Scotland – the rich and fabled land where you will find bagpipes, kilts, haggis and Loch Ness. There are miles of stunning coastlines that are absolutely ideal for sea kayaking. Combined with exciting stories, folklore and culture – this is a real adventure! We start the tour from the picturesque village of Plockton, where we will stay at a cozy hotel for the first, second and last night of our trip – here it will of course be an opportunity to try the local specialties!
Plockton and the west coast of Scotland offers breathtaking scenery and landscapes, secluded bays, coral beaches, small islands, panoramic views and the opportunity to experience marine life up close. The Isle of Skye (one t-Eilean Sgiathanach in Gaelic) takes its name from the Norse “sky-a”, which means “island covered with clouds”. It is the second largest of Scotland’s islands, boasting an 80 km long patchwork of velvet marshes, jagged mountains, towering cliffs and sparkling lakes.
Day 1:
Arrival at Plockton. We will eat at a selected local restaurant and take the chance to plan the expedition based on the local forecast and clients wishes. Accommodation in Plockton.
Day 2:
Sea kayaks will be delivered to Plockton where we begin with a review of paddling and safety techniques, before padding to one of Scotland’s most beautiful coral beaches and eating lunch. This will be a great start to the trip and a good introduction to the kayaks and coaching from the guides. We will paddle back to Plockton for dinner and accommodation.
Day 3:
We meet our kayaks at the Kyle of Lochalsh and will load them up for the expedition. We then head out under the Skye Bridge (Bridge over the Atlantic!), before setting out towards the Isle of Pabay where we will eat lunch and visit the ancient ruins of a chapel which date back to the 1200s. Our first campsite will be on Scalpay and if we are lucky we can catch our own dinner of mackerel, pollock or cod.
Day 4:
After a hearty breakfast, we’ll head north towards the Isle of Raasay and follow the coastline north. We’ll paddle under a magnificent waterfall at Hallaig, which falls straight into the sea. Keep your eyes open for fossils in the cliffs, as we paddle along the coastline of steep and imposing cliffs. Then we’ll paddle to the unique Scottish stone hut at Taigh Thormoid Dhuibh located in beautiful surroundings, and spend the night here.
Day 5:
Today we can stretch our legs and head to Brochel Castle. It was built in the 1400s – and it cost blood! You will gain insight into the exciting history of the castle, and if we have the weather with us, we’ll get a spectacular view of the Cuillin Ridge on Skye. Alternatively we paddle along the east coast of Raasay, until we arrive at the fabulous Raasay house where we can relax in luxurious surroundings, or in public cozy dorms. Either way, a long shower and a fantastic meal will help you really get that holiday feeling.
Day 6:
Today we’ll paddle to a new cozy stone cottage in Uags, and en route we will visit to the uninhabited Crowlin Islands, where it is not unusual to paddle with seals and dolphins! We will spend the last night of the expedition around the cosy fire.
Day 7:
After breakfast, we paddle the short distance back to the Kyle of Lochalsh, where one can often see sea otters in the clear waters. When we have unpacked the kayaks, it is possible to take out a long-awaited hot shower at the port, before we travel onwards to the airport – or on a little road trip to the beautiful Scottish village for some more history and cultural sightseeing.
Included:
- Facilitation, organization and guidance before, during and after departure
- 7(6) day guided tour in sea kayaks with experienced BCU- and ISKGA-registered instructors
- Rent kayaks, bouancy aid, paddle and spray skirt
- Accommodation at the start and end of the trip
Not included:
- Food and drinks at the Hotel and during the expedition
- Return flights to Scotland (Glasgow/Edinburgh or Inverness)
- Personal baggage (like sleeping bags and waterproof bags)
- Cancellation insurance
- Paddle clothing (dry suit) and personal expedition equipment
- Alcoholic drinks
For some inspiration, have a look at this: http://www.cntraveler.com/story/is-plockton-scotland-the-most-charming-town-in-the-uk
