About The Northwest Highlands Trek
At a glance...
Country: Scotland
Duration: 10 days / 9 nights
Activity: Hiking and sightseeing
Travel style: Guided
Difficulty grade: ModerateĀ (See details below)
Comfort: 3-4* hotels
Our Scottish Northwest Highlands trek is more than a hiking trip; itās a full immersion into one of Europeās most rugged and romantic landscapes. Custom-designed by Hobnail owners Mark and Holly Johnson along with our amazing Scottish staff, this adventure blends daily trekking with cultural exploration, breathtaking boat rides, cozy inns, and of course, a proper whisky tasting (or two). From your starting point in the historic city of Inverness, youāll venture deep into the untamed Northwest Highlands, bagging peaks and embracing the raw beauty of this enchanting region.
Over the course of 10 days, youāll walk beneath towering sandstone giants, cross moody moorlands, and trace the contours of secluded coastal paths. Highlights include climbing iconic mountains like Conival (a celebrated Munro), Beinn Damh (a proud Corbett), and the rugged Stac Pollaidh.
But this trip is far from a relentless march. Weāve balanced the demanding hikes with moments of rest and wonder. Drift through the Summer Isles on a scenic boat cruise, marvel at the cascading Falls of Measach in the dramatic Corrieshalloch Gorge, and enjoy peaceful evenings in charming Highland villages like Ullapool, Gairloch, and Plockton. Along the way, youāll have ample chances to sample local delicacies ā including Scotlandās legendary seafood, game, and shortbread ā and, naturally, a dram of smooth, smoky whisky from Glen Ord Distillery.
What makes this trek particularly special is its connection to the land and its stories. Our expert local guide brings the Highlands to life with tales of clan battles, Highland traditions, and the geology that shaped these ancient landscapes. Each step is not just a physical journey but a deeper understanding of Scotlandās fierce natural beauty and rich cultural heritage.
As with all Hobnail adventures, this trek is carefully crafted for comfort, safety, and camaraderie. Youāll enjoy the support of luggage transfers, thoughtfully selected accommodations, and plenty of opportunities to connect with fellow adventurers. And, in true Hobnail fashion, we keep the vibe relaxed and full of good humor ā because exploring the world should be as joyful as it is rewarding.
So lace up your boots, pack your curiosity, and join us for an unforgettable odyssey through Scotlandās wild northwest. The bens are calling.
Northwest Highlands
of ScotlandClick on the preferred date to register:
August 9-18, 2026 (register by May 1)
Northwest highland trek details
- Start and end in the historical and mysterious city of Inverness, the cultural capital of the Scottish Highlands
- Hike the rugged peaks, heather-clad moors, and island-fringed coastlines of the Northwest Highlands
- āBag a Munroā (and a Corbett and a Graham)
- Experience more than just mountains as you walk down secluded beaches and relax upon a scenic boat cruise of the Summer Isles
- Tour one of Scotland’s whisky distilleries and taste a sample of their finest
- Witness first-hand some of the best peaks in Scotland and feel the huge sense of achievement with every summit reached
- Hobnail Trekking Co. long-sleeve trekking shirt and ball cap
- Custom Hobnail mobile app
- Opportunities to get to know your fellow trekkers include an invitation to a WhatsApp group for your trek, group training hikes if trekkers live in proximity to each other, and other local social gatherings
- All transfers as required from Day 1 to Day 10, starting and ending in Inverness
- All luggage transfers
- 9 nights of double-occupancy accommodations in small hotels and inns
- All breakfasts
- 7 packed lunches (Days 1, 4, and 10 not included)
- 5 dinners (Days 2, 5, 7, and 8 not included)
- Additional snacks while hiking
- Qualified, experienced local guide throughout the trip
- All guided hikes, visits, and activities as described in the itinerary
- Gratuities for hotel and restaurant staff
- 24/7 in-country trip support
- Taxes and permits
- The company of new friends and the experience of a lifetime
- Travel insurance (See the Travel Insurance section on this page for details)
- International flights
- Entrance Visa
- Meals not included on itinerary
- Drinks other than table water
- Entrance fees for attractions not included in itinerary
- Tips for leaders, other guides, etc. (we’ll give you guidance on this)
- Personal trekking equipment (hiking boots, clothing, etc.)
- Personal expenses (phone calls, laundry, room service, extra hotel nights, extra meals, etc.)
- Spending money, including for souvenirs
- All expenses associated with non-scheduled departure
We rate this trek as āmoderate to challengingā in difficulty, or three boots.
