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Horseback riding tours
Rides in Scotland
Intro to Scotland
Argyle Highlands
Extensions:
Loch Ness Expedition
England
Wales
Ireland
Europe Overview
Add Ons:
Hiking
Canoeing
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Sea-Kayaking in the Sound of Arisag
Coast
Scotland
Our exploration of the Sound of Arisaig is the perfect trip to sample the amazing beauty of the West Coast and Inner Hebrides. Journeying by sea kayak we discover this remarkable coastal landscape with its plethora of marine wildlife and birds. The vistas are inspiring - the white sandy beaches of Arisaig set against the backdrop of the dramatic but gracefully sculpted Small Isles of Rum, Eigg and Muck. You will experience remote campsites on isolated beaches and on islands covered by colourful natural woodlands where you can relax after a day on the water. These relatively sheltered waters are the perfect place to enjoy a sea-kayaking expedition, developing your skills under the close eye of our expert guide and experiencing some of the best sea-kayaking to be found anywhere in the world.
Trip Highlights
• Paddle through the crystal clear waters of the Sound of Arisaig, which are home to a rich diversity of wildlife
• Explore a wilderness of white-sand beaches and secluded islands on Scotland’s west coast
• Develop your sea-kayaking skills in an expedition environment, led by our experienced & qualified guides
A Typical Day
Your guide will begin the trip with a familiarisation session on the basic skills and safety procedures involved in sea-kayaking. Then we load up the seakayaks begin the expedition! The water in these areas is exceptionally clean and clear, the turquoise colours on a sunny day will have you thinking you are in the tropics! Marine life abounds off Scotland’s west coast and sightings of dolphins and seals are common. There is also prolific bird-life with healthy populations of Golden and Sea Eagles. Your knowledgeable guide will be able to identify any sightings and will take time to share stories of the history, geography and geology of the area with the group. Each morning, from the cosiness of your sleeping bag, you realise you don’t
even need to get up to admire the stunning, surrounding scenery - just open the tent door! After a leisurely breakfast, we load up the sea-kayaks and continue our journey, paddling along stunning coastlines, enjoying wonderful views and often sighting wildlife along the way. Late afternoon, we find a suitable campsite, often on a remote beach or uninhabited island.
By the end of the expedition, you will leave feeling that you know the area quite intimately. You will have paddled along some truly remote coastlines and enjoyed a genuine wilderness experience. When the time comes to hand back your paddle, your eyes will have been opened to the many opportunities for inspiring sea-kayak expeditions in Scotland - and we have several other excellent trips to choose from!
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Meeting:
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Inverness
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Airport:
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Glasgow, Edinburgh, Inverness
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Transfer:
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From Glasgow or Endinburgh to Inverness by train (not included).
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Riders:
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Min
4 riders
Max
8 riders
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Trip Rating
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Rates and Dates for 2010
Rates include:
5 nights wild camping. All meals, from lunch on Day 1 through to packed lunch on the day of departure. Knowledgeable sea-kayak guide / driver throughout your trip. On trips with more than 4 clients, a qualified
assistant guide will also be with the group throughout the trip. All specialist sea-kayaking equipment, including sea-kayaks and buoyancy aids. All group equipment including tents, group safety equipment and cooking/ eating equipment and utensils. Please note that sleeping bags are not included. However, sleeping bags and sleeping mats are available for hire.
- All transport throughout the trip, starting and finishing in Inverness
| A | 2010 | 6 day trip | 6d / 5n | £575 | $895 |
| B | 2010 | 6 day trip | 6d / 5n | £599 | $930 |
Rates Note:
We do not charge single person supplements to people booking on their own. However you will be expected to share a room with another person of
the same sex. Please note that on this trip there are no single rooms available.
Transfer Option:
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2010
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Transfer from Inverness train station at 10:30 am
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Meeting : You will be met by your guide in the waiting room at the Inverness Train Station at 10:30 am on Day 1.
