DAY 1

Soon after meeting your guides in Edinburgh for a short orientation, you depart on an approximate 1¼-hour drive to Callander, the capital of the Trossachs region. Walking away from the town center you follow a level path through some woodland, across an area of more open ground and to an open area with great views out over the countryside towards Stirling. Soon a long flight of steps is reached with a wooden hand rail. From the bottom of the steps it is only a short walk to the reach the bridge at the falls. The name Bracklinn comes from the Gaelic word Breac, meaning speckled or tawny and refers to the color of the peat-tinged water, and from Linn meaning pool. After viewing the falls you walk through a farm, by a fishing pond and an old disused railway line. The trail heads back into Callander.

In Callander lunch is served at an old wayside inn, where the menu features traditional Scottish favorites such as fish and chips, steak-and-ale pie, and haggis. After this fortifying lunch you then embark on the second of today’s walks which originally takes you on flat terrain alongside Loch Venacher. This walk affords some of the best scenery in the Trossachs. After walking along paved road for a while the trail then leads you through forest tracks where you are literally walking in the “Heart of the Trossachs.” On this walk there is also the chance to spot Whooper swans and other wildlife. Later arrive in Loch Achray, which is well known for its sheltered location, giving rise to placid waters offering magnificent reflections of the woodland to the south, the mountains and forests to the north ,and the majestic crags of Ben Venue to the west.

A gentle stroll leads down through the forest to the Macdonald Forest Hills Hotel, your home for the next two nights. This resort hotel is set in 25 acres of woods and beautifully landscaped gardens, close to the shores of stunning Loch Ard. This evening in your hotel’s restaurant, you dine on local specialties such as Perthshire Lamb and Scottish Salmon.
Macdonald Forest Hills Hotel, Kinlochard nr Aberfoyle

DAY 2

After a hearty Scottish breakfast, you transfer to Trossachs Pier at the eastern end of Loch Katrine. At the heart of the Trossachs, this is the most beautiful of its lochs, popularized in the early 19th century following the success of Sir Walter Scott’s narrative poem “Lady of the Lake” and his novel Rob Roy, which were both set in the area. An original 19th-century steamship named for the famous author has plied the waters of Loch Katrine for over 100 years, affording visitors the same sights that so charmed Queen Victoria. Today, you are among the morning passengers sailing to lonely Stronachlachar at the western end of the loch, 12 miles away.

From Stronachlachar (referred to locally as Strona), you travel a short distance to begin a morning walk up to Rob Roy’s viewpoint high above Loch Lomond, close to Inversnaid. Loch Lomond is the immortal subject of ballad and legend and is the longest stretch of fresh water in the United Kingdom, at approximately 24 miles long, up to 5 miles wide, and almost 600 feet deep. After enjoying the extensive views, you descend to the Inversnaid Hotel on the shores of the loch, then drive back to Kinlochard, where you eat lunch in a quaint village tea shop.

This afternoon includes a visit to Ledard Farm, which dates back to 1474. It served as an annual gathering place for the Gregor clan for over 500 years. A father-and-son team, Fergus and Gregor, show you around this working farm—an authentic Scottish experience. Alternatively you may opt for a pleasant walk taking you high above the tranquil southern shore of beautiful Loch Ard.

Tonight enjoy a traditional dinner in a typical Scottish pub.
Macdonald Forest Hills Hotel, Kinlochard nr Aberfoyle

DAY 3

This morning’s short transfer brings you to the start of the walk at Rowardennan, a truly picturesque village on the eastern side of Loch Lomond. Today you will walk to Balmaha which is situated towards the southern end of Loch Lomond. Balmaha lies on the Highland Boundary fault, the geological fault that separates the Highlands of Scotland from the Lowlands.