Moderate-to-challenging treks are usually active and require an above average fitness level to accomplish. Daily activity duration is typically between 4 and 7 hours, and the total length of the trek may be up to two weeks. Expect some signficant elevation gains and losses and rough trail conditions on occassion.
OK, hereās where we get serious. Hobnail requires that all trekkers purchase travel/medical insurance that covers them properly for all trekking activities.
There are a lot more details you need to know about travel insurance than we want to put in this limited space ā including stuff about trip cancellations and what company we recommend ā so when youāre ready, pop over to our Travel Insurance page.
We consider our treks to be adventures, not vacations. Weāre not Hobnail Vacation Company, after all!Ā Donāt get us wrong; we like vacations as much as the next person, but with our treks, you need to be physically and mentally ready. Hereās what we ask of you:
- You thoroughly read all the information we send you prior to departure.
- You get yourself an accountability partner and train properly. This doesnāt mean doing a few squats two weeks before departure.
- You familiarize yourself with your gear prior to leaving. Practice adjusting your backpack, filtering water if necessary, etc.
- If you purchase new boots, they are broken in well in advance of departure.
- When on trek, you FOLLOW THE INSTRUCTIONS OF YOUR GUIDE. His or her only concern is helping you achieve your goal safely and in good health, but this wonāt happen unless you follow their advice. This includes ā but is not limited to ā food recommendations, speed of pace, when to sleep and when not to, when to walk and when to rest, when to turn around due to illness, etc.
- When on trek, you treat your guide and the locals you encounter with the utmost respect. We are guests in their country and very grateful to be there.
All of these things may seem like common sense ā and they are ā but we feel that we must mention them. Hobnailās goal is to provide you with the best experience possible, and you have an important role in achieving that goal.
Trekking is more dictated by conditioning and will than by age. On the Everest Base Camp (EBC) trail, for example, we see people in their 70s and as young as 10 (although we generally recommend 14 as a good minimum age for long-distance trekking). We’ve seen people hiking with prosthetic limbs and even heard of a guy doing the entire EBC trek in a wheelchair. The bottom line is, if you have a passion for adventure and the outdoors, you are willing to train and prepare yourself, and you promise to follow your guideās instructions, we will be honored to guide you on a trek.
A few days after registering for a trek (with a deposit of at least $500), weāll give you a quick call to say hello and answer any initial questions you may have. If you use WhatsApp, weāll add you to a group with your fellow trekkers so that you may interact with them, and possibly your guide, before departure. Youāll be able to post questions in the group anytime youād like, talk about the cool gear youāre planning to take with you, organize group hikes if you live near each other, and generally just get to know those who will be sharing this incredible experience with you.
Within the first weeks after your trek is confirmed, you will receive a Welcome Kit from us. It contains stuff you can use during training and on the trek, as well as some other fun things to get you (even more) excited about your trip.
Youāll also receive a link to our Hobnail app, which is full of great information, including a day-by-day schedule, nearby points of interest, beautiful photography, and yet another way to contact us ā through its messaging service. As your trip gets closer, we will continue to load information into your app, including your flights and airport maps, links to places youāll be staying, and other tips and helpful information to ensure you have more than you need to feel confident about your upcoming trek.Ā
The closer you get to your trek, the more youāll hear from us ā but of course, you can reach out any time you have a question.
What happens if my trek is not confirmed?
If the minimum number for the trek you booked is not reached before the 60-day booking deadline, you will be eligible for either a refund or to transfer your deposit to another trek. See details HERE.
Our Mobile App
When you book, we send you the login credentials to your own, customized app. By departure, your app will contain your flight info, passport, and travel insurance docs, as well as your full itinerary, points of interest, and other amazing stuff.
TREK ITINERARY
DAY 1: Arrive in Inverness, Tour of Whisky Distillery
Welcome to Scotland!
Your trek begins in Inverness – the northernmost city in the United Kingdom, and often referred to as the capital of the Scottish Highlands. Youāll have the morning to yourself before meeting up with your guide and the rest of your group at around 2 pm.
Your adventure āofficiallyā begins here, when you hop on board private transportation and head northwest for approximately 90 minutes through pretty amazing scenery. Leaving Inverness, youāll be surrounded by rolling hills and lush green landscapes with panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. En route, we will pop into a local whisky distillery, Glen Ord, for a tour and a wee tasting at the end. Theirs has a fairly soft flavor, which means that most people will like it. Let us know if you agree.
