Walking Holidays Scotland

Pre-Trip Service
Great trip! ; leader had a diversified group and made it accessible & enjoyable for all.

Trip Comments
Great trip ! Leader had a diversified group and made it accessible & enjoyable for all!

Accommodation and Food
Accommodation vey good and representative of Scottish hospitality !

Your Guide
Our trip was quided & although there was an unavoidable change she was very knowledgeable, great with our diverse group and fun to be with!

The Bottom Line
Based on my experience I totally endorse Wilderness Scotland as a go to company

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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....

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

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

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

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

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

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Trip Comments
The trip was full of variety and benefited from an excellent guide.

Accommodation and Food
The hotel was comfortable and the food outstanding.

Your Guide
Craig was extremely knowledgeable regarding the history and archaeology and had a wicked sense of humour which helped a disparate group (British, American, Australian and Belgian) to blend very well.

The Bottom Line
This was one of the best holidays I have ever been on. The combination of physical and mental exercise was highly stimulating.

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

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

Accommodation and Food
See previous comment

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

The Bottom Line
Generally very good

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Trip Comments
Due to almost perfect weather conditions the trip was clearly less demanding than I had expected it to be.

The Bottom Line
Great experience!
(Would like to do the way from Fort William down to Milngavie some time in the future - always like to have a look from the other side :) !)
This was my second trip with Wilderness Scotland – and definitely not my last if I can help it!

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Pre-Trip Service
The pre-trip instruction about what to expect and equipment/clothing to bring was excellent. The adage, "there is no bad weather in Scotland, only bad clothing" is accurate. It rained every day and we loved it.

Your Guide
Our guide, Andy, was outstanding. Knowledgeable and fun. took good care of us. Good, safe driver too.

The Bottom Line
outstanding and met all our expectations. We will be calling again.

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Pre-Trip Service
I asked about parking in Inverness and was sent helpful information

Trip Comments
Climbing up Suilven was the highlight of the holiday. It was a wonderful day, sunny and clear, and the views from the top where awe inspiring.

Accommodation and Food
Lovely guesthouse with great breakfasts and friendly staff.

Your Guide
Very good, friendly personality and paced the walks well and listening to the group.

The Bottom Line
This is an excellent trip with wonderful scenery. Our group was very lucky in having sunny weather with no rain or midges whilst we were there. The walks all offer good views of the coast and surrounding scenery. The highlight of the week was going up Suilven and the awe inspiring views from the top. I had a wonderful holiday in beautiful scenery and a week I will never forget.

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

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Pre-Trip Service
I prefer circular walks rather than there and back. There was only 1 circular walk - Isle of Scalpay... very good.

Trip Comments
good guide and group of people prepared to get along with each other and of course - the HEBRIDES themselves AND in good weather what luck!

Accommodation and Food
STEIN Inn could do with some better mattresses
Pop UP and Community CAFE excellent additions to the rather stodgy food at the Harris Hotel - not many vegetables in sight or indeed a salad. Very Scottish

Your Guide
Gill gauged the tempo of the group well - very slow which suited all. Pleasant and patient

The Bottom Line
A good experience of the Hebrides, suitable for all

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The Bottom Line
Excellent service, guides, accommodations, food, and lovely walks. It was the first time I have left the planning up to others and the result was a thoroughly enjoyable trip. Thanks to Rosie, Al, and the Wilderness Scotland staff.

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Pre-Trip Service
I asked for advice on hotels and immediately got a list. Our luggage was lost on by the airline and one call to your office helped me figure out when and where we could have it delivered.

Trip Comments
Ken Keith was simply a fabulous guide. Knowledgeable and quickly adapting the hikes and drives to accommodate varrying interests of different people without ever inconveniencing anyone.

Accommodation and Food
The Lynnfieldnin Kirkwall was great. Staff was friendly and Malcolm, the proprietor, was an absolute gem. Not only did he recommended great whiskey and wine at affordable prices, but Malcolm also went out of his way to drive to the airport to pick up some luggage without ever being asked. The hotel lobby area was also a delightful place to sit and read, or talk, or share a wee dram. But never any pressure to drink. In sum, a great hotel with a warm feeling in a nice location. Only possible improvement would be new mattresses but Malcolm keeps the place so comfortable that I am sure our mattresses was an anomaly.

Your Guide
Ken was the best. Knowledgeable, friendly, accommodating, and considerate of everyone's comfort needs. Ken made the trip memorable and special.

The Bottom Line
This was a 60th birthday trip and it was very special. We took our three adult daughters. We had an absolute blast! Beautiful scenery with a great guide. Great balance between education and exercise and relaxation. I would recommend it to anyone, whether traveling with family, solo or even a romantic getaway. Ken Keith, or guide made the trip special and facilitated an environment that made all of us feel like old and dear friends with our companions.

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Pre-Trip Service
Very straightforward

Trip Comments
The whole trip was amazing, lucky with the weather, great group of people and our excellent guide Pete. Great mixture of walking, stunning scenery and history.

Accommodation and Food
The Hotel was great, 400 different whisky's! Lovely large rooms and very friendly. The places we are at were all excellent, special mention to Skerries Bistro at the Tomb of the Otters, amazing. You don't starve on these holidays!

Your Guide
Pete was a kind gentle spirit, determined that we all had a great time. Took the effort to get to know us all, lovely sense of humour. Was very safely conscious, especially apt given we were peeking over numerous cliffs! An absolute pleasure to have him guide us for the week...thanks Pete

The Bottom Line
3rd trip with Wilderness Scotland, all brilliant. This was a fantastic holiday. The scenery, people, hotel, food, history, walking,weather and of course our guide Pete were top class. Thanks once again.

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

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

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

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

The Bottom Line
Challenging but highly worthwhile.

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

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

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

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

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

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Pre-Trip Service
Everything was perfect!

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

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

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

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

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Pre-Trip Service
Nothing to add - everything from info on your homepage, from calls and e-mail contacts was excellent. You even took the time to give advices on hotels and transportation before and after the hike.

Trip Comments
Rosie McKenzie is an amazing guide. She took the hike to a new level based on her knowledge, experience and fantastic personality.

Accommodation and Food
Accommodation and included dinners all OK but lunches, with just sandwiches and some fruit, got boring after a couple of days so to combine them with salads would have been better.

Your Guide
Rosie McKenzie is an amazing guide. She took the hike to a new level based on her knowledge, experience and fantastic personality.

The Bottom Line
A great memory and an excellent way to learn to know more about Scotland, its people and history.

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Pre-Trip Service
Clear, easy to navigate

Trip Comments
Helen was very informative and knowledgeable. A great balance of friendly, fun and firm when needed.

Accommodation and Food
Accommodation was quite modest (2 star? on several occassions) - for the not inconsiderable price of the package (West Highland Way). Breakfast was always good despite bedroom facilities. I believe dinner (e.g., £15.00) every night should have been included. Surprised we paid for all but two meals in the evening - again given the price we paid.

TEAM WILDERNESS RESPONSE:

Thank so much for your feedback, accommodation on the West Highland Way is limited but we do only use accommodations that are 3 star or more. I know a few of the accommodations you stayed in were 4 star guest houses so I am surprised you didn't like them. The accommodations are usually in older, traditional buildings so the rooms can be smaller than modern hotels but I am glad you enjoyed breakfast. Dinner is not included every night to give you a bit more freedom and allow you to choose one course or 3 courses depending on how you are feeling.

Your Guide
Helen Marsden was a central part of the great safety we felt and the overall experience and fun we had. Thank you. Cathy.

The Bottom Line
Wonderful. Great way to experience Scotland's mountains for the first time.

TEAM WILDERNESS RESPONSE:

Sounds like you had a fantastic trip overall and hopefully we can welcome you back to the Highlands soon.

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

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

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

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

The Bottom Line
Excellent, thankyou.

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

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

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

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

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Pre-Trip Service
all the information provided were clear and detailed

Trip Comments
The experience was fantastic. I loved every moment, the spectacular views, the great company and food and our guide Mark was very professional

Accommodation and Food
during the trip, every place where we have dinner, the food was amazing, especially in Harris. I've really appreciated dinners in Scalpay and with Cris (the Flavour) at his house.

Your Guide
Mark is a great guide, very patient and professional. He gave us a lot of different information about everything

The Bottom Line
I really enjoyed my time spent in Scotland. everithing

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

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

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

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

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

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

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Pre-Trip Service
I thought I might be contacted a few days before the trip to make sure I had everything I needed and was in fact still going! Just a courtesy call. I realise once I had booked and paid your job was done!

Accommodation and Food
I think the accommodation was great considering what we were doing!

Your Guide
David was an excellent guide. There were a few from around the world! He was very patient with the slow ones, one of which was myself! I just wanted to enjoy the walk and not rush!

The Bottom Line
I think I would definitely choose to have single occupancy if you are travelling alone. It was a bonus to have bags transported from a 2 b and once on the trip everything is organised so you can relax and enjoy the experience.

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

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

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

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

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Pre-Trip Service
The pre-trip emails and information on travel gear, etc came in a timely fashion and follow-up on questions were the same.

Trip Comments
All of it! From to point to point the change of topography, scenery, trail and sometimes lack thereof made experience that I would not soon - if ever - forget.

Accommodation and Food
Some of the accommodation was better that other, likewise the food. I suppose that is nature of a point to point walk. Kudos to the Hawthorns, the Rowardennan hotel, Clachaig Inn and Edencoille.

Your Guide
Helen Marsden is an exceptional guide. Her knowledge of the area and walk was outstanding. She was keenly aware, observant of and attentive to all members of the walking party which made for an individualized experience. She enjoys guiding and that transferred over to the group. She is quirky in the best way and she helped me to more efficiently use my poles. Two thumbs UP for Helen!

The Bottom Line
This was my third trip with WS and I enjoyed all of the trips. The guides were all experienced and knowledgeable. The accommodations and food were average to excellent, but I that I put down to availability. I keep coming back because of the people and customer/guide service. The people in groups have always been exceptionally amiable and great to be around. Shout out to Keith M., Helen M., and Rachael G.

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Your Guide
If there was rating higher than excellent, I would give Laura McAuley "excellent plus." She has the unique set of talents it takes to be an outstanding guide: exceptional skills, intelligence, knowledge, personality, thoughtfulness, sensitivity and a genuine love for what she's doing. Not to mention that she did a great job driving that big van. Laura really put it all together for us.

The Bottom Line
Excellent itinerary, great weather (thanks!) and an exceptional guide. All in all a terrific experience.

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

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

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

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Trip Comments
Our guide, Ken, was fabulous. He was very knowledgeable and took us to the most beautiful places on Orkney.

Your Guide
Ken was extraordinary.

The Bottom Line
Wonderful experience. I can't wait to come back to Scotland again on another Wilderness Scotland trip.

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Trip Comments
There was some communication misunderstanding early in the trip, but this improved.

Accommodation and Food
Most accomodations were excellent given the remote locations. The Tyndrum Inn was a bit disappointing.

Your Guide
Helen did a great job considering the overall situation. She worked with us to make the best of our abilities.

The Bottom Line
Due to the shear overall distance, elevation changes, and lack of any time off, this is a tough trip. You need to be well prepared for it and have the right equipment. This is not a 7 day walk, but 7 days where most are challenging in some way or another.

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Pre-Trip Service
Jane was big help in advising us on getting to the Jacobite steam train and then again when the ending got changed.

Trip Comments
We were finally able to get to the Outer Hebrides while leaving the planning to Wilderness Scotland.

Accommodation and Food
Hamersay House was excellent. Polochar Inn had a very small room. Castlebay Hotel was better than anticipated. Where was that linoleum? The food was generally very good.

Your Guide
Dave did an excellent job. The group was basically half fast and half slow, but he managed to keep everyone happy and within sight of one another. I liked his detailed knowledge and explanations with the maps.

The Bottom Line
If you wish to get to walk in a remote island atmosphere I would highly recommend this particular trip. I am also impressed with Wilderness Scotland as the trip provider.

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Pre-Trip Service
We needed to change from a bike tour to a walking tour. The staff were very helpful in figuring out what we could do within our time and other constraints.

Trip Comments
Our guide was the best! John was very enthusiastic, knowledgable, and patient with us. He was also great at reading the group and figuring out what we'd want to do and helping us to get there.

Accommodation and Food
Callater lodge had wonderful breakfasts and hosts. The rooms were beautiful and comfortable, although the shower in our room was so tiny it was hard to move once in it - a minor issue. The homemade treats left in our room each afternoon were a great surprise. Coig na Shee gave us a bit more space in our room (and a shower that one could turn around in), but less of the personal touch (no home baked goods). The main (and minor) negative of Coig na Shee is the lack of a common area for guests to gather and sit/chat. Overall, both were fantastic.

Your Guide
See previous comments, with notes about the guide. John is fantastic. HIs enthusiasm for the area, the history, the mountains, is contagious. He really made the trip for us.

The Bottom Line
If all trips with Wilderness Scotland are as great as this one, then you cannot possibly be disappointed.

