Scottish Expeditions
2005 Outer Hebrides
This is a remote infrequently visited group of islands off the North West Scottish Coast. If you want remote, unspoiled, off-the-beaten track, quiet, open space, freedom to roam, lack of "no-trespassing" signs, spectacular scenery, important unique environments, wildlife, Scottish Highlands and Island heritage, this is the place.
There are many different and important environments in this one small group of islands, including large examples of some of the rarest habitat types in Europe. We will explore and camp alongside wildlife, including seals and otters. Paddle around intricate rocky shorelines, massive cliffs covered with sea birds and pounded by Atlantic swells, deserted multi-mile long white sand beaches, immaculate dunes and Machair, uninhabited islands, highland mountain areas, and ancient settlements. Daylight hours are long (there's enough light to read a book 24 hours a day at this time of year). We have plenty of time to explore on and off the water, so bring your hiking boots since the mountains are steep, untracked, and irresistible.
To maximize opportunities, we will be under canvas with bunk houses as an option if the weather is bad. We will experience the unique Gaelic culture still existing due to the remoteness of these islands and if lucky, we may get invited to a real local Ceilidh. The last night will be in a comfortable hotel to allow for a shower, great meal and maybe a dram of single malt.
Participants should be BCU 4 star sea standard or higher and comfortable camping in wilderness areas.
Staffing ratio will be 4-1 maximum and staff will be BCU level 5 coaches with many years of experience personal paddling and leading others in this area. We expect people joining this trip will want to bring their own personal equipment (excluding kayak) but we may be able to help out with some items. The cost of the trip includes instruction, high quality sea kayaks, camping equipment, last night accommodation and local transportation.
Getting here is much easier than it should be for such a remote area if you know what the locals know. Contact us for details.