Alladale: The Wild Side of the Scottish Highlands
Group Tour
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7 Days From £2,350
Overview
A land of mysterious lochs and ancient stone circles, Celtic myths and legendary storytelling, it’s no wonder that Scotland’s national animal is the unicorn. A symbol of Scotland’s free spirit and wild beauty, there's no better place to experience the untamed magic of Scotland than deep in the heart of the Scottish Highlands.
Unlike many of our tours which journey from place to place, we are offering this unique opportunity to stay for a week in our very own 23,000-acre utopia – Alladale ...
A land of mysterious lochs and ancient stone circles, Celtic myths and legendary storytelling, it’s no wonder that Scotland’s national animal is the unicorn. A symbol of Scotland’s free spirit and wild beauty, there's no better place to experience the untamed magic of Scotland than deep in the heart of the Scottish Highlands.
Unlike many of our tours which journey from place to place, we are offering this unique opportunity to stay for a week in our very own 23,000-acre utopia – Alladale Wilderness Reserve. Located just two hours' drive north of Inverness, Alladale’s dramatic glens, colourful hills, glistening rivers, many hill lochs, and native wildlife will capture your heart and give you the chance to immerse yourself in nature alongside other like-minded Wild Frontiers travellers. There are many reasons why National Geographic have recently named it one of their ‘Best of the World: six places to rediscover nature’, and we plan to show you all of them.
Staying exclusively in the stunning Alladale Lodge, we will enjoy luxury comforts in this Victorian home from home, where evenings can be spent unwinding with a whisky or a game of pool, after being treated to some of the most delicious home-cooked food in all of Scotland. We’ll soak up the wilderness and wildlife of the remote Highlands on guided hikes with Alladale’s experienced rangers, as well as a 4x4 adventure taking us deeper into the reserve where we will learn about the amazing conservation work being done here. From extensive native tree planting, peatland restoration, to multiple wildlife projects, our stay here - as well as 5% of all tour profits - will also contribute directly to the important rewilding work being carried out on the reserve.
From wild landscapes to wild traditions, we will also gain an insight into other (equally important!) Scottish heritage as we meet with local experts and enjoy whisky tasting and bag pipes. Combining the wildest of frontiers with the warmth and magnificence of Highland hospitality, this is an opportunity not to be missed.
HIGHLIGHTS
At a glance
MEALS
6 x Breakfasts5 x Lunches6 x Dinners
TRANSPORT
Minibuses, 4x4s, bicycles and on foot.
GROUP SIZE
Maximum: 14
CARBON CONTRIBUTIONS
Contributions to carbon offset & tree planting projects for all bookings
EXPERT TEAM
The full services of a Wild Frontiers Tour Leader with local guides where appropriate
ACCOMMODATION
6 nights x Luxury
ACCOMMODATION
Wherever possible we aim to use characterful accommodation that enhances the overall travel experience. This can obviously vary greatly across both countries and tours. On this particular trip we will be staying in the idyllic Alladale Lodge, a beautiful property located in the heart of the nature reserve. Please note that the property consists of four different room categories which will be priced differently and handled on a first come first served basis. Please see Tour Price for more information.
ENTRANCE FEES
All entrance fees for sights mentioned in the itinerary
FITNESS RATING
Moderate
FITNESS RATING
LOW: You should be comfortable walking around towns and cultural sites. May include some optional walks (typically 1-2hrs).
LOW/MODERATE: May be of a long duration and/or involve numerous border-crossings. May include easy/moderate day walks (up to 2-3hrs/day). You should be relatively fit and lead a generally active lifestyle.
MODERATE: May include several easy/moderate day walks (up to 2-5hrs/day) possibly at altitude. You should be relatively fit and lead a generally active lifestyle. Previous experience of similar trips helpful.
MODERATE/HIGH: May involve several days of moderate hiking (up to 3-6 hrs/day) possibly at altitude. You must be a fit and active traveller with appropriate trekking experience.
HIGH: May involve several days of moderate/strenuous trekking (up to 4-7 hrs/day) possibly at altitude. You must be a very fit and active traveller with appropriate trekking experience.
