very well organized and I would also compliment your arrangement of the great weather we had! I definitely want to do another trip.

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The Bottom Line
Excellent trip. All the food was home made at the Doune Bay Lodge and quite delicious. Each day was different though most days we used the boat. Unfortunately poor weather meant keeping walks to lower levels but this did not impinge on the enjoyment!

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Pre-Trip Service
The trip dossier was excellent, but it was a bit hard to know if the information was about the year we booked the trip, or the year we took part. (We booked very early)

Trip Comments
This was a very nice trip, with a good mix of walking, nature and culture. We were a bit afraid that it would be too streneous for us, but it was not a problem.

Accommodation and Food
Nice hotels with excellent locations.

Your Guide
Very flexible both regarding weather and responsive to desires from the group. Personal, but not too much.

The Bottom Line
Well organized, good, flexible guide, small group, good hotels
(Fantastic venue)

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Pre-Trip Service
All good.

Trip Comments
Glen Feshie is just great. A great spot for the trip accommodation.

Accommodation and Food
All good here. Great lodge which we had all to ourselves. Nothing to complain about at all.

Your Guide
Andy is a top man. I mean, how many guides recite poetry to their clients over lunch on the hills?

The Bottom Line
This was a great trip. I am sure there are things that could be tweaked (like the weather) but I have no complaints.

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Accommodation and Food
The second hotel where we stayed had very small rooms. However, the rooms were very clean and the staff was nice.

The Bottom Line
Fantastic trip. I enjoyed all the hikes and the boat trips. We had a really good group and an excellent guide.

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Pre-Trip Service
The site was easy to navigate and the detail given each trip helped us choose between a few. We did run into some errors when trying to purchase the trip via the website, but a quick phone call sorted things out right away.

The only other thing that could be improved would be sending us the address for our accommodation ahead of time, as not having it caused a bit of a delay for my friend and I at customs.

Trip Comments
Everything from the accommodation to the climbs to the food and the alternate activities we did on bad weather days was excellent and helped make this an incredible experience. Not only was each day unique and a really fun challenge, but our group was balanced in a way that lent a hand to great conversation and lasting friendships. When asked about my favorite day, I keep having to say all of them—which is the truth! Finally, the glue that kept our group together and made everything an adventure was our guide, Paul. His unflappable calm and good humor was so appreciated and his knowledge of the area and its history was incredible.

Accommodation and Food
Our room was lovely, breakfast was delicious, and our hosts were so friendly. I wouldn’t change a thing!

Your Guide
Paul was a perfect fit for our group! His experience with the area and commitment to making each day a great one was obvious, and we all enjoyed getting to know him.

The Bottom Line
This was the trip of a lifetime for me, full-stop. I’d do it again in a heartbeat, and am so glad I went!

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The Bottom Line
We found the walking tour of Skye and the Outer Hebridies to be pure and wonderful exhilaration, thanks in no small part to Gill's guidance. We are immensely grateful to Wilderness Scotland. We've since traveled to Mull and Iona and haven't yet returned home. After we're home, I'd be happy to provide a fuller review.

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Pre-Trip Service
Courteous, very well informed, responded quickly to any query

Trip Comments
The following were excellent: Craig (our guide), the accommodation (especially the staff), the food, the weather - and that’s before even starting on the stunning scenery...

Accommodation and Food
Having a wash basin in the bedroom was an unexpected bonus.

Your Guide
Craig was an inspirational guide. He was incredibly knowledgeable about the area; he wisely adapted the trips to make the best possible use of the weather; he quickly assessed our ability and chose walks which challenged us but were within our capability; he always had a Plan B if there were an unforeseen hitch (eg the ferry not running); he was always polite, patient and kind.

The Bottom Line
It was the trip of a lifetime.

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Pre-Trip Service
The dossier provided was complete and clear. All emails were answered promptly.

Trip Comments
Generally, the trip exceeded all my expectations! Our guide was excellent, the walks were beautiful.

Your Guide
Cannot say enough good things about our Guide!

The Bottom Line
The trip exceeded all expectations! I am recommending Wilderness Scotland to all my friends!

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Pre-Trip Service
Despite the rain and wind, I found the whole experience fantastic.

The Doune team are a wonderful group of warm and generous people who made us all feel very welcome and looked like they were enjoying themselves in the process.

The location is very special and felt a million miles away from real life.

The guide, Dave provided just the right amount of support ( as far as I was concerned) and generally trusted us to get ourselves organised and walk at our own pace, always with our safety in mind.

The walks were varied and always included a challenging element but with easy walking usually at the end. Some involved a boat ride, which added to the adventure, especially when the dolphins were out and about.
The food was outstanding. All home made and locally sourced, and plenty of it. There were also good wines and other alcoholic beverages available ( at extra but reasonable cost).

Trip Comments
It is all very special. Could not fault a thing.

Accommodation and Food
The chalet style Lodge overlooking the beach is comfortable but on the basic side, with shared showers and toilets. My room was warm and the single bed comfortable. It’s not the sort of holiday where you spent to much time in your room, so I didn’t have any complaints. The shower was hot and there was plenty of space to hang gear for drying overnight ( in the shower/toilet area). there was also tea and coffee, available at all times.

Your Guide
Dave was spot on as far as I am concerned. He took us on challenging hikes but always had our safety in mind and always managed to give us an easy path on the last leg of the walk.

The Bottom Line
Fantastic! Get away from it all!
Really excellent on every level.
If you want to go on some interesting guided walks that are off the main routes, and eat really good food this is for you.

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Trip Comments
I really liked our guide billy. He was very good and let everyone go at there own pace.

Your Guide
He was wonderful. He let everyone go at there own pace and was really knowledge about the area.

The Bottom Line
The trip was wonderful me and my husband had an amazing time. The mountains in the Assynt region was definitely challenging but worth it.

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Pre-Trip Service
Regular email and follow up which was relaxed and informative.

Trip Comments
James was a brilliant guide who assessed our groups abioities and managed to encourage us to extend ourselves thereby improving our abilities and enjoyment. He showed admirable restraint when I was a bit behind taking photos and was always supportive of my desire for that special shot.

Accommodation and Food
The hosts were friendly and always accommodating. The meals were excellent and provided a variety of scope for breakfast and lunch. The dinner at Newtonmore was particularly special.

Your Guide
James was the ideal guide with his local knowledge and ability to communicate easily with the group. We all enjoyed Jame’s company.

The Bottom Line
The Wilderness Scotland trip was amazing. Excellent guide, food and accommodation. Best way to see Scotland at its best.

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Pre-Trip Service
Prompt and courteous responses to questions and extremely well thought-out planning documents, e.g., what to wear.

Trip Comments
Our guide, Paul, was knowledgeable, personable, and especially adept at fine-tuning our daily experiences to meet the needs of both the group and its individuals - not an easy feat, yet handled seemingly effortlessly. So many highlights, it’s hard to choose, however, something extra special occurred at the end of a nearly 14 mile hike in torrential rain and high wind. We were feeling well rewarded by a breathtaking vista; yet also well tested by the conditions. After celebrating the sight of our travel van, we observed a piece of writing paper in the gas cap and a package on the front tire. Intriguing .... what could it be? Well, a lovely note from a gentlemen we passed along the path up and fancy new hiking socks for each of us! Smiles all around.

Your Guide
Paul was 100% committed to our having an extraordinary experience in the Highlands - appreciating its history, fauna and flora, geology ... just everything. He exceeded our expectations at every turn. And, his encouraging words enabled us to push ourselves to meet the demands of a Level 7 walk and to realize the beauty that awaits those who go for it!! Sincere thanks and gratitude to you, Paul.

The Bottom Line
A++++++++++++. I can not say enough good stuff about Wilderness Scotland. The itinerary was well thought out, flawlessly executed, and created the foundation for many priceless memories.

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Pre-Trip Service
All very thorough, efficient and friendly. A great start to the experience.

Trip Comments
The itinerary was well thought out and accommodations were great. Hats off to the Wilderness team who provide a packing list. All of our group had good footwear and waterproofs- jacket AND TROUSERS. it makes a difference when all are well prepared. Our group members had also taken time to identify their ability level. This meant we all enjoyed the challenge of the experience.

Accommodation and Food
The view from my bedroom was stunning! Well chosen hotels with attentive staff.

Your Guide
Gordon was fabulous! I would seek him out for another trip. He is a lovely mixture of knowledge (history, culture, flora, fauna and more), light hearted fun and top notch guiding skills. It seemed that he was effortlessly providing an excellent program ( Thanks for all the behind the scenes work you did, to create this !)

The Bottom Line
True confessions, I’m a serious fan of Wilderness Scotland with many experiences behind me and two new ones on the books for next year. This organization really is as good as it sounds!

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Pre-Trip Service
I never saw the packing list, I do not know if this is because my husband booked the trip. I did check the website and the dossier numerous times and it would have been more helpful if the packing list was included in the trip information/dossier. I think that would also have given me a better idea of what to expect on the trip. I received multiple emails about providing information to wilderness scotland, including multiples about providing the same information which was confusing because I was not sure if more information was needed or I just needed to confirm the information I previously provided was correct.

Accommodation and Food
Staying at the Soval Lodge was fantastic. Mairi was a wonderful host who paid attention to every detail. She was stellar at providing vegetarian meals which I was concerned would be an issue while I was travelling, but it was quite the opposite. I loved staying here!

Your Guide
Mark was absolutely fantastic.

The Bottom Line
My husband and I had a wonderful time on our adventure holiday with Wilderness Scotland. Our guide Mark was friendly, knowledgeable, and a lot of fun. We loved it and had a wonderful time exploring with an amazing group of people.

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Pre-Trip Service
Very responsive team to email enquiries. When I phoned the adviser was very courteous and helpful.

Trip Comments
Wonderful having the opportunity to walk up several Munros and Tops with Keith, a wonderfully knowledgeable and informative guide. So lucky with the weather and the lack of midges too!

Accommodation and Food
Very comfortable accommodation in a delightfully peaceful setting.

