Islands on the Edge, Outer Hebrides and St Kilda

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Maximum adventurers: 10
Departure point: Inverness
Drop off point: ATWS, Aviemore

Get right off the beaten track and experience Scotland’s most beautiful islands on this multi-activity adventure with Wilderness Scotland. Based on the Isle of Harris (which is likely to be Scotland’s next National Park), you will explore hikes in the hills, mountains and coastlines, introducing you to the island’s stunning scenery, abundant wildlife and rich cultural heritage. A highlight will be a visit to the incredible St Kilda archipelago which holds double UNESCO World Heritage Site status and is located 40 miles off the coast of Harris.

The journey to the Outer Hebrides is an adventure in itself. You will pass Loch Ness and Scotland’s most photographed castle on the way to the mystical Isle of Skye.There is time for a short but astounding hike on Skye before we enjoy an early evening sail to the Isle of Harris, which is part of the Outer Hebrides archipelago.

This trip to the islands will undoubtedly be a highlight of your time in Scotland. The wonderful scenery, famously friendly islanders and relaxed pace of life will stir the soul and invigorate you – the perfect preparation for the ATTA summit!

Day 1 - Thursday, 30th September: The Isles of Skye and Harris

• 0830 departure from Inverness for the Isle of Skye via Loch Ness and Eilean Donan castle (travel time: 2 hrs 30 min).
• Hiking on the Isle of Skye: Explore the spectacular landscapes of the Quiraing, including the remarkable rock features of the table, the needle and the prison. Breathtaking and surreal scenery!
• Transfer to Uig (travel time: 30 mins) and then 1800 hours ferry from Uig to Isle of Harris on the Outer Hebrides (ferry journey time: 1 hr 40 mins).
• Check into the Hotel Hebrides and enjoy dinner in the hotel.

Day 2 – Friday, 1st October: Hiking on the Isle of Harris

• A full day hike on Harris. The island offers some of the most breathtaking scenery in Scotland, with beautiful mountains rising gracefully from white sandy beaches.
• A real chance to see rare wildlife; Harris has healthy populations of golden eagles and red deer.
• Accommodation at Hotel Hebrides.

Day 3 – Saturday, 2nd October: Journey to St Kilda Hiking

• 0730 depart hotel for full day boat trip to St Kilda (weather permitting).
• Full day boat trip to St Kilda, with 4 hours ashore the main island, Hirta. St Kilda is a double UNESCO World Heritage Site due to its remarkable scenery and outstanding birdlife. The remote island outpost was abandoned in 1930 and has a remarkable social history – a visit here is a once-in-a-lifetime adventure.
• Return to hotel at 2000 hours for dinner and overnight.

Day 4 – Sunday, 3rd October: The Isle of Lewis & return to mainland

• Coastal walks on the Isle of Lewis with visits to ancient historical sites of Callanish Stone Circle (which dates back to around 2000 BC) and Dun Carloway (a Pictish fort dating back to around 100 BC) .
• Ferry at 1430 from Stornoway to Ullapool on the West Coast, arriving 1715.
• Onward transfer to Aviemore arriving 1930.

Trip Design, Logistics & Guiding: Wilderness Scotland is the leading adventure travel company in Scotland.   Since 2001, we have been providing an inspiring range of adventure holidays, journeys and wilderness experiences in the most remote parts of the Scottish Highlands and Islands. Our high quality adventures and professional approach has led us to be recognised by the National Geographic as Europe’s No. 1 Adventure Travel Company 2009.