Map & Itinerary
Individual departures may vary so please refer to the information in the tour specific links in the Dates and Prices section below
DAY 1: ARRIVE ALLADALE WILDERNESS RESERVE
DAY 1: ARRIVE ALLADALE WILDERNESS RESERVE
Welcome to the Scottish Highlands! The group transfer will be from Inverness, alternatively you can make your own way to Alladale, located a two-hour drive north of Inverness. On arrival we can settle in before enjoying an evening of welcome drinks and some delicious home-cooked dishes prepared using only locally-sourced fresh ingredients. This evening we will then be given a short introduction by one of the leading experts on the reserve and gain a greater understanding of the amazing conservation work being done here and the adventures that lie ahead for the week. Please note the schedule of activities for the coming week may change depending on group size and weather and will be discussed on arrival.
DAY 2: FULL DAY WALKING TOUR: DRAMATIC GLENS & HIDDEN LOCHS
DAY 2: FULL DAY WALKING TOUR: DRAMATIC GLENS & HIDDEN LOCHS
At Alladale we can go on a different walk every day, as the 23,000-acre reserve has plenty to discover. Throughout the week we will arrange three guided walks for the group, led by one of the experienced rangers who will teach us all about the flora and fauna of this stunning region, as well as some of the fascinating history of this unique part of the Highlands. The group will have the choice of two routes - one being easy-moderate, the other being more challenging. The more challenging option will be a full day’s walk, and will involve a significant amount of uphill walking as much of the reserve consists of undulating landscape, as we discover dramatic glens, colourful hills, glistening rivers and many hill lochs, not to mention the extensive wildlife in the area. En route we’ll find a beautiful spot to stop and enjoy a delicious picnic lunch, soaking up our stunning surroundings. The softer walk will be shorter, and details of options will be discussed on arrival. This evening we’ll be rewarded with another delicious dinner and time to relax after a long day exploring, and make the most of the lodge’s facilities.
DAY 3: 4X4 TOUR OF THE RESERVE: REWILDING & RESTORING THE HIGHLANDS
DAY 3: 4X4 TOUR OF THE RESERVE: REWILDING & RESTORING THE HIGHLANDS
Today we will get to explore the reserve further by joining one of the rangers in a 4X4. On this adventure the ranger will share some great insights into the daily management of the nature reserve. Alladale is famous for its ‘rewilding’, which involves reforestation and reintroduction of plant and animal species. With a bit of luck, we will see their highland cattle, the majestic red deer, golden eagles and other wildlife species, and we will also visit Glencalvie Falls to witness the salmon jump upstream. This excursion takes around 5 hours and so there will be time in the afternoon to relax and enjoy some free time before some more culinary delights from Chef Natasha.
DAY 4: FULL DAY WALKING TOUR: RIVER VALLEYS & RUGGED MOUNTAINS
DAY 4: FULL DAY WALKING TOUR: RIVER VALLEYS & RUGGED MOUNTAINS
Today is another full day's walk around the reserve, exploring some of the endless routes which take you through peaceful river valleys and over mighty hill tops. There's so much to take in in this area from the extensive wildlife to the stunning vistas, we'll make sure you get to experience the very best of the reserve. For those opting out of the full day's walk we will offer alternative options.
DAY 5: HALF DAY WALKING TOUR & WHISKY TASTING
DAY 5: HALF DAY WALKING TOUR & WHISKY TASTING
Enjoy another walk today, guided by one of the rangers. Today’s walk will be less challenging as we follow a softer route to visit the nearby Croick Church. Passing through blossoming heather and lush forest, enjoy learning more about the history of the church and nearby area. On your return, why not indulge in a well-earned wellness treatment to help you relax after your challenging walk, or warm up in the sauna. Alladale has an experienced beauty therapist available who can be booked (in advance) for a number of treatments including Swedish full body massages and facials, giving you the perfect way to unwind after a few days of walking. This evening we will then embark on a wonderful tasting session with some of Scotland’s very best whisky. Learn all there is to know about this fascinating drink from a local expert who will entertain us with whisky truths and tales from throughout the centuries.
DAY 6: FREE DAY & BAGPIPES
DAY 6: FREE DAY & BAGPIPES
Today will be free to explore independently and enjoy some of the additional activities available. There are mountain bikes available for those looking to discover more hidden gems in the reserve, or if you’re feeling fit you can even go as far as the coast! Welcoming experienced anglers or complete beginners, anyone keen on fly fishing has the choice of 10 different lochs where many hours can be enjoyed with or without a guide, or why not try some clay pigeon shooting. Please note all of these additional activities need to be booked in advance and are not included in the group tour cost. This evening we will then gather around the cosy fire pit with drinks and enjoy some musical entertainment from a local piper followed by a final dinner of delicious local dishes.