Your Guide
Keith Miller was a consummate guide with a wealth of mountain expertise, so the walking experience felt very safe. He was also a very knowledgeable naturalist; I am a keen naturalist but his knowledge was encyclopaedic, and I learnt so much. He had a great rapport with the group as a whole and also ensured he spent time in conversation with each individual member also. He worked tirelessly to ensure we had a really good, memorable experience and his enthusiasm was boundless. He involved himself with the group in a social context also, providing lists of Munros climbed and wildlife observed. Inspirational, and a great advertisement for the quality of your guiding team. Thank you!

The Bottom Line
This was the first time I had joined a 'led' walking trip organised by a company. I was extremely impressed with the quality of the whole experience and will definitely return to Wilderness Scotland in future. Wholeheartedly recommended!

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Pre-Trip Service
I was worried, at first, that I had chosen a tour that was too advanced for my capabilities. I found the corresponding with you office both helpful and very friendly (I felt like I was talking with friends). Later, when I had trouble finding appropriate footwear in my size, I received lots of helpful information, including links to various websites!

Trip Comments
The Wilds of Assynt.
WOW!
Just go.
If you have even the tiniest feeling it might be something for you. Let me tell you, it is!
It’s beyond anything my words can describe to you.
This was my first hiking trip and my first visit to Scotland and it has kindled a great love for both the hiking and the country.
Most likely thanks to the lovely group I was part of and our very capable guide Gordon Anderson.

Wilderness Scotland knows what they are doing, everything from booking accommodation, finding nice places to eat and most importantly choosing which trails to walk. Nothing seems coincidental.

Every day is something new, both to see and to feel under the soles of your feet.
And don’t worry if it rains a little. The gray sky only enhances the beautiful colours of the scottish flora around you and the flow of water makes the landscape come alive both visibly and audibly.
There is so much to see, so don’t let the rain stop you!
This was only my first adventure with Wilderness Scotland and I am definitely coming back.
- Karen.

Accommodation and Food
I was very pleased with our accommodation.
Loved that view from the lounge room!!!
On future trips it might be useful to find out if Ardvreck House has a drying room of sorts, to dry damp clothes.
Minor things like that might have been easily sorted if our guide had stayed with us :-)

Your Guide
I wholeheartedly recommend Gordon Anderson as the guide for your next outdoor adventure in Scotland.
He is very professional and seemingly effortless in his approach. You might not think he is working but make no mistake, he is constantly working hard to make everyone feel comfortable and safe.
I am convinced that not only is his aim to make it the best possible tour, for the group as a whole but he is also focused on every individual, within the group, to make sure we all get an adventure of a lifetime!
His knowledge of Scottish culture, history flora and fauna, geography (and everything in between) is incredibly extensive. He is as curious as he is knowledgeable.
I would not want to challenge him in a game of Trivial Pursuit!
Gordon’s sense of humor is wonderfully understated and intelligent and you are sure to have some good laughs in his company.
In my group we had a saying “just do what Gordon does and you’ll be fine” I don’t know if that’s true in all aspects of your life but on a scottish mountain, it certainly is!
- Karen.

The Bottom Line
The Wilds of Assynt.
WOW!
Just go.
If you have even the tiniest feeling it might be something for you. Let me tell you, it is!
It’s beyond anything my words can describe to you.
This was my first hiking trip and my first visit to Scotland and it has kindled a great love for both the hiking and the country.
Most likely thanks to the lovely group I was part of and our very capable guide Gordon Anderson.
Wilderness Scotland knows what they are doing, everything from booking accommodation, finding nice places to eat and most importantly choosing which trails to walk. Nothing seems coincidental.

Every day is something new, both to see and to feel under the soles of your feet.
And don’t worry if it rains a little. The gray sky only enhances the beautiful colours of the scottish flora around you and the flow of water makes the landscape come alive both visibly and audibly.
There is so much to see, so don’t let the rain stop you!
This was only my first adventure with Wilderness Scotland and I am definitely coming back.
- Karen.

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Pre-Trip Service
Very efficient and friendly communication (all by email for us)

Accommodation and Food
Lynnfield Hotel is excellent

Your Guide
Tim is terrific! So knowledgeable on all relevant topics, and his experience in guiding groups really shows.

The Bottom Line
Wilderness Scotland are the company to use if planning a trip in Scotland. Itineraries are great for seeing parts of Scotland that most tourists don’t get to.

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Pre-Trip Service
Customer service was very responsive -- answering questions right away. It seemed like my reservation mattered.

Trip Comments
Small group was great. Feeling of a family traveling together. There was much room to express what we liked and wanted to do. We were not hurried from one place to another, but traveled slowly and leisurely. Just what I hoped it would be.

Accommodation and Food
Fabulous -- much beyond my expectation. First elegant Coul House with fine dining, then Glencanispe Lodge. Both very different and wonderful, each in its own way. I couldn't have asked for better accommodations.

Your Guide
Our guide Ken was very responsive to the members of the group, giving us choices what to do and where to go. He was friendly and considerate of someone like me who sometimes lagged behind. It was great to walk with someone who knows the area intimately. He seemed to know everything, plants, trees, birds, geology, history, mountains and their names. I think he did very well.

The Bottom Line
Excellent in every regard! This trip was one of the best I have ever taken.

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Pre-Trip Service
I appreciated the professionalism of the emails.
I am sure any gaps in understanding anything was on my behalf.
I think working with clients abroad is challenging. I had difficulty getting the payments through due to my bank thinking it was some type of fraudulent activity. I probably should have known this but it was such a pain I almost didn't proceed with booking. I think using the phone to attempt to book limited some possible options that may have otherwise been clear if using a computer. I would have liked to pay a bit at a time but there didn't appear a mechanism to do this without calling the office.

It would have been helpful to know that there was not any type of laundry service. I did query about this but did not receive any response - maybe I sent it to the wrong email.

TEAM WILDERNESS RESPONCE:

Thanks so much for your feedback. We’re so sorry you had issues with payment. It is sometimes the case that if your making payments that are not typical your bank blocks them just to double check they are authentic. Better safe than sorry but it is annoying to then have to call your bank to confirm!
I am also really sorry you didn’t receive a response to your email. We’ve had a look on our system and can’t find that message so I’m not sure where that went astray.

Trip Comments
The trip overall was phenomenal. I appreciated Keith's patience with group dynamics. Scotland's land is breathtaking and I want to come back and embrace more of it. My daughter will have memories for a lifetime. I felt fortunate to have Rupert along. It helped Kiera, who was much younger than the group to find more connection and enjoyment - and the photos were so very appreciated.

My only disappointment was not being able to complete the hikes I had anticipated. I expected rain but did not take into account that wind might prohibit the full climbs. This was no ones fault, but I had picked this specific trip to equally challenge my own physical limits... it was so disappointing at one point I had to take a time out as I began to regret ever coming. This was such an important part of the trip for me. To have spent so much time in training and preparation & the financial expense I struggled to refocus on finding joy with what was...

Maybe one opportunity knowing that the weather can be a deterrent is having a more robust Plan B that would allow exposure to more of the culture. We were able to come to some plan but it was painful to get there...

TEAM WILDERNESS RESPONCE:

The weather in the UK can be unpredictable and we do say on all of our trips that the itinerary is subject to the weather and will be changed at the discretion of the guides. The safely and enjoyment of the group is our number one priority. I do understand it’s disappointing not to be able to do a hike you’ve been looking forward to but it sounds like you had a great time on the trip anyway.

Accommodation and Food
Everything in this regard was exceptional. I would change nothing.

Your Guide
Keith was amazing. He understands the need to keep the group together and balance pace with abilities. I appreciated his gracious style and knowledge he shared.

I don't know how you can manage when you have clearly identified the physical expectations of the hikes. It was frustrating at points to have to slow down and compromise for hikes due to some team members lack of preparedness. Keith managed this process with great professionalism... and I tried to not be too much of a poopy pants about it.

The Bottom Line
I have already shared your company with several...

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Pre-Trip Service
Would have liked to know which hotels we were staying at, not necessarily when booking, but at least by the time of your last email about a month before departure.

Trip Comments
Our highlights …
The boat trip to Mingulay in lovely sunny weather, watching the seals watching us !!
Tim (our guide) organising freshly baked scones, clotted cream and jam to be eaten on one of our coastal walks in glorious sunshine.
Tim playing the 'horse whisperer', untangling an Eriskay pony which had both hind legs snagged in a large coil of fencing wire, with us all watching on. He was amazing in getting the trust of the pony and the other ponies standing by.

Accommodation and Food
Hammersay House was lovely, spacious bedroom (7), well decorated, great evening meals, though a bit disorganised at breakfast (on the first morning, we had eaten cereals and were half way through the toast before the cooked menus appeared !!). They did a great job getting our wet gear dried overnight. Friendly and welcoming staff.
Polochar Inn was in a fantastic location. Typical pub food. Small bedroom but comfortable. Friendly and accommodating staff.
Castlebay Hotel was a bit run down on first impression. Spacious bedroom (7)overlooking the bay, though needed some refurbishment. Dinner on the last night was dreadful - soup was luke warm, spicy pasta dish was inedible (by all who chose it !!), portions far too big ! Waitress service slow and not very friendly.
Indian restaurant meal in Castlebay, organised by Tim, was excellent.
Packed lunches supplied by all 3 hotels were poor - sliced (sometimes white) bread sandwiches tended to go soggy. Bread rolls (wholemeal preferably) or filled wraps would be better. Fruit and muesli bars were supplied by Tim, not the hotels !

TEAM WILDERNESS RESPONSE:

Thanks for your feedback. We are pleased to read that you had an enjoyable trip, but we were disappointed to read your comments about the packed lunches provided by the hotels. We have therefore raised your concerns with them and reiterated what we would like them to provide, so we hope to therefore see an improvement in the future. We are also looking into the possibility of including a cafe lunch on a few occasions along the way for 2019.