This walk follows a beautiful section of the West Highland Way, a trail that opened in 1980, and stretches for 95 miles. It begins just outside Glasgow in the Lowlands, crosses the Highland Boundary Fault into the Highlands, and finishes in Fort William. It goes close to the easterly shore of Loch Lomond with superb views of the loch and some of its 38 islands, and the mountains beyond, most notably Ben Lomond (3,192 feet). You may even spot some of the many 200 species of birds recorded in this area.

Concluding at the Oak Tree Inn in Balmaha , you enjoy a well-deserved rest and lunch. Afterwards begin the transfer (approximately three hours including stops) around the western side of the loch to the breathtakingly beautiful Glen Coe, which literally means "Valley of the Weeping." Your traditional, mountain hotel is located here in the heart of Scotland’s most famous glen.
Clachaig Inn, Glencoe

DAY 4

Today’s walk takes you along one of the most dramatic sections of the West Highland Way, the “Devil’s Staircase,” so named by the approximately 400 soldiers who endured great hardship to build it. This section of the trail was part of an old military road linking Fort William and Stirling, and is one of a series of such roads in this area. Many of them were constructed in the 18th century at the behest of England’s General Wade, with the aim of suppressing and dismantling the Highlanders’ way of life. By doing this they were ensuring that there could never be another Jacobite uprising like that led by Bonnie Prince Charlie in 1745-46.

After an initial 30-minute gradual ascent (elevation gain of approximately 800 feet) the path levels out at the top of the pass. This is the highest point on the West Highland Way with stunning views of Blackwater Reservoir and the remote and desolate Rannoch Moor. The trail then runs across an expanse of open countryside before descending into the sleepy town of Kinlochleven, which surprisingly in 1904 was home to Europe’s largest aluminum smelter. The town now serves as a welcome break for weary hikers, with its restaurants transformed from some of the abandoned, industrial premises. It is here where you are served a hearty lunch.

Next you proceed to the newly completed Glencoe Visitors Centre, where you learn more about the massacre of February 1692. Returning to the village of Glencoe you visit the memorial commemorating the MacDonald Clan, who perished during this tragic event. From here some may wish to take a pleasant walk back to the hotel on a quiet lane, which offers superb views of the Glen and the peaks.

This evening a delicious meal is served at the hotel’s restaurant.
Clachaig Inn, Glencoe

DAY 5

Following breakfast you depart on a short transfer back to Kinlochleven. You set off on the final section of the West Highland Way toward Fort William. After an initial ascent of approximately 750 feet, the route flattens as it follows the old drovers’ road, and later the military road, through the Lairigmor—the Great Pass—emerging high in the hills above Fort William. This is the largest town in the western Highlands and is picturesquely located on the shores of Loch Linnhe. It was originally developed as a settlement around the fort, which was constructed to control the population after Oliver Cromwell’s invasion of Scotland during the English Civil War.

Arriving in town in the mid-afternoon, a fine lunch is provided at your hotel. After lunch you can relax at the hotel in preparation for a free evening on your own in one of Fort William’s fine restaurants or pubs.
The Lime Tree, Fort William

DAY 6

Our journey today is truly unforgettable. You begin the day with a 1½-hour train ride, passing through some of Scotland’s most atmospheric scenery. You cross the famous 21-arched Glenfinnan viaduct (featured in the Harry Potter movies), which offers views of the poignant Glenfinnan monument at the head of Loch Shiel. The final destination of Mallaig is a thriving fishing community, as well as one of the gateways to the islands of the Inner Hebrides; you can admire views of the jagged peaks of the Isle of Skye just a few miles away across the Sound of Sleat. The walk leaves Mallaig on paved road then leads across open countryside toward Loch an Nostarie, a picturesque loch surrounded by low hills, which feels remarkably remote despite being just a few miles from Mallaig. (For the shorter option, it is possible to return to Mallaig from here). The onward route leads to a viewpoint above the hamlet of Mallaiquaig, close to the spot where Bonnie Prince Charlie landed in 1746 after his exile on the Isle of Skye. From here you loop back to Mallaig on the “old crofter’s” path.

