Experience the vibrant fall colors this October with an award-winning hiking adventure with Wilderness England and Wilderness Scotland. From the breathtaking Lake District to the majestic Scottish Highlands, vibrant autumnal hues light up the landscapes, creating a haven for wildlife. With the dwindling summer crowds, travelers can enjoy more space to explore these serene and picturesque regions for memorable autumn adventures.
Autumn Adventures in the Lake District
Wilderness England’s newly introduced, fully guided, five-day/four-night walking holiday is set at the iconic Lake District National Park. This cherished gem of Northwest England boasts a rich tapestry of serene valleys, flowing rivers, deep lakes, and quaint, traditional villages. As autumn paints the landscape in shades of deep red, fiery orange, and golden yellow, the region becomes a stunning blend of wild beauty and pastoral charm.
Led by an experienced guide, the adventure begins in the picturesque village of Glenridding at the base of Kirkstone Pass on Ullswater’s southern shore. The itinerary offers a variety of experiences, starting with a scenic boat trip across the sparkling waters of Derwentwater, followed by a breathtaking hike along the lake’s edge. The journey continues with an exploration of Whinlatter Forest, England’s only mountain woodland, and a visit to the Lakes Distillery for a guided tour and tasting.
Travelers will also have the opportunity to discover the tranquil Borrowdale Valley and the secluded hamlet of Watendlath, as well as the ancient Castlerigg Standing Stones—Britain’s most dramatically located stone circle, believed to be around 5,000 years old. The adventure concludes with a hike through the charming village of Askham, where the ruins of Lowther Castle await exploration.
This incredible experience is priced from $1,971 per person, with the next departure scheduled for November 4-8, 2024.
Autumn Highlands
Immerse yourself in the breathtaking beauty of Scotland’s Central Highlands on this exclusive five-day/four-night autumn adventure. As you explore the dramatic glens and valleys, including the iconic Glen Affric and the Great Glen, you’ll witness the landscape at its most magnificent, cloaked in bold shades of amber and gold. This intimate, small-group tour ensures you savor every moment, from the awe-inspiring scenery to the warmth of a cozy fire and gourmet meals each evening.
This journey begins in Inverness, with a tranquil walk through a community-owned forest on the northern side of Loch Ness. The adventure continues with a remote trek along the eastern shores of Loch Oich, offering uninterrupted views of Scotland’s serene wilderness. Explore the historic Glen Tarff and follow General Wade’s Military Road, a relic of the 18th century, before delving into the ancient woodlands of Glen Affric, where you can choose from a variety of scenic walks. The final day is spent in Glen Moriston and the Dundreggan Estate, where you’ll learn about native forest restoration efforts led by Trees for Life, one of Wilderness Scotland’s esteemed charity partners.
This luxurious experience is available from $1,930 per person, with the next departure set for September 25-29, 2024.
Autumn in Perthshire
Known as “Big Tree Country,” Perthshire’s stunning landscapes are a haven of natural beauty, especially during autumn when the forests, lochs, and Highland mountains are ablaze with color. On this five-day/four-night deluxe walking tour, you’ll explore the region’s most enchanting glens, where copper-hued beech trees and golden light create a magical atmosphere.
This trip begins in the picturesque village of Pitlochry, with a peaceful walk through leafy woodlands. Next, visit Aberfeldy, home to Burn’s Seat, where Robert Burns is said to have penned his famous poem ‘Birks of Aberfeldy.’ The itinerary also includes a stop at the Crannog Centre, an engaging museum that brings to life the stories of those who lived on Highland lochs 2,500 years ago. Wander through the Linn of Tummel, a beautiful woodland where the Garry and Tummel rivers meet, before indulging in artisanal chocolates at the renowned Highland Chocolatier. The experience continues with a visit to the Dun Coillich Estate, where you’ll join a local ranger for a hands-on introduction to the Mountain Woodland Project, even participating in conservation efforts like tree planting. Conclude your journey in the idyllic Glen Lyon, poetically described by Sir Walter Scott as the longest, loneliest, and loveliest glen in Scotland.
This walking holiday is priced from $1,930 per person, with the next departure scheduled for September 30-October 4, 2024.
Autumn Wildlife on Islay
Discover the wild beauty of Islay, the “Queen of the Hebrides,” on this five-day/four-night journey that offers an opportunity to witness Scotland’s incredible autumn wildlife. Renowned for its pristine white sand beaches, coastal trails, and rich grasslands, Islay is one of the most wildlife-rich locations on the west coast of Scotland. Each October, the island plays host to a spectacular arrival of Barnacle Geese, with around 20,000 of these birds migrating from Greenland to spend the winter here.
This autumn adventure begins in Oban, where you will head to Knapdale for a fascinating tour with experts who will share insights into the beaver reintroduction program, which brought these remarkable creatures back to Scotland after a 400-year absence. A ferry ride takes you to Islay, where you’ll explore the Oa Peninsula and hike through the Oa Nature Reserve, keeping an eye out for twite, hen harriers, and majestic golden eagles soaring above. The journey continues with a visit to the sweeping sands of Loch Gruinart and Loch Gorm, prime locations for spotting the thousands of geese that flock here every year. Experience the island’s famous distilleries, Laphroaig, Lagavulin, and Ardbeg, with an exclusive tour and tasting before concluding your journey at Claggain Bay and Ardtalla Beach, where you’ll encounter a native seal colony.
This wildlife experience is priced from $1,825 per person, with the next departure planned for October 21-25, 2024.
For more information on these exclusive autumn adventures and other adventures across Scotland, England, and Wales, visit WildernessScotland.com or WildernessEngland.com.