Your Guide
Very knowledgeable in all aspects of the trip - local geography, geology, archaeology, culture, history, wildlife. We leant a lot ! Friendly, organised, sense of humour, approachable, felt safe with his driving and route guidance. Took time to recap on the day's activities/route and explain the next day's plans. Adaptable to the challenging weather conditions !
On the negative side, think he needs to take more note of the loo requirements of the group, especially of the elderly men !! - on the journey in the van particularly.

The Bottom Line
Although we go on a lot of walking holidays, we would never have got so much out of a week's holiday if we had to research and organise this trip ourselves. Well organised, well guided (by Tim), thoroughly enjoyable. Small group, who all got on well together. Would recommend Wilderness Scotland as a means of seeing these remote Scottish islands.

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Pre-Trip Service
Any questions we had were answered quickly. All the trip information was helpful in our planning

Trip Comments
The pristine beaches on the outer Hebrides
Boat trip to Mingulay - seals and puffins

Accommodation and Food
Each place we stayed was unique from the other. First 2 nights were at a more modernized place while the last night’s were at older character hotels. We enjoyed them all. Last hotel overlooking the Castle in the bay was a great ending view for the trip.

Your Guide
Tim was fantastic! Very good at meeting the needs of the different personalities and hiking capabilities. He was a wealth of information which added immensely to the enjoyment of our trip. We jokingly referred to him as Encyclopedia Bri”Tim”ica. Excellent driver, super sense of humour and very comfortable to spend time with.

The Bottom Line
This trip exceeded our expectations regarding the scenery and wildlife. We experienced both the rain and then the gorgeous sunshine which helped us to see both the beauty and “ the beast”! We hiked no matter what the weather which we enjoyed. On one particularly wet morning we visited a museum for a few hours until the weather cleared up which was very interesting and helped us to better understand the lifestyle of folks on the Hebrides.

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Pre-Trip Service
The guides and their knowledge, humour and skill made this trip special.

Trip Comments
We were lucky enough to have 2 guides during our 10 day hike. Gill for the Scottish part and Hayley for the Lakes District. Both were very different personalities, both were excellent human beings and great fun!

Accommodation and Food
While all the accommodation was very good, one particular place was exceptional. The Black Swan was beautifully decorated, careful attention to detail, quality inclusions, wonderful staff and exceptional food!

Your Guide
Gill was a wonderful, well read, experienced, kind, knowledgeable and friendly guide. She made us feel included and part of the group, even though from totally different backgrounds.
Hayley was a ball of energy, which became very contagious. A free spirit, full of life, experience, wisdom and a wicked sense of fun. Made my trip especially memorable and makes me want to come back and do some more hiking trips.

The Bottom Line
Wilderness Scotland is a very professionally run organisation which is superbly represented by its guides. The guides bring the tours to life, explaining the landscape, wildlife and history of the places visited. Without the local knowledge, the trip would be just walking through beautiful landscapes. It's the extra "bits" the guides contribute with their wit, wisdom and energy, that make the whole experience extra-ordinary!

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Pre-Trip Service
We booked early and appreciated the help when we had to change dates. Aslo Customer Serivece helped us with ideas of things to do on the west coast of Scotland after the trip. Grat Job!

Trip Comments
The Orkney Islands in October is not the best weather. Our guide made a number of adjustments so that we kept busy and miniizes the weather mpact. the "singing seals" we a particular highlight. With only four travelers, the trip had an intimacy that was special.

Accommodation and Food
The Linnfield Inn is a great hotel; large rooms, very good food., would recommend it to others.

Your Guide
Tim Frances is simply an excellent, profrssional guide with a wide variety of exertise. We have done a lot of these types of trips and he is one of the very best guides we have ever had. He is partiularly adept at identifying cllients individual interests and preferences, then buiding components into the trip itiniery to meet them, delighting customers. Tim is also passionate about his work and Scotland. Bravo!

The Bottom Line
Excellent Experience. I think Wilderness Scotland' s program with a maximum of 8 cutomerrs to a guide prvides for a level of intimacy/personalized experiece that you do not find with larger groups and I have realely seen from other vendors.. Great guides are the real key to a successful trip; they are Wilderness Scotland to the customer.

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Pre-Trip Service
A pre-trip very well organised, all details about the program and the equipment carefully given.

Trip Comments
I really loved the place we were based, Doune with its beautiful little bay, the area where we walked, our very experienced adm friendly guide, the excellent job made by the crew of the boat and the absolutely delicious cuisine in the cosy restaurant.

Accommodation and Food
Being in a very remote place, it suited this situation. The only little problem concerned the disposal of electricity limited which didn’t allow us to use the hair dryer. We had a very wet weather so at night it would have been better to have one’ s hair dry.

Your Guide
Our guide David was very experienced, friendly and made us love the places in the wilderness we walked. He made us really experience the wilderness.
He has been always part of the group, never distant and always attentive at our needs.

The Bottom Line
A perfect trip for enjoying a wonderful wilderness, accompanied by the great experience of an excellent guide, a friendly atmosphere, the careful attitude of the entire staff, the crew and the restaurant, and an absolutely delicious cuisine. I really recommend this trip!

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Trip Comments
Lorraine was always gentle but very encouraging. She knew the territory well and explained what was happening. Of course Orkney was a great place to be.

Accommodation and Food
The hotel was described as quirky but suited our needs in every way. The staff especially were very helpful.

Your Guide
Our guide was one of the highlights of the trip

The Bottom Line
I had a great time and learned so much in those few days

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Pre-Trip Service
Very little contact from the office which was good and bad I think a bit more contact would be helpful.

Trip Comments
My guide, Cory jones was awesome. The people I traveled with were wonderful. I will book another soon.

Your Guide
Terrific tour learned a lot and I had an excellent time. The surprise was the pipe band in Kirkwall. Loved it.

The Bottom Line
Fabulous experience with wilderness Scotland. Just enough guided parts with a bit of independence.

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Pre-Trip Service
Rachael arranged our two trips- one group trip to Argyll and the Isles, and one bespoke to Torridon. Arrangements were faultless and comms excellent. Thanks Rachael!

Trip Comments
Great group- bonded very quickly - eclectic mix of nationalities, backgrounds and age and ability- all equal on the hill - and many laughs on the way

Accommodation and Food
Loch Melfort hotel - fabulous views- welcoming venue.
Packed lunches not good however - need to work on these.

Your Guide
Gordon is very knowledgeable and great fun. He worked hard to ensure that each member of the group was supported and having a great time.
We learnt a huge amount about wildlife, Gaelic, archaeology and history .... and malts!

The Bottom Line
As always- utterly brilliant. A life affirming, invigorating and fun adventure.

Future clients- read the kit list! waterproof trousers and sturdy boots Important!

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Pre-Trip Service
It is not enough to transfer the money with only a credit card from the Netherlands or the rest of the European Union. Offering the possibility of regular bank transfer would be nice.

Your Guide
Andy was postitive, knowledgable and watched good how the group "worked"

The Bottom Line
It was good, unfortunatly we had to abort our trip :-(

TEAM WILDERNESS RESPONCE:

We were so sorry to hear you had to leave your trip early. We're sending our best wishes from the whole WS team.

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Pre-Trip Service
I had little time to prepare for my much anticipated trip abroad and I do appreciate that the messaging was simple and uncomplicated. Little fuss but ons of oversight that I din't have to see!

Trip Comments
Since this was my maiden trekking experience I was overjoyed to have a guide who shared like interests, birds, rocks and plants with also a keen passion for the social history of the places we wandered about.

Accommodation and Food
Soyval Lodge is a keeper. What a tranquil and amazing site to return to each day. The homecomings were warm and we enjoyed great companionship with Mairi and Colin; each meal was prepared with great love. Mairi is a dream, conscientious, hard working and caring.

Your Guide
I have no comparisons to cite as this was my first trip of this kind but I was pleasantly surprised by the passion and comprehensive knowledge embodied in our guide. Andy is a spectacular guide, seems to know how to gauge all situations, never flags and cares for all, really cares.
I did not expect to learn as much as I did during this trip and that aspect made this trip worth every bit invested. Andy is supremely qualified and highly professional, he has a great sense of humor and makes every effort to accommodate all needs- you're lucky to have this gem ..and to work with all women.. he truly likes and respects women, rare breed of guy! I cannot say more but do want to do another trip with him!

The Bottom Line
I loved every minute and have been sad to be back in my life. Not sure why I waited so long for an experience so rewarding- thank you.

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Accommodation and Food
I really enjoyed staying atSoval Lodge, it was so relaxing to have the place to ourselves.
Meals were good but it would have been helpful to have extra salad or nibbles with the packed lunches, eg. Carrot sticks, celery sticks, tomatoes and/or nuts and raisins.

Your Guide
Mark worked really hard to check what everyone wanted to do when the weather meant we could not do the highest peaks. He gave us lots of options and made sure we saw a lot of the islands. Very well informed too and he conveyed his love of the islands.
His easy manner put everyone at their ease too. Thanks Mark!

The Bottom Line
I really enjoyed this trip and rate it one of my best holidays with Wilderness Scotland. Thank you team at WS.

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Pre-Trip Service
I was only doing a green level walking tour so there really wasn't a whole lot to correspond over, however Jane and Bridget were always very quick to get back to me with any questions I did have. Since it was my first trip with Wilderness Scotland I found the information packages, itineraries and videos on your website very informative and cut down immensely on my need to ask questions. Rachael's apology over the email glitch was epic and reinforced why I love dealing with businesses who are serious about keeping good client relations!

Trip Comments
Having previously been employed in the logistics field, I was highly impressed by how well organized and seamless the trip was, especially since weather can (and did) change our itinerary on a daily basis. Our guide Craig was able to plan and change our daily excursions based on group feedback, and made it all look effortless (although I suspect he had some help behind the scenes as well); nevertheless, the combination of the original planning and Craig's ability to adapt on the fly was the cherry on top of an already amazing trip. It's almost impossible to pick my favourite part of the trip it was all so good, but if I had to I think hiking along the cliffs of Oa on the last day was the best. Stunning beauty at every turn of the trail and we were even treated to a "sailpast" along the way by U.S., French and U.K Navy ships steaming up to the American Monument to take part in a remembrance ceremony.