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Pre-Trip Service
Everything was fine and liked the meeting time.

Trip Comments
Trip was excellent I pariculary liked the experience of our tour leader Ken.. he did justice to the trip and picked excellent hiking and walking daily. The lodging was also great.

Accommodation and Food
No improvement necessary.

Your Guide
Ken was excellent+ I had a fantastic time along with the others on the trip including my wife Mary

The Bottom Line
Fantastic time hiking, walking and being treated with great food especially in Scalpay ad with Chris and his wife at Flavour

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Pre-Trip Service
All required information was available in an quick and easy manner.
I had a few additionnal questions which were answered to very swiftly and in a very friendly way that I really appreciated.
So in a nutshell, very effective and friendly!

Trip Comments
I liked that safety was taken seriously from the start as I have been used to "safety first" in my career !
The trip fully met expectations with :
- a wonderful guide, Peter, who made every effort to accommodate our hiking styles and our wishes incl. my wish for scone & cream at Bridge of Baldgy!
- we had a mix of challenging and less challenging days that pleased everyone in our little group. I specially enjoyed the extra challenge of Grey Mare's tail falls :)
- everything works smoothly without a moment of wasted time.
- the Scottish landscapes are amazing and the choice of the walks make the best of them.
- the sailing day between from Oban to Glencoe was awesome and just unforgettable in many ways: stunning views, some history, the kindest skipper and icing of the cake, Pete waiting for us on Glencoe pier playing pipebag. An incredible souvenir!
- Hotel accommodations as a whole was perfect with only one wee low amongst many highs. Glencoe House is absolutely wonderful and way above my expectations.
- and last but no least the Scottish weather has been incredibly kind to us with no rain when we were outdoors! And in the series of not controlled by Wilderness Scotland, the midges left me alone. The use of Smidge and Avon Skin so soft worked perfectly in the couple of occasions we faced some.

Accommodation and Food
As I described in my general comment there had been a low point at Fortingall hotel which I will separately comment on but that was balanced by the overall experience at Fortingall Hotel and mostly by the incredible and unforgettable experience of Glencoe House where my bedroom was just magnificent with a view of the loch and its own fireplace (and I have already been very lucky and blessed to have had opportunities to travel in luxurious places so I believe I can assess accordingly!)

Your Guide
See in general comments.
Pete was wonderful. He made sure our heterogeneous group would be fully happy and safe. I appreciated that extra materials such as poles, Smidge or midge nets was available for those who had not everything. Always felt safe even in the more challenging conditions we asked him to provide for us who wanted a bit more challenge,
He was on top extremely kind to all of us, making sure we would have a really good time which I definitely had!

The Bottom Line
Amazing trip that was not only in line with the program but also met all my expectations and above! A truly unique experience with a great group! Perfect hikes in magical sceneries, lots of laughters and rest in great places!
Hope you can provide many more hikes of this quality to explore other places in Scotland or Ireland!
Heartfelt thanks for 7 wonderful days!

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Pre-Trip Service
Emails worked out, but sometimes phone (Skype to phone) was required a 2nd try to match schedules (time difference).

Trip Comments
(Caveat: I was moved from a level 2-3 Wilderness Ireland trip that didn't meet minimum numbers to this level 6 Wilderness Scotland in May. There wasn't another option as I had this trip between two other vacation segments. I consider "good" a fair outcome given the circumstances.)

TEAM WILDERNESS RESPONSE:

I’m glad you were able to join our Wilds of Assynt trip and enjoyed it despite it being a harder hiking trip that you had intended.

Accommodation and Food
The B&B alone is excellent - our hostess went out of her way to help. Lovely location and spacious rooms. Food ranged from good to excellent with Skylesku hotel standing out positively for food quality and location. The simple place we ate (part of Ferry boat inn??) on Wed, July 19 was also quite good.

Your Guide
I marked excellent and felt Gordon did a good job overall. (See caveat on overall trip.) Note for future trips of WOS: any guide who considers the alternate hike to Eas A' chaul Aluin (waterfall of beautiful tresses), please strongly encourage hikers to take 1-2 walking sticks. Stunning lunch location to side of the falls and an interesting (fairly difficult) hike. However, with a couple of stream fordings, steep parts, boggy parts, and a steep+boggy part right before the lunch break, a walking stick is (would have been) advisable.

TEAM WILDERNESS RESPONSE:

Thanks for your feedback. We are aware you were offered the use of hiking poles from the spares we carry in the back of the van but decided not to use them for this hike. We will try and make it clearer that poles can be very helpful when hiking, especially when the terrain is rough and try to encourage guests to carry them even if they don’t think they’ll use them.

The Bottom Line
The scenic beauty and having the support of an experienced and support guide (both hiking and all the details) is a real plus. These trips go away from the crowds (except maybe for dinner). This is my second trip - and would consider another in the future.

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Trip Comments
This was my first trip with Wilderness Scotland and to be honest I wasn't sure what to expect i.e would I be able to keep up? Would I get soaked to the skin every day? Would the blister plasters hold up? I need not have worried...the whole trip was expertly organised and the attention to detail was excellent. I did keep up, it only rained on one morning and the blister plasters did the trick!

Accommodation and Food
The Lovat...oh wow, what a fabulous hotel. The accommodation and food were very good and their customer service was excellent. I am gluten intolerant and the staff never forgot this, discussing my choices with me at every meal and adapting dishes where necessary. Oh and their gluten free cake - to die for.....

Your Guide
Tim was excellent and put in a tremendous amount of time and effort to make sure we all had a great trip. He was always upbeat and good humoured with a story to tell at just the right time to give us all a breather! He had an excellent knowledge of the local area as well as the fauna and flora. A real asset to your organisation.....

The Bottom Line
A fabulous experience from start to finish. Thank you!

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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!

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Pre-Trip Service
Fantastic food, great accommodation. Guide was very knowledgeable; we had rubbish weather (strong winds and rain) most days but he still managed to get us on great walks everyday and we all felt safe under his watch. We were extra lucky as we had a member of staff with us as a guest which gave the group more flexibility. Our group got on very well and we all had lots of fun. Highly recommended trip.

Trip Comments
Kylesku restaurant by the water- trying whisky and gin and sharing puddings after a great day on the hills.

Accommodation and Food
Food was fanstastic. The B+B provided an excellent breakfast to set you up for a day on the hills. Beautiful spot to stay.

Your Guide
Felt very safe in their hands. Brilliant knowledge of the area and we had a good walk everyday despite the weather.

The Bottom Line
Loved it. I'd do it again (but ideally not in the aftermath of hurricane Irmer!)

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Pre-Trip Service
Excellent, received all necessay info. It would have great to have also received info on the B&B (name and location so as to have a little peek!) and maybe the list of people booked on the trip -although only 8 so easier to remember all the names within a couple of days!

Trip Comments
Loved every minute of this trip: stunning scenery and beautiful walks. Some walks were quite challenging and long though so this could be difficult for some people. I did question myself whether I could do a few of them but thanks to our wonderful guide and group I did manage to do them all and enjoy them all!

Accommodation and Food
Perfect! Evelyn at the B&B was excellent, very helpful and had great recommendations on places to go. The B&B was very comfortable, clean and with stunning views. Food was delicious, fresh and plentiful. Loved the different places we went to eat. Great to have the choice and flexibility.

Your Guide
Andy was the perfect guide, I don't think we could have had better. Very caring, flexible, friendly, motivating and with a superb Scottish accent. He was always checking we were all ok and very accommodating with the choice of walks or places to go and eat. I would love to have him again on all my future tours!

The Bottom Line
First tour with Wilderness Scotland and not the last! I have already booked another tour for next year! Andy set the bar high so might be difficult to have the same or beat it (no pressure!) The group was also wonderful, with Andy they surely made that tour even more special. Loved everything about this tour and highly recommend it to all nature, wilderness lovers and walkers!

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Pre-Trip Service
Quick and friendly responses to my questions!

Trip Comments
Loved the variety of this trip. The history and magic of the Dunadd, scariness and fun of the Corryvreckan, cliff walking near the American Monument, beautiful gardens, trekking across Jura, and lots more. The Highland cattle right n front of our room at the hotel were a real bonus!

Accommodation and Food
Great to be in the same hotel for several nights. Our split of 4 nights and 2 nights was fine, 3 and 3 would also have been good because both hotels were so special.

Your Guide
Nothing but praise for our guide, Craig. He did a great job of accommodating the needs and desires of a fairly diverse group. I learned lots about the history of Scotland and he made me and my sister laugh like we haven't laughed for years!

The Bottom Line
Awesome trip - can't wait for the next one!

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Pre-Trip Service
Literally everything was great. The people, the friendliness, the care taken to make sure that (dietary, physical, medical) restrictions were addressed...

Trip Comments
Our guide was great and catered to our interests each day (was it rainy? Let's do a shorter hike and go see this cool archaeological site!) instead of being rigid. We also ended up having fabulous weather for most of the trip, so we got to see a lot of Scotland in the sun :) My personal favourite was the hike up to the Kitchner Memorial, when I glanced over to the field and saw dozens of rabbits. I've never seen so many bunnies together before! The scenery was stunning and Ken was always knowledgeable about everything we saw.

Accommodation and Food
The Ferry Inn was a highlight! That's the best fish and chips I've EVER had. Our hotel was wonderful, Malcolm was so nice and friendly, and went above and beyond what you'd expect from a hotel manager to make our stay great. The food there was great too -- though my personal favourite was the pavolva for dessert! I didn't love Lucano's but I have a very high bar for Italian food, so it wasn't actually bad. We managed to get in a tour of the Highland Park distillery and that was actually so fun and interesting (to see how the whiskey is made, *beyond* the whiskey tasting afterwards) that I would recommend it to future participants as the perfect end to a day of hiking.

Your Guide
Ken was AMAZING. So knowledgeable, so friendly, and so intent on making sure that everything was perfect for everyone in the group (despite our disparate interests, ages, and abilities). This was quite honestly the best tour I've ever taken, and most of that was because of our guide.

The Bottom Line
If I had to choose one word to describe this experience, I'd be hard-pressed to pick between "wonderful", "incredible", and "amazing". Such a great trip, and every single aspect was taken care of.

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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.

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Trip Comments
Our guide Craig was GREAT : most friendly, with a great sense of humor and outstanding historical knowledge. He brought us to wonderful hiking paths which were challenging but within our capacities, we always came back proud of ourselves and with awesome memories of outstanding landcapes! I particularly enjoyed the Quiraing (isle of Skye) and the view on top of Toe's Head (Harris Island) was magnificent!

Accommodation and Food
I ADORED Stein Inn on Skye island: outstanding seafood and fish, great atmopshere at the pub and bedroom facing the sea WOW. Harris Inn was quaint in a lovely way , we were treated to 2 gourmet dinners which were quite exceptional: one at a restaurant on isle of Scalpay and the other at a pop-up restaurant in a house. Chef had been trained in Glasgow and his food was delicious!

Your Guide
Our guide Craig was GREAT : most friendly, with a great sense of humor and outstanding historical knowledge. He brought us to wonderful hiking paths which were challenging but within our capacities, we always came back proud of ourselves and with awesome memories of outstanding landcapes! He even treated us to drinks after our hike to Toe's Head which was a bit challenging, as we did not wait for him and took a rather harder (mountain sheep) path!!

The Bottom Line
wonderful trip which allowed us to discover the exceptional beauty of the Scottish isles. Our guide Craig was most friendly and knowledgeable in history and also about safety on the paths. I highly recommend!

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Pre-Trip Service
Looking good.

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

Accommodation and Food
Coul House and Glencanisp Lodge were excellent!

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

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

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Trip Comments
Excellent long walks, hotels and Ken, the guide.

Your Guide
Excellent in every respect

The Bottom Line
Excellent in every respect

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Pre-Trip Service
Helpful and informative all round

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

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

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

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

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Pre-Trip Service
I 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.

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Pre-Trip Service
Prompt and helpful advice, especially when I struggled to open attachments in emails

Trip Comments
Lovely group, cosy and friendly accommodation, very competent and fun guide(s).

Accommodation and Food
What a lovely place at Ullapool, our host Evelyn made us feel so welcome, nothing was too much.
Choices of restaurants were great.

Your Guide
Both our guides were extremely comptetent, fun, engaging and knowledgeable. They had to be extremely flexible as the weather didn't allow us to stick to any firm plans. We still had a great time with lovely walks.

The Bottom Line
I have not been on a group trip before but am firmly planning my next adventure with WS.

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Pre-Trip Service
Personal contact and emails.

Trip Comments
Great locations and walks. Gordon was a great guide who always had interesting stories to tell.

Accommodation and Food
Uig hotel particularly good. Nice range of restaurants

Your Guide
Excellent knowledge and sensitive to the needs of the group. Obviously loves Scotland and walking and this enthusiasm was passed on.

The Bottom Line
Very good. Thank you.