DAY 7: DEPART ALLADALE WILDERNESS RESERVE
DAY 7: DEPART ALLADALE WILDERNESS RESERVE
For those using the group tour transfer, you will be collected from Alladale and driven south to Inverness, where the tour will end.
ACCOMMODATION USED ON THIS TOUR
Alladale Lodge, Alladale Wilderness Reserve
The ultimate private getaway, this Victorian manor is a house for all seasons. Guests can bask in all-in comfort and enjoy an array of outdoor pursuits before returning to a welcoming roaring fire. Set against rugged hills and the country’s most northerly ancient Caledonian pine forest, the Alladale Lodge is the ultimate private getaway. This beautiful Victorian manor, refurbished by Laura Ashley and available on exclusive use basis only, is comfortable and spacious. Its traditional design makes it a true Scottish home away from home. The property boasts a set of lovely extras, such as an in-house sauna, gym and snooker room. With their talented chef preparing amazing meals every day, all you have to do is sit back and enjoy an evening by the fire after a day of exploring the reserve. The house consists of 7 guest rooms, all en suite, split between three categories due to differing sizes, views and layout. The tour is costed on a Classic Room, with options to upgrade to Deluxe Room or Executive Room with a supplementary cost. Please see 'General Information - Tour Price' for more information on category pricing, and discuss availability with our sales consultant.
Hotel Rating
Accommodation displayed here should be taken as a guide only. *Please refer to the Detailed Itinerary of your individual departure for more information.
PRIVATE HOLIDAYS: DATES DON’T FIT?
All group tours can be taken on a private basis.
Additional Details
Responsible Travel
Responsible travel and sustainable tourism are fundamental ideas that Wild Frontiers has been committed to since our birth. It is our strong belief that these words should not be simply ‘tagged on’ to itineraries and websites but should be at the very core of each trip, and our adventures are therefore designed with the local people, culture and eco-system in mind. We believe that a successful trip not only delivers a unique and unsurpassable journey for our clients, but that it also benefits the peoples whose lands we are privileged to visit. For more information, please see our responsible travel page.
Alladale Wilderness Reserve Rewilding
Although strikingly beautiful, the Highlands are not what they once were. These barren lands used to be home to lush pine forests and large predators. Few people know that just one per cent of what the Romans called ‘the Great Forest of Caledon’ remains today. As a result, much of the flora and fauna that once thrived here, has disappeared and the landscape has altered dramatically. The Alladale team works hard to rewild this unique part of the Highlands to its former glory, reintroducing original plant and wildlife species. Whilst staying on the reserve, we will get the chance to learn from the experts about the potential and struggles of Rewilding in Scotland. In addition to our stay at Alladale which supports the Rewilding work, we will be donating a further 5% of the tour profits to the reserve's conservation work.
Getting There
Wild Frontiers provides all clients with complimentary arrival and departure transfers from Inverness city centre to Alladale Wilderness Reserve on Day 1 (afternoon) and Day 7 (morning) of this tour (details will be provided once the tour is guaranteed).
Travelling to and from Inverness
We encourage our UK-based clients to travel by train to and from Inverness. Those departing from London may like to take the overnight Caledonian Sleeper Train, which can be booked through www.sleep.scot or check the www.thetrainline.com to travel from other points within the UK. If travelling by road, the Alladale Wilderness Reserve has ample free parking.
As a company, we have made a decision not to book domestic flights for UK-based tours, however if you wish to book your own flights, we can arrange any transfers or supplementary accommodation that you may require. We suggest you purchase flights that are flexible and ideally refundable as due to the nature of adventure travel, itineraries and destination accessibility can change at any time. For more information, please refer to our booking conditions. Please note that we recommend you first check with us to see if the trip if guaranteed before booking any travel to join this tour.
Visas
Visas are necessary for many of the destinations we travel to and while we aim to provide you with the most up-to-date information, requirements frequently change and as such for the latest advice we advise that you check with the relevant embassies or contact our recommended visa agency, Travcour www.travcour.com
For this tour UK passport holders currently do not require a visa for the UK.
Non-UK passport holders or non-UK residents should contact the relevant embassies for individual requirements.
Further details will be sent out to you on booking, however ensuring that correct and valid visas are obtained remains the sole responsibility of the client.
Extensions
Please note for this tour we are not offering any particular extensions. Should you be interested in discussing any specific options please contact us to discuss further.