Finally arriving in Ullapool ā the gateway to a land of rugged peaks ā youāll be struck by the landscape opening up to reveal the vast expanse of the Atlantic Ocean. The town is nestled on the shores of Loch Broom, which can be seen directly from Ardvreck House, your accommodations for the evening.
*Note: Inverness itself is a destination, full of award-winning attractions and a history that dates back to at least the 6th century AD. If youāre able to take the extra time, arrive a day or two early and explore this ancient city. (We’ll even provide an information pack so you’ll know everything you need to know to have a great visit.)
Overnight: Ardvreck House, Ullapool
Meals included: Welcome dinner
DAY 2: Hike the iconic Stac Pollaidh
Today youāll experience two extremes ā mountains and coastline.
Stac Pollaidh is a (mini) mountain that can be climbed by just about anyone who tries. Itās a steady ascent to the top on a path thatās well-defined. Although only modest in height, it offers incredible views across Assynt, the Summer Isles, and Achiltibuie. The remarkable variety of landscapes visible from there is exactly what makes northwest Scotland so special.
After descending, youāll enjoy taking a break on a secluded Highland beach (we promised you two extremes, didnāt we?) before returning to the hotel.
Tonight, youāll have the evening to yourself. We recommend you take in one of the local specialty seafood restaurants that youāve been dying to try out.
Hike Details: 2.75 miles, 1,675 ft of ascent, 3 hours
Overnight: Ardvreck House, Ullapool
Meals included: Breakfast, Packed Lunch
DAY 3: Bag the Legendary Munro Conival
Today will be one of the highlights of your trip.
A Munro is the name given by the Scots for a mountain thatās over 3,000 feet high. (In the southeast US, weād simply refer to a mountain this size as a āmountain.ā) Itās a big deal to ābag a Munroā over there, and today youāll bag one of the most famous Munros in the region. Good on you!
Youāll hike up Conival, which is moderately challenging, but youāll be rewarded along the way with some incredible views over a wilderness of lochs and moors. Reach the top and youāll have a breathtaking panorama of the rugged peaks, shimmering lochs, and vast expanse of unspoiled wilderness that surrounds you and is the hallmark of the Assynt region of Scotland.
Arriving back in Ullapool after working up quite an appetite, you’ll be ready for the hearty meal that awaits.
Hike Details: 8.75 miles, 3,240 ft of ascent, 6-7 hours
Accommodation: Ardvreck House, Ullapool
Meals Included: Breakfast, Packed Lunch, Dinner
DAY 4: Boat Cruise Around the Summer Isles
You saw this archipelago two days ago from the Stac Pollaidh, and now youāll get a much closer look!Ā
Today starts with a scenic boat cruise around the incredible Summer Isles archipelago. From your vantage point, youāll have great views of the mountains of Assynt and Coigach. This will give you the rest you need (and deserve!) after yesterdayās challenging hike, so relax and enjoy the fresh air and amazing vistas.
En route to your next destination, youāll stop to explore the dramatic Corrieshalloch Gorge. Although Corrieshalloch means āugly hollowā in Gaelic, this gorge is anything but. Formed during the last ice age from the forces of glacial erosion and the River Droma, this narrow chasm features 200-foot dramatic cliff walls covered in greenery. Itās here in the gorge where youāll discover the incredible Falls of Measach, a 150-foot waterfall that is best seen from a suspension bridge spanning the gorge. Standing on that bridge, youāll even feel the spray of the waterfall while you take in its sheer power.
After youāve completed this short detour to the gorge, youāll board private transportation to your next destination: a short but awesome hike up a wild glen to Gruinard Bay and the Eas Dubh falls. Can you tire of seeing too many incredible waterfalls in the Scottish highlands? We think not!
Your destination for tonight is the Myrtlebank Hotel in Gairloch, not far from the bay and falls you just visited. After checking into your hotel, youāll have some time to relax or explore before tonightās group dinner.
Hike Details: 3.75 miles, 295 ft of ascent, 1-1.5 hours (total for 2 hikes)
Accommodation: Myrtlebank Hotel, Gairloch
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
DAY 5: Hike up the remote āMountain of the Birdsā
Fuel up at breakfast because youāve got a long hike today.
Beinn an Eoin (Gaelic for āMountain of the Birdsā) is a lesser-known, remote gem in the northwest Scottish highlands. At 2,805 feet, itās classified as a āGraham,ā which is the smallest mountain class in the UK. Even still, youāll have to push yourself.