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Your Guide
Peter was an excellent guide. He worked tirelessly to adjust the programme as necessary and to ensure we had a good time. He even devised a quiz and slideshow on our last day

The Bottom Line
Thank you for an excellent holiday and thanks too to the weather gods

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Pre-Trip Service
Prompt response to any/all questions...couldn't think of a way to improve the process

Trip Comments
Hiking awesome and challenging; loved the small group adventure!

Accommodation and Food
just perfect! Loved the meal in the couple's home - just exquisite and a wonderful way to understand the folks that make a home in these remote locations....

Your Guide
Very knowledgeable. A few times we lost sight of guide on the trail or some of our group lagged far behind...difficult to manage the varied comfort/skill levels.

The Bottom Line
It was stellar and I will join you again and have already told other hiking friends to look you up!

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

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

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

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

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

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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

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Pre-Trip Service
Website easy to navigate. details on every aspect of trip which was very helpful when planning my first hike

Trip Comments
Our guide Craig was awesome. I was a little nervous that I would be able to keep up but Craig was very intuitive to the whole team and planned days that could meet all the teams abilities. Craig's had an extensive knowledge of the history of Scotland and was able to share many stories and historical facts.

Accommodation and Food
The accommodations were great and the variety of food choices allowed something for everyone.

Your Guide
Craig was a great guide. He was able to assess the team members individually and planned each day to make everyone's trip successful. He provided some flexibility also, if here were special requests ( time allowing). Easy to talk to, humorous and very knowledgeable.

The Bottom Line
This was my first experience with a organized,guided trip. I would absolutely book another trip with Wilderness Scotland and will recommend it to friends.

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Pre-Trip Service
Customer Service is easily contactable and very responsive.

Trip Comments
We had an excellent guide, Ken, and a lovely group to travel with. Everything went very smoothly and the itinerary was varied and interesting. We were also lucky with the weather which allowed us to enjoy the stunning scenery even more.

Accommodation and Food
The food was great & very fresh. The fabulous lunch on the way to Orkney was a nice surprise and a great start to the trip!

Your Guide
Ken is a fabulous guide who clearly loves Orkney. His enthusiasm for everything Orkney (walks, history, wildlife, food) set a great tone for the holiday. He engaged with everyone in the group and was happy to share his extensive knowledge. Where feasible he adjusted the itinerary to suit people's particular interests.

The Bottom Line
We enjoyed our trip to Orkney immensely and would go again - on this or another Wilderness Scotland trip - in a heartbeat! This was our second trip and on both occasions we felt very well looked after.

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Pre-Trip Service
David was very helpful and phoned back promptly with information.

Accommodation and Food
The B&B was excellent. Evelyn was keen to help and a great source of local knowledge. Breakfast was delicious. The packed lunches were great and I always had leftovers as there was so much. The local restaurants we ate dinner in had a large choice and the food was delicious.

Your Guide
Andy did a great job with a relatively varied ability group. He discussed routes and suggested changes with the group and was always full of energy & enthusiasm. He chatted with all the group and was very friendly. He was also very knowledgeable about the countryside, wildlife & plants and if he didn't know something would find it out. I would definitely go on another trip with him as guide.

The Bottom Line
A fabulous trip with amazing scenery.

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Pre-Trip Service
I like the detailed itineraries and schedules, including distances hiked and elevation gain per day, also the photos and videos. Also the number signed up for guaranteed to go status for planning. No complaints.

Trip Comments
Guide was excellent, good pace & concern for the group's well being, keeping together, etc... Organizing alternative plans for when mother nature was feeling humorous. Excellent knowledge of flora & fauna, wild life and geology of region. Highlights are numerous, Slioch day (whole day and route), numerous wildlife (deer, goats, eagles, do sheep count as wild life ?) sightings, RIB ride, all summits. Exeprience the "real Scotland" on Beinn Ghobhlach, wind and rain. Numerous river/brook walks.

Accommodation and Food
I especially liked the ocean front lodging in Gairloch, watching dolphins from the dinner table. Sampling Scottish ales from both places.

Your Guide
Good knowledge of local flora, fauna, geology, peak names. Set a good pace the groups was comfortable with. Kept group together. Good at organizing activities, including alternatives during bad weather. Good company.

The Bottom Line
Excellent organization, check out web site to find an itinerary & schedule that appeals/works to you. Whatever you choose will be of excellent quality, based on my experience with the HPTRS program. Office staff very helpful with any question on the programs or Scotland in general.

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Pre-Trip Service
Whenever I rang the phone was always answered immediately and my queries satisfied!

Trip Comments
The holiday was much more than we expected, the Island of Orkney is full of history with great walks. Just the right number of walkers!

Accommodation and Food
The Lynnfield Hotel was great. My only concern was there was no notice in the entrance hall about walking boots. My husband and I took ours off and carried them upstairs and left on newspaper but I did notice others just tramping up stairs in boots, luckily we had mostly fine weather!

Your Guide
Craig was an extremely good guide, he knew the Islands well and the history. He was always on time!
He organised our days to suit everyone and managed to avoid the cruise ship hordes which I was a bit concerned about! We all mixed very well and had plenty of fun!

The Bottom Line
Loved every minute of this holiday, have already recommended you to friends!

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Pre-Trip Service
I was never able to get through to you on the phone. I kept leaving messages at the number you provided but never received a call back.


TEAM WILDERNESS RESPONSE:

Many thanks for your feedback, we always endeavour to answer calls and respond to voicemails in a timely manner. As the office is closed over the weekend it can sometimes be a couple of days for us to get back to you if you left a message on a Friday. We appreciate you letting us know that you had issues getting through to us and have taken this feedback on board, we are always striving to improve our pre-trip customer service.

Accommodation and Food
See my remarks in response to the previous question.

Your Guide
Pete Grant was excellent ++++!

The Bottom Line
I'm already thinking of joining a group next year and inviting friends to come with me.

TEAM WILDERNESS RESPONSE:
We are so glad to hear that you enjoyed your trip and we look forward to welcoming you back again with your friends!

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Pre-Trip Service
It was easy to contact you and the payment schedule was very nice; it made it affordable to be able to have several months to pay incrementally.

Trip Comments
This trip far exceeded my expectations! At first, I was hesitant because it was rather expensive, but after having gone on the trip I realise it was worth the entire amount. Everything from the beautiful guided hikes themselves, to our B&B (which was absolutely superb!) to the amazing food! I was so happy a to have such a variety of choices for dinner and that I was able to truly gain a sense of Scottish cuisine and wasn't forced to eat from a pre-selected menu. The lunches were also amazing considering how much energy we needed on the hikes. I honestly can't say enough about this trip. I travel a lot and do a great deal of different activities when I travel; this trip will certainly always be one of my most memorable, if not the most memorable. Thank you for making my time in Scotland an absolute joy!

Accommodation and Food
As stated in the previous question, our B&B was wonderful. It was so comfortable and the owner and staff were some of the best hosts I could hope for. What a pleasure to stay there, and what a beautiful location! The food was out of this world. I had no idea we would be given the choices of food that we were and that the food would be so delicious. It made this trip even better than I had envisioned.

Your Guide
I honestly can't say enough about our guide Tim. To say he was outstanding is an understatement. I realise that this is his job, but he was so genuine about how much he cared about our safety and our happiness that you could tell it absolutely meant something to him for us to have a good time. This was more than a job for him. He made us feel like a family and for eight people, with different personalities and being complete strangers to come together and enjoy each other's company in the way that we did is a testament to Tim as our leader. He was such a joy to hike with as well; he is so knowledgable about the terrain, the wildlife and hiking in general that we felt so comfortable and safe. I also very much enjoyed learning so much about Scotland and Scottish history. As an American, I don't get the chance to really learn the culture and history of such a wonderful country and I am so blessed to have been given the opportunity to learn it from someone who cares so deeply for his heritage. Tim was also so accommodating to our needs, especially when one person on the trip was not feeling well and had to stay back a day. He made sure she was completely taken care of and gave us updates throughout the day on how she was feeling. Finally, he was amazing at rearranging our hiking schedule to suit our needs, experience levels, while trying to maximise the good weather days we had. He ended up adjusting the itinerary a great deal as the weather patterns changed and we were so fortunate he did it; we had some of the best views I could have ever hoped to see. Again, I truly can't say enough about Tim. I have no doubt the trip would not have been the amazing experience it was had it not been for our very entertaining and experienced guide. Thanks Tim!!

The Bottom Line
This trip is a "MUST DO." Wilderness Scotland is by far one of the best adventure/travel companies I have come across. You will be guaranteed to have a truly memorable time. I'm so fortunate to have done this with Wilderness Scotland. Thank you!

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Pre-Trip Service
John, the willow tree, was a great guide and always helpful, knowledgeable and thorough in ensuring a wonderful Scottish experience. We were a fast paced group, compatible despite being mostly Americans - ha! I have recommended your trekking company to my hiking friends here in Colorado and thank you again for a wonderful trip!

Trip Comments
The trails were well marked and maintained, the hotels comfortable and well appointed, and the food was excellent.

Accommodation and Food
Lovely hotels and food. The B and B in Fort William at the end of the trail was welcoming with a lovely sea view. Every hotel was just different enough with friendly staff, great breakfasts, packed lunches and hot showers.

Your Guide
John made our trip remarkable with his stories, knowledge of flora and fauna, wearing his family kilt at our last dinner and making sure we had a better understanding of what Scotland us all about.

The Bottom Line
Coming from Colorado and hiking our mountains I was not expecting this trip to be much of a challenge. I was wrong as 96 miles over a weeks time, hiking in all kinds of weather, delighting in seeing the Highlands and the wild life made it one if my top overseas hiking trips. Thank you!

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

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

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

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

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

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Pre-Trip Service
Website and post-booking documentation was fantastic. Contained all the information needed to organize and book my trip. No contact was required with the pre-booking team.

Trip Comments
Truly an amazing experience I would not have missed for the world. Even when there were some accommodation issues (not the fault of Wilderness Scotland) Jen, our guide and the Wilderness Scotland Ops team bent over backwards to resolve the problem and I couldn't be more thankful.

Accommodation and Food
Accommodations were overall pretty good from standard hotels to quirky B&B's. Food was terrific with a wide variety of options from traditional Scottish fare to pub food and even a few multiple course meals. The occasional brief stop during the middle of the day at a tea house or route-side pub were very welcome.

Your Guide
Jen Roberts was beyond excellent. Any future group lucky enough to have her as their guide should consider themselves fortunate. Extremely knowledgeable about the route, the geography, flora and fauna, and the history of the area. Anything she didn't know off hand she quickly got back to us with answers on any number of subjects (many not relating to the route at all). Extremely personable and attentive to the needs of everyone in the group, Jen made it a point to spend one-on-one time with each group member every day.

The Bottom Line
The West Highland Way was everything that I hoped it would be from amazing scenery and a great hike to getting to know Scotland and meeting a really great group of people. If I have the opportunity in the future to do further travelling in Scotland I would not hesitate for a second in booking again with Wilderness Scotland.

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Pre-Trip Service
The several times I telephoned with questions, someone always answered and could give me exactly the answers I needed. Also, your equipment list and then trip reminder close in time to the trip were most helpful.

Trip Comments
Our group of seven hikers plus Rosie Mckenzie and then Al Goodridge were marvelously compatible. Both Rosie and Al assessed our hiking wishes and skills with tact!

Accommodation and Food
The food -- at the accommodations and at the restaurants chosen by Rosie and Al -- was the best (and I'm not gushing) I've had on any of my four previous hiking trips in the UK. Thank you for a generous food budget. It made for much satisfaction for the entire group.

Your Guide
Both Rosie Mckenzie and Al Goodridge (I hope I got his name correct) were founts of knowledge about the fauna and flora (and geology) of the Cairngorms. They were cheerful and organized and gave the sense that they could handle any emergency. Thanks to you for selecting them to substitute for Keith Miller.

The Bottom Line
I wish we had been able to climb right into the wild interior of the Cairngorms, but hiking into glens from north, east, south, and west was quite wonderful. Perhaps Wilderness Scotland could offer a pack horse supported expedition? (Loved the Glenlivit Distillery tour, too!)

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Accommodation and Food
Accommodations were wonderful, a couple of the vegetarian lunches were not so great

Your Guide
Liam was great, always happy and patient with all of us. Very knowledgeable and had great stories.

The Bottom Line
Excellent. Wish I could have kept going.

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Pre-Trip Service
Lots of information with a personal touch. Makes you feel important.

Trip Comments
Wonderful weather, wonderful guide, wonderful Harris. Blessed peace and quiet.

Accommodation and Food
Roomy, clean, cosy. Sometimes you might wish for more place to hang your wet clothes and maybe an opportunity to use a washing machine. But overall fabulous hotels.

Your Guide
Best possible guide. Reads people well. Has a great sense of humor. Full of knowlede and passion.

The Bottom Line
Trustworthy and experienced people. Great walks. Immaculate planning and excecution of all the trips i have so far been taking with you.