Departure: At the end of the holiday, we will rreturn to Inverness, arriving there by 4 PM
Rates do not include:
Sleeping bag and mat. Incidental personal expenditure e.g. alcoholic drinks, laundry, etc. Any other items not mentioned as included
Day One – The expedition begins & Castle Tioram
We travel via Loch Ness to our put-in point near Arisaig where the expedition begins. We prepare the sea kayaks and discuss safety procedures before setting off, kayaking past the dramatic Castle Tioram into the sheltered waters of Loch Moidart. Sea-Kayaking next to stands of Caledonian pines on the shoreline, we set up camp on the magical island of Eilean Shona. (7km - 2 hours of kayaking) (L,D)
Day Two – Eilean Shona to Ardnish
After a leisurely breakfast, we set off northwards, enjoying unparalleled views of the famous ‘An Sgurr’ mountain on Eigg and the Cuillins of Rum. Crossing the entrance to Loch Ailort, we head for the Ardnish peninsula and establish camp on the beach at Peanmeanach. (14km - 7 hours kayaking) (B,L,D)
Day Three - Ardnish to Loch nan Uamh
Today's sea-kayaking journey follows the coastline of the Ardnish peninsula near Arisaig. We kayak in Loch nan Uamh, exploring its part in the Jacobite rebellion of the 1740's, before landing our kayaks in a remote bay on the north shore and setting up camp. (12km - 6 hours kayaking) (B,L,D)
Day Four – Loch nan Uamh to South Morar
One of the joys of sea-kayaking in Scotland is exploring the many islands and skerries which dot the coastline. Loch an Uamh has hundreds of such islands. We enjoy an idyllic day of kayaking along this stunning loch before setting up our final camp on a remote beach in South Morar. (12km - 6 hours kayaking) (B,L,D)
Day Five – South Morar to Skerries
A challenging day of kayaking as we paddle round a remote headland and into the South Channel of Loch nan Ceall. With superb views out to the Small Isles of Eigg and Rum and seal colonies amongst the skerries, this is one of the best sea-kayaking journeys in Scotland. (12km - 6 hours kayaking) (B,L,D)
Day Six – Skerries to Arisaig; transfer to Inverness
We sea-kayak our way through the beach-fringed islands which guard the entrance to Arisaig. Trailed by seals and a myriad of sea birds, we paddle into Arisaig harbour and come to the end of our journey. There is often time for a celebratory drink before we return to Inverness. (7km - 3 hours kayaking) (B,L)
Please note: Wilderness Scotland highly recommends that you have at least four days of sea-kayaking experience before joining this trip. The ability to Eskimo roll, however, is not required. Please contact us if you would like to discuss your suitability for this trip.
PLEASE NOTE - The itinerary may be subject to change at the discretion of the Wilderness Scotland Guide having regard to weather conditions and other factors.
Important - Trip Grading
This itinerary is graded overall as "Moderate". This is based upon a combination of the required skill level and experience, fitness, and the general demands of the expedition.
Our sea-kayaking holidays graded ‘Moderate’ are suitable for those with at least 4 previous days of sea-kayaking experience, and it is preferable if at least some of this was under instruction, such as on our Introduction to Sea-Kayaking in Scotland course. The kayaking will be in coastal waters with few open crossings and you can expect to kayak up to 12km in a day, although this will be subject to weather and wind conditions. You should be confident on the water but the ability to Eskimo roll is not required.
You should have a good level of fitness as you can expect up to 6 hours of sea-kayaking each day, with plenty of breaks onshore to stretch your legs. These trips usually involve wild camping with no facilities, so you should be prepared for the challenges posed by this as well as by the kayaking.
To help you decide if you are fit enough for this trip, ask yourself: Are you prepared for 6 hours activity each day, perhaps paddling into the wind which can be hard work? Do you have at least 4 days of seakayaking experience, with at least some of that under instruction?
Group Size
Group size is limited to 8 clients as this enhances safety, makes it easier for our guides to offer personal attention, and also helps wildlife-viewing possibilities. We work with a 1:4 ratio, so if more than 4 people join the trip we always have an assistant guide as well. Our groups vary widely in terms of age and this diversity always adds to the holiday experience.
Guides
Our sea-kayaking team consists of the best guides in Scotland – many of them hold the highest qualifications available. They are passionate about our country and will share their vast knowledge and experience with you. Our guides also have a sense of humour, a friendly approach and the ability to ensure that a wide range of clients of all ages and abilities enjoy the very best sea-kayaking in Scotland has to offer.
Meeting:
Inverness
Airport:
Glasgow, Edinburgh, Inverness
Train station:
Inverness train station
Transfer:
From Glasgow or Endinburgh to Inverness by train (not included).
Meeting : You will be met by your guide in the waiting room at the Inverness Train Station at 10:30 am on Day 1.
Departure: At the end of the holiday, we will rreturn to Inverness, arriving there by 4 PM
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Tack:
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Horses:
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Pace:
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This itinerary is graded overall as "Moderate". This is based upon a combination of the required skill level and experience, fitness, and the general demands of the expedition.