Mallaig offers a wide variety of lunch establishments, many selling local seafood. Before leaving this area you should try “Cullen Skink,” a delicious fish chowder made from smoked haddock. In the early afternoon you return to Fort William, and visit the Glenfinnan monument. This memorial was erected in honor of the clansmen who supported Bonnie Prince Charlie’s attempt to gain the British throne in 1745. Arriving back in Fort William you will have time to further explore the streets of the town before reuniting for a final celebratory dinner.
The Lime Tree, Fort William

DAY 7

After a leisurely breakfast you transfer to Edinburgh, which takes approximately three hours. Here you bid farewell to part of your group of walkers and board a train for the approximate 3½-hour ride to Chester. From the Chester train station, a short taxi ride brings you to your hotel for the afternoon and evening. Dining choices abound with information and assistance from Country Walkers and your hotel.
ABode Hotel, Chester

DAY 8

Your tour of Wales begins in the charming English town of Chester. This gateway to northern Wales is rich in history and houses some of England’s best-known Roman ruins. After meeting your new guide(s) and group, you depart for your walk in the Clwydian Hills. This 20-mile range of rolling hills and moorland provides an excellent introduction to the region and to the week ahead. Your walk begins at Bwlch-Pen-Barras and takes you to the summit of Moel Famau (“Mother Mountain”), the highest point in the range, and from the open ridge, views open up in all directions. To the west is the Snowdonia region, your walking destination for the next few days; to the north lies Liverpool Bay; to the south and east is the Cheshire Plain. Trails and stonewalls wind through the Moel Famau Country Park, its heather moorland an ideal habitat for grouse and curlews.

After descending from the plateau you will have lunch in a local pub before proceeding to Betws-y-Coed, your home for the next three nights. Located in the heart of Snowdonia National Park, this pretty mountain village is nestled at the confluence of the Conwy and Llugwy rivers. An artists’ colony since Victorian times, Betws-y-Coed is located amidst an extensive network of pathways, making it an ideal hub for walking.

After settling into your family-run hotel, a former coaching inn, you are welcomed for dinner in its inviting restaurant, serving international cuisine using fresh, local produce.
Ty Gwyn Hotel, Betws-y-Coed

DAY 9

This morning begins with a guided tour of Conwy Castle. This imposing structure was built by English King Edward I between 1283 and 1289 as part of a ring of castles constructed to contain the Welsh. It is set high on a hill overlooking the medieval walled town of Conwy with views of the sea on one side and of the Snowdonia Mountain range on the other. After completing your tour of the castle, accompany your guides on a walk around Conwy town and its walls, which are not only completely intact, but largely unencumbered by later development, and still give the impression of enclosing and protecting the town. The construction of the town walls went hand in hand with that of the castle and they were essentially complete by 1286.

Just before a free lunch a short transfer brings you to Bodnant Gardens, a complex spread over 80 acres on a western slope above the River Conwy, facing Snowdonia. It is considered one of the most beautiful gardens in the United Kingdom and is composed of a formal terraced garden surrounding Bodnant Hall, and a lower wild garden, the Dell. Each season brings different colors and blossoms, azaleas and rhododendrons in the spring; roses, water lilies, clematis, and hydrangea in the summer; and dazzling displays of autumnal foliage in September. A volunteer guide will stroll with you through the gardens and explain the flora and fauna of these incredible gardens.

Dinner this evening is in a local, family-run bistro serving adaptations of traditional meals (some which date back to medieval times), as well as modern dishes using suppliers of local produce from the Conwy Valley: lamb, duck, and free-range eggs from Penmacho, pheasant from Yal-y-Cafn, and fresh fish from the Conwy estuary and local rivers, often caught by the chefs themselves!
Ty Gwyn Hotel, Betws-y-Coed

DAY 10

Awakening to a full Welsh breakfast at your country inn, your walk today begins under the shadow of Moel Siabod at Dolwyddelan Castle, a native Welsh square stone keep built by Llywelyn the Great. With your backs to the castle you head east to the village of Dolwyddelan, and then turn northeast, passing some disused slate mines. Next step onto Sarn Helen, an old Roman road that was originally 160 miles long, joining Aberconwy in the north to Carmarthen in the south. Your journey will pass over open upland before entering coniferous forest, and then descend to the outskirts of Betws-y-Coed. At this point you will cross the Afon Llugwy by the memorable Miner’s Bridge and follow the river into the village. Here you can enjoy some free time in Betws-y-Coed, where you may visit some art galleries or shop for any extra outdoor gear you may need.

