WRITTEN BY
WILDERNESS SCOTLAND
WILDERNESS SCOTLAND
What better way to fully experience Scotland’s landscapes than to immerse yourself with an adventure activity? Biking, boating, scrambling or simply sitting and taking it all in: Scotland is the place to do it. Wilderness Scotland lines up 7 amazing Scottish adventures:
1. Cycle across an expanse of sand
There is nothing quite like cycling across an epic expanse of white sand. And Clachan Sands on the Isle of North Uist are hard and compact, making them great to ride on. What a joy – on one side of you are bright turquoise waters and on the other, colourful wildflowers dotting the green machair – the grassy plains distinctive to these isles. Beautiful.
2. Canoe down a gorgeous gorge
The calm waters of the River Beauly means even novice canoeists will feel relaxed. And as you paddle along through the Aigas Gorge, you’ll feel as if you’re in a scene from the Lord of the Rings. The riverbanks are brimming with lush vegetation and wildlife, and there’s a good chance you will spot ospreys and otters in their natural habitat.
3. Explore the ruins of a medieval castle – by kayak
Sitting on the tidal island of Eileen Tioram, you can approach the ruins of the medieval castle of Tioram during low tides by foot along a sandy causeway or opt for a sea kayak. Entry to the castle is forbidden as what remains is no longer structurally sound, but the views as you get up close from the water are breathtaking.
4. Cycle through some of Britain’s most spectacular scenery
This is one of the stellar views that a determined road cyclist is rewarded with when taking on the Bealach na Ba, known as the highest and hardest mountain road climb in the UK. About 6 miles (9km) long with an ascent of 2,044ft (623m) and steep gradients of 20%, this is not for the faint hearted! The route takes you past the shores of Loch Torridon and Shieldaig, and clings to the cliffs of the Applecross coastline.
5. Lose yourself on a magical isle
Probably one of the most photographed geological features in Scotland, this jagged protrusion is known as the Old Man of Storr and can be found on the Isle of Skye. Make the hike to the summit (3-5 hours) and you’ll journey through a primordial and rugged landscape. As the result of an ancient landslide, the area underneath the Storr cliffs is peppered with weirdly shaped pinnacles, the Old Man being the most famous.
6. Soak up a unique sunset
Sunsets like these are among the perks of camping on Camusdarach Beach. On the coastline between Arisaig and Mallaig, you can stare out to the dramatic outlines of the Hebridean Isles of Rum and Eigg. This beach is known for its pure white sands and has been used as a filming location.
7. Hike up an odd-shaped peak
Take on the ascent of Sgurr of Eigg and you’ll be rewarded with spectacular views of the Small Isles, the Isle of Skye and the peninsula of Ardnamurchan. This picture was taken near the top of An Sgurr by Wilderness Guide Kirsty Chuchla. The walk is moderate with a fun little scramble to the summit, and takes 3-4 hours.