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Level:
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(2
to
3
out of 5) Moderate
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Riders:
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Min
4 riders
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Max
8 riders
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Passport and Visa Requirements:
Passports Passport valid for at least three months beyond length of stay required by all nationals referred to in the chart except: 1. EU nationals holding a valid national ID card. Note: EU . more
When the sun shines in Scotland, it is the best place in the world to be! And although the Scottish climate is renowned for its variability, it is not nearly as rainy as you may think. Even if you get caught in the rain, you will see waterfalls and rivers come to life, and the mountains take on an atmospheric appearance which can be very dramatic.
During spring and early summer, meadows of wild flowers bring an abundance of colours to the landscape and it is a great time to experience Scotland’s rich wildlife and birdlife. May and June are the driest and sunniest months and a recommended time to visit Scotland, with normal daytime temperatures of 15 – 18°C. The northerly latitude also means that Scotland enjoys 4 hours more daylight than London, with the most northerly regions barely getting dark during the weeks around midsummer.
July & August are the warmest months with normal daytime temperatures of 18 – 22°C. This is a popular time to visit Scotland but our trips are based in genuine wilderness areas far from the crowds. Scotland’s famous purple heather is at its best in late August, especially in areas such as the Cairngorms.
Late summer brings generally settled weather as we pass into September and October, with normal daytime temperatures of 14 – 18°C. Autumnal colours begin to emerge with birch and rowan trees throwing up particularly bright colours which complement the reddish hue of the hillsides, roamed by well-camouflaged red deer.
The following lists are designed to help your preparation and packing for your trip. The list is not exhaustive and, given the range of personal references, does not include all clothing that will be required for general use i.e. wearing around camp in the evening etc.
Having suitable equipment and clothing will help make your trip even more enjoyable, especially if the weather is less than perfect at any time.
We recognise that sometimes it is difficult to decide exactly what to bring and what will be most suitable. We are, of course, pleased to offer advice based on our experience, so do not hesitate to contact us if you have any queries.
What to wear whilst canoeing
- Paddling Footwear: either old trail shoes/walking boots or wellington boots
- Warm walking/hiking socks such as those by Thorlo
- Quick drying lightweight trousers, zip-off trousers are ideal
- Shorts (in the event of not having zip-off trousers)
- Waterproof trousers such as ME GTX Pant
- Fully waterproof jacket such as ME Kongur Jacket*
- Thermal wool or synthetic base layer (not cotton)
- 2 x lightweight fleece pullover/jacket
- Sun hat/baseball cap
*The ME Kongur Jacket won Trail magazine’s ‘Best in Test’ award 3 years in
a row. To find your local Mountain Equipment stockist, call 01457 854424.
What to have close to hand while canoeing
- Warm hat & gloves
- Water bottle (with at least 1 litre capacity) and (optional) Thermos flask
- Midge net & insect repellent
- Head-torch with spare battery
- Sunscreen
- Sunglasses
- Personal blister kit (such as Compeed plasters or moleskin) and first aid kit
- Anti-bacterial hand gel (for cleaning your hands as required)
Camping Equipment
- 3-season sleeping bag such as ME Firewalker II
- Lightweight sleeping mat or Thermarest
- Lightweight quick drying travel towel
- Personal lightweight wash kit (biodegradable soap)
- Head-torch & spare batteries
- Some polythene bags (to separate wet/dry clothes if necessary)
Optional extras
- Camera (plus spare film/memory card and batteries)
- Binoculars
- Small "day" rucksack, approximately 15-30 litres
- Rucksack liner/large plastic bag for keeping items dry
Group Equipment
We will provide all canoeing equipment (canoes, paddles, buoyancy aids, kneeling pads) and group camping equipment including tents, cooking & eating utensils, waterproof barrels, maps, first aid kit and group shelter.
Hire Equipment
If you do not have any of the recommended equipment, we have some items
available for hire:
- Sleeping bags - £10 per expedition
- Sleeping mats - £5 per expedition
If you need to hire any of these items, please note your requirements in the
correct section of the booking form.
PERSONAL FIRST AID KIT
The following is a list of recommended items. Although most of these items are generally available along the route, it is always more convenient to have a ready supply. This is particularly relevant to any specialist medication.