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Pre-Trip Service
Follow through and response

Trip Comments
All aspects of trip very well done

Accommodation and Food
A very good range of experience

Your Guide
Could not have had a better guide than Dave

The Bottom Line
Wonderful unique experience that allows one to stretch and appreciate the awesome beauty that the outer Hebrides offers

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Accommodation and Food
The Accommodation was excellent, the food was average.

The Bottom Line
I will recommend the West Highland Way, but doing it in one week is too demanding and has consequences.

TEAM WILDERNESS RESPONSE:

Thanks for your feedback. The West Highland Way is a challenging hike, which is why we give it a grade of Blue 6 however it is not unusual to complete the hike in in 7 days. We always do recommend having a look at our trip grading videos to get an idea of what to expect and our team are always around to chat through the trip before hand. It sounds like you had a fantastic time over all and well done for completing the West Highland Way, what a fantastic achievement!

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Pre-Trip Service
Excellent phone communication

Trip Comments
Perhaps Skye could be omitted, or the hikes changed in July/August to avoid the crowds.

Accommodation and Food
Oh my goodness, the lunches need work!!!

Your Guide
Gill was perfect in every way

The Bottom Line
As a single traveller, I will only select trips with the option of a single room.

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Pre-Trip Service
We found any emails and communication with WS to be responsive, timely and spot on in terms of responding to our queries.

Trip Comments
We had a fantastic time on the trip. The group bonded well thanks to Tim's leadership and the design of the program which eased us into the hiking program and into connection with each other.

Accommodation and Food
The accommodation at Ardvreck House was very satisfactory with good breakfasts to start the day. The rooms were a good size to spread out and have some space. Evelyn the host went out of her way to meet our needs. We were particularly grateful for the support Evelyn gave Sue when she was sick for a couple of days and needed to see a doctor.
Something to consider for the future - one of the items we were given in our daily food package was a packet of chips - our preference would have been for healthy fruit and nut bars or energy boosting chocolate bars to help us up the hills.

Your Guide
Tim was a model of professionalism. He was polite, considerate, engaging, funny, absorbed and managed any challenges in the group, asserted his leadership role when it was required, and was very informative and supportive. We have been on lots of walking holidays around the world - Tim is up there with the best.

The Bottom Line
It was fantastic, and thanks to WS for your back up support when Sue was sick for a couple of days and plans required some adjustment. As an indicator of our time together I will send separately the poem (hurriedly written but you get the sense of things) I wrote and read out on the groups' last night together to say thanks to Tim.

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Trip Comments
The trip was well organised and Tim Willis made sure the trip was informative and fun. We were pleased we decided to do the trip in October as the autumn colours were beautiful. I loved the walk through the Douglas Firs at Loch Affric and Plodda Falls. Staying at The Lovatt Hotel was also a highlight - excellent service and delicious food.

Accommodation and Food
The Lovatt Hotel team is very service orientated. The small touches make a difference and they exceeded expectations. There was plenty of choice on the menu and they catered for individual dietary needs without any difficulty. We went to a couple of other venues for dinner on two nights and I enjoyed the food at both, although I preferred the Loch Inn.

Your Guide
Tim communicated well throughout the trip ensuring we had the information when we needed it and avoided overloading us. He is very knowledgeable about the area and listening to him was enjoyable, informative and entertaining. He was organised and always fully prepared, with a flexible approach to handling individual needs and enabling people to get the most from the trip. He remained calm and positive throughout, which felt reassuring.

The Bottom Line
I had a great time. Beautiful location, excellent guide, fabulous hotel. I found Wilderness Scotland to be professional and always mindful of our safety.

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Pre-Trip Service
Very easy and straightforward

Trip Comments
The walking was excellent, especially the trips to Eigg and Rhum. The food was absolutely delicious and the location was suburb.

Accommodation and Food
See previous comments

Your Guide
Our guide, Rosie was excellent, exactly the right balance of professional leader and friendly walking companion, a real credit to the company.

The Bottom Line
A fantastic wilderness experience,can't wait to go again!

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Pre-Trip Service
Easy to book. Questions answered promptly and courteously.

Trip Comments
It rained every day but one, so the views were limited and conditions at times were tough. Nothing Wilderness Scotland can do about the weather.

Accommodation and Food
All good.

Your Guide
John was great. Gave us great information on geology, history, flora & fauna. Also had a fine sense of pace. He's an excellent guide.

The Bottom Line
I heard the highest compliment you can give about a service, or in this case an experience, is to say it was "not bad". If that's correct then this trip was Not Bad. Thanks.

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Pre-Trip Service
Service was fine except for disappearing PDF documents from WS. Other people commented on this also so the issue must be on your end.

Trip Comments
On the Sutherland luxury tour we had three participants which made the trip almost a private one. It is good that you will do a trip with so few people.

Accommodation and Food
On the Sutherland luxury trip the two hotels were both excellent. We ate all meals in the hotels which, while great food, was somewhat repetitive. I think the trip would be improved if some meals were eaten outside of the hotels.

Your Guide
I thought our guide, Ken, was quite attentive to the needs and desires of our small group.

The Bottom Line
The trip was a good way to walk in an area of Scotland that was not known to us before. The hiking was pretty easy - in some of your literature it was rated a 2 and in some places a 3 - you need to make it clear that it is a 2.

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Pre-Trip Service
I tried on several occasions to contact the office when I found there was a problem with public transport between Inverness and Oban, but the phone was not answered and my message not responded to.

TEAM WILDERNESS RESPONSE:
Many thanks for taking the time to fill in you feedback. I am so sorry to hear that we have not responded to the message that you had left. We do check all of the messages during office hours and get back to people as soon as we can so I am not sure how we managed to miss yours.
As one of our long-term clients who has travelled with Wilderness Scotland many times before it is very disappointing to hear that we have not hit the mark on this occasion. Please accept my apologies in this failing in our service, we hope that you will give us another chance to impress should you travel with Wilderness Scotland again.
I am glad to hear that the trip itself was wonderful, Assynt is one of my favourite areas!

Accommodation and Food
The standard of food in Scotland seems to be improving. Eventually I got fed up with really big breakfasts

Your Guide
Tim was very good at altering the programme to fit in with the weather and the group's abilities, there were some changes which produced really good days

The Bottom Line
A really good trip and a fabulous area

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Pre-Trip Service
The pre-trip information was good and covered alot of little details that were really good to know. But the fact that the link to the equipment list had stopped working by the time I was about to pack was a really annoying issue.

Trip Comments
Gordon took us on some really amazing walks and I think he made the very most of our opportunities despite the unstable weather. The Doune lodge had the most amazing food and some very friendly staff that made us feel right at home.

Accommodation and Food
Best food I've had on any premium hiking trip of this kind (this is my 4th).

Your Guide
I really enjoyed Gordon's sense of humor. He is also very knowledgeable about the area and its history which increased my enjoyment of the experience.

The Bottom Line
When I go to Scotland again your trips will be the first I look into!

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

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

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

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

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Pre-Trip Service
I initially booked another trip and did that with a discount , when I had to change the trip a couple of days later I was not able to carry over the discount as the deadline had just passed. I felt at that point that more flexibility could have been used. In the end we had a long email exchange and discussions on the phone . We sort of met halfway. I think this experience tainted my booking somewhat.

Trip Comments
Slick organisation, lovely accommodation, great knowledgable and fun guide, we felt safe when walking, challenged but all within a good limit.
I did NOT like the timing and itinerary of the last day: by using ferry from Tarbert we had to drive a much longer distance back to Inverness. No time for a walk or anything . I wonder if it would be better to get a late ferry on the Friday night.

Accommodation and Food
Wonderful peaceful setting, clean, comfortable rooms. Nice food and very accommodating staff.

Your Guide
Dave was fun and took good care of us without patronising or over organising. He went over and above to give us a great walking and outdoor experience.

The Bottom Line
A wonderful trip! Recommend it to everybody. ( but please my comments on last day itinerary).

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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.

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

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

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

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

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

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Pre-Trip Service
Only use your website to check trip details. Always inspiring. For reservation I just call your office - since you have my details already. Easy!!

Trip Comments
Super organized, very flexible, great adventure!

Accommodation and Food
Wonderful hotels, lots of hot Water, super food. Love it!

Your Guide
Tim was great, tried to cater for everyone in the Group, lots of fun and a good sport.

The Bottom Line
Had the time of my life. Loved the scenery and the variety of the landscape and all the informative stuff fed to us by our guide.

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The Bottom Line
Great holiday. We could not have enjoyed Orkney without the help of Wilderness

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Pre-Trip Service
the correpondence and reminders were good

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

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

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

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

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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.

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Pre-Trip Service
V helpful and also allowed me to pay half the final balance early which made things easier to manage!

Trip Comments
Good organisation made for a very relaxing trip.I had also requested to stop at a jewellers who had made some rings for me many years ago and we managed to work that into the schedule which was great

Accommodation and Food
Lovely hotel (the lynnfield) and v nice food-esp Skerries Bistro!

Your Guide
Our guide was Peter Grant.He was very careful to look after everyone to the point where i relaxed,which is not a usual thing!!!!

The Bottom Line
An excellent overview of Orkney-all major sites visited,nice walks,plenty of fresh air and great food,transport all ran seamlessly.V helpful guide

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Pre-Trip Service
Information was clear and concise. My first contact was a friendly guy.

Trip Comments
The trip was a good mix of walking, culture and eating and the right pace.

Accommodation and Food
Food was good but the best meal was not at the Hotel. (Skerries Bistro was a really excellent fish restaurant).The evening meals were good but not outstanding and they were a bit over fussy. The accommodation was comfortable but I found the room a bit too warm and the bed a little too soft for my taste.

Your Guide
Pete got the measure of the group and adapted the pace accordingly and he mixed things up nicely so we had some surprises and he was very adaptable.

The Bottom Line
I would recommend it as a carefree holiday where there has been some thought put into giving the traveller the best of Orkney in the time available.

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The Bottom Line
Outstanding in every way. A joy.

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Pre-Trip Service
The office crew was always quick to respond to any questions or concerns. They were always courteous and friendly.

Trip Comments
Walks were stunningly beautiful. Ben is a guide who lets all walkers enjoy paces at which they are comfortable. So many memorable moments: singing in the front seat with Ben and fellow trekker to Ben's Scotland mix tape... frequent laughter... live music at the pub attached to our hotel. Besides loving to walk, I'm a history buff, and Ben managed to get us to a castle nearly every day. I really enjoyed our multinational group, and I I loved our frequent opportunities to chat with Scottish people we met along our journey.

Your Guide
See previous comments. I would be delighted to have Ben as my tour guide any time.

The Bottom Line
Over all it was a wonderful experience. I particularly loved that the group was small (eight people) which, I think, lead to a stronger sense of camaraderie than I have experienced on previous tours.

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Accommodation and Food
The food at Knoydart was the finest cuisine I have ever had on a trip! It was world-class.

The Bottom Line
We had a great time and would love to come back! This was our second trip with Wilderness Scotland and we are hooked. We are already looking at a trip for next year.

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Pre-Trip Service
Due to a laptop crash, I'd lost some of my saved informational documents about the trip. The direct US call number made it easy to call Wilderness Scotland, the woman who assisted me was very gracious and within moments, I had replacement copies of everything I needed.

Trip Comments
The scenery on Skye was simply breathtaking, unlike any place I'd ever visited before. After every single hike, I thought, "It can't get better than this!" and then, the next day, it got even better! The accommodations were very comfortable. The food at the restaurants we visited in the evenings was quite good, with a lot of variety in the menus. Our guide, Gordon, was truly outstanding. He was skilled, supportive, and kind and had a great sense of humor. The stories Gordon told always were interesting and I learned a great deal. He took a genuine interest in each and every member of the group. We couldn't have asked for a better guide. Our group was congenial and truly enjoyable to spend time with.

Accommodation and Food
The food and accommodations consistently were of excellent quality. The innkeepers at Uig were especially friendly and helpful. The meals at both of the restaurants housed in old schoolhouses were especially good.

However, the service at one restaurant (called, I think, something with "antlers" in its name) was rather poor, very slow and they appeared to have forgotten to put in orders for two of our group members. The desk staff at our hotel in southern Skye seemed to be rude and not very helpful to more than one member of our group.

Both hotels could be a bit noisy; I was grateful that I'd happened to pack some earplugs. :)

Your Guide
We couldn't have asked for a better guide. My spouse unexpectedly had some difficulty with the longer, wet hikes. Gordon was very kind about that and helped arrange for a taxi transfer to our next hotel so that my husband could have a rest day while the group hiked. I appreciated how observant Gordon was with regard to each group member, assessing needs, making adjustments as necessary, and gently chiding those who tended to be late so that the group stayed on schedule. Gordon was a wealth of very interesting information about every place we visited; I learned a great deal about history, plants, and geology. He also was good company; easy to have a conversation with, genuinely interested in everyone, and a delightful dry sense of humor. Perhaps most important, Gordon was clearly very skilled. We had some unusually heavy rains, which made for several tricky stream crossings. Gordon was calm, reassuring, and saw to it that everyone made the crossings safely. When one stream appeared to be unsafe, Gordon simply re-routed our path. What could have been an alarming experience instead was fun, an adventure that increased my confidence. Gordon deserves a great deal of credit for all his hard work and I'm really glad to have had the opportunity to hike with him.