Accommodation and Food
We only stayed at two different hotels on our trip but they were both excellent in different ways. One was more "out in the country" and the other was in town, but both had excellent hospitality, accommodations and outstanding sea views. One had a private bar that looked out over the sea where you could watch the sunset and sip your favourite whiskey in the evening, while the other had an attached public bar with fabulous live local music to enjoy (while you sipped your favourite whiskey) so we really had the best of both worlds. I loved both places!

Your Guide
I'm sure your guides get this a lot but I really can't say enough about Craig. Not only was he extremely knowledgeable, fit, and easy to get along with, but he always went out of his way to get to know and interact with everyone on the trip. Our group was made up of mostly singles but in no time his relaxed and genuine personality had us bonded into a group. I really liked how he always tried to incorporate everyone's level, wants and needs into our daily excursions. As I mentioned in another review, his effortless logistical abilities never ceased to impress me and the fact that he was so personable and kind just made the trip entirely. Thanks, Craig! You rock! :-)

The Bottom Line
I wouldn't hesitate to recommend Wilderness Scotland to anyone! I'd previously never used a tour company, preferring to travel and sight see on my own, but the benefits of travelling with Wilderness Scotland have definitely been revealed to me. When you are only travelling with a small group of 7 or 8 people, it feels more like you are travelling with a group of friends instead of a tour, and when you add the expertise of the guide, you not only have that added knowledge of a "local", but someone to co-ordinate all your logistics for you and just let you relax and enjoy! One of the first things I thought of when I got home was to go back to the Wilderness Scotland website and start to plan which trip I could do next!

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Your Guide
A very good historian. I wanted and expected more walking.

The Bottom Line
Well organised safe experienced guide, excellent accommodation.

I'd check more carefully in future about it being a truly walking holiday. One too many Neolithic standing stones for me .

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Pre-Trip Service
Appreciated a call back even though a holiday weekend had intervened.

Accommodation and Food
Lynnfield Hotel was full of character, friendly staff, with a great view. As a solo traveler, I appreciated the large luxurious room. I might have preferred a hotel closer to town, but I understand why this venue was chosen, and it was lovely.

Your Guide
Mark went beyond the call of duty to help one participant find his ancestral home. He tried to insure everyone had a great time.

The Bottom Line
I would take another trip with Wilderness Scotland. One thing I appreciated about this trip is that all 6 nights were lodged in the same place. It is hard to find outdoor experiences or tours that have a home base with day trips.

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Pre-Trip Service
I telephoned the day prior to departure to ask if it was necessary to pack a hairdryer. I was advised to do so, however at the lodge we were advised not to use one as it would trip the electricity. Clearly, the person I spoke to did not know of the circumstances of that tour.

Trip Comments
I did feel that the packed lunches were not as appetising when comparing to a previous trip.

I did like the fact that we could have access to tea and coffee in the lodge.

Accommodation and Food
Considering the location, the accommodation was comfortable and homely.

Your Guide
He was very astute and had a clear understanding of people and decision making was appropriate in relation to safety due to inclement weather.

The Bottom Line
Deciding on our next trip with wilderness Scotland!

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Pre-Trip Service
The trip itinerary was a bit confusing re: meals. The web-site & the itinerary sent to me were different. Took a while to get this figured out.

Trip Comments
I think we chose a trip that was too easy for us. It was very nice in many ways but the first few days of the Sutherland trip were a bit boring & not enough hiking. Some days we had 2-3 short hikes which were fine but not as challenging as expected. Wanted to get up on the moors hiking. Lael forest garden was not of interest at all.

Accommodation and Food
Both inns were lovely. Coul House in Contin was perfect. Just what I expected to find in Scotland. Glen Cannisp lodge in Lochinver was wonderful too. Great locations.

Your Guide
Allan Smith was an excellent guide. Extremely knowledgeable, patient & accommodating. He had to deal with hikers of varying abilities which is a challenge & difficult to satisfy the needs /wants of everyone.

The Bottom Line
It's important to make sure the trip one selects is appropriate for your skill level.
We found this company good to deal with & we were very happy with it.

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Pre-Trip Service
Details from website were complete. Toll free for calls from US helpful. Agents helpful on phone, perhaps could have had a grasp of a few more details of the trip.

Trip Comments
Rigorous hiking/bushwacking with knowledgeable guide. He kept pushing us and we completed all portions of all hikes and were proud to have done so! Less great weather or group members not in top condition could have been a problem. We were very lucky.

Accommodation and Food
Certainly not 5 star, but did not expect that on this trip. WIFI worked well and food was excellent and plentiful. More salads would have been a plus.

Your Guide
This was a pretty rigorous event given day after day. HOWEVER, for those of us who have spent a lifetime getting and stay in shape it was extremely rewarding. Andy did find routes that gave some relief from boulder scrambling at request of several. Our group completed all of every hike thanks to Andy's encouragement, persistence and great weather. Without all of that it could have gone the other way....

The Bottom Line
Excellent as it included sightseeing and lots of history as well as flower and bird ID thanks to an excellent guide. Everything was taken into account and planned including all snacks and meals. That was great in that it allowed us to focus on the activities. I would be clear with future clients that at least this trip required well above average fitness and experience and to be prepared for extremely challenging circumstances IF the weather is not relatively dry. I was pleased to return home to an elevation of 5,000 feet and find that my cardiovascular strength for a couple of hours per day of strenuous exercise has not decreased!

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Pre-Trip Service
I was a very nervous "traveling by myself" traveler. I asked many questions using "chat" and was well supported EVERY single time. I asked about ticks, the train station bus stop, suitcase size, etc., and folks were informative and encouraging.

Trip Comments
What an AMAZING trip! I didn't know quite what to expect. I imagined a wonderful time hiking, exploring and dining with like-minded new friends. It turned out to be so much better than I could even imagine. An absolute 10!

We were so fortunate in that the weather was good--my rain gear didn't make it out of my knapsack, except to leave behind! The small group size made for good comraderie and new friendships. The hikes were of varied terrain and magical. The accommodations were just fine and the breakfasts as substantial as you wanted. Snacks were endlessly available! Several of the dinners were unbelievably special. Meeting a local weaver, artist, historian and leather tanner made us feel the connection to community.

Our guide was "just right" -- friendly, informative, informal, supportive, fun and caring.

Accommodation and Food
The accommodations were good. Beds comfortable. Around bed space was very limited in the Hotel Hebrides for two women's stuff. The shower was great though! :-)

Breakfasts were good and ample as you wanted. Dinners were fine.

Location was good point to travel from.

Your Guide
Our tour guide, Will, was wonderfully calm and patient, always offering flexibility and a story to make a location special. Timelines for meeting etc were clear and generous. Never worried while he drove "on the wrong side" on those twisty narrow roads! He ensured the van was where it needed to be, traveling back or waiting in ferry lines, while we continued to walk or explore. His enthusiasm for the beaches (which were beyond amazing) and the local charm was contagious. Couldn't have asked for a better guide! Thanks Will!

The Bottom Line
This was a MARVELOUS, AWESOME trip! So wonderful! I wouldn't change a thing.

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Pre-Trip Service
Your consultants are very responsive and friendly.

Trip Comments
The trip is well planned with a good mix of different parts of the Orkney Islands. The amount of visits to historic sites are just right.

Accommodation and Food
Excellent choice of hotel in Kirkwall. Would be even better if you have offered the choice single.

Your Guide
Mark is an excellent guide, sensible in leading our walks, good-humoured all the time, and really went out of his way to help our fellow traveller in searching for his ancestor's house. He takes great photos too.

The Bottom Line
The trip to Orkney Islands was an unforgettable experience to me and I totally love it. I would looking forward to going with Wilderness Scotland again next year as everything is perfect.

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Pre-Trip Service
Always cheerful on the phone. The website is easy to use and your email follow ups are always prompt

Trip Comments
Soval lodge is a lovely place to stay for a week and the scenery in the Outer Hebrides is just stunning.

Accommodation and Food
The lodge is fantastic, really comfortable and in a stunning location, looking out over the loch every night is a real treat. The fact that Wilderness Scotland groups have it all to ourselves is great.

Your Guide
Mark is just brilliant! He is so enthusiastic about the outdoors that you can’t help but be inspired too. He is knowledgeable, down to earth and funny, ( with just the right amount of sarcasm!) His breadth of experience is invaluable; we didn’t have the best weather the week we were away but he always got us out walking somewhere, often having to change the plans on the day as the wind decided what it was doing! I always felt safe and confident in his decisions and enjoyed all his walks, he really gave us a great week. Wilderness Scotland always have great guides and Mark is another perfect example of this.

The Bottom Line
I have now been on three trips with Wilderness Scotland and I will definitely travel with them again, (I was checking out the website within two hours of arriving home!) This trip is truly wilderness walking, challenging but worth it with fantastic scenery in a beautiful place.

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Pre-Trip Service
Well organized, beautiful hiking places, wonderful guide!

Trip Comments
That was my second time with Wilderness Scotland and I am already planning a future one!

Accommodation and Food
Wonderful! Very well chosen. Excellent food, rooms and very relaxing. The hotel in Islay was beautifully decorated and I could see a lighthouse and the sea just some yards away.

Your Guide
Lorraine was a great guide, she was patient, kind and funny. She is also very knowledgeable about Scottish flora and fauna. We took our time to explore the beautiful places we went while hiking. She was just great!

The Bottom Line
This time I went to Argyle and the Isles. It was my second hiking trip with Wilderness Scotland and I will be back for more. I do not even have any suggestions cause everything was fantastic: the food, the hotels, the guide, the hiking places... This time we’ve had even the sun coming out everyday! Thanks for the wonderful experience!

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Pre-Trip Service
Prompt and helpful responses to questions

Trip Comments
It was all brilliant, well organised, lovely group of people, amazing days out walking and learning about Orkney Islans.

