Walking Holidays Scotland

Pre-Trip Service
Business conducted over phone or via e mail was always satisfactory and efficient

Trip Comments
The routes chosen for our hikes were outstanding. Not busy and beautiful. The Inns were great, food enjoyable , and guide outstanding.

Accommodation and Food
Uig Inn was great as were other venues.

Your Guide
Our guide, Don Pritchard, was outstanding. He is the best guide I've ever had. I do't remember anyone ever truly going over the map of our itinerary, taking out GPS and making sure we(or someone) knew how operate it, emergency numbers, and how to get us back from hike in case of emergency (i.e. to him) He truly took excellent care of us, was always helpful for the slower hikers while giving speedy people option of going ahead but waiting at designated locations. Don gets 5 stars in my book. His choice of hikes was likewise well done. Isle of Rassay was spectacular.

The Bottom Line
Outstanding trip, beautiful hikes, terrific guide, comfortable hotels, great food.
I'd like to begin again and repeat it immediately

Read Full Review

Trip Comments
I thought the whole trip was spectacular. The ones that stood out were the Nature Preserve in North Uist, the walk along the beach after the climb up and down the hill in Barra and the day in Mingulay. And I particularly appreciated the stop at St. Michael's Church in South Uist so I could see where my great-grandfather's birth was registered.

Accommodation and Food
The rooms were very comfortable and the people at the hotels were very interested in providing good service. WIFI could have been better in a couple of the locations which was important to me because I had to stay in touch with my business activities.

Your Guide
Rosie was extremely good - very knowledgeable and a lot of fun. Since this was the first walking tour of this type I'd done - and I am not particularly brave - she was very good about helping me through the tough patches, something I really appreciated.

The Bottom Line
I really enjoyed the Outer Hebrides trip - in fact I'm experiencing withdrawal symptoms now that it's over!

Read Full Review

Pre-Trip Service
All our questions were answered promptly.

Trip Comments
This trip was definitely one of my most memorable, travel experiences. The Highlands are a stunningly beautiful area and having a fantastic guide - Gil McMillan - made it even better.

Accommodation and Food
Both the Boat Inn and Coign Na Shee were extremely comfortable, quiet and welcoming accommodations. My only very small complaint would be the dimness of the bedside lighting at Coign Na Shee. Overall excellent though.

Your Guide
I can’t praise our guide enough! Gil was superlative in all respects. Right from the beginning when one of our group was late, she exuded calm, and bought us all coffee while we waited. Her knowledge was amazing. From the landscape, history, botany, farming and hunting uses of the land to reading us evocative poetry she kept my interest at all times. She did an excellent job of assessing our groups’ varied abilities and never made anyone feel inadequate. We had to ford two large rivers and her calmness and and quiet confidence made even the most timid among us feel able to get across without a dunking! Also, after having driven in Scotland myself for a few days after our walk, I am in awe of her driving abilities too! From the very beginning I felt safe and secure knowing that Gil was in charge.

The Bottom Line
I have already recommended you to several people and I hope to take another trip with you as well.

Read Full Review

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!

Read Full Review

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.

Read Full Review

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.

Read Full Review

Your Guide
Wally was an excellent guide , very professional and ensured we were safe at all times.

The Bottom Line
A fantastic overall experience and we are very keen to explore future trips and options

Read Full Review

Pre-Trip Service
I appreciated that I had not to wait long for a reply when I asked a question.

Trip Comments
This walking trip was one of the best I made, considering the quality of the guide, the program, and the company of people from all parts of the world. Even the weather contributed.

Accommodation and Food
I would return to Loch Erisort facility anytime. For the quality of the service, the confort of the house and the beauty of the landscape.

Your Guide
Dave managed the group to make sure that every participant met his/her expectations. I appreciated his choice of paths and activities, according to conditions. He managed stops when we passed through beatiful places. And most of all, he gallantly walked for a long time twice during the week, to retrive the car when when we were beginning to be a little bit burned out. I am very thakful for that.

The Bottom Line
Just saying that I liked it so much I would do it again....

Read Full Review

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.

Read Full Review

Pre-Trip Service
Questions always answered and quickly at that. Felt I knew you before my trip even started. A pleasure!

Trip Comments
Beyond my expectations. Each hike was on different terrain and pushed my level of what I thought were my capabilities.

Accommodation and Food
Both hotels UIG and Eilean Iarmain very perfect. Clean, nice staff, quaint all with great views (though all of the Isle of Skye had a great view)!

Your Guide
This was my first guided tour at age 68. My late husband and I did much traveling from age of 21. I have nothing to compare except I doubt anyone could guide us better than Alastair. Eight people all with different needs, expectations and desires and then adding on personalities is a huge responsibility. Alastair made it look easy as he taught us about the history of your lovely land, knowledge of your local plants and wildlife. I asked for a little time to shop and someone else wanted a tour of a whiskey distillery and he made both possible (last one kept us out of pouring rain after a hike). How lucky were we that he was our guide!

The Bottom Line
Book it now! My only fear is it will be booked if I come this way again. I have already told family to book for themselves. Such a wonderful experience, THANK-YOU!!!

Read Full Review

Pre-Trip Service
precise information, quick response to questions

Trip Comments
I thought the walks on the 16 and 17th July could have been a bit longer. Fortunately it was possible at the Polochar Inn to take a long walk on the beach to make up for the shortness of the walks.

Accommodation and Food
Polochar Inn: slightly old-fashioned; rooms not well soundproofed,
Hamersay House: shaky Internet connection

Your Guide
I cannot fault Alan.

The Bottom Line
Good selection of walks
I feel that the holidays are very expensive compared to other organisations (I am aware that competitors use B&B accommodation) and considering that dinner is only included twice. I also think that the boat fare to Mingulay should be refunded if the trip is cancelled, which , according to Alan you do not do; he said that dinner on Wednesday would have been paid for if the boat trip had not taken place (provided it had not been a cancellation at short notice.) According to the website the trip is £50; dinner would have cost considerably less.

TEAM WILDERNESS RESPONSE:

Thanks for your feedback. We understand that your group enjoyed a great day out to Mingulay during your trip, as indeed have all our groups this season. If this boat trip is cancelled, we deal with this very much on a case by case basis, and the guide will arrange either an alternative activity and/or pay for dinner and drinks on the Wednesday. We feel that this adds more value to the trip.

Read Full Review

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.

Read Full Review

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.

Read Full Review

Trip Comments
Loved the small size of the group and hiking off the beaten path.

Accommodation and Food
Accommodations were good or great (Black Swan). The Rowardennan Hotel at Loch Lommond was passable, but it didn't truly have internet access (only via Facebook and even that was spotty). We were there 3 days, so that was not good. I did like staying at least 2 nights in each place.

TEAM WILDERNESS RESPONSE:

Thanks very much for your comments. We are pleased to hear that you found the accommodation to be good overall. 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 was phenomenal when it came to the environment. He was very knowledgeable regarding the geology, flora and fauna and he was an attentive and experienced hiking guide. Even though this is a "outdoor sport" tour, I would have enjoyed a bit more insight on the culture/history of the places we visited, but I don't think that's Keith's area. We had the good fortune to have Rupert from the corporate office join our tour. He was very personable and kind and a great complement to Keith.

The Bottom Line
I would recommend Wilderness Scotland. I think the UK National Parks tour was fantastic -- just maybe a bit too long. It might have been nice to mix in a few more non-hiking activities given the length (ex: canoeing, kayaking, sight-seeing).

Read Full Review

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!

Read Full Review

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!

Read Full Review

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.

Read Full Review

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!

Read Full Review

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.

Read Full Review

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.

Read Full Review

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.

Read Full Review

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.

Read Full Review

Pre-Trip Service
Some of the correspondence was in formats which we could not open. It would be easier to have everything in PDF formats or direct links to web pages.

Trip Comments
What made my trip extra special was the genuine passion and knowledge of our guide Gill. Gill was extremely organized and punctual during the trip with transportation and logistics, as well as the perfect guide. She took into account our individual needs and abilities during the hikes. She proved her knowledge of Isle of Skye and Scotland many times over - from history to plant life!! Her passion for her job and Scotland was delightful!

Accommodation and Food
Very pleased! Comfortable and clean!

Your Guide
Please see my previous comments regarding our guide Gill.
She was exceptional!

The Bottom Line
Enjoyed every minute!

Read Full Review

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.

Read Full Review

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.

Read Full Review

Your Guide
Safety paramount while ensuring we had a good experience and a bit of an adventure in difficult weather. Adam was very competent and seemed relaxed when having to make difficult decisions and choices

The Bottom Line
Excellent. I particularly enjoyed having the use of the boat which enabled us to do walks not possible any other way.

Read Full Review

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.

Read Full Review

Pre-Trip Service
The staff responded quickly to every question and concern and were friendly and helpful!

Trip Comments
Alastair was a wonderful guide. He ensured each person's individual needs were met. He was full of information about the places and people where we hiked. It was a spectacular exeprience.

Accommodation and Food
Each accommodation was comfortable and the staff friendly.

Your Guide
Alastair was the perfect guide for our group. We had very diverse hiking skills and he was able to ensure each of us participated and saw the sights while keeping us all safe and happy!

The Bottom Line
I would ( and already have) recommend Wilderness Scotland to anyone wanting a great outdoor experience. Everyone from booking the trip to the last day of the hiking was helpful, friendly, and full of information about Scotland. One of my top vacations!