The Bottom Line
This was a wonderful adventure! I cannot wait to hike again with Wilderness Scotland. Thank you!

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Trip Comments
Laura was a great guide, and a wonderful companion. She did everything she could to make sure the experience was what we had hoped for.

Accommodation and Food
Glendale House was just a level above anything we expected. Thank you for the unexpected and most wonderful treat.

Your Guide
With a group of differing strengths and expectations, Laura made the balance perfectly and gave us all a great trip.

The Bottom Line
Fantastic!

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Pre-Trip Service
I found photos and some information difficult to download but that may be just me as I am not very good with modern technology

Trip Comments
the climbing was quite challenging and I did feel this was not reflected in your blue 6 grading.Our excellent leader said that previous trippers had made this comment

Accommodation and Food
excellent b and b and more food than I could manage in the packed lunches

Your Guide
Andy was brilliant and very patient with us all

The Bottom Line
it was very hard but I enjoyed the challenge

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Trip Comments
Nothing you could do about the weather!

Accommodation and Food
The evening meals were lovely. Lots of fish. The pop-up was such great fun and the food there was divine - and we could ask lots of questions about its source and preparation. The couple were so interesting and friendly too. The packed lunches were poor, particularly on Harris. For me, and i understand this trip was o the outer edges of Scotland and we were eating a Scottish diet but i did miss vegetables. They were in short supply!

Your Guide
Craig was such a good leader. He had a wonderful sense of humour, didn't molly-coddle but always knew our capabilities. He had a fund of knowledge about where we were and Scottish history in general.

The Bottom Line
Full of interest. Wonderful scenery. Guided with care and wit and imagination. Be prepared for wet weather!

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Trip Comments
Andy was the best part of the trip, showing us some magnificent places that we could never have found on our own!

Accommodation and Food
The accommodations were excellent! And the food was great! I especially loved breakfast at each location. I don't know if I needed dinner every night and it might have been nice to have a choice, even though group dynamics seemed to expect that everyone would attend. I would have enjoyed the choice of an evening walk!

Your Guide
Andy was the best part of the trip!! He was sensitive to everyone's wants, needs and desires and definitely went above and beyond all expectations.

The Bottom Line
This was a great first trip with Wilderness Scotland. I would choose my next one to ramp up on the activity level and have less emphasis on the time spent eating.

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Pre-Trip Service
informative website, quick response to emails and friendly phone operators

Trip Comments
extremely well organised, fantastic guide who could spin a yarn with the best! and good accomodation

Accommodation and Food
The accommodation was better than I expected and the food excellent. I am vegetarian, but eat some fish, which was fortunate as total veggie dishes were rare. The only accommodation comment would be that thank goodness all had drying rooms as without these the hike would have been very uncomfortable.

Your Guide
Fantastic, best guide I have ever trekked with. Efficient, organised, funny (joined in with the spirit of the group and told a good story). Took great care of us all

The Bottom Line
Highly recommend this trip and Wilderness Scotland. So good that even the 6 out of 7 days of rain didn't spoil it

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Trip Comments
Weather could have been better, but, unless you're miracle workers, that's outside your control. Kirsty, the guide, was fantastic and made everything so easy for those of us, who hate having to decide what to do and when whilst on holiday.

Accommodation and Food
Great choice of accommodation. My room at the second b&b was bigger than my house (not really, but it was large and comfortable. The breakfasts at both stops were superb and the dinners at all the places we ate out were excellent. I'm sure everyone on my trip will remember my struggle with the haddock.

Your Guide
Kirsty made it so easy for all of us.

The Bottom Line
Everything, everybody and everywhere we went was so green and beautiful. My first trip to Scotland, but definitely not my last.

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

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

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

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

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

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Trip Comments
Wonderful wild flowers in June. A good month to go.

Accommodation and Food
Very nice food with the exception of the Italian restaurant in Kirkwall though the service was very friendly.

Your Guide
Went out of his way to make sure each individual was happy. Great knowledge of sea birds. Very good social skills. Checked times to make sure we did not coincide with cruise ship tourists when visiting Neolithic sites. Did his best to locate a puffin for us. Adapted walks to weather and ability of group. Better than excellent!

The Bottom Line
Memorable trip (my 3rd). Always very reliable. However, I wish you had an "economy" version for those who do not need a luxury hotel. This includes myself and most of my friends. I would then come more often. The "snore tax" for a single room is rather hefty! (I understand why)

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Pre-Trip Service
Everything was clear and professionally presented, by comparison with like providers I thought wilderness Scotland was streets ahead in terms over covering the range of information required to make trip selection and then preparation a breeze

Trip Comments
At the rated level of the hike the 6 days included a range of different hiking experiences/terrains which kept things interesting and varied. There was a good amount of additional interest points too, the sea life on the boat ride to the island and historical info

Accommodation and Food
Aside from some slow service on our first mornings breakfast and some genuinely underwhelming coffee at the first accommodation the food options identified by our guide Ben where phenomenal, great examples of local food in all locations

Your Guide
Ben was incredibly patient and accommodating of group demands. In a group of varying ability he ensured everyone was comfortable with the hike undertaken. His passion for Scotland was very clearly on display in his provision of information concerning the locations hiked through.

The Bottom Line
As a solo traveller, this is a fantastic way to get out and see some of the more far flung parts of Scotland with a great group of people to share the experience with along the way.

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Pre-Trip Service
I had to request the equipment list in the few weeks before the trip departed. Although it is possible this might have been sent to me earlier and I had overlooked it.

Trip Comments
Doune was a very special place by virtue of it's setting, but also the culture created by the staff. They were so welcoming and hospitable. The food was out of this world. The boat trips to the start of each walk added an element of excitement and adventure, and a chance to really soak up the views - the combination of hillside and water was spectacular. I know I'm in a minority but I loved being able to swim in the sea in the bay just outside the lodge and know I could quickly warm up with a hot shower just a few steps away. I liked the simple accommodation which struck the perfect balance between communality so we got to know eachother, but the twin/single rooms also allowed a enough privacy so we could find our own space when it was needed

Accommodation and Food
Please see previous comments, it couldn't have been better. I have never eaten so well and I loved getting to know the cooks who seemed to put their heart and soul into everything they served us.

Your Guide
Somehow Andy managed to pull off being extremely professional and technically competent, whilst at the same time being relaxed and fun. He was very supportive to us all, as well as concerned to ensure the needs of individual members of the - very varied - group were met. He went beyond the call of duty to respond to his demanding clients - demonsrating his ceilidhl dancing with good humour. He is clearly passionate about the Scottish highlands, and seemed to enjoy the trip as much as we did, which makes for a great atmosphere.

The Bottom Line
An unbeatable combination of peace, mountain and sea, made very special by the hospitality and warmth of the team at Doune.

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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

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Pre-Trip Service
Not much info on trip or where staying etc

Accommodation and Food
All v good except packed lunches from second hotel.

Your Guide
She was very good indeed. Really went the extra mile on everything

The Bottom Line
Very good indeed

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Pre-Trip Service
Every email was answered kindly and promptly was so helpful and reassuring!

Trip Comments
Guide was amazing and fun and friendly! Loved the pace of the days and inclusion of guests thoughts and opinions. Lovely time overall!

Accommodation and Food
Hotels were beautiful loved the coziness and setting on the water of each hotel (Skye trip) I did suggest a few more veggies for the packed lunch even if it's carrot and celery sticks :)

Your Guide
Sarah was awesome and warm and funny and answered questions if she didn't know one she made sure to research and get back to us later that evening or the next day! Her enthusiasm for her job was infectious! Inspired leader.

The Bottom Line
Amazing loved it highly recommend, great energy and feeling no pretense just nice and enthusiastic people enjoying beautiful and inspiring geography and places. Would highly recommend.

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Pre-Trip Service
I called with questions and your office staff provided the answers I needed. I also appreciated the periodic emails as the trip date approached.

Trip Comments
The week-long walking holiday was beyond my expectations. Every aspect of the holiday was well-planned and well-executed. Even the weather cooperated and the other participants on the trip were perfect traveling companions!

Accommodation and Food
The accommodations in Aviemore and Newtonmore were outstanding. The hosts were congenial and very attentive. All breakfasts and packed lunches were filling and delicious. The Callater Lodge offered fresh baked sweets. Coig na Shee Lodge provided an excellent evening meal before our last day. The availability of laundry services at Coig na Shee was a welcome surprise.

Your Guide
Both Rosie and Al were experienced guides who competently led our outings. I felt confident in their abilities to handle any challenges we might face.

The Bottom Line
The walking tours provided by Wilderness Scotland suit my needs---reasonable distances and terrains to be walked each day with a qualified guide to ensure safety and to provide information on history, legends, weather, land use, and local flora and fauna. The accommodations provide comfortable spaces for relaxing, rooms with comfortable beds, en suite baths with plenty of hot water, and a variety of choices for breakfasts and packed lunches. The restaurants we visited for evening meals offered a good assortment of local food and drink in a cosy atmosphere. Castle visits and distillery tours complemented the walking experience. When the weather is consistently good and the walking companions are congenial and compatible, the result is pure bliss!

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Pre-Trip Service
This was my first hiking / walking vacation. I enjoyed the whole experience. While there was nothing to improve from the Wilderness Scotland perspective, two of the B&Bs, Bienglass Farm and Edencoille need to improve on interfacing with clients. At Bienglass Farm they poorly documented my daughter's reservation and then blamed her. Later they brought her key for her room to my room. At Endecoille, they would not allow walkers into the B&B without our leader.

Trip Comments
I enjoyed meeting Andy. A native of Worcester England. It was enlightening to here about Great Britain through his perspective. Relative to views, the highlight of the trip of the view of Lock Lomond from the top of the hill where we ate lunch on the second day of the trip.

Accommodation and Food
I enjoyed trying blood pudding and haggis. The packed lunches were good and I liked the little treats packed with the lunches. I didn't realize that the UK has different Kitkat flavors compared with the US. There was no water pressure in the shower at Bienglas Farm.

Your Guide
Dave was patient and knowledgeable. He did an admiral job of herding the 'cats' and always did it with a smile. When asked a question, if he did not know something off the top of his head, then he researched the question and provided an answer. Dave was a delight.

The Bottom Line
Excellent. One of the most enjoyable vacations that I have ever taken.

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Pre-Trip Service
Quite frankly I was a bit of a nervous nelly because this was my first trip and I didn't know what to expect. I was so impressed that my queries were treated respectfully (there was never a dumb question) and promptly.

Trip Comments
Great itinerary, excellent guide, high quality accommodation and lucky for us fantastic tour group.

Accommodation and Food
All good

Your Guide
Best guide I've ever had. He was so knowledgeable and passionate about the history of the Orkneys. He was also very funny and very inclusive (he made sure everyone was involved in conversations, decisions etc)

The Bottom Line
This trip has changed the way I want to travel. I now want to have a nightly (comfortable) accommodation base and do daily trips/ walks out from there each day. Wilderness Scotland were wonderful, covered the basics of registering for a place without being overly beauractic and all further enquiries were handled promptly.

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Pre-Trip Service
basic accommodation but Ok very good Wifi. I got to used to sharing loos !!

Trip Comments
We had such fun. we had a nightly guessing game which everyone at Doune took part in. That was very bonding for the group. we had an impromptu ceilidh with Jane who sings classically and beautifully, Liz on the fiddle and Andy ( boat) on the piano accordion. We laughed a lot. tough walking at quite a pace

Accommodation and Food
excellent

Your Guide
he gave us 11/10 and said we were the best group he'd every had. He relaxed and joined in with us all and managed a very diverse group of people.

The Bottom Line
excellent

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

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

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

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

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Pre-Trip Service
Despite the 8 hour time difference, I always had a friendly informed person to speak with. I appreciated your timely and informed help, especially since I was making arrangements to both a foreign continent and country. You were wonderful!!

Trip Comments
John was an excellent guide. He always prepared us the day ahead for what we were to expect. His knowledge and love of Scotland and its beautiful out-doors made the experience extra-special.

Accommodation and Food
Loved the B&Bs, Guest Houses, and Small Hotels - it furthered my Scottish experience. The breakfasts were wonderful. Lunches - for a few locations could be improved. Most hikers are health conscious and therefore it would be preferred if white bread and candy bars could be replaced with whole grain bread, fruit, yogert etc. Most locationsdid provide fruit. The food for the group dinners was very good at most all locations.

Your Guide
As stated earlier, John was excellent. He was always aware of his group and accomodated as needed for individuals during the hike. Appreciated his calm and always cheerful and witty demeanor.