Accommodation and Food
Very comfortable and so nice to not have to share with someone i don’t know.

Your Guide
Tim Francis was brilliant. He is very knowledgeable and has a wonderful way of sharing this with the group.
His organisation and sensitive, gentle manner in sorting out the day to day arrangements and itinerary was lovely. Tim went above and beyond to provide a wonderful and varied programme for us.

The Bottom Line
It is a ‘must do’ for anyone interested in walking and learning about Scotland’s wilderness lications.

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Trip Comments
Last day approaching a ridge we looked up to see a magnificent stag on the ridge, above us two golden eagles gracefully circled, the sun came out. I thought I had died and gone to heaven!!

Accommodation and Food
Great.

Your Guide
Best guide I have ever, ever had , in every way. Adam could not have been bettered. So kind , considerate and encourageing all along the way. Plays a mean harmonica too!!

The Bottom Line
Amazing trip, one you will never forget, its memories just so precious. Thank You.

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Trip Comments
The Orkney trip was exactly as I had hope, a wonderful balance of walking on beautiful islands and visits to archeological sites. We had a wonderful guide, Craig, and a terrific group.

Your Guide
Craig was professional, knowledgeable, organized, and has a great sense of humor. He s a great guide!

The Bottom Line
Orkney is a beautiful place. I’m grateful to have experienced it with Wilderness Scotland. It’s not a location to be experienced in a day.

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Pre-Trip Service
If there is one place left, you might want to indicate on the website if this place is reserved for a man or a woman due to accommodation arrangements. This prevents disappointment after booking.

Trip Comments
Lot's of time in the car.....

Accommodation and Food
Excellent views, good food, friendly staff...... personal preference for historical buildings.

Your Guide
Professional.

The Bottom Line
High quality.

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Pre-Trip Service
We would have appreciated significantly more detail on the itinerary. In particular, we would have liked a paper copy a few weeks before the tour.

Trip Comments
The best thing about the tour was our guide, Pete Grant. He was indeed excellent in every way. The hotel was very good, though service at meals sometimes a bit slow. The outings were always interesting and the walks within our capacity.

Accommodation and Food
See previous comment

Your Guide
Pete Grant was excellent in every way. See previous comment.

The Bottom Line
Generally very good

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Pre-Trip Service
I found everyone to be friendly and efficient; nothing to improve. I probably didn't ask many questions. I appreciated receiving the email announcing that the trip would go, so that I could book my flights.

Trip Comments
It really exceeded my expectations, despite relentlessly awful weather. I guess the trip highlight was getting to the top of Slioch in pretty difficult (rainy, windy, hail, slippery, boggy) conditions, but I really enjoyed the entire experience of seeing the wild, remote, and beautiful part of Scotland (after 2 days in Edinburgh it was nice not to hear any piped-in pipes), the physical challenges, the excellent food, the great accommodations, and of course Kirsty, who was probably the most naturally gifted group expedition leader I've ever encountered.

Accommodation and Food
I really liked the Myrtlebeach in Gairloch, had a retro-70s charm. The owner was lovely, and the hot showers and heated towel racks worked overtime for us after some really wet hikes. I also very much appreciate the availability of single rooms. I enjoy interacting with a group all day, but as someone who is quiet and generally an introvert, it is nice to be able to escape to my own room at night to unwind and reflect. Please continue to make single accommodations available on your trips whenever possible.

Your Guide
Kirsty was truly outstanding; I don't really have the words to describe her style. She is cheerful and upbeat, but also has an intuitive gift for sussing out group dynamics. She made a point to hike alongside everyone in the group to get to know us. She could immediately sense when some people were struggling and some people wanted to push harder and she managed to maximize the experience for all of us, suggesting modifications for those of us with sore knees that never made us feel like we were compromised or impacting the others in the group. She is a funny and interesting hiking companion, and she always had plenty of great alternatives when the weather failed to cooperate.

The Bottom Line
An amazing experience that I enjoyed more than I thought I would. I finished the trip feeling that I had not only seen a part of Scotland that most people don't get to see, but also like I had been physically challenged and accomplished something that I didn't think I could have done on my own.

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Pre-Trip Service
Loved that the phone was answered by a live person and my calls were always quickly returned if I left a message. Customer service excellent.

Trip Comments
Way beyond my expectations. Everything was so smooth and well thought-out with flexibility for certain choices. Will Snow provided fun side-trips in addition to hiking such as a local museum, weaver, artist, and distillery tour plus time for shopping! Will was amazing in his knowledge of the area, it's history and geology. We took evening driving tours so he could show us areas we were not hiking. Could not have asked for a better Guide. Food was delicious and the best brown bag lunches I ever had- especially from Chris on Harris. All the meals were delicious and the two dinners by George and then Chris were the best. Hotels beautiful- loved that we were on the water in Skye.

Accommodation and Food
Would love if we could have single accommodations but after seeing the hotel sized perfectly understood the doubling up. Hotels themselves were both wonderful in their different ways and the food at both was excellent

Your Guide
I have also referred to the exceptional guide we had on this tour but just to add to my comments- Will's personality was perfect for 5 unattached women. He handled up expertly. During the hikes, there were various levels of hiking proficiency. He managed to give the mountain goats their space to lead as well as never let the slowest person (me) ever feel that I was holding up the group. I liked the fact that he did not feel he had to lead and often positioned himself with different people during the hikes to visit. At the same time, he managed to keep us all in sight and on course.

The Bottom Line
Again- way above my expectations. I couldn't imagine any better and how nice that the weather also cooperated. :)

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Pre-Trip Service
The daily descriptions would benefit from more input from trip leaders and less from marketing.

Trip Comments
Excellent food was a pleasant surprise.

Accommodation and Food
The accommodation seemed very good for the locations.

Your Guide
Knowledgeable, friendly and efficient.

The Bottom Line
I had an excellent trip but aI think your classification should take in more than daily distance and altitude change. The conditions underfoot are a factor.
The walks were generally quite short but the terrain certainly was not all “good paths and hill trails” on at least one day. You do say “mostly”, but you could do more to flag the exceptions.

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Trip Comments
The walks in this beautiful scenery were very well chosen. Susie, our guide, did a great job: she pointed out landmarks, explained fauna and flora, told us about local history etc. We also felt very comfortable in the hotels we stayed in and the food in the restaurants we had dinner together was excellent. The whole holiday was much better than I had expected.

Your Guide
Susie did a great job and
made sure that everyone felt comfortable

The Bottom Line
It was my first organized walking holiday in a group and turned out as one of my best holidays

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Pre-Trip Service
I can not say enough about how great the pre-trip communication was. The staff was really prompt and patient with my festering in a great deal of minutiae! This was our first "group trip" and in retrospect I probably did not ask enough questions. I think it would have been helpful to have more specific details about the first day. I didn't know if we were traveling by train or van and I was a little unprepared for a delightful opportunity to walk on the beach.

Trip Comments
We had a great group of individuals on the trip which really added to the overall experience. It was really obvious that a great deal of work goes into planning and logistics and those were all excellent! We also had the luxury of a guide and an additional staff member. Rachael Gavan who was an absolute godsend to me personally. I had a great deal of difficulty navigating two complicated dietary issues and Rachael was instrumental in helping me suss those issues out all week long. I did feel like the days were way too long, especially two of the evenings we had dinner out together. I also did not feel like we did as much walking as I expected and that was a disappointment. There were probably three significant, actual walks that were wonderful with drop dead seascapes which is what I was interested in. I wanted more of that. There was also way more visiting to archeological sights with long lectures that were unexpected, especially the second day of the tour. So to make it excellent for me personally, more actual walking, less sightseeing per say and shorter days, getting back to the hotel by 4pm and earlier dinners!

Accommodation and Food
The room was very well appointed, large and comfortable. Fantastic bathroom, really hot water and a nice warming contraption for damp towels. Common space was lovely, large drawing room with all kinds of fun things and a nice bar area.The actual hospitality was lack luster. The inn keepers didn't seem at all interested in delivering on any hospitality. For example, they told me in an email that they do provide laundry service for a fee and in fact there was a laundry form in the room but when asked to actually provide the service they seemed very put out.

Your Guide
Our guide was good and clearly knew the Islands very well.

The Bottom Line
Overall it was a good experience. It is really obvious that Wilderness Scotland knows what they are doing and does it really well. I could tell that all the staff at Wilderness are very passionate about their work and willing to go to great lengths to deliver! I would caution folks with more than one dietary issue!

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Pre-Trip Service
Website is clear and easy to follow.

Trip Comments
A great trip to a wonderful place, packed lots in, very lucky with the weather and a group of really nice people, a fantastic guide (Tim) who discretely made sure everyone was happy and went the extra mile to make our experience special.

Accommodation and Food
A good traditional hotel.

Your Guide
Tim was brilliant, a lovely person who brought people together and put in lots of effort to make sure we had a wonderful holiday.

The Bottom Line
Wonderful trip. I saw things I would never have seen on my own. I am wary of group trips but this was great, small enough group to be friendly but not overwhelming, and enough time alone to chill. And lovely to have someone else do the research and all the hard work!

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Pre-Trip Service
Be more careful in admin of sending emails to people who have already booked a trip offering incentives if they book a trip. Any questions we had were answered promptly.

Trip Comments
Very happy with our guide James. He did an excellent job. A highlight was Loch Muick and Glen Quoich.

Accommodation and Food
Lovely B&Bs and hosts especially dinner on the last night at Coig na Shee. Great idea!

Your Guide
Our guide James Orpwood was enthusiastic and knowledgeable about the Cairngorms. He found time to speak and get to know all of the group on our various walks. He strived to please us all and succeeded. He was a joy to walk with.

The Bottom Line
A Wilderness Walking Trip is a great way to experience and learn about the Cairngorms. Our trip was very well structured and guiding was exceptional.