Read Full Review

Pre-Trip Service
Easy booking. Quick responses to emails

Trip Comments
Great leader, Good accommodation and brilliant lunches

Accommodation and Food
Ardvreck Guest House was seriously good and their attention to detail was beyond reproach

Your Guide
I thought Susie was great. Very encouraging when I got muscle spasm

The Bottom Line
Have been recommending to everyone and will rebook asap

Read Full Review

Pre-Trip Service
Very thoughtful and comprehensive.

Trip Comments
Each vista represented different breathtaking views.

Accommodation and Food
The accommodations were varied but each presented courteous and competent personnel. The rooms were welcoming as was the staff.

Your Guide
None better. Knowledgeable, competent, and caring, especially when faced with varying levels of hiking abilities.

The Bottom Line
The experience was stellar, one I would recommend.

The walks were informative and sometimes challenging...just what I love.

The information shared allowed me to connect with the experiences.

The weather, although rain and wind, provided an backdrop to be able to explore the beauty that surrounded us.

The level of difficulty is not identified in the dossier. I wasn't expecting the ascents, nor the rock challenges. I'm delighted to have experienced them. The duration of the walks was perfect, the level of difficulty, excellent.

Read Full Review

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.

Read Full Review

Pre-Trip Service
Booking was super easy and office always answered questions immediately. They were always very pleasant too.

Trip Comments
This was my second trip with WS and once again I could not have enjoyed it more. Everything we did was amazing and I just had such a wonderful time which was a direct reflection of what WS arranged and how great our guide was.

Accommodation and Food
Both locations were great. Our second location specifically was outstanding. Just so comfortable and big and even with what seemed to be a fully booked inn it still felt secluded and peaceful

Your Guide
Paul was so good and so much fun!! He did an amazing job accommodating us when I wanted to do the harder hikes when the others weren’t as keen. He was so very focused on ensuring we were happy and above all safe. We put our trust in him completely and took great care of us. Our “guest” guide Ian was also great and he’ll make a great permanent guide. Thanks to Paul this trip was outstanding from start to finish.

The Bottom Line
I can’t say enough about how amazing this trip was and I do hope I can do another. I will happily tell everyone about WS!

Read Full Review

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.

Read Full Review

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.

Read Full Review

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.

Read Full Review

Trip Comments
I think there could have been more exposure to the creative people on the islands including musicians, weavers, artists, painters and that would’ve added much to the experience.

Accommodation and Food
The shared accommodations on the island of Harris were difficult because there was only one bathroom to share and climbing the steep stairs at night was difficult.

Your Guide
Jillian was an excellent guide full of information and she was kind and helpful especially to those who needed more help.

The Bottom Line
In order to maneuver the large vans on small roads it is essential that they be equipped with a back up camera. I would also recommend in the preparation notes for people to have more hiking experience and walking before the trip. The excellent thing about this trip is that the hikes can accommodate most levels of people.

Read Full Review

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!

Read Full Review

Pre-Trip Service
I received very full and helpful answers to all of my questions.

Trip Comments
This was my first walking trip. I enjoyed being with a group of experienced walkers. Highlights were the view from Reuval over North Uist and the trip to Mingulay. I loved the sail round the island seeing the puffins and other nesting birds.

Accommodation and Food
All of the rooms were clean and comfortable and food was good in all 3 hotels.

Your Guide
Howard is an excellent guide. He gave me advice whenever I needed it so was clearly keeping an eye out for how I was getting on. I liked how we discussed options for walks each day before setting out and that he was able to make adjustments to cope with changing circumstances. I felt well looked after.

The Bottom Line
I came home feeling really relaxed and happy. This trip is one of the best holidays I’ve had. It was great being out in the fresh air all day. I enjoyed climbing the hills, including the parts where I needed to put in a bit of effort. Wilderness Scotland put together a well-paced itinerary with an excellent guide.

Read Full Review

Pre-Trip Service
Had some questions prior to trip and needed some advice booking train from Ft William to Glasgow. Staff was very helpful!

Trip Comments
I had very high expectations for this trip and all were exceeded. Great trip! Would highly recommend!

Accommodation and Food
Accommodations were better than I expected. Special highlight: Edencoille Bed and Breakfast in Kinlochlaven.

Your Guide
Loved Allen Wright! If I ever book another trip with Wilderness Scotland, I'd choose a trip that Alan was guiding.

The Bottom Line
I expected an amazing trip and I was not disappointed. This trip exceeded every expectation I had!

Read Full Review

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.

Read Full Review

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.

Read Full Review

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.

Read Full Review

Pre-Trip Service
I booked far in advance, and got a couple of emails in between asking me to update information. Honestly, those emails raised my "phishing" radar since I didn't expect them. Otherwise, all was good!

Trip Comments
The trip exceeded all of my expectations (and they were high already!). Tim was a marvelous guide, the West Highland Way was stunning and the accommodations were (with one minor exception) all very comfortable. In addition to being very knowledgeable about the route and about Scotland, Tim offered great advice and support for making a long-distance trek a relatively comfortable challenge. We had great luck in weather, but we also loved having the walk coincide with the West Highland Way race - it offered such great perspective to see those runners pass us as we walked down toward Kinlochleven after the Devil's Staircase - the leaders had been running since 1am and caught us up on our sixth day!

Accommodation and Food
I would recommend against using the Tyndrum Hotel next time. The rooms were not very clean nor very comfortable. Otherwise, we offer our hearty approval of all of the choices. We were generally comfortable, well fed and slept like the dead!

TEAM WILDERNESS RESPONSE:

Thanks very much for your comments. It's lovely to read that you found most of the accommodations comfortable, but we are sorry for your experience at the Tyndrum Inn. As I am sure you are aware, there are limited choices on the route, however we have worked with the Tyndrum Inn for a number of years, and feedback has generally been positive. Having said this, for various operational reasons, we have decided to change the accommodation we stay at in this location for next year.

Your Guide
Tim rocked this one. He offered us choice about how to spend our time whenever possible, offered expert advice and guidance, and taught us so much about Scotland and West Highland Way in a very short time. He was also unfailingly upbeat, which is all the more impressive given how long our days were! I think we all felt very secure knowing he had hold of all the details and all we had to do was take care of our feet and put them one in front of another.

The Bottom Line
This was an amazing trip and worth every last penny. Stunning scenery, a wonderful guide, great accommodation and food, and your only job is to walk and admire. What more can you ask for?

Read Full Review

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.

Read Full Review

Trip Comments
Everything was very well planned and organized and our guide was informative, flexible and fun. The accomodation was good and the walks and historic visits interesting.

Accommodation and Food
The hotel needs to improve the breakfast experience, but I've written directed to them.

Your Guide
Our guide was great! A good communicator, knowledgeable, relaxed and fun. Passionate about Scotland and his outdoor activities, and very good with people.

The Bottom Line
They really go the extra mile to ensure you have a positive experience.

Read Full Review

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.

Read Full Review

Pre-Trip Service
The frquency of emails was perfect - every note was important and reminders were perfectly timed. They were full of content, easy to read and PDFs were beautifully designed.

Trip Comments
Just fabulous - we had two wonderful guides (Lorraine and Will) who were calming and skilled. We loved the Trees for Life visit - Doug was impressively knowledgeable and welcoming. The trip prepared is for the hiking we did later - I felt far more informed about eco and human history.

Will’s willingness to find a more interesting route back on our third day was much appreciated and the trek down the hillside in the bracken was a distinct highlight. He was imperturbable but caring, adventuresome, but protective. I enjoyed his comfort with the terrain and his genuine appreciation of his countryside.

The trip to Glen Africa was mesmerizing - the scenery glorious.

Our last trip included a visit to a cafe in the woods - yet another highlight.

I enjoyed the weather - sun, wind, rain - the companunpf fellow hikers (among the friendliest of all hiking companions), the food (original and tasty), the lodging, the guides. This is the third hiking trip we have been on - and hands down the very best.

Accommodation and Food
Beautiful and homey - very comfortable rooms and fabulous food.

Your Guide
See previous note. They were simply superb. They both stepped in at the last minute and were marvelous. Friendly, calm, knowledgeable, they engendered confidence and brought both skill and humor to marvelous hikes. Great personalities, both.

The Bottom Line
The best trip we have been on - we really have nothing negative to offer. We would do this again without hesitation.

Read Full Review

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.

Read Full Review

Trip Comments
Gill is an amazing guide with a love of nature & her country. I leaned so much about the history of Scotland, geology, plant & animal life on Skye. She quickly adapted to our preference for dining early by moving dinner reservations. She also quickly assessed the physical capabilities of our group & adapted the daily routes. Food & accommodations were all superb.

The Bottom Line
Final verdict: I LOVED the trip! I will return in hopes of another adventure in Scotland with Gill.

Read Full Review

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

Read Full Review

Pre-Trip Service
I had to change the dates of our trip and your people could not have made it more simple. Any question was answered very quickly.

Trip Comments
Everything was so well thought out with back up plans in place in case of weather issues. One of the highlights was meeting a Highlander, wearing a kilt, up on the moors. He smiled at us as he passed and said “Bonnie day!” It was so perfect I accused our guide Lorraine and Wilderness Scotland of having staged it! Each day seemed to be better than the last and they were all magnificent.