The Bottom Line
Highly recommend your company!!! Just a word of advice for potential hikers for The West Highland Way - if you hike regularly (12 - 15 miles) with some elevation gain 1,500 to 2,000 feet - this hike will be fine....but it is not for someone who does not hike regularly as you are hiking 12-15 miles a day and one day 20 miles over the course of 7 days for 6 plus hours. I enjoyed the hike very much - but there was so much beauty - I wished there had been a bit more time to just linger and take it all in.

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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...

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Pre-Trip Service
No trouble finding info on website. Staff replied timely to my questions. Booking was easy online.

Trip Comments
Liked climb up mtn on Eigg. Castle visit on rhum. Variety of hikes.

Accommodation and Food
The food was great for variety, scottish choices, very well prepared. The lodge was fun with group to mingle and meet people more.

Your Guide
David really knew the area hikes and kept things interesting with descriptions, local info, was able to pick hikes suitable for our group, helped us find local products and services.

The Bottom Line
All around excellent. Plus location very beautiful. All wilderness scot staff very friendly and helpful!

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Pre-Trip Service
Great overall trip, visting Eigg and climbing An Squarr was wonderful, equally visiting Kinloch Castle on Rum was fascinating.

Trip Comments
There were so many, but watching wales and seeing vibrant rainbows was an unexpected surprise.

Accommodation and Food
Doune lodge accommodation was good, warm and comfortable.
The homemade food was excellent, amazingly produced in this remote place, a real credit to to the owners and staff.

Your Guide
Dave was a great guide, capable, caring and considerate and took us on some great hikes.

The Bottom Line
Fantastic trip, highly recommended not to be missed.

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Trip Comments
This trip for our family of five was simply fabulous. We loved our guide, Ken Keith, and found both the accommodations and the hiking/travel exemplary.

Accommodation and Food
We loved Lynnfield Hotel, including the restaurant and bar. We also really loved the food at the Ferry Inn in Stromness.

Your Guide
Is there a category better than excellent? Because Ken would certainly fall into that category if their work. He did a terrific job of adjusting our hikes and other activities to meet our group's very disparate interests. Knowledgeable, cheerful, friendly- the embodiment of Scottish hospitality.

The Bottom Line
Final verdict: a winner! We will definitely be back.

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Pre-Trip Service
I had trouble accessing the trip info files sent to me at one point, and when I contacted you about it, you immediately sent me the documents in a different format. That was great! Very responsive, very personal.

Trip Comments
The trip exceeded my expectations in every way. Kirsty set a great tone, and her knowledge and energy were wonderful. The hikes were spectacular, and she paced them especially appropriately, given the range of endurance capabilities in the group. It never felt awkward to be stopping so others could catch up: she managed, instead, to make the pauses just as much fun as the trekking, explaining details of plants and animals along the way. Among the memories that I'll never forget: hearing her read a poem by Scottish poet Robert Burns at the gravesite of the person about whom Burns had written it. (How many guides would have even stopped at the grave?!) I regretted not getting a video of that at the time and said so later. So, huddled in a cozy hut along a trail where we'd stopped for lunch, she got out the poem again and read it so I could record it, getting the beauty of the Scots language as it should be spoken to supplement the beauty of the countryside. She is outstanding and represents Wilderness Scotland wonderfully. (She was also a pro at dealing with unexpected problems with reservations, etc.)

Accommodation and Food
The accommodations were great in many ways, but the Lovat Hotel needs to make it possible for guests to control the temperature in rooms (or something!). We found ourselves overheated every night, and it made it difficult to sleep. Almost everyone in the group reported the same problem, so I don't think it was peculiar to one or two of us. Not sleeping decently for several days in a row can take its toll, especially when doing so much physical activity. It was a lovely place in many regards--loved the room with fireplace, where several of us usually gathered in the evenings, very well situated in town and with regard to access to trails--so that was worth a lot, but the heat really did impact the overall experience as the days passed.

Your Guide
I'm going to copy here what I wrote about the trip in general (excellent), because it was largely because of our guide--Kirsty--that it was so wonderful. Kirsty set a great tone, and her knowledge and energy were wonderful. The hikes were spectacular, and she paced them especially appropriately, given the range of endurance capabilities in the group. It never felt awkward to be stopping so others could catch up: she managed, instead, to make the pauses just as much fun as the trekking, explaining details of plants and animals along the way. Among the memories that I'll never forget: hearing her read a poem by Scottish poet Robert Burns at the gravesite of the person about whom Burns had written it. (How many guides would have even stopped at the grave?!) I regretted not getting a video of that at the time and said so later. So, huddled in a cozy hut along a trail where we'd stopped for lunch, she got out the poem again and read it so I could record it, getting the beauty of the Scots language as it should be spoken to supplement the beauty of the countryside. She is outstanding and represents Wilderness Scotland wonderfully. (She was also a pro at dealing with unexpected problems with reservations, etc.) I'd also add: the personal touch of her getting a birthday cake and candles for a fellow hiker: perfect! Give her a raise! She is outstanding in every way.

The Bottom Line
A number of the people on the hiking vacation I took with Wilderness Scotland were on their 3rd or 4th trip with them. I can see why! This was an outstanding experience, handled at every level by professionals, but not "professionalized." It was such fun, whatever one's level of physical endurance! I recommend Wilderness Scotland with the greatest possible enthusiasm—have already recommended them to friends—and hope to join them again for future treks!

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

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

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

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Pre-Trip Service
Plenty of information provided about the trip. Enquiries were dealt with promptly.

Trip Comments
We loved every minute of this trip. The small group added to the experience and it meant there was more flexibility in what we decided to do each day. It is hard to choose one highlight as there were many! I loved Rackwick Bay and also the Deerness walk...but really all the walks were beautiful and each one was so different. I also enjoyed visiting Kirkwall and Stromness and being able to spend a little bit of time in each. Visiting the archeological sites was also fascinating and incorporated into the trip in such a way that it allowed us to do plenty of walking but we also got to experience the incredible history of the place. Maeshowe and Skara Brae were real highlights. This trip just ticked so many boxes!

Accommodation and Food
We loved staying at the Lynnfield Hotel. It was like stepping back in time. The lounge areas were great for having a drink and debrief together at the end of the day. Everything was very clean and comfortable. Our room had plenty of space and the biggest bed I've ever slept in! Breakfast was excellent and dinner meals sometimes missed the mark, but were generally good. Packed lunches had different sandwich fillings every day and plenty of food was provided. We ate out for dinner a few times and those meals were very good, the standout being Skerries Bistro ( outstanding view and food). It was nice to mix things up a bit and try different places.

Your Guide
Pete Grant was a fantastic guide and just a lovely human being! I felt from the start that we were in safe hands with Pete. Pete was a great listener and tuned in to our group very quickly and organised the itinerary accordingly. Great sense of humour so there were lots of laughs. I really liked the way Pete debriefed with the group each day. He was always happy to have feedback and input and kept us informed about the weather ( always important!) and any changes to our itinerary. And he had the knack of knowing just when we needed a coffee break! Pete had a great understanding of the Orkneys and shared wonderful stories and insights which really added so much to the trip.

The Bottom Line
I would highly recommend visiting the Orkney Islands.We were fortunate to have beautiful weather which made for a really fabulous trip. The Orkney Islands are stunning and endlessly interesting and travelling from Australia it was a long way to go but absolutely worth it. We were really happy with every aspect of the trip and we are already looking at future trips with Wilderness Scotland.

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Trip Comments
Highlights of the trip: 1) Leader Ken Keith-- fabulous! 2) itinerary of hikes, sightseeing and meals were truly excellent 3) Stein Inn and Harris Hotel were tops-loved them.

Accommodation and Food
Loved the charm and setting of Stein Inn: my favorite. All food was excellent.
Really liked the meal we had with "Flavour" in their home. Great idea!!

Your Guide
Thank you, Ken Keith for a wonderful experience. I felt completely relaxed with you in charge of our group experience. Your expertise in the outdoors, your knowledge of the area and ability to be flexible with regard to the weather and adapting our activities when needed, and your skill in leadership skills were consistently phenomenal. You thought of everything, and I felt very well taken care of throughout the entire trip. Thank you for great hikes and outdoor experiences, wonderful food, and enjoyable companionship and group cohesion. I can't wait to do it all over again!

The Bottom Line
Our Wilderness Scotland experience was:
well organized from beginning to end
an excellent value
guided by a strong and confident tour leader who set a friendly/fun tone
based on plentiful daily walking/hiking experiences in a variety of beautiful settings
a great balance of comfort and adventure
superb!

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Pre-Trip Service
your office was quick to respond to my questions

Trip Comments
Excellent would have been more sunny weather. Of course you don't have control over that.

Accommodation and Food
The hotels were very welcoming and the food was excellent.

Your Guide
Our guide was very personable and friendly. He filled us in on much of the history and background. He managed the group very well.

The Bottom Line
The scenery was worth the sore muscles!

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Pre-Trip Service
I liked that online reservation process was saved automatically. We had troubles paying by credit card but it was solved by phone contact.

The Bottom Line
Great experience, very professional approach.

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Pre-Trip Service
Website clearly set out. staff on phone and email very friendly and helpful

Trip Comments
Our guide helped make the holiday as he was very solicitous and kind and made sure that everyone was having a good time. The sunny weather that we had also helped a lot. The highlight for me was Rackwick Bay which was absolutely gorgeous - a magical place.

Accommodation and Food
The hotel was very comfortable and friendly and the staff all helpful. The food was excellent everywhere , especially the restaurant at the Tomb of the Otters (Skerries Bistro) and the Cafe at Birsay (Birsay Bay Tearoom) near the Earl's Palace.

Your Guide
As I said before our guide was excellent. His enthusiasm for the archaeology and wildlife of Orkney was genuine as was his concern for our welfare.

The Bottom Line
I have always recommended Wilderness Scotland to everyone with the proviso that its isn't cheap but good value and that you have to...walk...in...Scotland. Unfortunately its the last part that puts people off. I honestly don't think people believed me when I said that we had fantastic sunshine all last week in Orkney. I shan't climb off my soapbox - that's their problem!

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Pre-Trip Service
I always got a response, even if the person I sent the email to was out of the office.

Trip Comments
Gill was flexible in planning our daily outings, being sensitive to the needs of the group on any particular day. She was very knowledgeable about botany, history, geology, etc. She also shared a little about herself, so I felt like I knew her to some degree.

Accommodation and Food
two meals were particularly special, one was at a pop-up restaurant on Harris and the other a restaurant on Scalpay-the North Harbor Bistro. The Harris Hotel was fine, but I enjoyed the smaller slightly more rustic Stein Inn a little more.

Your Guide
see previous comments about our leader. I loved all the varied scenery of the trip. No two hikes were the same. And I loved the remoteness of the Hebrides.

The Bottom Line
Truly being in Nature without tourists was one of the great features of the trip. I felt the experience of being on the land. I would love to do it again.

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Pre-Trip Service
All questions were answered.

Trip Comments
My highlight was Suilven, a place I have wanted to visit for ages and would never have done without a guide.

Accommodation and Food
The B&B is excellent and the choice of restaurants was great too.

Your Guide
Iain is well-organised and knowledgeable.

The Bottom Line
I really enjoyed this trip. The scenery is marvellous, the walks are varied, and the whole thing ran smoothly.

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Pre-Trip Service
Minor complication with emails as I was booked on the holiday by my colleague. Sorted after a phone call. Suggest all holiday participants are addressed on relevant emails.

Trip Comments
This was my second time with Wilderness Scotland and another major tick in the box for an wonderful week's walking in Knoydart. The accommodation was fine on this remote peninsular and the dining was superb ! I cannot recommend Doune - and their very charming staff - too highly. The boat trips added to the sense of adventure. An excellent - and very beautiful - base from which to conduct our walks.

Our guide Rosie Mackenzie was terrific - professional, charming and with good humour. Indeed she had to manage a wide range of walking skills and contend with an emergency (she handled the incident with aplomb). She was a credit to the company.

All in all a cracking week in wonderful Knoydart with some fine walking. Will visit again !

Accommodation and Food
Doune is a magical place from which to operate. Accommodation is more than adequate and the dining superb ! Very charming and helpful staff !

Your Guide
Rosie Mackenzie was a an excellent guide and credit to the company. See my comments in an earlier Q.

The Bottom Line
A terrific week's walking in the Knoydart which will live in the memory fro some time !

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Pre-Trip Service
All communication with the office by email and phone worked perfectly.

Trip Comments
The itinerary was really varied with glen, coastal and mountain walks, and a boat trip to the Summer Isles. Assynt is unique and the trip gave me a great taste of the potential for further exploring in the area. Being based near Ullapool at one guest house made for a relaxing trip without any need for packing and unpacking, and Ullapool is a lovely town with a couple of super bookshops and all the facilities we could need.

Accommodation and Food
Evelyn at Ardvreck was a superb host. The Guest house was comfortable and clean and had superb views overlooking Lock Broom. Food both at the guest house, the deli-made packed lunches and the dinners was great (and plentiful).
I would have been very pleased to have been able to walk into Ullapool independently in our moments of 'downtime' but it was just a bit too far (although Tim was always happy to try and accommodate such requests).

