Hiking in Northwest Scotland — exploring the magical Scottish Wilds

The Northwest Highlands of Scotland are simply magical. An ocean-ravaged, island-studded coastline gives way to some of the oldest exposed land on the planet, building blocks that were laid down as long as 2,600 million years ago. From these foundations rise monstrous mountains; some are brutally built, others are shameless exhibitionists, all are defiant in their individuality.

Here, the Gaelic names given to the mountains, rock formations, waterfalls, lochs and pinnacles lend them an evocative and timeless air: Am Buachaille, Liathach, An Teallach, Suilven and Beinn Alligin. Switch the meaning to English and you get the Herdsman, the Grey One, the Forge, Pillar Mountain and the Jewelled Mountain. Add in those already Anglicised — the Destitution Road, Cape Wrath, the Great Wilderness — and you soon realise you are dealing with a landscape that oozes atmosphere and a hint of malevolence.

This Collection explores some of the region’s most breathtaking landscapes. From coastal trails to secluded, golden beaches and towering sea stacks to adventures on some of Britain’s greatest mountains, there’s a hike here to suit everyone. The wildlife is just as stunning as the scenery; the mountains support eagles and ptarmigan, countless deer roam the moorland and out at sea dolphins and whales are often sighted.

The Tours in this Collection range from 2 to 12 miles (4 to 19 km) in length and vary in difficulty. We have broadly ordered them in terms of challenge, with the easier coastal walks coming first and the more strenuous mountain hikes towards the end. Each of the mountains involve at least some scrambling, though anything harder than grade I is avoidable, making the routes suitable for all reasonably fit hikers.

Nevertheless, the remote nature of these hikes means that self-sufficiency is key. Take plenty of food and drink, a spare power bank, waterproofs and warm layers. In summer, sun cream is essential, while insect repellent is a good idea if you are to keep the midges at bay. At the end of each day, check yourself for ticks and have a tick twister ready, should you have picked up one of these nasty little hitchhikers.

To make the most of your exploration of the Scottish Wilds, we would recommend spring and autumn. Winter, though undoubtedly spectacular, can be savage and you are also restricted by the short daylight hours. During this time, the mountains are out of bounds to those without mountaineering skills and equipment. Summer does have its benefits, though busier trails, the heat and the midges mean that the shoulder seasons are our preferred option.

The city of Inverness is known as the ‘capital of the Highlands’ and makes for a great base or place to launch an expedition into the region. The city has an airport, though making use of its rail links with Glasgow, Edinburgh and Aberdeen is a much greener way to access the area. Londoners also have the option of the Caledonian Sleeper, an overnight rail service that splits into three, terminating in Aberdeen, Inverness and Fort William. Once in the Highlands, the best way to get around is by car, especially if you are visiting remote beauty spots.

One of the best ways to experience the Scottish Wilds is to plan a wild camp or a stay in one of the region’s many bothies. Some of the Tours in this Collection start or end at a bothy, giving you the chance to truly immerse yourself in the wilderness, though you should always take a tent just in case the shelter is full. A stay in one of these unique mountain huts is a quintessential Highland experience.

So, grab your backpack and prepare for truly incredible wilderness hikes in the magical North West Highlands.