Accommodation and Food
We were pleasantly surprised at the size of our room and bathroom. Having a nice size bathtub to soak in after a long hike was wonderful. The staff were very friendly and the food very good.

Your Guide
Lorraine was a complete pleasure. She took very good care of everyone, had lots of information along the route and had a great sense of humour. We laughed a lot this week!

The Bottom Line
This is my 2nd trip with WS. I enjoyed the first trip so much I returned and brought my husband. I loved Orkney so much I would happily sign up for the same trip again.

Read Full Review

Accommodation and Food
Tyndrum accomodation was bad. B and Bs were terrific!

Your Guide
Alan was one of best guides we have had. Conscientious, flexible, and fun!

The Bottom Line
The size of the group (10) was perfect!

Read Full Review

Trip Comments
Incredible trip. The walks were just spectacular and the setting at the lodge at the end of the day was just what was needed for my tired legs and lungs.

Accommodation and Food
An amazing lodge. Full of history, beautiful decor, and the most friendly and helpful staff. It truly felt like home away from home.

Your Guide
Tim was so helpful to me. This trip was personal challenge for me and he was attentive and encouraging. He provided great information in a timely way, and shared options that allowed the group to address any needed changes in the itinerary. He was hugely informative about the history and ecology, and shared great tales. I loved his sense of humor and he always had a positive attitude. I would love to tour with him again. What a positive start to my adventures with Wilderness Scotland.

The Bottom Line
So memorable. Stunning vistas, challenging walks, great tales of history and information about the ecology.....I'll be back.

Read Full Review

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.

Read Full Review

Accommodation and Food
Hotel room excellent - meals average and service willing but slow.
Manager seems disinterested!

Your Guide
Professional, knowledgeable across broad spectrum of plants, birds, and archeology / history. Always willing to check his facts. Serious about safety - necessary on the cliffs during gales. Strong motivator - very engaged! Excellent time-keeper.

The Bottom Line
Remarkably well balanced group mixture - age wise and as walkers.

Read Full Review

Your Guide
Susie was the perfect guide, knowledgeable, super organised and efficient.

The Bottom Line
One of my best holidays ever. Highly recommend this trip to the Outer Hebrides.

Read Full Review

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.

Read Full Review

Pre-Trip Service
Appreciated that you kept me on a waiting list and contacted me immediately a space became available on alternate dates.

Accommodation and Food
Accommodation per sae if fine given the remote location but it drying facilities could have been better (having it within the shower room resulted in slow drying and damp atmosphere) and guest towels musty from the outset and needed to ask for replacements which we got - but also musty.

The Bottom Line
Great fun - despite the dire weather (yes, I know the West Coast has 4 seasons in a day :) - all due to the excellent hosts, guide who made us believe that horizontal rain is actually what we wanted and fun fellow hikers. Scottish scenery never fails to inspire.................

Read Full Review

Pre-Trip Service
Quick, simple, easy to navigate on website. I have already registered my disappointment at receiving a final payment letter when I had already paid.

TEAM WILDERNESS RESPONCE:

Thanks for your feedback about this. The email you are referring to is an email we send to everyone travelling with us to check in with them about their upcoming trip. It also acts as a balance reminder but does state to ignore that part if you have already paid your balance which you had done.

Accommodation and Food
Superb. Loved the views, the breakfasts, the spacious room, the heater, the nice linen, the bookshelf downstairs.

Your Guide
Sarah was superb - she maintained a happy, friendly, professional and encouraging approach throughout the week, even when it was difficult to make plans that suited each one of us.

The Bottom Line
A wonderful week of challenges, breathtaking views, occasional tricky weather, friendship, fun and laughter, and excellent food.

Read Full Review

Pre-Trip Service
All my questions were answered very quickly and very kindly. When looked after by 2 different people there was perfect follow-up between them.

Trip Comments
Summary = 6 days on perfect happiness in heaven ! Even the weather was cooperative! I understand this trip is new and this was the first trial. Huge success!

Accommodation and Food
Kinloch lodge was exceptional as a base. The decor was a bliss to my eyes, flowers in every commun room, toiletry products, bedding, all excellent.
Initially when I read we would have to share bathroom, I thought this is far from ideal for a “luxury trip “ but I have to admit that this was not at all an issue. Such a level of perfection together with kindness and thoughtfulness of Liz, Marina, Angela and Ernst, I really felt like the “Lady of the Estate”.
There is only 1 thing I would improve = provide a box of tissue in every bedroom.

Your Guide
Tim was very attentive / considerate to our safety with the help of Rupert in trickier situations.
He listened to every one of us to understand our objective and likes/specifics.
Tim also went out his way to provide for our wishes (e.g. hot tea at lunch picnic, music/dance in a pub one evening)
He was very knowledgeable but right balance for me as he didn’t not try to push it on you.
I found him Very considerate and helpful when someone in the group was struggling more than the others.
I particularly enjoyed the perfect balance to let us go ahead when no risk with clear rules (visibility “I need to be able to see you”)
At last but not least, he is lots of fun to be with with a great sense of humour.

The Bottom Line
Before I do this, let me give a word about Rupert who accompanied us to take pictures/films. Athough with us to tell the trip story / take pictures, Rupert was always ready to help and support Tim on the more challenging parts of the hike (Seal island for ex). Before the trip, I was wondering how this filming would go but I must admit this added an additional pleasure to the whole experience. Rupert is extremely kind and considerate when taking pictures. Felt i was filmed/photographed by a friend. And btw, love the pictures he took of us. They reflect perfectly the “joie de vivre” that was shared by all the members of our hiking group.
so in a nutshell, as I said in introduction, one perfect blissful week of hiking in wonderful and varied landscapes with a wonderful group of people which I would have loved could never finish! Icing on the cake being Kinloch Lodge and its wonderful and always responsive staff.

Read Full Review

Pre-Trip Service
I didn't make any of the arrangements but read the information sent and arrived at the start following only your instructions and was well prepared

Trip Comments
Our guide Gordon was very knowledgeable about a wide a range of subjects to do with Scotland and its history. We had an intellectually strong group and despite many attempts could not stump Gordon.

Accommodation and Food
Accommodations were great. An opportunity for improvement is to be aware of some of unusual dietary concerns such as GF and no dairy. I realize these trends may not have reached the Argyle Peninsula.

Your Guide
Gordon needs to brush up on certain types of wire fencing. Suggest reading the 1873 Joseph Glidden patent.

The Bottom Line
My wife and I had an excellent experience with Wilderness Scotland. It was the perfect balance of location, the guide and fellow guests.

Read Full Review

Trip Comments
Excellent guide, good lodgings and food, beautiful hikes.

Accommodation and Food
Uig Hotel particularly stood out for its great accomodations and food!

Your Guide
Very helpful to everyone in the group. Went over and beyond. Great information details. Kind, considerate, and above all patient.

The Bottom Line
Great way to experience Scotland. Fabulous guides and WS takes care of all the details. All you have to do is sign up.

Read Full Review

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!

Read Full Review

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.

Read Full Review

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.

Read Full Review

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!

Read Full Review

Pre-Trip Service
I liked the fact that I could send email with questions and get a quick response. What could be better: the "chat-bot" approach leaves something to be desired - I tried the chat once and got no real help.

TEAM WILDERNESS RESPONCE:

Thanks so much for your feedback. We don’t use chat bots at all, only real people during office hours. Out of hours you there is an option to leave a message which will be picked up by the team the next day.

Trip Comments
Our guide (Rosie McKenzie), the folks in Doune, and our fellow travelers were all wonderful people. We were so fortunate to be "thrown into" a group with such great chemistry. Knoydart is an amazing place and we'll never forget the places we visited.

Accommodation and Food
The food was FANTASTIC!! The beds and baths were comfortable but, of course, somewhat rustic (which was to be expected). Minor point - the wifi was up while we were there but internet access was not.

Your Guide
I always felt that Rosie M. cared about us and wanted us to have a great time. Her knowledge of Knoydart, Scotland, nature, etc. is very thorough and she shared it readily. She also was very watchful of group members who tended to fall behind (I was one of them) and made sure they were OK. What could be better: the meaning of phrases such as "a wee ascent" or "a wee bit boggy" is lost on those of us from across the Atlantic. The fun-meter tended to nosedive on the off-path portions of our walks (more on this later).

The Bottom Line
When I think back on my week in Knoydart and the surrounding islands, the only real negative is the terrain. We read the trip dossier carefully and were completely on board with the mileage and climbs (although we were somewhat intimidated by SGURR COIRE CHOINNICHEAN, 796M and would have opted out of that climb if offered). We also made sure we did a couple of training hikes in the North Georgia mountains every month in preparation before out trip. But our efforts could never have prepared us for the "wee ascents" and "wee bogs" we encountered (and I'm smiling right now as I write this - rest assured). That's one of the things that makes Scotland so wonderful - the land is so BIG!
I think you'll have two general types of hikers that sign up for this tour: 1) folks who really want to scale those beautiful summits and glory in the accomplishment and 2) those who want to amble about this gorgeous country on long walks that don't involve steep ascents or off-path terrain (I belong to group 2). For example, I don't regret my climb up Roinn na Beinne at all - but I wouldn't do it again on a bet or to please an old school chum.
Perhaps there could be a "Full-on Knoydart" adventure for the over-achievers and a "Knoydart Lite" for the rest of us? For example, the climb up An Sgurr could be the big push for the week for the lite trip and other walks could be those such as the low-level walk across Rum to the beach at Kilmory or the 17 km trek from Doune to Inverie by way of Airor and Inverguseran (Note: near Iverguseran I believe we could have crossed that river, stayed on track/path and the walk would have been even more fun than it was! There's risk involved in any walk in this wild country - I could have twisted/broken my ankle in a hole I stepped in off-path (hole depth was up to my knee) so an injury fording the river was not more likely, in my opinion.
All that being said - the final verdict is that my trip to Knoydart and my experience with Wilderness Scotland are definitely 95 out of 100!! I would go again in a heartbeat - and I would certainly be wiser next time around <grin>.
Thank you so much for an amazing experience!