Your Guide
Tim is a superb guide. He prepared fully for each day and took into account weather forecasts, tired legs etc, aswell as numerous individual requests. His knowledge of the area is great, and his enthusiasm for the Scottish landscapes is infectious. His evening briefings were really useful to help us prepare for the 'big' days. Tim made every effort for us all to have a great week - thank you, Tim.

The Bottom Line
I wouldn't hesitate to recommend Wilderness Scotland walking holidays. I have been on 2 holidays now and have found them both to be really well-planned and a great way to explore new areas of the country.

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Pre-Trip Service
liked the clarity provided

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

Accommodation and Food
good food and great setting

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

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

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

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Pre-Trip Service
We lived the walks, James our fabulous guide, the beautiful mountains, the great food, the fine B&Bs

Trip Comments
We hiked to the top of mountains, walked around the sides of two of them to what felt like getting into the inesides of them

Accommodation and Food
At the first B&B the owners obviously loved running is. They created an atmosphere that made us feel right at home. Their lunches had great variety and delicious. The second was very beautiful. The owner or not so friendly but where in five. Wife cooked us a fabulous dinner on the last night. All the restaurants were fine for one in a hotel. The last one was exceptional.

Your Guide
James was in amazing guide. He was exceptionally knowledgeable. He was able to create walks for us that allowed for the wide variety of skill level of the people on the trip. He understood how to support us to walk around the mountain in ways that I never thought i'd be able to do. He knew how to deal with all the people on the trip so that everyone got what they needed. On one day someone thought Ishe could not handle the day and was going to stay home. But he convinced her that she would be able to handle the walk. It allowed for all of us to stay together as a group and gave her the pleasure of that tech killer walk in the mountains. We would have a trip with James anytime.

The Bottom Line
Vacation have a lifetime. And we have by, canoed, and various other vacations this was The best. We never expected to see the mountains as we did we never expected to have such fabulous food we never expected to have such lovely B&Bs and we thank you James!

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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.

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Pre-Trip Service
Generally the support was excellent. Better help with ground transportation would be welcome, especially re train connections, etc.

Trip Comments
The actual walking part was terrific. There was a bit too much down time, but this probably reflects the variety of fitness and interest among the guests. Loved the whiskey tasting and the story teller in the evening.

Accommodation and Food
Daily snacks could be improved -- those Stoats are so dry and dull. Perhaps nits and dried fruit instead? The Fortingall Hotel was very nice, but some of our group had quite an inferior room. It was a bit tedious eating dinner in the same restaurant for three nights in a row. I will be int he minority here, but I did not especially like the Glencoe House. It has a forced grandeur to it and much more room than anyone needed. I'd rather have stayed in a manor house where there was a real family to host you. Also, the overall trip cost could be decreased substantially by forgoing the over-the-top accommodations at Glencoe.

Your Guide
Laura McCauley is fantastic! She is so knowledgeable, friendly, funny, resourceful, enthusiastic. Everything you could want in a guide!

The Bottom Line
This was a great trip and we were especially fortunate to have sunny weather to see Scotland at its beautiful best. (The boat trip was a highlight I neglected to mention above.) Ideally the guests would have been better matched in terms of fitness. I know you try hard to make sure guests understand the level of difficulty and rely on people's self-assessments. But I was disappointed that we cut a number of outdoor activities short because some guests found the climbing and/or weather conditions too difficult. Overall, a wonderful experience. We love Scotland and we'll be back!

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Pre-Trip Service
As always timely reminders and advisories were sent and questions I sent were answered promptly. Customer service was/is excellent.

Trip Comments
It is a premier travel company that provides exceptional travel experiences. The choice routes taken in a marvelous and varied country changes you in a profound way.

Accommodation and Food
The Lovat Arms is an excellent establishment. I would frequent this hotel again. The room was immaculate and the amenities first rate. The hotel restaurant provides offers a experience in the space and on the plate. Supurb service and staff.

Your Guide
Kirsty is joy personified. She embodies what is best about loving what one loves does in an environment that one thrives. She was attentive, alert, informed and poetic. What was not to love in a guide like her. :)

The Bottom Line
It was a lovely walk in the woods in the season of mist and mellow fruitfulness. Where are the songs of Spring? Ay, where are they? Think not of them, thou hast thy music too.

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Pre-Trip Service
I really appreciated receiving important trip info right away upon booking and then hearing from the office prior to travel.

Trip Comments
The itinerary was well-planned to include a nice variety of scenery, historical interest and activity. Our guide Craig McDonald was very friendly and easy to get along with in addition to being mindful of the group's abilities and interests.

Accommodation and Food
The choice of accommodations and food was very good. The garden and ocean view at the hotel Loquefort (sp?) are real highlights and the hotel in Port Charlotte was special as we got to hear traditional music in the bar one night.

Your Guide
Our guide Craig McDonald is easy going and has a perfect personality for being a guide. He is good at assessing the interests and abilities of the group. His historical knowledge of the country and various regions are a highlight.

The Bottom Line
Traveling with Wilderness Scotland is special. Each trip is well-planned to provide a satisfactory experience of such a beautiful country. The guides are knowledgeable, fun and enhance the adventure!

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Pre-Trip Service
Pre-trip, I was in contact with David Russell who was very helpful with any and all questions I had.

Trip Comments
Our guide, Jennifer Roberts, is amazing! She is very smart, knowledgeable, energetic, competent and very attentive to each guest in the group. Her warm, pleasant smile is ever constant. Any group with Jen as leader will have a great experience.

Accommodation and Food
Each morning the breakfast offerings were plentiful and varied. Packed lunches were also plentiful; in fact, I often had more food than I could eat. The two dinners hosted by Wilderness Scotland provided options; meals were plentiful.

Your Guide
As stated in a previous answer, our guide, Jennifer Roberts is simply amazing. She is a great, skillful leader and any group with her as guide will have a fun time.

The Bottom Line
The West Highland Way offers an experience any reasonably fit hiker will enjoy. Wilderness Scotland's staff and guide is committed to helping each guest have a great experience.

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Trip Comments
Great guide, great food, rather damp weather!

Accommodation and Food
Accommodation rather basic but food excellent

Your Guide
Gordon Andersons scientific background show in his knowledge of plants and wild life. Very personable for a science person.

The Bottom Line
I am familiar with the terrain and the unpredictability of the weather. Some of the group found the going tougher than expected and the pace a bit fast but no one complained.

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Pre-Trip Service
I was happy with the information I got

Trip Comments
The food was amazing especially the 2 we had at venues close to the end of the day's walk - Loved the fact that changes were made according to circumstances - and the changes were actually for the better - flexibility is essential. Good humour and patience in the face of some difficulties. Ability to vary a day due to weather - excellent. Highlights were getting to the top of the 2 main mountains - even as in the case of Suilven missing dinner (worth it to get everyone up and give feeling of achievement to those unlikely to be able to repeat the experience)

Accommodation and Food
B/Bmore than excellent, apart from last night all food was excellent - amazing value. Fresh fish and what an excellent range

Your Guide
Andy displayed humour and patience - this made for a very relaxing experience.

The Bottom Line
Excellent

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Trip Comments
I was pleasantly surprised by the high quality of our accommodation along the way.

Accommodation and Food
Accommodation was excellent, and breakfast choices were very good in most places. If there's one thing I can suggest it would be to slightly improve the nutritional value of those pre-packed lunches. Although I'm grateful that most places accommodated my request for gluten-free sandwiches, most of the rest of the lunch included sugar, sugar and more sugar. And chips. Fortunately, I had my own healthy options, as I simply can't eat bad food. I think it would be just as easy to offer: more fruit (e.g., 2 apples/bananas, instead of one), nuts and bars of a more healthy brand, such as "Nak'd" (no added sugar).

The Bottom Line
This was an unforgettable experience, despite less than optimal weather. The Highlands are simply stunning, and I would love to be back!

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Pre-Trip Service
Prompt response to queries. Friendly and helpful.

Accommodation and Food
Excellent apart from the B and B at Kinlocheven. The host was in the wrong job! He didn't seem to like people at all.

Your Guide
Dave made the trip for me. So friendly, knowledgeable, dependable and a great sense of humour.

The Bottom Line
I was thrilled with it all. Met some great people. Brilliantly organised. All I had to do was walk!

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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.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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Pre-Trip Service
Problem with credit card when booking. But when I phoned everything was dealt with efficiently.

Trip Comments
Excellent guiding and the area is beautiful. You just need to sort out the weather to get to excellent.

Your Guide
Nice guy good sense of humour massively knowledgeable.

The Bottom Line
Assynt is so beatiful it verges on the sureal. Wilderness Scotland are an efficient company and are good for running tours with small group sizes. But when you go to Scotland you are rolling the dice.

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Pre-Trip Service
My wife said that you were very helpful and responsive

Trip Comments
- Our guide, Craig MacDonald - was great fun ,very humorous, knowledgeable, and sensitive to the group. You are lucky to have him.
- We had a great group which bonded well
- Much of the hiking, at least for us, was quite challenging. The trip reminded us that we are not as fit as we want to be.
- The countryside was stunning
- The Stein Inn was very cool - felt like Scotland
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Accommodation and Food
I neither want nor expect great food on a hiking trip. I'd go to a city if I wanted that.
On the other hand, the pack lunches were barely edible. But it doesn't really matter.

Your Guide
Craig MacDonald was excellent. He challenged us to our limits, which was good. Also, offered us choices, such as whether we wanted to go further. We always did. Also, he is highly informative with a great wit.

The Bottom Line
Physically challenging, exhilarating, great bonding, lots of laughs, stunning scenery. My legs are still sore, but I'd happily do another one. I doubt we could handle a week of Level 3, however, at our fitness level (which we thought was pretty decent) for our age (mid-60s).

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Pre-Trip Service
friendly and prompt email responses. friendly and clear conversation in phone calls.

Trip Comments
Jill our guide was one reason for this high rating. She was organized, very knowledgeable about many pertinent things, was actively working to gather more info to share as we went along, could read the needs and interests of the group and shape things accordingly, had good leadership skills (would make a decision and communicate it with authority). Very professional as well as personal.
I didn't expect the gourmet food along the way and that was fab.
One highlight for me was learning about the Harris Tweed industry because it joined the land, animals, and local culture and history into a whole. Feeling the origins of the wool cloth, its colors and textures, in the land and people was very special.
A personal wish for me was for more reflective time. I found the pace a little too quick both physically and psychically. But I also did appreciate that we saw so many different things every day.

Accommodation and Food
gourmet dinners amazing and breakfasts were over the top. Lunches from the Harris Hotel under par. Lunches at Stein on Skye were great.
having snacks on board was a good touch. JIll even organized an impromptu whiskey tasting one night.

Your Guide
see my earlier comments. Jill was over the top excellent.

The Bottom Line
I would Recommend to others with an explanation that they are signing up for a group experience that is not self-paced, and the pros and cons of that.

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Pre-Trip Service
All was fine, no complaints

Trip Comments
The weather was pretty bad all week in Torridon area - very wet and windy - so we had to go off the planned itinerary a few times. Despite this I still had a really enjoyable week (as did the rest of the group) with lots of challenging walking. Kirsty, our guide, was absolutely brilliant. Totally unflappable, always ready with Plan B (and C, D, and E..) and irrepressibly good-humoured. It's a really beautiful area. I'll go back.

Accommodation and Food
Myrtle Bank hotel in Gairloch was top-notch. Great food and service, and really nice owners and staff.

Torridon Inn was more of a mixed picture. Big and comfortable rooms, and nice bar and restaurant area. Well-placed for good walks straight out of the door. Unfortunately let down by its service. Three of the five meals we had there took an age to arrive. Waiting half an hour for a plate of porridge or scrambled eggs is not acceptable (and they got some orders wrong). The kitchen and restaurant seemed to be understaffed and badly run. The manager/barman is a fairly annoying character - maybe its just his sense of humour - either way he comes across as rather rude and unwelcoming. Wifi in my room was poor.

Your Guide
Kirsty has had universally great feedback and I agree with this 100%. She's a top-class guide. Her ability to change the advertised programme due to bad weather and still give us enjoyable and challenging walking was extremely impressive. She's clearly focused on giving the customer his/her money's worth regardless of conditions, and she totally succeeded in this. The group gelled really well and we had some great laughs - whether it be hunkered down in the emergency shelter while a northerly howled outside or crossing a rain-swollen torrent - which was no small credit to Kirsty. She's very knowledgeable and her enthusiasm for, and love of, the Highlands is infectious.

The Bottom Line
This is my 2nd trip with WS (last year in Assynt). In their different ways, I've really enjoyed both. On the basis of these two trips, it's clear that WS are a very professional organisation with excellent guides who know their craft, have intimate knowledge of the areas they operate in, and work very hard to ensure their customers have a safe, but challenging and enjoyable adventure.

