Hike, Kayak and Wild Camp the Isle of Skye

Meet up with your host in Inverness, your gateway to the Highlands. Hit the road for a 2.5-hour drive through gorgeous scenery, passing famous sights such as Loch Ness and Eilean Donan Castle, featured in the Highlander movie. Cross over the Skye Bridge on to the Isle of Skye and continue to the Strathaird Peninsula, stopping at Broadford for a quick bite to fuel your paddling spirit and pick up your gear for the expedition. In the afternoon, you'll launch into sheltered Loch Slapin, where a gentle paddle will unveil a coastline sculpted by nature's artistry. Cracks, fissures, and caves dot the rugged landscape as you explore. The highlight of this area will be a visit to the Spar Cave, a subterranean realm bathed in an ethereal glow where you can wild swim in the crystal clear Mermaid's Pool (if you dare brave the icy waters!). Another hour's paddle takes you to the first wild camp spot. Pitch up, get the fire going and settle in for dinner and a campout in the Scottish wilds.

Tuck into breakfast, break down camp, load up the kayaks and hit the water for a full day exploring the southern Skye coastline. Paddle past headlands, outcrops and a sea cave which was once a hiding place for Bonnie Prince Charlie, before gliding past the secluded hamlet of Elgol, a charming village nestled amidst the rugged landscape. If sea conditions allow, you'll venture into open waters to reach the Isle of Soay, a remote island renowned for its unique breed of hardy sheep – and a population of three even hardier humans. The name ‘Soay’ comes from an old Norse word that literally means 'sheep island'. The island is nestled at the foot of the majestic Cuillin Mountains and makes for a captivating circumnavigation. Find a secluded spot to pitch your tent for a memorable night wild camping on Soay.

Wake up in this surreal spot, grab a coffee and continue exploring Soay's ever-changing coastline of cliffs, bays, arches and caves. Once your circumnavigation is complete, bid the island farewell, crossing back to the coastline of Skye. The focus of your journey shifts to the awe-inspiring Black Cuillin Mountains – one of the UK's most challenging mountaineering terrains. Hug the shoreline with the imposing peaks of the Cuillin Ridge dominating the landscape. Keep a watchful lookout for golden and white-tailed eagles en route to the entrance to Loch Coruisk, a glacial lake that harbours a captivating legend. Loch Coruisk is said to be the abode of a kelpie, a mischievous water horse that can shapeshift into human form. Tread carefully, adventurers! After lunch, a leisurely 4km paddle takes you to Camasunary Beach, where you'll set up basecamp for the next two nights. This secluded beach provides a tranquil setting nestled in the raw beauty of this part of Scotland.

Grab an early morning dip in the bracing Atlantic this morning, if you fancy (absolutely optional, of course!) before swapping your kayak for your hiking boots. Hike along Loch Na Creitheach, before starting to steadily climb towards the summit of Sgurr Na Stri (494m). Although not a munro like it's well known neighbour, Blà Bheinn (Blaven), this mountain provides a good challenge and the vistas from the top are incomparable. The summit is a staggeringly scenic spot with unparalleled panoramic views of the Cuillins, Loch Coruisk and Scotland's rugged west coast. Descend back down the mountain, eventually reaching camp where you can enjoy sunset before gathering around the campfire for your final night. Raise a glass of Talisker whisky, a spirit distilled just 10 miles away from your camp spot, adding a touch of Scottish warmth to the farewell celebration tonight.

Please note that depending the collective abilities of the group, and the weather conditions at the time, there will be an alternative route available should it be necessary to change plans. Any changes made would be discussed and agreed as a group at the time.

Bid farewell to this epic camp spot and stunning surroundings, packing down and completing the journey with a leisurely paddle back to Elgol village. The van waits here ready to whisk you away from the shores of Skye and back to Inverness. Along the way you'll stop at a café or local shop for a final bite to savour the flavours of Scotland. Your host will drop you off in the town centre with a heartfelt farewell after a glorious time in the wilds. Please note that traffic or weather conditions may cause delays today, so it's advisable to avoid booking onward travel from Inverness until 17:00 at the earliest.