Read Full Review

Pre-Trip Service
The web site has all necessary info. The only 1 thing that could be useful to mention is if the B&B does provide complimentary toiletry (shower gel and shampoo) or we need to bring our own. Not a big deal but useful to know!

Trip Comments
Despite the bad weather we had (the worse I had on my holidays in the past 30 years! Nothing we can do about it though!) I did enjoy all the walks we did. I am sure we didn't follow the itinerary mostly because of the weather but who cares! I always do trust and rely on the guide and Mark was fantastic in suggesting very good walks to make the most of our time out there!

Accommodation and Food
Cosy, warm, clean, welcoming, remote and beautiful B&B. It was very hard to leave in the morning when rain was pouring outside! On one occasion I was very tempted to stay in with a good book! Mary was very lovely and her cooking was 10/10. Only 1 'negative' if I may say: I had a room on the ground floor (I am not a fan of ground floor I am afraid!) with view on the car park (not a fan of this either!) and so I couldn't open the curtain and window all week -for privacy. Living in a city I do love to have a better view when I go on holiday! Apart from that it was perfect.

Your Guide
Mark was fantastic! We were not lucky with the weather unfortunately and Mark was excellent in suggesting alternative walks that we could still do. We managed to walk every day thanks to him. He was very accommodating, flexible, friendly, energetic and patient. Great walks and itinerary. I would love to have him again next year on my next trip!

The Bottom Line
Great walks, great guide/driver, great B&B host, great group, love everything about this trip -except the weather! This was my 2nd trip with Wilderness Scotland, and I will book with them again next year, not only for the places/tours/scenery but also because they only do small group (8) which does make the trips even more enjoyable. Big thank you to Mark, Mary, the lovely people in the group and the team at Wilderness Scotland.

Read Full Review

Trip Comments
Excellent trip ... well thought itinerary and combination of culture and nature along with the walking

Accommodation and Food
Just loved Lynnfield ... very restful

Your Guide
Tim is a first class guide. He spends time orienting one which is helpful and he had a very good knowledge of plants and the local history. He made lots of effort to include little extra visits as well.

The Bottom Line
Well I keep going ... have now done 4 trips!

Read Full Review

Trip Comments
The scenery in Assynt is spectacular and very different from anything else in my experience. The guest house accommodation was lovely, with excellent breakfasts and responsive, kind hosts. The weather was lovely five out of seven days, okay on one day, and only one day was really rainy and windy. The guide, Keith, made the trip great.

Accommodation and Food
Comfortable, clean, good hosts, lovely setting.

Your Guide
Keith really made the trip great. He’s flexible, understood our abilities, extremely knowledgeable about the area, well organized, kind, and very good at managing groups of people with differing levels of ability successfully. I learned and saw a lot—-flora, fauna, geology, conservation policies, mountaineering, etc.

The Bottom Line
Wonderful!

Read Full Review

Trip Comments
Challenging, but worth every step ! Stunning scenery, good food, nice lodgings, and most of all : lovely people. We had a lot of fun along the way.

Your Guide
Tim just made everything easy and cool. He’s very thoughtful and supportive, has a bright sense of humour, so we all had a lot of fun together. Thanks for being such a great “drover” !

The Bottom Line
One of these things you’re just must experience once in your life !

Read Full Review

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!

Read Full Review

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!

Read Full Review

Trip Comments
Highlights: the longest walk thru varied vegetation-- glen, then up around cliffs to Old Man of Hoy, then down to boulder-covered beach. It was all spectacular! Then a stop to look at the eagle's nest-- which we were not able to discern. Actually, each day was just wonderful. We learned a lot each day about the plants, birds, landforms, etc from Pete Grant.

Your Guide
Pete was very knowledgeable about the flora and fauna of the areas--as were other members of the group. Me-- not so much! So I learned a lot, while enjoying great walks. The archaeology was fantastic.And we lucked out with guides at each site-- Pete seemed to have a nice relationship with all of them, which we benefited from.

The Bottom Line
We cross the Atlantic a couple times a year for travel in major cities on our own-- our interests are art, architecture, design, and walking, and we don't do group trips .

This trip was selected mostly to get us outdoors and away from Washington DC's heat and humidity (and endless news cycle) in mid summer. And on that count, the trip was a great success. But being away from urban environments was unexpectedly delightful and we learned more and saw more than we anticipated. The ability to be outdoors and in these varied natural places, while being able to return to luxe hotel room/excellent dinner-- that was the winning combination for us. My husband and I feel like it was perhaps our best trip ever!

Pete didn't compose the group-- but it turned out to be just delightful, and he "handled" us very well! Everyone was quite fit and up for the more vigorous options in terms of walking. It might not have been as fun if a group were held back by folks who were unrealistic about their ability to walk distance and mild grade changes. But lucky for us, that was not the case. Pete was very responsive to anyone's request, he solicited our input about options, and gave us positive reinforcement to continue good group behavior--like punctuality! So, there really were not any problems.

We are looking at the Shetland trip for next summer.....

Read Full Review

Trip Comments
I really enjoyed the trip to the OuterHebrides

Accommodation and Food
Very comfortable accommodation, great views
So important that a dry room was provided

Your Guide
Mark Cox is a superb guide
Always cheerful and enthusiastic
Hard trip for him as planning was difficult due to to the high winds making higher points almost inaccessible

The Bottom Line
Great trip in a wonderful location with really comfortable accommodation, a fantastic guide and a nice group to go on holiday with

Read Full Review

Pre-Trip Service
Straight forward and generally helpful

Trip Comments
A great holiday

Accommodation and Food
I think you will have heard already how great the accommodation in Doune is....

Your Guide
Kirsty is an extremely good guide - great people skills and held the group together

The Bottom Line
Fantastic

Read Full Review

Pre-Trip Service
Office staff were very helpful. Good information provided, especially around things to bring. The grading was a good indicator on the level of difficulty and therefore the fitness required for this trip

Trip Comments
The whole trip was amazing so it is hard to pick out highlights. To start with we had a lovely group of individuals who got on well and made the week really fun.
Successfully climbing the munro, Ben Hope, was a personal achievement. We spent an hour at the summit in the sunshine just admiring the fantastic scenery all around us. The trip on the zodiac along the north facing coast was remarkable. The calm sea on that day allowed us to sail close to the cliffs and into the sea caves. Cape Wrath was special too. There aren't many calm days when you can stand on the cliffs at the lighthouse there just enjoying the view. We were so lucky with the weather, just perfect throughout the week.
This trip really does take you to a wilderness with the most dramatic and stunning scenery. I hadn't expected this part of Scotland to be so beautiful - & I'm a Scot!

Accommodation and Food
A beautiful lodge set in lovely surroundings. The rooms are tastefully furnished and all bedrooms have a wash-hand basin. Our hosts, Mairi and Blair, were charming and made us so welcome. All the staff were great and so cheery.

Your Guide
Craig was an excellent and very knowledgeable guide. He was flexible in managing our programme to suit conditions and to ensure we had the best experience. The North Highland roads can be a bit of a challenge, but we always felt safe with Craig driving.

The Bottom Line
An amazing trip! Stunning and dramatic scenery in real wilderness Scotland and a programme designed to give you the best experience of it.

Read Full Review

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.

Read Full Review

Pre-Trip Service
I had regular contact with Bridget Brown before the trip. She answered all questions promptly and was very helpful. The extensive information in about the itinerary, equipment list, etc. was also appreciated. I think more information on fitness levels would have been useful. Our Ben Hope day, while exhilarating, was more challenging than what I understood Level 4 to be.

Trip Comments
Well, having said that Ben Hope was more challenging than expected, "bagging a Munro" was definitely a highlight. I also really loved our day walking by the beautiful beaches and across the fields of sheep - the driving rain that came in the afternoon was fortunately at our backs and only added to the "special Scottish feel" of the day.

Accommodation and Food
Everything about Kinloch Lodge was wonderful. The staff there were consistently helpful and friendly, the rooms were gorgeous and comfortable and the food excellent.

Your Guide
Tim Willis was our guide, and he was excellent. He paid great attention to all aspects of the trip and followed up with each of us regularly to ensure we were doing well and enjoying ourselves. He worked hard to take care of each day's details so that things would run smoothly, and was fun to boot. I had one specific recommendation one day and Tim followed up on it within the hour.

We had the bonus of having the trip photographer Rupert Shanks along and he, too, was helpful and a lot of fun. Rupert shared many of his beautiful photos with us, certainly adding to my library of shots from the trip.