Return to the hotel with time to relax before another wonderful meal in the hotel dining room. Dinner will be early this evening, as tonight your guide(s) takes you on an adventure that is a true immersion into Welsh culture. You will witness the Caernarfon Male Welsh Voice Choir singing and practicing. As is explained from the outset, all discussion and instruction is in the Welsh language, giving you the opportunity to hear Europe’s oldest language first-hand. The music is also incredible and to be truly enjoyed by all.
Ty Gwyn Hotel, Betws-y-Coed

DAY 11

Packed and ready after a sustaining breakfast, you transfer to Beddgelert, a traditional Welsh village with its sturdy stone cottages that cluster around the banks of the River Glaslyn. Here you may enjoy a little free time wandering through the small streets of this typical Welsh mountain village. From here walk south out of the village, crossing a railway line and passing an old disused slate mine. (slate mining began in Wales during Roman times!) Gradually gain height, then reach a viewpoint that offers lovely views back into the village of Beddgelert and out looking over the Irish Sea. Once you have soaked in this splendid view you then walk downhill, crossing the River Glaslyn and along a pretty trail through woods and heather scrub. You then begin walking through the Aberglaslyn Gorge and alongside the river once more with beautiful views of the vegetation along the river bank. At times you must walk along a narrower stone path and hold onto steel handholds in order to negotiate around the path. The route also passes over a short section of boards and over rock slabs which are crossed over by some wooden slats. The ground rises and falls above the water in gentle inclines and declines.

After the walk transfer to your second hotel of the tour. Dinner will be eaten in the lovely hotel dining room. Indulge in a feast of regional specialties, such as Conwy Valley oak smoked venison or breast of Anglesey duck.
Seiont Manor Hotel, Caernarfon

DAY 12

Weather permitting you may choose to take the challenging option of summiting Mt. Snowdon, which, at 3,560 feet, is the highest point in England and Wales. Mt. Snowdon, for which the surrounding national park and region are named, is called Yr Wyddfa in Welsh, meaning “tomb” or “monument.” According to legend, this tomb was that of the giant ogre Rhita who was slain by King Arthur. The route you take to the summit is the Snowdon Ranger Path, which takes you past the original home of the first ever Snowdonia guide. Initially there is a steady uphill climb on a well-defined trail before the path becomes steeper and narrower. Looking to the left you can view the impressive cliffs of Clogwyn Du’r Arddu. Next cross over the Snowdonia Railway track before joining the Llanberis footpath and reaching the summit. On a clear day gorgeous scenery unfolds, in places rugged and rocky with views to distant rolling hills and lakes, sheep roaming freely throughout. After a well-deserved picnic lunch and a rest, take the Llanberis Path all the way down. This trail runs parallel to the railway line and although there is a nice wide path, the terrain is rough in places. There are also great views on your way down over Caernarfon, and to the right down to the impressive and remote Cwm Glas, a blue glacial quarry.

If you do not wish to summit Snowdon an alternate walk will be planned. Transfer to the lovely Llyn Peninsula, which stretches out into the Irish Sea southwest of Caernarfon. This morning visit the ruins of a Bronze Age hillfort which affords an excellent vantage point of the entire peninsula. Situated atop a heather-covered plateau, the site is known as “Town of the Giants” and retains intact stone walls up to 12 feet high in places and other evidence of pre-Roman inhabitants. After descending from the fort you transfer to Morfa Nefyn, where you can walk along the beach for close up exploration of rock pools teeming with seaweed and tidal life. At the end of the beach stop at the Ty Coch Pub for a pub lunch of steak-and-ale pie, or perhaps a traditional ploughman’s lunch of cheese, bread, and pickles with a local brew. Here, conversation with the locals about the history surrounding this pub, or local folklore is likely.

