Wilderness Walking
Argyll & the Isles

Day 1 – The Green Isle of Kerrera

We meet in Oban late morning, coinciding with the arrival of the train from Glasgow. After introductions, we head straight to our first island – Kerrera. Just south of Oban, we take a small boat across the strait to this small island, which has about 100 residents. We enjoy a superb hike which takes a circular route covering the southern half of the island. On the way, we pass the ruined outpost of Gylen Castle, once a stronghold for the MacDougall clan. The views are wonderful and will whet the appetite for the week ahead! After hopping back across to the mainland, we transfer 30 minutes south to our hotel. Set in a fantastic coastal location, all rooms benefit from sea views. We enjoy a welcome dinner at the hotel. (L, D)

Walk details: 10km/ 6 miles | 300m/ 980 ft of ascent | approx. 4-5 hours

Day 2 – The Isle of Gigha

The tiny island of Gigha is an overlooked gem of the Inner Hebrides. A 20 minute ferry ride takes us onto the island named ‘Gudey’ by the Vikings, which translates to ‘God’s Isle’ or ‘The Good Isle’ – either way, it’s a strong endorsement! We’ll have a flexible approach today, so may hike to the north end of the island and climb Creag Bhan, its highest peak at just 101m but with views better than many a higher mountain. Or we can explore the southern shores, with the famous Achmore Gardens and tranquil rural scenery. Wherever we venture, we’ll experience life on this gorgeous island of white sandy beaches, wonderful seascapes and friendly people. (B, L)

Walk details: Up to 10km/ 6 miles | 100m/ 320 ft of ascent | approx. 4-5 hours

Day 3 – Kilmartin Glen & Argyll's Beavers

Picturesque Kilmartin Glen is one of the richest sites in Europe for prehistoric remains. Our morning walk takes us on a circular route through some of the most interesting sites, including Celtic crosses, medieval grave slabs, Bronze Age chambered cairns and standing stones. In the afternoon, we visit Dunadd, possibly the birthplace of Scotland. We enjoy a short woodland walk, and perhaps also along the nearby Crinan Canal before returning to our hotel. (B, L)

Walk details: 8km/ 5 miles | 50m/ 160 ft of ascent | approx. 3-4 hours

Day 4 – The Wild Island of Jura

With a privately chartered boat at our disposal, this day is sure to be a highlight of the trip. We’ll venture, with a flexible approach, to the rarely-visited Isle of Jura to enjoy some wild hiking. We may land in West Loch Tarbert and hike coast to coast, being collected by our boat on the eastern shores. Or we may hike point to point along the east coast, passing George Orwell’s cottage and enjoying fantastic views back to Argyll. Whatever hike we undertake, our boat will detour to the Corryvreckan Whirlpool, so we can appreciate the power of Scotland’s largest tidal whirlpool – from a safe distance! (B, L)

Walk details: 11km/ 7 miles | 350m/ 1150 ft of ascent | approx. 4-5 hours

Day 5 – Sail to Islay; Hike to Killinallan Point

After an early breakfast, we transfer 1 hour south to Kennacraig, where we catch the 9.45am ferry across to Islay. On arrival, we drive to Loch Gruinart Nature Reserve where we enjoy lunch as we look for birds such as cuckoos, corncrakes and hen harriers. Afterwards, we enjoy a hike which explores the shoreline of Loch Gruinart and Killinallan Point, visiting beautiful beaches and offering views north to the islands of Colonsay and Mull. (B, L)

Walk details: 10km/ 6 miles | 50m/ 160 ft of ascent | approx. 4-5 hours

Day 6 – Mountains, Monuments & Single Malts

Our walk today explores the Oa Peninsula in the far south of Islay. We hike up to the American Monument, which commemorates the loss of two troops ships in 1918. We then follow a dramatic cliff-top trail past an Iron Age fort to reach the summit of Beinn Mhor. Although just 200m high, this is a superb viewpoint – on a clear day, the coast of Northern Ireland can be seen! After the hike we recover by visiting one of Islay’s whisky distilleries before returning to the hotel, perhaps making a short detour on the way to enjoy a late afternoon stroll at Machir Bay before our farewell dinner. (B, L, D)

Walk details: 9km/ 6 miles | 250m/ 820 ft of ascent | approx. 4-5 hours

Day 7 – Back to Oban

After breakfast, we take the morning ferry back onto the Argyll mainland, keeping a lookout for wildlife and admiring the views as we sail. Once back in Kennacraig, it’s a 90-minute transfer back to Oban. We should arrive by 2pm. Trains south to Glasgow depart at approx 2.30pm. (B, L)