The Bottom Line
I would highly recommend a trip with Wilderness Scotland. Everything on our North Highland Coast tour was first class - the scenery was gorgeous, the accommodations outstanding and the people we dealt with, from the guide to the folks in the office, were wonderful.

Read Full Review

Pre-Trip Service
When planning our trip the Wilderness staff were incredibly helpful. They gave great information that helped us select the perfect trip.

Trip Comments
Ali was an amazing guide. He chose terrific hikes that worked as well as possible with the weather. For each hike the retrained varied which made for an incredible weeklong experience. The pointers and support Ali gave helped me emensely to overcome some apprehension I had about the challenges nag trails.

Accommodation and Food
The accommodations on Skye were terrific. The accommodations on Harris did not meet our expectations. We had no problem sharing a suite with two other lovely travelers and getting to know them better. However, getting to visit with all the travelers in a common lounge area would have been better. With that option we would not have had 4 people sharing one bathroom. In addition, though the hotel was very nice about taking our clothes to dry and/or wash and dry, a working washer dryer (as the others in our group had) would have been preferred. Had we booked this room on our own and found that we had a shared bath and a broken washer/dryer I believe the hotel would have compensated that in some way. I hope they did that for Wilderness Scotland.

TEAM WILDERNESS RESPONSE:

Thanks for your feedback. Delighted that you had an excellent trip, 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
Ali was a fabulous guide. He was knowable about history, geography, wild life, plants, and all the rocks! He was always interesting to listen to.

The Bottom Line
Excellent!

Read Full Review

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.

Read Full Review

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!

Read Full Review

Pre-Trip Service
Everything was great.

Trip Comments
I loved the B&B’s.

Accommodation and Food
Great

Your Guide
Very personable and knowledgeable

The Bottom Line
Great trip, great people.

Read Full Review

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.

Read Full Review

Trip Comments
There is so much to see and enjoy in Orkney - history, natural history, scenery - and this trip gives the chance to experience most of the highlights, but in a relaxed way. I would say that this is not a trip for walkers wanting to stretch themselves. However, as a walker myself I came away feeling that if we had spent more of each day walking then we would have missed out on the huge number of other Orkney experiences, so overall I feel the balance of activities was a good one.

Accommodation and Food
I loved the characterful hotel we stayed at. The food was good and the staff were helpful and friendly.

Your Guide
Lorraine was a delightful and extremely competent guide (and driver!) In a relaxed style she was alert to group members’ needs and expectations and made sure that as many of these as possible were achieved. (Birds don’t always appear on cue!) Thanks, Lorraine!

The Bottom Line
I loved this trip and would very happily do it again sometime - there is just so much to enjoy. Orkney‘s rich history gives much food for thought. But I also think back on a relaxing holiday with a fun group of people and lots of laughs.

Read Full Review

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).

Read Full Review

Pre-Trip Service
Bridget was very helpful and great sorcere for informatiom, from my initial inquiry then guiding through the booking process. My husband was also given valuable information links to book my train tickets, accommodation. Nothing was too much even if it may have seem trivial.

Trip Comments
"I was so apprehensive at the binging but thrilled an over joyed to have gone on the trip. Our guide Keith was outstanding : knowledgeable, friendly, safety- conscious, and had great sense of humor. Has motivated me from day one till the trip finish as this one was my first hiking tour. Can’t wait to book an another one..

Accommodation and Food
All individual accommodation needs were catered for.

Your Guide
The words inspiration and motivating best describe Keith. Keith has many other exceptional qualities

The Bottom Line
“Outstanding service from the initial booking to the end of the trip” Try it even if you’ve never walked furtter then your local park, it’s beautiful.

Read Full Review

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!

Your Guide
Rosie was the best. She went out of her way to make sure everyone was getting the most out of their trip.

The Bottom Line
Fantastic. I can’t wait to go on my next Wilderness Scotland trip. They never disappoint.

Read Full Review

Pre-Trip Service
We really didn't use the website very much as most of the material was sent to us by our Travel Agent, so we just used the links.

Accommodation and Food
The hotel was very good - very traditional with very good food. The service was slow, but this gave us time to share stories around the table and get to know each other better.

Your Guide
Mark Cox was a knowledgeable guide in history, geography, flora and fauna and provided a great mix of historical sites and gorgeous walks with stunning vistas. He also had an abundance of stories. He was very consultative and took the interests of and the safety of the group in mind in all decisions. He was also a lot of fun.

The Bottom Line
Walking on the Orkneys was an excellent way to see the islands. We took in several islands, travelled by ferry, mini-bus and taxi to get to them and interacted with locals on many occasions. The walks were full of natural and historical sites with a nice balance between the two. We were never rushed - there was plenty of time to stand and stare and enjoy the gorgeous views and wild life, while listening to interesting stories from our guide.

Read Full Review

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.

Read Full Review

Pre-Trip Service
phone and emails answered promptly with good advice

Trip Comments
Guides -David and Billy were knowledgeable and experienced so felt very safe in their hands-particularly their local knowledge of where to eat in the evenings!

Accommodation and Food
lovely views-good to be outside Ullapool. good space in room and lovely breakfast

Your Guide
both were an asset to Wilderness Scotland. cheerful, dedicated to giving us a good and memorable week .

The Bottom Line
Great weather which always helps, very much looking forward to our next trip with Wilderness Scotland

Read Full Review

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

Read Full Review

Pre-Trip Service
The communications were very professional and helpful. I had a few questions that I asked over email and chat and received prompt, thorough answers.

Trip Comments
I was a bit concerned about the day with the long mileage, but that ended up being my favorite day. It's a long day, but the scenery more than makes up for it. It was wonderful to have all afternoon to walk through the rolling hills and moors (we lucked out with good weather and rainbows).

Accommodation and Food
The B&Bs were all excellent. The hotel in Tyndrum wasn't up the same standards as the other places we stayed.

Your Guide
Alastair was an excellent guide. He managed a large group of differently paced walkers very well, and always let us know what to expect each day. He was very knowledgeable about the landscape, history (both human and natural), and the flora and fauna we passed, plus whisky recommendations.

The Bottom Line
Overall this was a really great trip. The WHW is a great option for people looking for a trip with slightly longer mileage and time spent walking. It's fascinating to watch the landscape change as you move from the lowlands to the highlands, and once in the highlands the scenery is simply splendid.

Read Full Review

Accommodation and Food
Room big enough to MOVE about, window in the bathroom, windows could be opened, good shower, very clean.
Wonderful view.
Very quiet.
Excellent breakfast.
Exceptionally friendly staff.

The Bottom Line
This was my third trip with Wilderness Scotland - and more are on my love-to-do-list.

Read Full Review

Pre-Trip Service
I thought the trip was perfect. It needs to be mentioned that I didn't hike but once because of age and inability to keep up. (I don't like holding anyone back, which is inevitable for me as things are now.) So I lived vicariously through my relatives reviewing the walks for me. I either stayed in or near the van or at the hotel depending on length of time of each hike. It all worked out for me.

Hotels: better than I was expecting
Food: same
Guide: couldn't be better. So patient, knowledgeable and sensitive.

Trip Comments
I am in my 70's and pretty much deciding not to travel as much as I have done over many decades. However, Scotland's landscape is alluring so I am not sure I will hold to my decision. My favorite part of the tour was simply being outdoors: breathing the air, seeing the plant and animal life up close, being in awe of the knobbly hills, the ever-changing sky and water. I loved it. Interestingly, and uniquely, I cannot compare the Scottish landscape with any others I have seen anywhere.

Then, I enjoy eating with others, which we did every night. Always, fun. Good food as well.

I thoroughly enjoyed the visit to the distillery, not something I was drawn to on paper.

Accommodation and Food
We stayed at two hotels, both good and both different from each other. In each case the staff was warm and friendly, the food very good, the rooms comfortable and cheery to be in. I have no complaint or advice about either of them. In fact, I applaud WS for finding such good accommodation. Both had water views from the rooms. I live where there is little water so those views were something a relished.

Your Guide
I cannot really weigh in here since I barely did the hikes but being around Andy on the ferries and in the restaurants and through conversations in the van he gets my highest recommendation. He is knowledgeable, and such a genuine person. I am sure he gets high marks all the time. He had a lot on his plate with this tour since five of us are related. He had to be witness to too many family dynamics and family chronicles. If you have extra pay for dealing with extreme hardship on any of your tours you might consider shifting some of it his way!!!

The Bottom Line
Outstanding in every particular.

Read Full Review

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!

Read Full Review

Trip Comments
We were able to see various areas on the Isle of Skye and hiked several different terrains. The variety was wonderful!

Accommodation and Food
Great rooms and excellent service.

Your Guide
Our guide Lorraine, was phenomenal! She was very caring and did what ever she could to make our trip memorable. She adjusted the schedule to deal with changing whether conditions so we were able to experience all the hikes she intended us to. Couldn’t have asked for a better guide.

The Bottom Line
Amazing!!

Read Full Review

Pre-Trip Service
This is a fabulous trip. Accommodations were great. Alister was fricking amazing. His information on history and frankly everything else was stellar. A skilled guide who also knows where he is in history and physical descriptions of what the area was was as much a part of the trip for me as the hike. My buds on the trip were a blast. I was belly laugh8ng for most of the trip. Alister balanced a trip of all strong women who were not shy. God bless him I am coming back for another trip!