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Pre-Trip Service
We received a few emails that had been sent out in error that led to confusion. I also thought the 'where to meet and what to expect' was ambiguous. I thought it would have been nice to receive something on the 'here's where you're going to meet, here's what to expect in the first hour or two.

Accommodation and Food
Hotel was great but there wasn't much time to appreciate it. For the amount of time we spent at the hotel it was almost too nice. I would have loved to have a little more time to enjoy the whiskey room or even the room itself which was great. Breakfasts were good and the hotel was very accommodating with my dietary restrictions. The lunches provided were a little disappointing, in particular a few of the sandwich. The cakes were awesome however.

Your Guide
Our guide was very knowledgeable and did his best to make sure we were all enjoying the trip. He did a great job spending time with everyone despite some very different hiking speeds. Overall great job. I do think by the end everyone was pretty exhausted. It might have been better to cut a day or two a little shorter to keep everyone's energy up. But our guide showed us a lot that we never would have seen otherwise which was awesome.

The Bottom Line
Our trip was really good. I was looking for something my husband and I could do with my parents who are in their 70's in the outdoors. This trip really delivered. We all had a great time while learning and seeing a lot of things we never would have otherwise. There is no way we would have been able to pack in the amount of stuff we did in a week on our own.

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Pre-Trip Service
the correpondence and reminders were good

Trip Comments
Jude was a fabulous guide - easy going, organised and nothing was too much trouble. we were not well for a few days and Jude looked after both of us even organising my travel buddy to see a local doctor. She was patient, kind, helpful and full of information about each local area we went to.

Accommodation and Food
The Uig Hotel was great but i think had we not had a downstairs room it would have been excellent. We had two nights of listening to our neighbour's dogs running back and forth across the floor which was a little annoying. Brilliant location and brekfast was superb.

Your Guide
have mentioned in previous comments how impressed I was with Jude and her service and friendliness. She had us organised each day and nothing was ever too much trouble if we wanted to visit a shop or place that wasn't on the list she sorted it for us. Couldn't have experienced a better guide!

The Bottom Line
For a taste of Skye the trip with Wilderness Scotland was excellent. Our group experienced many of Skye's highlights as well as many lesser known places. It was a real mixed bag which i enjoyed. Our hotels were excellent and having a base for a few days meant not having to pack up daily. The van was comfortable and our daily lunch packages a treat to look forward to. I'd re-visit Wilderness Scotland next time I'm in Scotland.

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Trip Comments
The hike up Cul Mor was an excellent start to the trip and the climb up Suilven although hard for me was also the high point of the trip, despite the very hot weather we encountered. I would like to suggest one walk of 14 Kilometers or so kept in reserve which does not include a hard climb for the less athletic of your clients or for when the weather is too bad to do a hard climb.

Accommodation and Food
Excellent accommodation. It couldn't be bettered.

Your Guide
Susie Hill was an excellent guide. She worked really hard to make our trip successful.

The Bottom Line
I really enjoyed the trip. From meeting our guide at Inverness Station to her dropping me off at Inverness. I had a great time with sometimes hard but always enjoyable walking with pleasant company from the other travelers. Susie our guide was always sensitive to our needs and capabilities. A very happy experience.

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Accommodation and Food
wonderful first hotel- those views to die for; second hotel staff seemed slightly less on top of things but room still comfortable-with bath!

Your Guide
Truly exceptional. Our guide was skilled at 'reading' the group and their needs, always on the ball, perceptive, energetic, and fun to be with.

The Bottom Line
Brilliant to be in the mountains, lucky with the weather (most of the time..), good companions and lots of support when needed.

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Pre-Trip Service
We had some questions which were difficult over email and staff were excellent in offering to talk on the phone which worked much better for us.

Trip Comments
Our guide was great, accommodations were good to very good, organization was great and the scenery once up in the Highlands was really good. We had a great experience.

Accommodation and Food
All good. But one comment - we understand that Kings Inn is under renovation which is the reason we spent 2 nights in the one B&B with van transfer. That worked really well but we did discuss this with our guide who wondered if the 2 nights in one place was preferred. After consideration, even though I enjoyed the same B&B for 2 nights, I would prefer staying at Kings Inn and continuing our journey in a sequential fashion along the route.

Your Guide
Our guide was a highlight. Very experienced and also many stories from his past. He was helpful, intelligent, flexible, ressourceful and really seemed to enjoy his work (and looked after us nicely).

The Bottom Line
General suggestion to consider regarding group/ trip structure: guests will have a wide range of abilities and needs and possible reactions to physical challenges. Two guides might aid in this so that one could spend time with the front runners/ faster walkers and the other could hang back with the slower folks. This might also allow Wilderness Scotland to increase the group size somewhat (perhaps 14 or 16 people).

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Pre-Trip Service
I had many back-and-forth emails with the office with various questions. I always received prompt, complete and helpful information--including accommodation suggestions in Glasgow, packing, etc.

Trip Comments
Walking/hiking with Alastair and our group was all we hoped for and more. The WHW is challenging but manageable, thanks in large part to all the details moving bags, meals, guest houses and primarily our daily walking schedule.

Accommodation and Food
We were so tired at the end of the day, ANYTHING would make us happy. Some stops were better than others, but we realize there are not a lot of options on the WHW.

Your Guide
Alastair is a wonderful, organized, calm leader and clearly knows the area, history, flora and fauna.

The Bottom Line
We loved it. We're so glad we signed up with Wilderness Scotland--it was a GREAT group of people who really connected. This is the luck of the draw, but it made the trip for us.

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Trip Comments
We had high expectations of the Knoydart trip, because it was a part of Scotland which is normally inaccessible and intriguing, and the idea of several island trips, with a dedicated boat at our disposal, was very attractive. Our expectations were exceeded on all accounts, and we had a marvellous week’s walking which we could not possibly have done without a guide.
A walking highlight for me was the climb to the iconic An Sgurr on Eigg, which looked beyond my ability until we were actually there.
The food was consistently superb, but the highlight would have to be the 10kg moutain of fresh langoustines on the last night.

Accommodation and Food
The lodge was perfectly comfortable, and in an idyllic setting. The description in the pre walk dossier was completely fair - the bedrooms were fairly basic without much storage, and the bathrooms were shared - you might have to wait your turn for a shower at the end of the day!

Your Guide
Kirsty was a superb guide. She was cheerful and knowledgeable, calm and encouraging at all times. We learned a lot about the flora and fauna whilst we walked.
Our weather was mixed during the week, but she matched the walk to the conditions with great skill, taking advice from the skipper too, on the sea conditions.

The Bottom Line
Surpassed our hopes and expectations- a wonderful week’s walking.

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Pre-Trip Service
We appreciated the friendly, speedy, and reliable customer service.

Trip Comments
Our guide Pete made the trip fun from the first day to the last.

Accommodation and Food
Great hotel—loved it.

Your Guide
Pete was a fabulous guide—very knowledgable and very attentive to the group’s needs.

The Bottom Line
It was an incredible week of beautiful sights and exercise.

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Pre-Trip Service
Due to the time zone difference, email was the best communication avenue. Wilderness Scotland's Adventure Consultants were extremely prompt and patient in answering my questions. The information Wilderness Scotland provide to help me prepared was also timely and useful.

Trip Comments
The trip was extremely well organized. Now that I have experienced it, it made total sense to me that the knowledge and experience of the guide to finalize the itinerary from day to day is necessary, if not just for the weather. Out guide, Lorraine, was very thoughtful and meticulous in the daily planning. If not for her, we might have a "double whammy" in missing two wonderful hikes due to weather and ferry availability. I was particularly happy to escape from the crowd.

Accommodation and Food
Hotels were good in general. If I have to be picky - the first hotel was lacking an adequate sitting area. The second hotel only gave out one key to me and my roommate, who shared the room. Ah! Some of us were surprised by the lack of mobile phone signal at the second hotel, which could be a problem if family tried to reach us in emergency.

Your Guide
Lorraine McCall was phenomenal! Her experience and knowledge of the Highland is extraordinary! She took into consideration all factors in planning our trip every day. She swapped two days around due to the weather, allowing us to experience the Isle of Raasay and Loch Coruisk at their best. Without that decision, we would be soaked in the rain on Raasay and might miss Loch Coruisk due to ferry cancellation. She is intuitive, flexible, caring, and decisive.

The Bottom Line
If you want to see the real Isle of Skye, this is the trip! Also happy to join another holiday with Wilderness Scotland. You guys know what you are doing! Good job and congratulations!

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Trip Comments
the different walks were perfectly selected and gave a nice representation of the specific area.

Accommodation and Food
They were both different from each other but great. I’m glad the 2nd place had a little more room (didn’t have to share a room). It was a nice way to be able to relax at the end of the trip.

Your Guide
Iain was excellent. He was quiet at first which was a good thing. I think he was taking all of us in! He was knowledgeable about the land and animals. We had a lot of questions for him and he answered all of them! He was considerate of everyone and tried to make sure everyone was happy with what we were doing. He was very patient with us.

The Bottom Line
It was great and I will be back to do another area with you!

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Trip Comments
When we got on the wrong train and would be late to meet our guide, the WS team coordinated everything quickly and we were able to meet our group with no issues.

Your Guide
Rosie was fantastic! Very knowledgeable and just fun to have her lead us.

The Bottom Line
The trip was amazing!!! I would absolutely do it again or book other trips with WS.

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Pre-Trip Service
Very helpful with questions

Trip Comments
Alistair was wonderful. The trip was a real challenge for me and I was proud of how I did but both I and my traveling companion thought that it was harder than the “green” level 3 description.

Accommodation and Food
Lovely places great locations and food staff very friendly

Your Guide
Alistair was wonderful. He managed the different personalities and skill levels with ease. He was so knowledgeable across such a broad range of topics and happy to answer everyone’s questions. He was always on time with a smile. For me personally his words of encouragement and mental as well as physical help were invaluable. If I ever take another trip I want to go with him!! He makes you feel secure in his abilities which for a novice was extremely important. Don’t lose him!!