Beinn an Eoin is considered part of the Flowerdale Forest, a remote and wild area known for its rugged beauty. After an approach that follows a bubbling river, youāll gain altitude slowly, trekking a broad grassy ridge to the summit cone. The views south are stunning ā you can see across the Torridon hills (made of some of the oldest rocks in the world) as well as ancient landscapes and Stac Pollaidh, which you climbed just days ago. The solitude here is unprecedented; soak it all in.
Once you get back to Gairloch after a long day of bagging Grahams, youāll have the evening free to choose a restaurant on your own.
Hike Details: 12.5 miles, 2,950 ft of ascent, 7-8 hours
Accommodation: Myrtlebank Hotel, Gairloch
Meals Included: Breakfast, Packed Lunch
Day 6: Hike a āGiant of Torridonā
Beinn Damh, a mountain in the Torridon range that provides an incredible vista across Upper Loch Torridon all the way to the rocky peaks of Liathach and Beinn Alligan, is classified as a āCorbettā ā one step down from a Munro. Today youāll bag a Corbett!
The hike begins in the lovely Scots Pine woods, and as you gain altitude, youāll also gain more awesome vistas like of the gorge below and its enormous, powerful waterfall. As you continue to ascend, youāll cross heather-laden moorland to reach the upper levels of the corrie (cirque), before finally reaching the summit.Ā
From the top, youāll be rewarded with views of the giant sandstone peaks of the Torridon mountains (including Liathach and Beinn Eighe) and the nearby Loch Torridon. The rugged peaks, shimmering lochs, and deep glens combine to create a dramatic and awe-inspiring Highland landscape.
Speaking of glens, once youāre back in the glen, youāll be transferred to your next hotel, this time in Plockton, one of the most picturesque villages in the Highlands.
Hike Details: 7.5 miles, 3,215 ft of ascent, 6-7 hours
Accommodation: Plockton Inn, Plockton
Meals Included: Breakfast, Packed Lunch, Dinner
DAY 7: Day trip to the Isle of Skye and the Black Cuillin
After breakfast this morning, youāll visit the famous Isle of Skye. This iconic destination in the Scottish Highlands is the very definition of natural beauty and rugged landscape, with its towering cliffs, stunning coastlines, and beautiful lochs.
A small boat greets you and will transport you into a dramatic and otherwise inaccessible sea loch nestled deep in the heart of the Black Cuillin mountains. Disembarking at a remote jetty, youāll enjoy hiking Loch Coruisk ā either circumnavigating the stunning loch or maybe hiking up the rocky peak of Sgurr na Stri for breathtaking views of the magnificent, majestic Black Cuillin range.
Later in the day, youāll return to Plockton, where youāll have the evening to enjoy a delightful meal on your own and relish the tranquil ambiance of this incredible coastal village.
Hike Details: 4.25 miles, 410 ft of ascent (or 1,640 ft if you hike the peak), 4 hours
Accommodation: Plockton Inn, Plockton
Meals Included: Breakfast, Packed Lunch
DAY 8: Trekking Fuar Tholl
Fuar Tholl (meaning ācold holeā in Gaelic) is an impressive yet often overlooked sandstone peak. Just missing the minimum for Munro status, this Corbett is a real hidden gem of the Northwest Highlands, and today youāll see why.
Your hike begins on the Achnashellach Estate, a magnificent property once 49,000 acres in size before being divided into smaller sections in the mid-1870s. Youāll access the trail via a short walk through the Achnashellach Forest, composed primarily of spruce trees and Caledonian pine.
The trail climbs steadily alongside the River Lair before rising to a high corrie (cirque) that reveals the mighty cliffs of Fuar Tholl, also known as āWellingtonās Noseā because of its shape. Shortly thereafter, youāll reach the lofty summit and enjoy the view of the huge Mainnrichean Buttress and the 360-degree vistas that accompany it.
Once youāve gotten enough of those views (as if that would ever happen), youāll descend back down the trail through Achnashellach and continue to Plockton for a well-earned celebration drink.
Dinner is on your own tonight, but we are happy to make suggestions.
Hike Details: 9 miles, 3,015 ft of ascent, 6.5-7.5 hours
Accommodation: Plockton Inn, Plockton
Meals Included: Breakfast, Packed Lunch
DAY 9: Hike in Wild Kintail
Today, on your last full day in the Scottish Highlands, youāll venture into the extraordinary and remote mountain landscape of Kintail, where youāll enjoy a ridgewalk offering incredible skyline views. Your route will encompass a Munro on the South Cluanie ridge that forms a loop connecting two well-defined (but easy) ridges.