Trip Comments
Loved the gals in office as I was coming from states and the guidance for travel was the best I have had from an adventure company thank you Bridget

Trip highlights. I think this trip was perfect because it was a small group. Made it pure joy and I think made it easier as we stopped frequently to take photos and just really enjoy and speak to fellow hikers. Conic hill the fault and the crazy approach and wind was a surprise treat.

Accommodation and Food
Only one place that had no hot water was an issue alll other accommodations were great

Your Guide
Already commented. Loved Alister and would seek out a trip with him again. He does not over guide and true to control group. He gets his job done but let’s everyone enjoy everything. And his stories and experiences were so memorizing. I am so glad he was willing to share

The Bottom Line
Don’t hesitate book this trip. You will have an awesome lift experience

Read Full Review

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.

Read Full Review

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.

Read Full Review

Pre-Trip Service
always very prompt and honest over the phone they are not masking any niggles or mis-selling. What they say is what you get, a fantastic experience!

Trip Comments
The trip from start to finish was amazing - Each day in the Cairngorms was different and the expanse of space was wonderful. I especially loved the pine forests, they were so peaceful and the smell from the pines invigorating. Some really special had to be there moments like at Blair castle, hearing the bagpipes in the background as we entered the church ruins. The sun came through the window ruin and beam of light onto a tomb of Duke. that ray of sunlight with the bagpipes playing and birds chirping was lovely moment. I got lost in mediation most of the trip. From a person who is constantly buzzing away in my head this was total headspace and I loved it!

Accommodation and Food
Both accommodations where great and had great locations. loved both of them and the breakfasts were to die for - you wont go hungry here and expect to be delighted with the accommodation.

Your Guide
I NEVER give feedback, it just isn't my sytle. This is my third wilderness trip and this is the first time i've given feedback - why....because our guide was so AMAZING. Dave Greer is a true Scot with wild blond hair and long beard - he looked like a highlander as he greeted us with a warm smile and hearty deep laugh at the station. He was so welcoming, inclusive and great fun. He obviously LOVES Scotland and cannot wait to tell you stories of folk law, history, plants and fauna. I agree with him that the reason that the green loch is green is because that is where the fairies come to wash! Poetry was read and it captured the essence of this wild space which just hypnotized you with its beauty. Dave knew his would happen to us all and he enjoyed guiding us through the wonderful journey. Well done Dave - you definitely sell with passion what you believe in and a jewel in Wilderness' crown!

The Bottom Line
Great trip and one I will never forget for the right reasons. Thank you Dave and Wilderness Scotland!

Read Full Review

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.

Read Full Review

Pre-Trip Service
Your associate, Rachael, helped me select a trip, and was very responsive to follow-up questions. Prior to departure I had another question that was quickly answered.

Trip Comments
Riding back to the guesthouse every day, listening to Scottish music, luxuriating in a thrilling state of physical and spiritual exhileration.

Accommodation and Food
My room was terrific, beds were comfortable. Breakfasts were delicious, and staff was friendly and helpful. The only reason I'm not rating this higher is the lack of a common room for the group to congregate. There is a small front room, but it also has breakfast seating used by guests unaffiliated with Wilderness Scotland. Also, there's no place to dry wet clothing and boots.

Your Guide
Gordon Anderson is the gold standard! I can't sing his praises high enough, and I'm sure my trail mates all felt the same. He's astoundingly erudite, witty, friendly, organized and punctual. What a terrific ambassador for Scotland!

The Bottom Line
I have been on guided hiking trips with many operators to many places, including Patagonia, Peru, Mont Blanc and the Dolomites. I have loved them all, but never had a better overall experience than with Wilderness Scotland.

Read Full Review

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.

Read Full Review

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.

Read Full Review

Pre-Trip Service
Excellent support from the team. We particularly appreciated being assured that should earlier train delays mean that we missed the Mallaig train, the boat would either meet us off the later train (in the middle of the night!) or overnight accommodation would be arranged for us in Mallaig.

Trip Comments
I loved the variety of the walks, despite the weather constraints, and the superb scenery, wildlife and geology. Travelling around by boat was also fun.

Accommodation and Food
Simple accommodation but perfectly fine, and thankfully the hot water was endless!

Your Guide
Pete was an excellent guide (even if no otters appeared in the bay as promised on "Otter Wednesday"!). He took great care in planning each day's itinerary to make the most of Knoydart and the surrounding islands, despite the weather constraints, and engendered a great group dynamic. We all appreciated his knowledge of the flora and fauna, and always looked forward to his morning literary quotes, hot tips on bush-craft and 101 things to do with a bracket fungus ;-)

The Bottom Line
A great experience from the initial booking to the end of the trip. I am already looking forward to my next holiday with Wilderness Scotland

Read Full Review

Pre-Trip Service
I feel I was rather 'bounced' from one Glencoe holiday to another in Glencoe and then to the North Coast one .

TEAM WILDERNESS RESPONCE:

Thanks so much for your feedback. I’m sorry you felt like you were bounced between trips, that was not our intention at all. Unfortunately, the luxury Glencoe and the Highlands trip you had booked was not running so we wanted to offer you the North Highland Coast trip as a option so you didn’t miss out. It sounds like you had a good time over all and we can welcome you back on to your 13th trip!

Trip Comments
Personally I would prefer standard accommodation rather than 'luxury'.

Accommodation and Food
I'm just not 'luxury' person

Your Guide
Craig gave us a wonderful and varied experience.

The Bottom Line
My experience of some 12 trips shows how much I enjoy Wilderness Scotland holidays.

Read Full Review

Accommodation and Food
I was pleasantly surprised on how smoothly everything went throughout the trip.

Your Guide
Alistair was a awesome guide! He was patient and very knowledgeable about the route and surroundings. He seemed to take a genuine interest in each of the people on the trip.

The Bottom Line
I will highly recommend Wilderness Scotland to friends and family.

Read Full Review

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.

Read Full Review

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.

Read Full Review

Pre-Trip Service
Just great

Trip Comments
Great guide, great overall arrangements.

Accommodation and Food
Lovely places to stay.

Your Guide
The best glorious guide ever. Polite, well informed, funny with great sense of humour, diplomatic and good at reading people. Patient and flexible. I would have him as my guide in all of my trips.

The Bottom Line
I am so happy that i found wilderness scotland. You can easily feel that they are always doing their best and they can truly be trusted. I am looking forward to travelling with them again.

Read Full Review

Trip Comments
The trip was fantastic! The walking was challenging, but incredibly beautiful and I enjoyed the fact that we hardly saw another soul. I felt as if I were travelling though unspoiled terrain with guidance which was needed for navigation and interest. Andy our guide did a wonderful job of providing information about the history and culture of the Isles of Harris and Lewis as well as a wealth of information about the geology, birds and plants native to the islands as we walked and experienced them. I must say that in poor weather the trip would have been disappointing, but we were blessed with perfect weather. The Soval Lodge and the folks at the lodge provided superb hospitality. I could not have asked for more and the food was spectacular, a taste of traditional Scottish cuisine. I cannot express enough how much of a pleasure it was to be a guest at the lodge and the stunning location with spectacular views sitting in the sitting room in the afternoon for tea and cake and in the evening following dinner was truly special. I would say that those looking for walking on trails aught not to come on this trip, but I enjoyed this so much that I am considering coming on another trip rather than going to Eastern Europe in 2019. The professionalism of the trip and the company and the great organization and having everything included for travelers made a big difference. I have done self-guided walking tours in Ireland and was very disappointing as Wilderness Scotland set the bar for customer service and trip organization and accommodation very high. The trip was a huge value compared to the others I mentioned. I cannot pick one day or one walk as my favorite because they were all varied and interesting.

Accommodation and Food
FANTASTIC!!!! I cannot express enough how great the accommodation was. Mauri was an unbelievable host and cook and along with her helpers made us feel so welcome and at home. The food was exceptional. Richer than I am used to, but so very appropriate for the setting as I would have been disappointed to come to Scotland and consume California bird food. I liked that both land and sea food were provided and I felt the menu was varied. I do think that the lunch rolls were a bit excessive and just one roll would be fine. Giving people the option of the vegetarian or the left over would be nice as I felt I was wasting perfectly good food. I also think that having more chocolate and Stoat's bars for the trip would be good. We ran out toward the end. The choice of snacks was great though!!! Loved the chocolate and Staot's bars are amazing. I am trying to purchase them in the US. Soval's location is spectacular and Colin and the folks on the Gamekeeping side were exceptional as well. The accommodation is perfectly suited to the trip and I think changing to another location would be a big mistake. Having the place to ourselves also made it really special and allowed the group to bond more.

Your Guide
Andy was great as I indicated in previous response beyond knowledgeable and qualified. I learn extensively from him and felt that he was extremely experienced. I felt very comfortable and safe at all points on the trip

The Bottom Line
Great, great, great. The trip was fantastic from the customer service and seamless organization to the walks, the guide and the superb accommodation I would travel again with WS in a heartbeat and am planning to do so. This trip is not for those afraid to trek off trail, but is certainly worth the effort. I would take this trip again in a heartbeat.

Read Full Review

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

Read Full Review

Pre-Trip Service
Our guide Tim was excellent - extremley helpful, knowledgable, kind and caring which really made a differnece to the experience. Only real crtisism was that the packed lunches were generally pretty poor. No one wants to eat unhealthy white bread sandwhiches these days, everyome wanted brown and yet all hotels only had un healthy white bread. Would have preferred more walking and less sight seeing, but only a personal observation!