Governmental Travel Advice
Many governments issue advice which highlights potential hazards their citizens might experience when travelling abroad. We strongly suggest you refer to your country’s particular advisory site before booking and contact us if you have any queries or concerns. Click to follow links to the advice of the British Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) or the US State Department.
Non-UK citizens should consult the travel advice of their respective governments.
Key Information
CLIMATE
The northerly location of Alladale Wilderness Reserve means weather can be extremely varied. The most popular time to go is from May to late September as days are longest and temperature warmest, with temperatures between 10-20°C. Early September is also a wonderful time to witness the flowering heather in the area as well as an abundance of wildlife. However please prepare for all eventualities, including rain and wind.
IS THIS TRIP FOR ME?
It may sound obvious but Wild Frontiers tours are not always for everyone and it is important to us that the tour you choose is the most suitable. All our tours have a fitness rating as a guideline but you should check the day-by-day itinerary carefully. In certain instances we may ask you to complete a travel questionnaire before confirming your booking in order to ensure your suitability. Should you have any concerns about your ability to partake in any aspect of the tour then please contact the office.
KEY ASPECTS TO CONSIDER
Anyone in a good state of health, with an open mind and a sense of adventure should be perfectly able to cope with this tour. Please note those walks that are included do require a certain level of fitness as they require a substantial amount of uphill walking. A full day's walk will usually take around 8 hours including rest stops and some time for a relaxing picnic. You will also have access to mountain bikes to explore the reserve further.
TRAVELLING SOLO AND SINGLE SUPPLEMENTS
As a company approximately 70% of our clients are solo travellers, so it’s very unlikely you’ll be alone!
Our prices are typically based on twin-share accommodation. If you prefer not to pay a single supplement we’ll try to pair you with someone else of the same sex for you to share with throughout the trip. On this trip please note that regrettably if we are unable to find someone with whom you can share, you will need to pay the single supplement or unfortunately choose not to travel. If you do opt to pay for a single supplement then please note that it will cover you for all nights of the tour.
Please note that paying a single supplement entitles you to lone occupancy of a single room. In many cases these rooms will be of the same size as a double/twin room, but in some cases they may be smaller.
INSURANCE
Insurance that provides cover for emergency repatriation in case of a medical emergency is compulsory for all tours. You should be aware that due to some of the geographical areas visited and some of the activities included on certain of our trips some standard insurance policies may not always provide adequate cover. As such we strongly recommend that you purchase a policy that adequately covers your trip. Please see the Insurance section for more details.
General Information
TOUR PRICE
All our tours are priced on a land-only twin-share basis, giving you maximum flexibility when deciding how to get to and from your tour.
Please note this tour consists of four different room categories which unlike our other tours, do require a supplementary payment for any upgrade option. There is limited availability for each room category and they will be confirmed based on a first come first served basis.
The tour is costed on staying in a Classic Room. Please see upgrade/discount costs below -
Standard Single Supplement (Classic Room): £1800
Deluxe Room upgrade (twin/double occupancy): £150pp
Deluxe Room upgrade (single occupancy): £2100
Executive Room upgrade (twin/double occupancy): £300pp
Executive Room (single occupancy): £2400
Should you wish to book the Basic Room at Alladale we can offer this as below, please note however that we recommend this room is taken on a single occupancy only due to its size:
Basic Room Discount: £150pp
Basic Room Single Supplement: £1650
DEPOSIT
A £200 (or equivalent) deposit is required to confirm your booking.
PROTECTION FOR YOUR MONEY
For further details please see our travelling with peace of mind page
WILD MILES
This tour will earn you 890 Wild Miles
WHAT'S NOT INCLUDED
We believe in a completely transparent approach to pricing with no hidden extras. As such, please note that the following are not included in the cost of the tour.
Visas & Travel Insurance: Visas will always be tour/nationality dependent but travel insurance is mandatory
Tips: Always optional but some guidance will be given in the pre-departure information documents
International Flights: Please ask us for an obligation-free quote for flights which originate in the UK
Airport Transfers: We include complimentary transfers if arriving/departing on the suggested group flights
Beverages & any costs of a personal nature: This will include items such as laundry and souvenirs
WILD FRONTIERS COMMUNITY
If you’re still not sure if this trip is right or just want to see get some different perspectives, then why not have a look at the wide variety of resources we have on our website? Browse our community section to read our blogs, watch videos and find out about our events.
WHY WILD FRONTIERS?
We are frequently asked what makes Wild Frontiers different from other tour operators. Visit our Why Wild Frontiers page to find out.