Walking and Wildlife

Discover the Scottish Highlands on foot, accompanied by experts with an intimate knowledge of its flora, fauna and culture. Our Walking and Wildlife programme is a guest favourite, offering a truly immersive way to experience the region’s breathtaking landscapes and remarkable biodiversity. Walking allows you to slow down, observe more, and connect deeply with nature, whether you’re watching eagles soar overhead or admiring the intricate mosses and lichens beneath your feet.

Highlights

• A selection of carefully chosen walks in a variety of different habitats, taking in some of the most stunning scenery in Britain
• The chance to see amazing wildlife – from white-tailed eagles and red deer to rare fungi and wildflowers
• Staying on the Aigas estate with private hides and the opportunity to see pine martens, badgers and more
• Small group trips with expert guiding from our team of rangers who live and breathe Highland wildlife

What to Expect

Throughout the week, you’ll explore a diverse array of habitats, from ancient Caledonian pine forests to sweeping coastlines. Each day brings new discoveries: one morning might find you scanning the west coast for red-throated divers and white-tailed eagles, while the next could have you spotting blaeberry bumblebees darting through mature heather.

Each day you will head out in small groups of up to six, guided by knowledgeable Aigas rangers who share insights into the wildlife, ecology, and history of the Highlands. Such small groups allow for a flexible and intimate experience, allowing your interests to dictate the flow of the day. Walks average five miles and are mostly on flat terrain, designed to be leisurely so you can truly savour the environment and its wonders.

Beyond the daily walks, your evenings offer further opportunities for wildlife encounters, as you will have the chance to spend time in one of our dedicated hides searching for pine martens and badgers. And of course, there will be an opportunity to visit our wildcat breeding programme and learn about the ongoing efforts to reintroduce this elusive species.

Our itineraries are flexible, shaped by the weather, seasonal wildlife, and the interests of our guests. To give you a taste of what’s in store, here’s a glimpse of a typical day in Glen Affric:

A Day in Glen Affric

Our day will be spent in Glen Affric National Nature Reserve with two contrasting woodland walks. The first follows a river, where you might spot dippers and grey wagtails, before leading you into the heart of the Scots pine woodland. Here, you’ll discover unique plant life; mosses, wildflowers, and a rich variety of trees, and look out for birds such as redstarts, crested tits, and tree pipits, as well as butterflies like the small and pearl-bordered fritillaries. After a while we shall reach a secluded lochan, renowned as one of the Highlands’ best spots for dragonflies and damselflies, including rare species like the brilliant and northern emeralds.

After lunch, enjoy a shorter walk through old-growth Scots pine woodland, where open vistas reveal the Affric hills. Keep your eyes peeled for golden eagles and red deer on the ridges: a fitting finale to a day spent immersed in one of Scotland’s most beautiful landscapes.