Accommodation and Food
I think it would have been much nicer to have stayed in the Isle of Barra Beach hotel as opposed to Castle Bay Hotel. Tim couldnt tell us why it had changed?

Your Guide
Truly excellent guide (Tim) - made the trip for eveyone really great!

The Bottom Line
Very weather dependednt (we were lucky). Great trip, well organised, brilliantly guided. Would definately come again and recommed to others. The Outer Hebrdies, on a sunny day, is definately one of the the most beautiful, unspolilt places in the UK...

Read Full Review

Pre-Trip Service
The online stuff is very efficient but a tad remote and I felt focused the consequence of any error to me.

Trip Comments
a swim in the Atlantic, the clearing of the clouds and a chat with an islander

Your Guide
Andy did great - we were quite a challenge at times. Professional.

The Bottom Line
Overall experience was great. It was a relatively expensive holiday for me. Hence could not recommend to all my friends.

Read Full Review

Pre-Trip Service
No matter how big or small the question they were ready to help answer it.

Trip Comments
The beauty of the scenery I saw while hiking was incredible! I loved the Zodiac ride and coastal hike that ended at a beautiful beach. Hiking in the pouring rain and having 2 inches of water in my boots is also a memory of this adventure I will treasure.

Accommodation and Food
The accommodations were clean and comfortable. The staff was friendly and warm always ready to help.

Your Guide
My guide Tim made sure all our needs were taken care of. He made the hiking interesting with his knowledge of the area as well as plant life. Also he had all the answers to my questions regarding the history of the area. We had some rainy days but we were never disappointed Tim always had a back up plan. He also knew the best places for after our hike to take a break relax and talk about the day.

The Bottom Line
It took me 5 years to reach my goal of visiting Scotland and I am so glad I did that with Wilderness Scotland. The hiking was incredible and I met the most wonderful people. I want to say Thank You for a magical experience.

Read Full Review

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.

Read Full Review

Pre-Trip Service
All excellent. So useful to have the equipment list and all the details on the website.

Trip Comments
Every day was amazing. From the first day walk from the lodge to explore the landscape to walking to Sandwood Bay and visiting Cape Wrath. I was particularly excited to do Ben Hope and to have so much time at the top to savour the splendid views. The ‘long way’ route back down added another layer to the day. In a week of highlights the rib trip along the coast, into caves and to an island abandoned in 1930s was spectacular and also very poignant. Great walking all week in a fascinating landscape.

Accommodation and Food
From the moment we met Mairi and Blair at Kinloch we knew they were the perfect fit for this most beautiful lodge. They and all the staff were so friendly and welcoming, insisting we see it as our home, which we did. Their attention to detail was seemingly effortless. It was a joy to stay there. The food, the wine and the ambiance were amazing and made our stay at the lodge also a wonderful part of the experience.

Your Guide
Craig was exceptional, with his great sense of humour, stories and in depth knowledge. He judged each day perfectly and adapted the itinerary expertly to enhance and extend our walks. He also really enjoyed ensuring we had very many ‘wow’ moments and created a great team spirit amongst us all. He was a pleasure to get to know and have as our guide.

The Bottom Line
Fabulous, a stunning trip. One which will always be in my mind’s eye.

Read Full Review

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

Read Full Review

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.

Read Full Review

Your Guide
Gill was excellent in every respect. A very competent and pleasant leader of the group, who knew the area and the walks very well indeed. She was also a very competent and safe driver - we had full confidence in her.

The Bottom Line
An excellent holiday in every respect

Read Full Review

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.

Read Full Review

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 :)

Read Full Review

Trip Comments
Van was comfortable. Food was delicious.

Accommodation and Food
Nice accommodations. A good value.

Your Guide
Nice personality.

The Bottom Line
Great value.

Read Full Review

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.

Read Full Review

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.

Read Full Review

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!

Read Full Review

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.

Read Full Review

Pre-Trip Service
Before booking it was good to talk through the trip with member of staff. The staff had good knowledge of the trip and were able to answer all of our questions.

Trip Comments
There was a good balance of walking, seeing archaeological sites and flora / fauna. The onsite tour and talk by the archaeologists at Ring of Brodgar,the Swandro dig and Maes Howe were all excellent in putting the history into context. I also appreciated having the time (and weather!) to explore the flora and fauna on the walks.

Accommodation and Food
The staff at the Lynnfield hotel were all friendly and helpful. The bedrooms were very comfortable as were the lounges, dining and bar areas.

Your Guide
Peter was a great guide: Very knowledgeable of the islands' history and traditions. He made a point of talking to each member of the group and drew them into conversations with others. He also encouraged people to share their knowledge and experiences of "The Great Outdoors".

The Bottom Line
This was a fantastic trip with a good balance of archaeology, walking and seeing the flora & fauna of the islands.

Read Full Review

Pre-Trip Service
I like the website. Easy and well documented. I also liked the email communication. Timely and too the point. All I needed was there, well explained.

Trip Comments
I liked the care which was extended. It was very noticeable to me that the guide really wanted to make us have an enjoyable time. He listened and understood our individual needs and successfully worked towards meeting them.

Accommodation and Food
The first hotel we stayed in was very basic. I expected a few levels up in terms of cleanliness, bathroom amenities, basic comfort and charm. The second hotel was better in that regard but the service was a very poor and had poor to no wifi connection in the bedroom.

TEAM WILDERNESS RESPONSE:

We are glad that you clearly enjoyed your trip, although we were concerned to read that you were disappointed with the first accommodation and that the service provided at the second was rather poor.

We generally receive very positive comments regarding the Uig Hotel, and use them on a number of our trips. However we will continue to monitor feedback to ensure that they are meeting our usual high standards.

Please be assured that Jane (WS team member who joined the trip) has provided us with specific feedback regarding the service issues on one evening at the second accommodation, and we are in the process of following up with them directly to ensure that this does not happen again.

Your Guide
Wally was a super attentive, responsible and well informed guide. I felt supported by him on the trip and he clearly cared for all of us. I would happily travel with him again!

The Bottom Line
I really enjoyed my walking trip to the Isle of Skye. Wally (guide) and Jane (Sales representative) did everything possible to make us feel comfortable and happy. They really cared and expressed this in many ways. Their willingness to help and sort whatever needed was remarkable to me and made all the difference. Thank you! The Isle of Skye is gorgeous and the beauty of the place is evermore accentuated if the people you travel with reflect that same beauty. I would definitely recommend Wilderness Scotland to my friends.

Read Full Review

Pre-Trip Service
Quick responses, detailed feedback, answered the questions we had

Trip Comments
Our Guide, Cory, really made the trip for us - he was great fun, kept the group dynamics going, was really informative on so many different aspects and just made the trip a really memorable one for us
The Lodge we stayed in was excellent
The Scottish weather was very kind to us providing so many amazing photo opportunities - who knew Scotland had such wonderful beaches!

Accommodation and Food
The Lodge was perfect - it was the cleanest place I've ever stayed in - from the kitchen to the bathrooms and bedrooms
The food was fabulous
The staff were super helpful and friendly

Your Guide
Cory was a star - such a great guide - fun, informative, felt so comfortable with him and knew that he was keeping an eye on everyone no matter their ability. He kept us going with all his stories and chat and we laughed a lot. Only sorry he can't join us on our next trip...

The Bottom Line
This was such an excellent trip - all aspects of it - the group we were with, the guide we had, the weather we had, the accommodation and food, the walks and other adventures - all in all it was just perfect - thank you!

Read Full Review

Pre-Trip Service
I booked very last minute and this was handled very efficiently.

Trip Comments
The highlight for me was to climb up onto the Cairngorm plateau on a beautifully clear day and be able to see all the surrounding peaks which John was able to name for us

Accommodation and Food
Very comfortable room with no single supplement. Spacious communal areas and garden. Good, well prepared food.

Your Guide
John Walker was an excellent guide and ensured that everyone made it to the top which I very much appreciated.

The Bottom Line
If you have a dream to visit a part of Scotland covered by Wilderness Scotland, then do not hesitate to book with them, you will be well looked after

Read Full Review

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❤️

Read Full Review

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!

Read Full Review

Pre-Trip Service
Chantal was so prompt replying to my pre-booking questions and provided helpful information to decide which trip would best suit us and also to decide about travel connections. Jane was quick to sort out the payment when there was a glitch with my credit card. It's a pleasure working with cheerful and competent people!!

Trip Comments
Too hard to sort out one highlight.

Accommodation and Food
We couldn't have wished for better accommodations, and the gracious host, Marion, at Coig na Shee was so warm and welcoming. Top notch!

Your Guide
I learned so much about Scotland's great outdoors thanks to Gill's vast knowledge and enthusiasm! I appreciated her energy and sense of humor as well as taking time to point out details about everything from tiny plants to towering trees. I would have missed so much had I been alone. The bits of poetry provided a nice time for reflection during a break. She's also a very proficient van driver which is no small task considering the narrow twisty roads and crowded parking places! Thanks again, Gill, for an in redible trip!

The Bottom Line
Anyone looking to get out and experience Scotland's spectacular countryside should book a trip with Wilderness Scotland. The guide will help you get the most from your surroundings while keeping you safe, and the accommodations and food are top notch! Thank you Wilderness Scotland for exceeding our expectations!!