Dinner is free this evening. You can stay at the hotel and dine in the hotel restaurant, or the guides can take you into Caernarfon where you can find a local pub or restaurant.
Seiont Manor Hotel, Caernarfon

DAY 13

The itinerary today leads to the Isle of Anglesey, nestled just off the northwest coast of Wales and connected by two bridges to the mainland. The island contains a wealth of natural and human history, earning the nationally recognized designation of “Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.” First stop is at the Bryn Celli Dhu Burial Chamber, deservedly one of Anglesey’s most important ancient monuments, which dates from circa 3000 BC. A spiral inscription on one of the stones to the back of the mound is probably of Celtic origin. This site is a great introduction to Anglesey and its Druid history.

After lunch in a local pub you then transfer to the South Stack Lighthouse situated on Holy Island. Here you may choose to take either a guided tour of this famous lighthouse, or take a walk over Holyhead Mountain. The first option takes you down the 400 steps to the steel-framed bridge that spans the 100 feet between the mainland and the rocky stack, where you will have time to appreciate the sheer mass and changing colors of the granite cliffs. This is also a great option for those who like bird-watching, as you can see many local birds circling over the cliffs, such as puffins, razorbills, and arctic terns. You may even spot a common buzzard. Porpoises and seals are also common visitors to this area. The alternate option takes you on a walk over Holyhead Mountain, the highest point on Anglesey at 720 feet. Its summit is ringed by the remnants of the 17-acre Iron Age Caer y Twr, one of the largest archaeological sites in North Wales. From here there are spectacular views of Holyhead and across Anglesey towards Snowdonia and the Llyn Peninsula.

Tonight enjoy a sumptuous farewell dinner in a small, local restaurant, with fine views overlooking the countryside towards the sea and, if you are lucky, a spectacular sunset. The food here relies on fresh local ingredients, meat from a local farmer or butcher, fish from the North Wales coastline and, when in season, locally produced herbs and vegetables. Enjoy a Welsh beef fillet, a local sea bass, or organic salmon. The cuisine here also reflects the chef’s global and varied experience.
Seiont Manor Hotel, Caernarfon

DAY 14

Departing the hotel after breakfast, you travel to Chester (just over an hour), or Manchester (an approximate two-hour drive), where you bid farewell to your new-found friends.

Itinerary Changes

Please bear in mind that this is a typical itinerary, and the actual activities, sites, and accommodations may vary due to season, special events, weather, or transportation schedules. We reserve the right to alter the itinerary since tour arrangements are made up to a year in advance, and unforeseen circumstances that mandate change may arise. Itinerary changes are made to improve the tour and your experience.

Nights 1 & 2

Macdonald Forest Hills Hotel
Kinlochard nr Aberfoyle, Scotland

Set in 25 acres of beautifully landscaped gardens and woodland, this 57-room resort hotel offers guests the complimentary use of an indoor pool, sauna, and steam room.

Nights 3 & 4

Clachaig Inn
Argyll, Scotland

Located in one of the most stunning walking areas of Scotland, this simple 23-room inn offers tasty traditional food and a lively atmosphere. Please note that rooms at this inn are often smaller than what you may be used to, but the setting, service and proximity to the walks are exceptional.

Nights 5 & 6

The Lime Tree Hotel
Fort William, Scotland

This stylish hotel is located in the hub of Scotland’s best outdoor activities, with beautiful views of Loch Linnhe and the hills beyond. The property blends old and new, and the contemporary decor extends into guest rooms with neutral colors and exposed oak and cedar. Common areas feature comfortable lounges with open fires, as well as original artwork from the Highlands.