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Trip Comments
As always, the trip was wonderfully organized. I couldn't possibly pick one highlight. The weather was pretty close to perfect, the newborn lambs appeared right on schedule and the masses of daffodils were a total surprise!

Your Guide
This is my second time with Tim. He hasn't lost any of his enthusiasm for whatever he is showing us. His humor, knowledge and patience were beyond great. I'd follow him anywhere!

The Bottom Line
I'm in love with Orkney and, if I could get our dogs, donkeys, chickens and husband through quarantine, I'd move in a minute.However I might need a translator for the first few months. many thanks for a memorable trip. Now to get my knee replaced before taking on another Wilderness Scotland trip!

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Pre-Trip Service
The amount of paperwork seemed minimal, and everything seemed to be handled as efficiently as possible.

Trip Comments
Our guide, Craig McDonald, seemed prepared to handle any situation, such as dealing with late ferries. He got a bit of a challenge when one member of our party tumbled over a wall.

Accommodation and Food
The accommodations were excellent. It was nice to stay in a place with some character. The food was generally good, although some of it it was saltier than what we are used to and at times the service was a bit spotty.

Your Guide
Craig, with his Scottish accent and fast manner of speaking, could be a bit of a challenge to understand at times, although he was clear about imparting vital information. He has the best interests of his clients at heart all the way.

The Bottom Line
The trip covered everything described well. However, I think the "walk details" give the impression that group activities will last only four or five hours per day. Usually that was not the case.

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Pre-Trip Service
Bit off a bit more than I could chew. But so happy I did it!

Accommodation and Food
The best experience ever!

Your Guide
Andy Hague was very caring & considered all of us.

The Bottom Line
I felt I was too slow for the others, but Andy made sure it was good for all. I'll choose an easier grade next time.

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Pre-Trip Service
Very responsive and helpful.

Trip Comments
It’s hard to break down what was so excellent about the trip - it was on all round great experience. Accomadation was amazing. Guide was so skilled at his job. Food was outstanding. Walks were all lovely. What was with the sunburn though - I thought this was a walk in rainy Scotland ?

Accommodation and Food
I would stay at the accomadation again anytime. The location was lovely. The hosts were delightful, accomadating and kind. The actual hotel was gorgeous and very well set up in terms of the rooms, the breakfast location and the lounger for tea drinking and sea watching. The food (breakfast) was of very high quality and was delicious and plentiful. The time of year was very fun with all those lambs gambling about

Your Guide
I really liked our guide Keith. A wealth of information on the local cultural history and natural history. He had a great combination of outdoor skills, leadership, weather, people, driving and plant and animal identification skills - and funny as well... where do you find these great guides !

The Bottom Line
A lovely part of Scotland to explore with a great company who provides exemplary service throughout.

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

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

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

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

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

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Pre-Trip Service
Everyone was very helpful and accommodating with the changes that we need to make to our arrangements.

Trip Comments
Excellent trip leader. Excellent accommodations and food. The walks themselves were great.

Accommodation and Food
The Callater Lodge was amazing. Great food and a great place to stay. Coig na Shee was also great!

Your Guide
John Walker was an excellent guide for our trip. He is extremely knowledgeable about the Cairngorms and was able to tune our walks for our abilities as a group and for the expected weather.

The Bottom Line
I would absolutely recommend Wilderness Scotland to my friends, and I will return myself for trips in the future. I may even apply for a job with you :-)

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Pre-Trip Service
Very detailed information provided. Helpful links for insurance. Helpful links for lodgings given too.

Trip Comments
LOVED IT! From start to finish, Will was a great guide. I loved meeting all the people on the island like Tony, Willie, and Donald John. The hikes were fun. The beaches were beautiful. The food was great. The group was a fun group of people, who got on well and had some great laughs!

Accommodation and Food
Hotel Hebrides was really lovely. The room was beautiful and the bathroom was really nice. The Stein Inn was rustic and authentic, loved that it was so rural and peaceful.

Your Guide
Will was a great guide. He is very knowledgeable about Scotland and the Hebrides. I liked that he wanted us to really see what makes the Hebrides such a unique place in the world. I learned a lot while enjoying myself hiking. This was my first real trip back to Scotland since I was a kid, bought back all the great memories I had of living there

The Bottom Line
Absolutely loved my trip! It has made me want to go back and visit the Islands again. I will definitely be taking another trip with Wilderness Scotland

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Pre-Trip Service
It all worked out very well, again. Second trip with WS and no problems.

Trip Comments
Knoydart, Doune and everything was amazing. I would not hesitate to recommend it to anyone!

Accommodation and Food
The food and service could not have been any better. Amazing food, amazing location. 5 stars!!

Your Guide
Rosie McKenzie was an excellent guide. She loves what she does and it shows in her work.

The Bottom Line
We recommend WS whenever and wherever we can.

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Pre-Trip Service
Staff happy to answer any queries and look after any special requirements.

Trip Comments
So many highlights! The food, the guide, the wildlife, the place, it was a great trip.

Accommodation and Food
The food was brilliant.

Your Guide
Full of enthusiasm, and just what we needed for a great trip.

The Bottom Line
Simply a brilliant trip in a brilliant place with a brilliant guide. Magic.

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Pre-Trip Service
Prompt and helpful responses to questions

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

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

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

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

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Your Guide
Our tour guide was Andy, who was knowledgeable, excellent as a guide and adaptable to our group as a leader to make the experience the best one for everybody.

The Bottom Line
Great experience, highly recommended, would not hesitate to use Wilderness Scotland again

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Pre-Trip Service
Guide was very adept in managing the group. His verbal instructions were clear and concise, aided by visual aids like maps and hand written instructions (which we photographed with our phones).

The Bottom Line
I was very happy and satisfied with the service of Wilderness Scotland .

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Pre-Trip Service
I received very prompt responses to email and excellent service during phone call. Thanks!

Trip Comments
The Cairngorms Walking trip was far more than I could have imagined. James, our guide, is a gem! He knows how to assess abilities and offered encouragement throughout the trek. He has a wealth of knowledge of the area and shared great practical tips. Accommodations and dining were 5 star, as well.

Accommodation and Food
Both B&Bs were fab. Innkeepers top of the line. Breakfast, packed lunches were always delicious and well portioned. It was wonderful to order from menu at each restaurant. So many great choices and experiences.

Your Guide
As mentioned earlier, James is a gem. He is such a kind and gracious man, offering encouragement and great tips throughout the journey. He has such a vast amount of knowledge and presents information clearly and completely. James is entirely enthusiastic about sharing the wonders of the Highlands. He knows how to carefully read people and is entirely suited for proceeding at a pace in which he accommodates a group of walkers of varying abilities. James is a true blue, genuine , charismatic and entirely skilled guide. Stellar...the best!

The Bottom Line
Top notch experience. The journey of a lifetime. Choose a trip and do it with Wilderness Scotland!

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Pre-Trip Service
The pre-trip communication was consistently friendly, clear, and prompt.

Trip Comments
We had a fantastic guide (Ken) and an unofficial co-guide (Sonja) who---every day--- brought their enthusiasm, boundless energy, deep knowledge of Scotland, and dry humor along for the most beautiful hikes I've ever experienced. And did I mention patience? We asked a LOT of questions, sometimes two, three, seven times.

Accommodation and Food
The Stein Inn and the Harris Hotel were both perfect. The food was plentiful and delicious, and each hotel is in a unique and beautiful setting.

Your Guide
We lucked out. I'm sure the other guides are spectacular, but come on, they can't be as awesome as Ken, can they??

The Bottom Line
The trip far exceeded our hopes, and we're already planning for next summer. Thank you.

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Accommodation and Food
The accommodation itself in the Lynnfield Hotel was good but the evening meal service and breakfast service were inconsistent and sometimes very slow.

Your Guide
Pete was a superb guide, knowledgeable about the areas, adventurous, great conversation, and paid good attention to peoples' varying abilities. He has a good environmental ethic which he shared and encouraged without pressure. His attention to details such as wildlife we might see was excellent.

The Bottom Line
Overall the trip was great. One comment about planning for a future Orkney trip is to perhaps avoid the Tomb of the Otters. As a scientist I found the scientific presentation unusual, and by including it in the trip, it seems to have the same level of validation as the major archaeological sites, whereas it may be more of a commercial venture. The access to the Tomb was very narrow and confined and I didn't feel safe or comfortable going in.
However the Skerries Bistro food and setting were excellent and it is worth going to the location for that.

TEAM WILDERNESS RESPONSE:

Thanks for your feedback. The Tomb of the Otters is often mentioned as a highlight of the trip but of course that doesn't mean that everyone will enjoy it. It is perfectly safe to enter the tomb but we'll make sure to stress that it is optional for anyone that doesn't want to go it. Sounds like you had a wonderful trip overall and hopefully we can welcome you back to Scotland soon.

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Accommodation and Food
fantastic

Your Guide
knowledgeable, helpful, efficient, patient, friendly

The Bottom Line
Well organised trip, excellent guide. Clientele on this trip seemed to be people who were completely new to the area and terrain (this is not a negative point, just something I'm not familiar with)

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Pre-Trip Service
Actually my wife did all the planning, so she can elaborate further.

Trip Comments
The weather was ideal, we really enjoyed the small group of personalities, and our guide, Helen, was fantastic. I learned so much about the history of Scotland along with the wildlife and landscape of Scotland. The Inns and BnBs were all very nice. The lunches they provided along with breakfast kept us well-nourished. This trip is undoubtedly one of the greatest experiences of my life. Everything was well-organized and I especially enjoyed seeing Glencoe, which I highly recommend becoming part of the normal itinerary of the trip. I understand that we only stayed there because Kingshouse was under repair, but I would have missed possibly the most beautiful area had we not stayed in Glencoe.

Accommodation and Food
I really enjoyed the uniqueness of each BnB/country Inn. The rooms were all nice and clean...some smaller than others...but all were very warm and welcoming. The final hotel in Fort William was especially beautiful with the view of the loch. Plus you were so nice to have them present my wife and I with champagne for our 25th anniversary. I am not sure if the office executed that or Helen, but it was a beautiful touch and much appreciated.

TEAM WILDERNESS RESPONSE:

We were so glad you choose to celebrate your 25th anniversary with us and glad you enjoyed the champagne. It was a gift from the whole team and hopefully made the day just a wee bit more special!

Your Guide
Helen Marsden was the perfect guide. She was informative, organized, efficient, and kept everyone on pace so that the group could stay together. She handled some delicate situations very professionally when we had 3 people that needed to pull-out of the walk for physical reasons. I thoroughly enjoyed my conversations with Helen, who taught me so much about the history, the culture, the fauna and flora of Scotland. She also shared her personal stories about her life and professions. So it was very pleasant to get to know our guide on a personal level as well.

The Bottom Line
I want to utilize your company again in the future! I may actually try to sign-up for the mountain biking trip that Helen leads.
Thank you so very much for the most memorable trip of my life(and I have had some really wonderful trips in my 52 years).

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Pre-Trip Service
The website provided the appropriate details for the trip. The person who received my booking adequately responded to my questions.

Trip Comments
I enjoyed our hikes because the planned hikes were well suited to my abilities. I also liked the hotel where we stayed and the food was excellent. Ken, who was our guide, was very encouraging and very patient dealing with 8 different personalities. he tailored the hikes depending on what we want for that particular moment.

Accommodation and Food
Food was excellent. The staff in Lovat is also very helpful. we needed our laundry done and they did it on the same day. I wish that they would provide an area where we can leave our muddy shoes so we do not track dirt to our rooms. Or they should have a hose where we hikers can clean up.

Your Guide
Ken is the best. He restored my faith on hiking tours again

The Bottom Line
Wonderful trip!

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Trip Comments
The trip is the perfect introduction to the rich history and beautiful cliff walks of the Orkneys. Particular highlights were the sea cliffs of Hoy , Scara Brae and Maeshowe. I won't forget the stranded ships in Scapa Flow.

Your Guide
As well as being good company, our guide was knowledgeable and always ready to adapt the itinerary if there was something we particularly wanted to see. Very good at dodging coach parties.

The Bottom Line
This is an excellent short escape offering the chance to explore and enjoy the landscape, history and hospitality of the Orkneys. The relaxed pace and small grouping allowed us to get off the beaten track in a way I have not found offered by other companies.

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Trip Comments
Guide was brilliant and everything was catered for which make. Us all relax and enjoy the experience

Accommodation and Food
Comfortable and fabulous food

Your Guide
Ken was sooo lovely calm caring and the group gelled striaght away because of his people skills

The Bottom Line
Can't wait to come again!

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Pre-Trip Service
Valuable, detailed information.

Trip Comments
Best guide ever. Crazy weather but tender love and care from all Scots.

Accommodation and Food
Some Days the rain was so hard that it was impossible to eat the lunch. Pretty hungry by the end of the day those Days.

Your Guide
Liam Allan, so sweet and mature beyond his years. Careing and smart. A real gem.

The Bottom Line
So well managed trip. You feel safe and well taken care of.

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