Read Full Review

Pre-Trip Service
Prompt and clear responses to emails

Trip Comments
The varied topography, scenery, and wildlife of our "Great Wild North" trip offered a good introduction to walking in Scotland. Our guide, Ken Keith, was excellent as was the food.

Accommodation and Food
Coul House, our first accommodation, was excellent in every way -- a really magical place with fantastic people. Glencansip Lodge was very good rather than excellent. I liked the lounge and "honesty bar" and the breakfasts were super. Our room also had a great view. Dinner, however, was mediocre and the rooms are only aspirationally "luxury": they get some elements, but others are 2nd-hand-store-chic.

Your Guide
Ken Keith was fantastic. He was quite attuned to the varying needs of the group and particularly kind and considerate to the one somewhat older member of the group. He was also extremely knowledgeable and chose excellent walks.

The Bottom Line
The "Great Wild North" tour is a fabulous introduction to walking in Scotland with a great mix of forest walks, western highland hikes, views, and waterfalls.

Read Full Review

Pre-Trip Service
Wilderness Scotland answered every email promptly and thoroughly— all questions answered with a smile

Trip Comments
Couldn’t wipe the smile off my face all week; even Storm Ali didn’t dampen my spirits, rather afforded an opportunity for a spontaneous adventure of another sort! Thank Goodness for Guide Allen’s expertise and good humor!

Accommodation and Food
EdenCoille Guesthouse was a highlight!

Your Guide
Allen was a real prize!! He was so informative, good natured — fun! — and really dealt seamlessly with some unexpected obstacles (train disruption at Queen Street, Storm Ali, Kingshouse detour) — and he sang a moving song about Glencoe atop the Devil’s Staircase to applause from other hikers as well — all in all, three huge cheers for Mr. Wright!

The Bottom Line
From the very first interaction, Wilderness Scotland has been top notch — this trip was my first experience with a guided hike and I’m ready to do it again and again and again; this may have been my favorite holiday ever!

Read Full Review

Your Guide
Excellent in every respect

The Bottom Line
Excellent

Read Full Review

Pre-Trip Service
Bridget was very helpful by keeping me informed about the status of the trip; answering questions about gear etc. She was always very pleasant.

Trip Comments
I don't know if you will ask this question later but, Dan was fabulous. The accommodations were good (lunch could have used some forks for salads or, told us to bring one), the itinerary was really nice.

Accommodation and Food
Lunch was the only mediocre part. I am not big on sandwiches and would have preferred salad but forks were not available.

Your Guide
Dan was great. He is knowledgeable and kind. As far as the latter, he made us all feel comfortable. I never once felt like I was too slow or clumsy. And we all laughed and teased each other a lot.

The Bottom Line
It was a dream trip for me and it has made me want to continue walking and hiking.

Read Full Review

Pre-Trip Service
It was all good and easy so I don’t think that it could be bettered.

Trip Comments
Every bit of the trip was great. There were lots of highlights. The many great views for a start.

Accommodation and Food
There was only one accommodation that let your side down and that was the Tyndrum hotel. It needs a lot of updating. It also did not feel very clean.

Your Guide
Tim Willis was an excellent guide. His knowledge of history was superb and he delivered it with accuracy and humour. He is an asset to your team.

The Bottom Line
Fabulous- I can’t rate this trip highly enough. I would highly recommend it. It definitely exceeded my expectations. I loved it.

Read Full Review

Trip Comments
This trip was an absolute delight. The scenery was lovely, the walks were varied and interesting, and we had a chance to see stunning, less-traveled parts of Scotland. The hikes on Jura, Kerrera, and Gigha were particularly memorable with gorgeous views at every turn and so few people. Walking around Finlaggan (the ancient seat of the Lordship of the Isles) was magical and our final hike on the Oa Peninsula of Islay included a perfect picnic on a sheltered cliff above the ocean. All of this was made even more special by the great chemistry in our group. We had such fun! Everyone was warm, enthusiastic, and a good sport—and it made for a fabulous trip.

Accommodation and Food
The accommodations in both hotels were very comfortable. The Loch Melfort hotel has lovely views and the rooms are well designed to accommodate hikers with boot trays & storage hooks for gear. The Port Charlotte hotel is charming; the bar and living room areas in particular are full of character.

Your Guide
Gordon was an outstanding guide. He has a great sense of humor and deep knowledge of the areas we walked. He was organized, flexible and a lot of fun. His kindness and enthusiasm in sharing this special slice of Scotland made this trip a pleasure.

The Bottom Line
Argyll and the Isles was a terrific trip and I heartily recommend it.

This was my second Wilderness Scotland trip and (as on the first trip) I was so impressed by the guides. They are outstanding and set the organization apart. We usually travel on our own; these are the only organized group trips we’ve taken. On both trips we were privileged to experience beautiful places we were not likely to have found by ourselves.

Wilderness Scotland trips are something special & we hope to be back.

Read Full Review

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.

Read Full Review

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!

Read Full Review

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.

Read Full Review

Trip Comments
excellent guide, wonderful locations and congenial company

Accommodation and Food
loch melfort hotel had difficult locks on the bedroom doors; v poor showers

port Charlotte hotel was v comfortable and welcoming

Your Guide
Alan was patient, friendly, extremely well informed about all the historic sites we visited and a great guide on all our walks.

The Bottom Line
The islands we explored were so different from each other and I was surprised they felt so remote. it was a wonderful, restorative week. If I weren't already booked on two Wilderness Scotland holidays next year, I would have to see to that immediately
so as to cope with the sadness of a great holiday's coming to an end.

Read Full Review

Pre-Trip Service
The website made it clear that all questions welcomed and when I did email questions they were answered quickly and completely

Trip Comments
The trip was as we expected and as advertised. The highlights for me was certainly the wilderness experience....nature without crowds of people

Accommodation and Food
I think the accommodation was what we expected, clean and in good condition
in excellent locations and with great views out our window !

Your Guide
Wally is clearly a very experienced very competent very affable mountain guide.
He worked very hard on preparation to ensure he knew all details of the route and the history.

The Bottom Line
We really enjoyed our week. Having Jane along was a real bonus, both for her happy disposition and being able to chat about life in Scotland .

Over the years we have been privileged to see some beautiful places in the world

with a variety of Outfitters. Wilderness Scotland is a world class operation of which you should all be very proud

Read Full Review

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.

Read Full Review

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.

Read Full Review

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.

Read Full Review

Pre-Trip Service
Good communication in a timely manner

Trip Comments
Accommodations wonderful and guide very knowledgeable about area

Accommodation and Food
Wonderful staff very attentive

Your Guide
Very knowledgeable and very attentive to all the group

The Bottom Line
Nothing to complain about. Excellant in are key areas.

Read Full Review

Pre-Trip Service
Having the single supplement available when booking would make the process simpler

Accommodation and Food
Something in town would be great, or with all rooms being withviews, I much appreciate wilderness Scotland’s efforts to rectify this for me though

Your Guide
Paul was a whizz, great fun, great route guidance, cheeky on making every walk sound shorter though!

The Bottom Line
Bravo, the attitude of the company re:sustainable produce through to walks while being super fun is fantastic. Great to be apart of.

Read Full Review

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.

Read Full Review

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.

Read Full Review

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)

Read Full Review

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!

Read Full Review

Pre-Trip Service
just a little pushy at times but all info required was willinglyprovided

Trip Comments
Would have been even better with finer weather and absence of a cold virus that quickly overtook everyone in the group; this increased the effort required to undertake and appreciate some of the outings.

Accommodation and Food
Comfortable bed and sittting room; one possible improvement would be to up-grade the showers.

Your Guide
Adam consulted the whole group concerning options, led us on a sensible choice of outings and supported each individual well. In no aspect did his walk leadership fail to impress. His partnership with Andy was successful. His social interaction and provision of information was at just the level for the members of this group. A+

The Bottom Line
A well-designed trip that was effectively delivered; quality was high but so was the price; many of my walking colleagues might baulk at the cost.

Read Full Review

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!

Read Full Review

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.

Read Full Review

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.

Read Full Review

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.

Read Full Review

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.

Read Full Review

Pre-Trip Service
Having never been on an organized trip before, I found Bridget to be very helpful. She responded to my questions and gave me answers to questions that I hadn't thought of yet. The confirmation e-mail was very clear with all the information clearly stated. I did appreciate the video explaining the different route gradings.

Trip Comments
Our guide and the people that I walked with were fabulous. We had a lot in common and so conversation was never a problem. I grew up in the prairies so climbing Suilven, Star Pollaidh, and Quinag were highlights for me. The encouragement and help to get to the top was so appreciated. The views were nothing that I have seen before. Oh.... the accommodation was fantastic. The food was plentiful and delicious..

Accommodation and Food
The choice of accommodation in Ullapool was fantastic. The rooms were comfortable and extremely clean. The hosts were so helpful and accommodating. The breakfasts were delicious!

Your Guide
Keith was a fantastic guide. He had a diverse group of individuals but he managed to ensure that we had interesting hikes everyday. He was a wealth of information about the area and animals. Keith was so kind, and encouraging. An excellent guide.

The Bottom Line
I loved my Wilds of Assynt trip and will absolutely book another trip with Wilderness Scotland!

Read Full Review