The Bottom Line
Wonderful challenging experience not to be missed ask for more details re leveling of trip

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Pre-Trip Service
Good communication, email support, and follow-up. Would have been helpful to have the name and address of the accommodation for Customs or an address to use for Customs.

Trip Comments
Great experience with a wonderful guide, Keith, good group, and fantastic views. Learned a lot about the flora and some of the history we were walking through, thanks to the curiosity of other group members and our knowledgeable guide. I wish we could have stuck to the itinerary more closely, but due to weather and other factors I know this was not possible.

Accommodation and Food
Ardvreck House was wonderful! The views out the windows were great, with the serenity of the lake and the sheep and lambs grazing on the hillside. The breakfast was very good, great service from Aiden and Lisa (?), and good-sized rooms.

Your Guide
Keith was knowledgeable, friendly, and sensitive to the group's abilities and interests. It was clear he enjoys his job and enjoys sharing the food, drink, and lovely environment with visitors. Went above and beyond to make sure we were enjoyed the trip to the best of his ability - he remembered my birthday!

The Bottom Line
The trip was fantastic, views from the top were great, and the rest of the group were great! If you are looking for an active, physically challenging (but rewarding and satisfying) vacation where locals make most of the decisions for you, with other like-minded, friendly people, this was a great experience. We were looking for something more physically challenging - that is the only reason for a 4 out of 5 star rating.

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Pre-Trip Service
Jane was great at answering our questions and giving us a brief synopsis of our options. She was so patient with our dithering and our indecision-thank you Jane!

Trip Comments
Our guide Paul was truly a joy and so gifted at taking disparate ages and abilities and making them meld together. He has a wicked sense of humor and was great at sharing his knowledge about geology, flora/fauna and local history with us. The restaurant choices for evening meals were lovely and our hotel hosts were very very accommodating. We are already perusing the options for our next trip with WildernessScotland

Accommodation and Food
Very nice. Our hosts were gracious, rooms were clean and comfortable, views were to die for! And we woke so the sounds and sight of baby lambs and their mamas grazing the hills each morning-just an ideallic setting.

Your Guide
Paul was marvelous (see earlier comments). We would hike with him again anytime! He did a great job at interacting with each of us and we all felt he was the glue that held the whole group together. He had to make a very last minute adjustment to our schedule due to wind and rain and came up with a great plan so no one felt the impact.

The Bottom Line
First time “physical” vacation for my husband. I’ve loved this type of getaway for years, but couldn’t convince him to come. He loved it! Due to the lovely settings the views, our great guide, the variety of options on each day for his level of activity and the food, we are already planning to book for next year with WildernessIreland -perhaps one of the combo trips with hikes and kayaking.

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Pre-Trip Service
Bridget Brown's comments during my initial phone-call persuaded me that your organization is excellent.

Trip Comments
The venues and the guide were excellent. I think there was too much time spent driving around and too much time spent on eating meals.

Accommodation and Food
The Fortingall Hotel was wonderful and comfortable. I felt that the Glen Coe hotel was too luxurious.

Your Guide
Mike Brian was an excellent guide. His care and enthusiasm never wavered. He made an extra effort to find pools in streams where we could go swimming.

The Bottom Line
Thank you for a fine trip. It appears that you care deeply about your mission.

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Pre-Trip Service
Very prompt responses and comprehensive answers. Bridget was lovely.

Trip Comments
Dossier give a clear description of what to expect. And our guide Judith was effervescent!

Accommodation and Food
We loved both hotels on Skye. I would stay in both again.

Your Guide
We all loved Jude. She was SO POSITIVE!!!

The Bottom Line
Couldnt recommend this company higher - I heard about Wilderness Scotland from a friend in Seattle and everything they said was spot on !

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Pre-Trip Service
I thought the everything was excellent the guide Cory was fantastic

Your Guide
Cory was fantastic

The Bottom Line
I would recommend to all my friends to come

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Pre-Trip Service
I received prompt and clear responses to the questions I asked via email.

Trip Comments
Breathtaking scenery. Excellent food and hotel.

Accommodation and Food
We especially enjoyed the Hebrides Hotel in Tarbert on Harris. Lovely contemporary lines, comfy beds, large bathrooms, and good wireless internet. Staff there were very helpful and friendly.

Stein Inn on Skye also was pleasant, with wonderful waitstaff at breakfast.

The Bottom Line
I can't wait to walk again with Wilderness Scotland next year!

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Your Guide
Sarah has been extremely professional and always focus to make our experience unique.

The Bottom Line
Wilderness Scotland is the perfect way to know Higlands and enjoy outdoor activities.

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Pre-Trip Service
Easy to contact, no rushing in answering questions, simple, liked the follow up emails

Trip Comments
The guide, Cory made the trip. He personalized the experience. He was relaxed and fun so the group reflected his ease. A highlight was evening dinners where we discovered each other and made friends.

Accommodation and Food
The property was excellent, food very good, nothing was needed.

Your Guide
Cory was the perfect host. He provided support to all levels in our group. He was charming and fun. His knowledge of the area was outstanding.

The Bottom Line
Wilderness Scotland provided an outstanding way to visit the Orkneys. The walks were all different and scenic. The trips to the archeological sites were fantastic. This was my second time visiting the islands but by far the better experience.

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Pre-Trip Service
Loved all the detail! Answered almost every question I had, very organized and easy to read. Plenty of links (that actually worked!!), really good visuals that helped me get a sense of the trip and what it would be like. Being new to hiking in Scotland, we chose Wilderness Scotland BECAUSE of the website.

Trip Comments
I won't lie, this trip was a real challenge to me. First time overseas, first hiking trip of this caliber. Yet everyone was so helpful and encouraging (especially our guide, Rosie McKenzie who was like something out of a fairytale!!) when the going got tough, they made what could've been difficult actually fun! Beautiful, beautiful scenery, amazing food, wonderful group

Accommodation and Food
Beds were really comfortable, NEVER ran out of hot water (amazing, considering there were 11 tired, achy people at the end of each day!), food was incredible every single meal. Only suggestions are tiny ones - a wastebasket in each room, face cloths for us crazy Americans who use them, a sink dedicated to laundry (so I don't have to wash my socks where I wash my face).

Your Guide
Rosie McKenzie was just the BEST. Always cheerful, patient and encouraging, fun to be with, she took us to wonderous places I would never imagine trying on my own, and I loved it. She was full of interesting tidbits about plants, animals and birds, a delight to talk to and be with. Her enthusiasm and love of hiking the Highlands is so strong, it carried us through any of the difficult parts of the hikes. If I could choose a companion to just spend a day with tromping in the fields, it would be Rosie!

The Bottom Line
I'm SO glad we went with Wilderness Scotland for our first (of many, I hope!) hiking trip to Scotland. They were organized, detail-oriented, helpful and kind, going out of their way to accommodate our requests. Every day was well planned to get the most enjoyable time possible, they made us feel welcome and sent us home happy with the trip and sad to leave. I couldn't ask for or want anything more!

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Pre-Trip Service
I enjoyed having a detailed list as to how we hold prepare and the level of the hike

Trip Comments
Don was our guide and he was amazing. He consistently took all of our needs into account and planned accordingly, changing plans if the weather did not allow for the designated one. He was always calm and supportive.

Accommodation and Food
We had a good experience on the Isle of Skye but when we went to the Hebrides were told that we needed to share accommodation and had no previous information about that. Although the suite was lovely we were uncomfortable as we had only just met the person we were to share with and she was also not happy. We had paid a good deal for the trip so it surprised us that we were to be put in that position with no notification. We may not have chosen this trip knowing that and looked for another.

TEAM WILDERNESS RESPONSE:

Thanks for your feedback. We are delighted that you had such a good trip with Don, although we are very sorry that you were disappointed with your experience at Hotel Hebrides. With regards to the rooming arrangements, we consider the Kirklea Suites to be of a very high standard, and believe that the advantages of having a large living room outweigh the downsides of sharing a bathroom. Having said this, we will only be using the rooms in the main hotel in the future wherever possible to avoid any issues of this nature, and we would like to apologise for any disappointment this caused.

Your Guide
As described, we could not have had a better guide!

The Bottom Line
The trip was lovely except for the difficulty with lack of communication about accomodatiion

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Pre-Trip Service
Everything was perfect!

Trip Comments
We brought sunshine to the Isle of Skye! Very lucky! Our guide Jude, was amazing, professional, and always accommodating!

Accommodation and Food
Both B & B’s were clean, great views, and food was great as well!

Your Guide
She was wonderiful!!! Great driver, sweet, knowledgeable and very friendly ❤️

The Bottom Line
Very challenging but satisfying at the same time. A little more free time from the group would be nice too.
LOVED it!!
Thank you❤️

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Pre-Trip Service
I appreciated being able to find out exactly where I would be staying so that I could make arrangements to meet family at my hotel during my trip.

Trip Comments
I like the fact that our guide allowed us to go at our own pace so that no one felt rushed or held back.

Accommodation and Food
All of the rooms had everything I needed, but my one complaint was my room (#2) at the Black Swan. My windows were directly over the bar entrance on a Friday night, and cigarette smoke and conversations flowed freely into my room. Except for that Friday night, all the accommodations were very good.

Your Guide
As stated earlier, I was really happy to go at my own pace. Our guide was very friendly and patient with us, always on time, and always prepared.

The Bottom Line
Very good trip. We had mixed weather, but the hikes were excellent. The trip left me with a desire to revisit some of the parks for a more in depth experience.

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Trip Comments
Yorkshire dales were not as interesting as the Highlands

Accommodation and Food
Hotel in Loch Lomond was poor

TEAM WILDERNESS RESPONCE:

Thanks for your feedback. I am sorry to hear this, we always try to use the best accommodation available and unfortunately this one has not lived up to expectations on this trip and we have actually changed the accommodation for next year in this area. It does sound like you had an amazing trip overall and hope we can welcome you back in the future.

Your Guide
Keith was an excellent guide with a warm personality

The Bottom Line
Thank you for organizing such trip
I might use your services again in the future

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Pre-Trip Service
Emails were answered promptly and the call-back service much appreciated especially with different time zones and cost of international calls.