- Antiseptic cream
- Plasters, bandages, adhesive tape, zinc oxide tape
- Moleskin or Compeed for blisters
- Scissors, tweezers and safety pins
- Anti-inflammatory drugs e.g. Ibuprofen
- Analgesics e.g. Aspirin
- Anti-diaorrheal drugs: e.g. Imodium
- Antihistamines
- Re-Hydration salts or solution e.g. Dioralyte
- Throat lozenges & Dextrose glucose tablets
- Water purification tablets
- Insect Repellent
- Contact lenses and glasses (if appropriate)
Sorry, no video is currently available for this tour.
*Important Notice: The following ratings have been submitted by guests and do not necessarily represent the views of Hidden Trails, its partners or employees.
Every care is taken to ensure accuracy but Hidden Trails is not liable for any errors or omissions.
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On our Sea-Kayaking expeditions, we camp near the shore in spectacular coastal locations. These camps may be remote and difficult to access by foot and this element of isolation adds to their appeal. In order to minimise our impact, you will be asked to share a tent with another expedition member of the same sex.
If you really would prefer to have a tent of your own, we can arrange this but you will be asked to pay a surcharge of £50 for the trip. Please let us know at the time of booking if a single tent is required. Alternatively, you can bring your own tent. In either case, you will need to minimise your personal kit in order to be able to fit the tent into your kayak!
We also carry a base camp tent, which means that we can all gather together for dinner or a hot drink if the weather is less than perfect.
While the leader will co-ordinate and undertake as much of the cooking as possible on the trip, everyone is expected to help out with the preparation of meals and with washing up, as this ensures the best meals in the shortest possible time after what can be a long day of kayaking.
Fine food is essential to all our trips and expeditions are no different. Using sea-kayaks, we are less constrained by weight and therefore have the opportunity to carry food which we would be unable to take on a walking expedition. The scope for imaginative and original meals is therefore enhanced and we sometimes even prepare these over an open fire or using a base camp style dual fuel burner.
Cooking on these expeditions is a group activity and everyone gets involved – making the morning coffee, chopping fresh vegetables for dinner or washing up. The meals are all healthy, filling and imaginative.
Throughout the trip, we practice a ‘leave no trace’ policy, which your guide will explain to the group, ensuring that we do not damage these beautiful but fragile landscapes.
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Tack:
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Horses:
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Pace:
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This itinerary is graded overall as "Moderate". This is based upon a combination of the required skill level and experience, fitness, and the general demands of the expedition.
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Level:
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(2
to
3
out of 5) Moderate
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Riders:
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Min
4 riders
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Max
8 riders
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Passports
Passport valid for at least three months beyond length of stay required by all nationals referred to in the chart except:
1. EU nationals holding a valid national ID card.
Note: EU nationals are only required to produce evidence of their EU nationality and identity in order to be admitted to any EU Member State. This evidence can take the form of a valid national passport or national identity card. Either is acceptable. Possession of a return ticket, any length of validity on their document, sufficient funds for the length of their proposed visit should not be imposed.
Passport Note
(a) A passport is not required for travel between Great Britain and Ireland, Northern Ireland, the Channel Islands or the Isle of Man. (b) Passengers transiting the UK destined for the Republic of Ireland are advised to hold return tickets to avoid delay and interrogation.
Visas
Not required by nationals referred to in the chart above for stays of up to six months.
Visa Note
(a) Nationals not requiring visas are advised to be in possession of either a return ticket or, if arriving on a one-way ticket, proof of sufficient funds to accommodate and support themselves for the duration of stay. (b) Nationals not referred to in the chart above are advised to contact the embassy to check visa requirements
| Passport Required? |
| British |
N/A |
| Australian |
Yes |
| Canadian |
Yes |
| USA |
Yes |
| Other EU |
1 |
| Visa Required? |
| British |
N/A |
| Australian |
No |
| Canadian |
No |
| USA |
No |
| Other EU |
No |
| Return Ticket Required? |
| British |
N/A |
| Australian |
No |
| Canadian |
No |
| USA |
No |
| Other EU |
No |
This information is not being updated on a regular basis. Hidden Trails does not
take any responsibility for the accuracy of the above information. Please, consult
the embassy or consulate for updated info.
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Sea-Kayaking in the Sound of Arisag
Tour Code:
ZZ-SK-WS01
6 days /
5 nights
~$895.00
Dates :
May to Sept
Difficulty :
Lodging:
Introduction
Day to Day Itinerary
Rates | Dates
Accomodation
Tack:
Horses:
Pace:
This itinerary is graded overall as "M...
Airport:
Glasgow, Edinburgh, Inverness
Location on Google Map
Image Gallery
Image Slide Show
Customer Trip Rating
Climate
What To Bring
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