Adventure operator Wilderness Scotland, recently recognised as one of the country’s Best Workplaces for Women, is to introduce a range of guided women-only departures for 2019.
From sea kayaking among the Summer Isles to hiking the West Highland Way, the trips have all the hallmarks of a Wilderness Scotland holiday – expert guiding, characterful accommodation and inspirational itineraries – but are designed to help women develop their love of and confidence in the outdoors and to meet like-minded women adventurers. The goal of these trips is not to exclude anyone, but rather include and encourage more women to adventure in the outdoors through walking, cycling, mountain biking and kayaking – activities often dominated by men.
For a travel company where 55 percent of positions are held by women, introducing trips with the intention of empowering and connecting female outdoor adventurers was a natural next step.
“Of course, women have always been active in the outdoors but in the past it’s been hard to be heard in a culture that can sometimes feel quite male-dominated,” says Rachael Gavan, Wilderness Scotland’s Program Manager. “We are delighted to be offering a range of awesome female-only departures next year.”
Wilderness Walking – The West Highland Way
Take on the challenge of Scotland’s most famous long distance trail on this week-long guided wilderness walking break. Guests will immerse themselves in spectacular scenery as they walk through the beautiful landscapes of Loch Lomond, Rannoch Moor and Glencoe and learn about the area’s history and legends, as well as the flora and fauna. Stretching 95 miles from Milngavie on the outskirts of Glasgow all the way to Fort William at the foot of Ben Nevis in the Highlands, highlights include a climb up Conic Hill for fantastic views over Loch Lomond, a detour to see the carved stone seat said to contain the sword of Robert the Bruce, and a steep ascent of the ‘Devil’s Staircase’. Price: from £1,545pp sharing, including 7 nights’ B&B accommodation, lunches, 2 dinners, transfers and guiding. Depart 2 September 2019.
Sea Kayaking in the Summer Isles
This fabulous, five-night guided sea kayaking trail through the Summer Isles explores this little-known archipelago of deserted islands, wild coastlines and white-sand beaches. Paddling in crystal-clear waters, spotting whales and dolphins and camping in beautiful, remote spots in spectacular coastal locations, this is sea kayaking at its finest. Price: from £925pp sharing, including 5 nights’ wild camping in single tents (unless travelling with a partner), all meals, all camping and kayaking equipment, transfers and guiding. Depart 22 June 2019.
Mountain Biking – Coast to Coast
This is a truly superb multi-day mountain bike ride offering world class riding through some of the most spectacular scenery in the Scottish Highlands. The pioneering route covers 375km and 7,000m of ascent and descent – the ultimate coast to coast mountain bike ride in the UK and perfect for women looking to mountain bike in a safe and non-competitive environment. The trails are varied, ranging from flowing single track and rocky and challenging mountain passes to mellow forest fire-road. Beginning in Aberdeen, leave the city behind and ride all the way across the Highlands through the backcountry to the tip of the Ardnamurchan Peninsula, the westernmost point of mainland Britain. Price: from £1,695pp sharing, including 6 nights’ B&B accommodation, daily lunches, two dinners, transfers and guiding. Depart 8 June 2019.
Road Cycling – Skye and the Inner Hebrides
Enjoy an island hopping tour on two wheels through the iconic Inner Hebrides. Cycling on the twisted ribbons of quiet island roads, take time along the way for cultural encounters and soak up the atmosphere of the wild and dramatic landscapes. Watch the stunning views unfold from the saddle as the route goes from the Isle of Mull, through the wilds of the Ardnamurchan Peninsula and on to the fabled Isle of Skye. Highlights include: cycling to the Isle of Iona and exploring its ancient abbey, visiting Tobermory and dining at a superb seafood restaurant, stopping off at a local smokehouse to stock up on fish, meats and cheeses for a picnic lunch, and a tour of Talisker Distillery. Carefully chosen accommodation and fine Scottish food are guaranteed throughout the trip. Price: from £1,795pp sharing, including six nights’ B&B accommodation, daily lunches, 2 dinners, transfers and guiding. Depart 18 May.
Other women-only departures in 2019 include:
- Introduction to Sea Kayaking, 4 nights from £865pp, depart 4 May.
- Wilderness Walking The Orkney Islands, 6 nights from £1,735pp, depart 27 April.
- Wilderness Walking Wilds of Assynt, 6 nights from £1,595pp, depart 31 August.
- Wilderness Walking Uist and Barra, 6 nights from £1,625pp, depart 3 August.
- Wilderness Walking Isle of Skye, 6 nights from £1,735pp, depart 28 September.
For further information on Wilderness Scotland call 01479 420020.
