Summit to Sea Expedition in Scotland

Meet your host and fellow adventurers in Inverness, the bustling capital of the Highlands. Hop in the van and head for the Cairngorms to kickstart the expedition. Your objective today is to reach the 1244m summit of Cairn Gorm mountain itself – the very heart of the largest National Park in the UK. The trail is relatively straightforward for reasonably fit walkers, and no technical scrambling or climbing skills are required (that said, it's a hefty hike so we recommend that you don't carry anything in your pack that is not essential). Reaching the heights of the Cairngorm Plateau, you'll descend the far side then drop down to the remote and beautiful Loch A'an (AKA Loch Avon) for a rest and the chance for a stunning wild swim to cool down from your mountain climbing exertions. Continue hiking eastwards and then north along an undulating trail, circling round the back of the main Cairngorm massif – looking out for a sheltered spot for your first night of wild camping beneath Scottish skies.

Rise early to grab breakfast, break down camp and continue your push north. Hike out from the mountains, descending the last of the Cairngorm foothills and dropping down into the ancient pines of the Abernethy Forest National Nature Reserve. This is one of the biggest remnants of the ancient Caledonian pine forest that once covered 80% of Scotland and is a real haven for wildlife such as pine martens, wildcats and different species of deer. Gradually descend to the valley floor of Strathspey and on to the lovely little Highland village of Nethy Bridge, where a village shop awaits to replenish supplies before the final 2km to reach the River Spey – where your canoe will be waiting for you. Enjoy a short rest before switching your gear into drybags for the canoe, hitting the water and paddling to your first riverside wild camping spot. Time to kick back with a wee dram and do a spot of stargazing from the fireside.

After your short introduction to the river yesterday, things ramp up today as you begin to get a feel for the River Spey. Your guide will fill you in on the rich cultural and industrial heritage of the Spey Valley as you learn the art of 'reading the river' – navigating the safest channels whilst flanked by the dramatic backdrop of the North East Highlands. This section is easygoing, and the worst that can happen is some wet feet if you don't pick a good line! Having learnt a few skills to help you handle your canoe, later this afternoon you’ll hit the notorious ‘Washing Machine’ section, giving you the opportunity to shoot a Grade 2 rapid if you wish. All part of the fun! Your guides are highly trained to keep you safe, but there is always the option of carrying your canoe around the side if you aren’t feeling up for it. Tonight's wild camp is on an island just 1km further on from the rapids. As you are now right in the heart of whisky country, it may be fitting to sample some of the local nectar around the campfire on your idyllic little island paradise.

Another big day today as you progress downriver through the heart of the famous Speyside whisky region. More fun Grade 1-2 rapids are on the menu as the river picks up speed on its race to the sea. There’s still time to relax on the calmer sections though, and soak up the vast wilderness of the Spey. Keep your eyes peeled for ospreys and otters, before setting up camp for the night near Craigellachie. Tonight is your final night of the expedition, so enjoy the campfire vibes with another meal prepared by your guides and a drop of Aberlour malt to toast the final stretch of the expedition.

Wake up in the wild one last time, ready for the final push – the end of the expedition is in sight. Follow the meandering river and start to smell the sea air as Spey Bay approaches. This beautiful coastal reserve on the north Scottish coast is home to dolphins year-round – with a stroke of luck, they might even be there for your finish line party as you reach Whale & Dolphin Conservation Centre at Spey Bay which marks the end of your summit to sea journey. Celebrate with some refreshments at the cafe here, before your host drives you back to Inverness Airport or central Inverness, depending on your choice.