Trip Comments
The varied nature of the Knoydart Peninsula walk - islands, mountains, paths beside lochs, social history, local communities - and the Doune Bay Lodge accommodation with superb food.

Accommodation and Food
Warm, clean and comfortable and the food was excellent.

Your Guide
Tim was an enthusiastic, energetic and extremely knowledgeable guide. He worked hard to ensure that diverse expectations within the group were met as far as possible.

The Bottom Line
Excellent, thankyou.

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Trip Comments
Very nice with the mix of nature and Culture.Learned so much about Skye!

Accommodation and Food
The accomodations were in beautiful locations,very nice rooms( enough of space to palce luggage and dry, wet things) Very good food.

Your Guide
Paul is an excellent guide!! Changed the plans due to weather conditions so everythig was at it best.Listened to our wishes. Overall very pleased with our guide!

The Bottom Line
Excellent! Hope to take part in another walking holiday with Wilderness Scotland.

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Pre-Trip Service
All very easy to look, book and pay over the internet. You also sent out the politest email apology ever for something very minor!

Trip Comments
Another great 7 days with a great group of people from different parts of the world. A top class guide in Craig and his unofficial little helper Chantel. Lots to see and some interesting castles with differing stories behind their demise. The walks were also excellent and even though the trip to Jura was slightly curtailed due to the windy conditions it was a fun boat trip. Also had great weather which is always a bonus.

Accommodation and Food
Both hotels had spectacular views and both were very welcoming, especially the second one on Islay.

Your Guide
Craig was an absolute credit to your company, always wanting to make sure we was happy and would action any questions and made sure we would get the best out of each day

The Bottom Line
This was my 4th trip with WS and each trip has provided me with a great 7 days of walking, scenery, history and getting to meet really nice people. This was another fantastic holiday. Thanks again see ya soon

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Pre-Trip Service
Every stage of booking, from payment to what to take was clearly put down, so no worries about getting it wrong!

Trip Comments
I knew it was a new trip but that didn't put me off. There were many highlights so a bit difficult! Kinloch Lodge lived up to your description. I was a bit concerned about sharing a bathroom, but it was never a problem after all. I was glad to see the sea stacks and John o Groats, but the big highlights were climbing Ben Hope, the rib boat to Seal Island and the Cape Wrath day. Big achievements, although the way up Ben Hope was rather tricky in places.

Accommodation and Food
It was an expensive trip, but Kinloch Lodge was well worth it. Having the lodge to ourselves was a relaxing experience. From the fabulous bedding to the exceptional food and drink, it was a joy to stay there. I liked the remoteness of it and no need to have room keys! The staff were brilliant and did so many little extras to make sure we had all we need - even altering meal times when necessary. And having open fires!

Your Guide
Our guide, Tim, was beyond helpful and always cheerful. I felt very safe with him, as some of the terrain was difficult and he always helped us, if needed and never left anyone behind, so to speak. Each day, we had a talk about how it went and what would happen the next day. And a very careful driver.
I must also mention Rupert, who did a superb job of photographing everywhere. He must have so much film and was always ahead of us to get the best shots. Also, he was very helpful with some of the terrain and good company too.

The Bottom Line
Very glad to know your company. Having been on 2 trips now I'd easily recommend you. It must have been good if coming home, I might do a third!
The only reservation was on the first day at John o Groats - the drive from there to Kinloch Lodge seemed a bit too long, but I can't think how that could be shortened, except to miss out going to John o Groats, but clients may not want that. It's a difficult one as the sea stacks were lovely too, but we did have gorgeous weather! But can't do anything about that!

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Pre-Trip Service
Hi the trip was very good organized and hotel or the location which we stayed at was a very good excellent place

Trip Comments
We visited the best area and the best view and the leader was a great friend and full with experience

Accommodation and Food
The accommodation was excellent very good experience and people who work in this accommodation was a great people l like him very much

Your Guide
The guide was very good and have a good experience and we were like a friend

The Bottom Line
Wilderness Scotland from the best company

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Trip Comments
Our trip guide, Mark Cox, was energetic, informative, and helpful. His enthusiasm was contagious, and the entire group benefited from his knowledge and insight. I would take another trip with Wilderness Scotland.

Accommodation and Food
I loved the historic hotel where our stay was booked. Great atmosphere, and the restaurant was first class.

Your Guide
Mark Cox was an excellent guide. Informative, enthusiastic, and was willing to go the extra mile to make everyone happy and comfortable.

The Bottom Line
I have recommended Wilderness Scotland to all my friends. I plan on booking other trips with Wilderness Scotland in the future.

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Pre-Trip Service
The trip exceeded my expectations. The guide was excellent, our accommodations were fine and eating opportunities were very good.

Trip Comments
Beautiful walking with a knowledgable guide.

Accommodation and Food
The accommodations were very good overall. Low point was in Tyndrum. Loved the rest of the accommodations (and the quirky Kinlochleven B&B provided for lots of conversation amongst our group).

Your Guide
Tim was a fabulous guide. Very knowledgable and had a great demeanor.

The Bottom Line
Excellent trip- scenery is outstanding and Wilderness Scotland really offers a gem of a West Highland Way trip.

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Pre-Trip Service
You were easy to get a hold of plus always answer question quickly with useful information.

Accommodation and Food
The hotel was comfortable with a great stock of Scotch. Food was well prepared. Breakfasts were fun because of the variety of selections. We had a great room with a sitting area.

Your Guide
Tim was wonderful. Very knowledgeable about the history of the sites we visited. We were interested in the archaeology of numerous sites. He provided full days of interesting sites. We were interested in the Neolithic era and the mysteries surround our knowledge of the people.

The Bottom Line
The trip went very smoothly from the time we were picked up in Inverness. It was a great way to find out about a region of the world we otherwise wouldn't have. Mind expanding.

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Pre-Trip Service
Very clear directions and preparation provided. Would have been helpful to know we'd be walking from rooms to dinner - I would have brought rubber boots too.

Trip Comments
One of my best vacations every. Great exercise. Amazing scenery. So peaceful! Loved the boat trips too. Food was so amazing - everything made from scratch!

Accommodation and Food
Accommodation was basic but so comfortable. Food was so delicious! Even made my special lunches for me.

Your Guide
Dave was great. Funny, helpful, instructive. Just a delight to travel with and felt in very good hands.

The Bottom Line
In my top 5 best vacations ever! Thought I'd never make some of those hills but I did and enjoyed every minute of the trip!

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Trip Comments
More emphasis on serious walking, felt at least one of the group just wasn't able enough to manage the walks.

Accommodation and Food
Very comfortable with fantastic breakfasts but could do with somewhere to leave dirty boots and wet walking clothes.

Your Guide
Keith was just outstanding, can't speak too highly of him.

The Bottom Line
Wish we'd been with a more fit and able group with more enthusiasm for the walking. Rightly or wrongly I was expecting a mountain walking holiday but what we got was more a touring holiday with 2 or 3 good walks. Having said that, our leader Keith managed a difficult situation very well.

TEAM WILDERNESS RESPONCE:

Thanks for your feedback. We do our best to make sure everyone on the trip is suitable for the hiking involved although we can only go the information they give us. Our guides do have our absolute support to ask someone that is not capable of the hikes to sit out some of the days if needed. Having said that this is a blue graded trip which means there are longer hiking days interspersed with shorter more relaxed days. It sounds like perhaps a more challenging trip may have been a better option for you but we’re so glad you had a good trip overall.

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Accommodation and Food
Great accommodation and friendliness.

Meals could be improved with more variety and ability to serve oneself with vegetables and sauces. No quibble over quality or amounts.

Your Guide
Tremendous guide - one of the best we have had anywhere and with any operator. relaxed, knowledgeable, communicative and very flexible in terms of itinerary and stops.

The Bottom Line
Great customer service. Well planned and executed. No faults found.

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Pre-Trip Service
Instructions were timely and well thought out. Clearly, the company’s years of experience benefit all of us.

Trip Comments
As promised, the Orkney adventure was a wonderful mix of coastal walks, Neolithic tombs and settlements, and comfortable lodging. Our guide, Pete Grant, added skillful logistical planning and a comprehensive knowledge of local history, geology, birds, and plants. [His reading of George Macay Brown’s ‘Dead Fires’ during lunch on a hillside overlooking Rackwick Bay was an unexpected treat.] Gathering with eight newfound friends and beautiful weather made for a magical week.

Your Guide
Pete Grant was the best. [Please see above comments.]

The Bottom Line
Please see general comments above. A fellow traveler on a previous WS week in the Outer Hebrides prompted me to book the Orkney week this summer, and enthusiastic recommendation of your Shetland experience by one of my Orkney group has planted the seed for a third WS trip. If all goes well, I’ll be back!

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Accommodation and Food
Our hotels were truly outstanding.

Your Guide
The itinerary and the scenery speak for themselves. It was our guide, Mike Brian, who made the trip truly extraordinary. Our group varied widely in ability and personalities. Mike was able to connect with each of us individually and bring us together as a group. Mike's greatest assets, though, are his enthusiasm and obvious enjoyment of the natural wonders of Scotland. Mike's joy was contagious and made the week truly special (in a good sense). We even began to suspect that he had special powers where the weather was concerned. Somehow, even on the rare cloudy day, the sun came through when we were on the hilltops.

The Bottom Line
The trip exceeded my expectations on every level. This was my first time traveling with Wilderness Scotland and I was a bit wary. Everything about our trip was first class. It was the most enjoyable vacation I have had in several years.

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Trip Comments
I’ve been planning my Knoydart Peninsula hike for six years and it lived up to all my expectations. The hikes and scenery were breathtaking and Rosie was such a personable and fun guide. As many others, Inwould highly recommend this trip.

Accommodation and Food
We could never get the WiFi to work, but that was probably a good thing. Really forced you to be on vacation.

The food was outstanding. Every meal brought another surprise. One of the best parts of the trip!