Your trek starts by following an old deerstalkerās path that gains altitude quickly as you ascend toward Druim Coire nan Eirecheanach. Youāll experience some modest exposure as you ascend, but there wonāt be any scrambling or technical difficulty during your hike, only the classic West Highland terrain youāve come to know over the past several days.
Once you reach the summit, youāll be rewarded with an absolutely breathtaking view of the iconic Five Sisters of Kintail. Youāll want to pause here for a few minutes for photography before meandering down the path through Druim Tholliad and back into the glen.
After your hike, youāll be transferred east for approximately an hour before reaching Drumnadrochit on the northern shores of Loch Ness. Here, youāll commemorate your journey with a dram of whiskey and one more group meal to celebrate and reflect upon the adventure you just shared.
Sleep well, here at Loch Ness, on your last night in Scotland.
Hike Details: 5 miles, 2,525 ft of ascent, 6-7 hours
Accommodation: Loch Ness Inn, Drumnadrochit
Meals Included: Breakfast, Packed Lunch, Dinner
DAY 10: Depart from Inverness
After your final breakfast in Scotland (boo!), youāll be transferred back to Inverness where you can be dropped off in the city center for more sightseeing and shopping or at the airport to catch your flight home. We look forward to seeing you in Scotland again soon!
Meals Included: Breakfast
GENERAL INFORMATION
about THE FOOD
Scottish cuisine is a reflection of the country’s rich culinary heritage and bountiful natural resources. Iconic dishes like haggis, a savory blend of minced lamb or beef mixed with oats, onions, and spices, encapsulate the essence of Scottish cuisine. Other notable delicacies include Scotch broth, a nourishing soup made with lamb, barley, and vegetables, and the famous Scottish salmon, celebrated for its exceptional flavor and quality.
Scotland’s love affair with seafood is evident in dishes like Cullen skink ā a creamy smoked haddock soup (pictured above) ā and smoked salmon served with oatcakes. Moreover, Scotland’s landscapes provide an abundance of game, leading to dishes such as venison stew and game pies. And let’s not forget about the beloved shortbread and whisky, two quintessential Scottish treats that have gained international fame.
Ben, Munro, or Corbett?
A ābenā is simply the Gaelic word for hill. It can apply to a hill of any size or shape. Gaelic has lots of other words for hills, which tend to depict their shape a bit more ā like sgurr, cairn, or meallā but ābenā is the only one which is widely used. (āIām going for a walk up the ben,ā would be understood by most Scots, even those who speak no Gaelic). Itās worth noting that Ben Nevis, Scotlandās highest peak, is also often referred to simply and affectionately as āThe Benā by outdoors folk.
āMunrosā are specific hills which have 2 defining characteristics: They are over 3,000 feet high and are deemed to be an āindividual mountain.ā Munros are named after Sir Hugh Munro, who first listed all of the peaks in Scotland which were over 3,000 feet high and which he deemed to be individual mountains. There are currently 282 Munros (the list is revised periodically by The Munro Society) and many hikers try to ābagā them all in their lifetime. (Our Scottish partner, Stevie, has only 26 to go!) Munro himself did not manage to hike up them all. Peaks which are over 3,000 feet but which are not deemed to be individual mountains are called āTopsā and there are hundreds of them!
āCorbetts,ā similar to Munros, were first listed by John Rooke Corbett, so are named after him. There are 222 Corbetts across Scotland. They are more defined than Munros, in that they have two characteristics: they are between 2,500 and 2,999 feet high, and they have a drop of a least 500 feet (152 metres) between each listed hill and any adjacent higher one.
About the black cuillin Mountains
Located on the Isle of Skye, these majestic peaks form one of the most challenging mountain ranges in the United Kingdom. Their name comes from the dark, basaltic rock that dominates their rugged and formidable appearance. Towering peaks, narrow ridges, and steep gullies make the Black Cuillin a playground for experienced mountaineers and climbers seeking an adrenaline-fueled adventure.
The allure of the Cuillin lies not only in its imposing and dramatic landscape but also in the ever-changing moods of the weather, with mist, rain, and sunlight casting enchanting spells over the mountains. For those who dare to conquer these ancient rocks, the reward is panoramic views of the Isle of Skye and the surrounding sea lochs. The Black Cuillin is a testament to Scotland’s rugged wilderness, attracting outdoor enthusiasts from around the world to challenge themselves in this mystical mountain realm.
Northwest Highlands
of ScotlandClick on the preferred date to register:
(Registration deadline May 1, 2026)