Night 7

ABode Hotel
Chester, England

This new hotel is within walking distance from the town centre, and has 85 bedrooms that boast magnificent views over Chester Racecourse and the Welsh hills. They are all designed to the highest level of comfort and luxury. The restaurant here serves Michael Caines award-winning modern British cuisine, utilizing the best local and regional produce.

Nights 8, 9 & 10

Ty Gwyn Hotel
Betws-y-Coed, Wales

This warm, family-run inn is located in a quaint village in the heart of Snowdonia. A traditional coaching inn dating from the 16th century, the hotel features inviting common spaces, recently refurbished rooms, and an excellent restaurant.

Nights 11, 12 & 13

Seiont Manor Hotel
Caernarfon, Wales

This restored Georgian manor house is an elegant hotel with spacious rooms, a fitness center, and fine dining restaurant. It is situated within 150 acres of farmland, streams, and walking paths.

Please note that this is a sample hotel itinerary for this tour. While these exact hotels are featured on most departures, we occasionally reserve other hotels of similar style and quality. If you are currently booked on a Country Walkers adventure, a hotel itinerary has been sent to you for your exact departure date. Please call Country Walkers at 800.464.9255 if you have any questions about the exact hotels selected for any of our tours.

Peter Cooper

Peter Cooper lives in Snowdonia, North Wales with his wife, daughter, and two sons. Pete’s love of the outdoors began when he walked the Pennine Way (a 270-mile walk from the Peak District, U.K. to the Scottish Borders) at the age of 15. When not guiding Country Walkers tours he works as an activity instructor leading guided mountain walks, and teaching canoeing, kayaking, and rock climbing. In addition to guiding in North Wales he also guides in locations such as Scotland, Africa, Nepal, Morocco, and the Pyrenees. In the past he has worked for the Civil Service and as a college lecturer, but his real calling is to be in the outdoors, sharing his love of nature with his guests.

Zak Griffiths-Key

Zak has been working in the outdoor industry since leaving school, where he began his career working for the Outward Bound organization in the English Lake District. After a few years he went on to college to study Welsh language and literature, and also to university where he studied environmental science. He has traveled extensively in Europe, Asia, and the South Pacific, but has now settled in Wales and specifically Snowdonia, where he works as an outdoor activity instructor. He passes on his love for the environment and the Welsh mountains to all his guests.

Hamish Armytage

Hamish lives close to the Welsh border town of Shrewsbury. He has climbed and walked in the Welsh hills and mountains since he was a teenager and has a strong passion for the area known as Yr Eryri (Snowdonia). He studied philosophy at the University of Aberystwyth in the 1970’s, and more recently has been involved in the development of the wood-using sector in Wales. He is delighted to have recently become a grandfather!

Stuart Hall

Stuart was born in Dundee, Scotland, and has traveled widely in Southeast Asia, Australia, and Europe. Stuart has lived in Aberfoyle, in the heart of the Trossachs, for 10 years and while not guiding for Country Walkers, he enjoys a variety of winter sports including climbing and hiking in the Scottish hills.

Ruth Hackney

Raised near Manchester in northern England, Ruth Hackney has always been a passionate hiker and a history enthusiast. She majored in Oriental Studies at King’s College, Cambridge, then taught in India for 2 years, followed by a year in Australia on a Rotary Foundation Scholarship. She has lived in southern Greece since 1987, initially teaching English to Greek teenagers before she found her perfect vocation as a tour guide. On our Greek trips she loves to share her deep affection for the history and culture of her adopted homeland, while each summer she returns to her roots in the UK and guides our Scottish tours.

Rob O'Hara

Rob O’Hara has taught in many different countries, schools, and work environments for 30 years. He loves new challenges and has varied interests from acting and singing in local plays to road running. He was once among the top 20 road runners in England. He is well-known for his keen sense of humor and positive attitude and is looking forward to showing Country Walkers guests the beauty of the English Lake District and the Scottish Highlands.