Guided Mountain Expeditons from London - City Mountaineering

**Just 2 spaces available**
*Current Group: 4 female, 1 male*

A Journey Through History and Nature
Embark on an unforgettable 9-day hiking adventure through Orkney, a land of dramatic coastlines, ancient history, and breathtaking landscapes.
This journey is designed for outdoor enthusiasts and history lovers alike, offering a unique blend of challenging hikes, wild camping, and cultural discoveries.
From exploring Neolithic monuments and Viking ruins to hiking along rugged coastal cliffs, every day presents a new and exciting experience.
Trip Highlights:

• Visit the awe-inspiring Neolithic sites of the Ring of Brodgar and Skara Brae.
• Hike through the stunning landscapes of Hoy, including the Glens of Kinnaird and Ward Hill.
• Witness the towering Old Man of Hoy, the UK's tallest sea stack.
• Trek along Orkney’s dramatic west coast, taking in sea stacks, cliffs, and remote beaches.
• Explore the Brough of Birsay, a tidal island with Viking and medieval history.
• Follow the St Magnus Way pilgrimage route, ending at the ancient Broch of Gurness.
• Immerse yourself in Kirkwall’s rich culture, with its historic cathedral, museums, and local shops.
• Discover wartime history at the Churchill Barriers and the Italian Chapel.
• Enjoy wild camping in breathtaking coastal locations and cozy hostel stays in Kirkwall.
• Look out for orcas, seabirds, and other wildlife along the journey.

### Your Trip Includes

• Guided hiking by an experienced and qualified Mountain Leader
• Road travel and logistical Support from Inverness
• 4 ferry crossings
• All food on the wild camping sections of the itinerary
• 3 nights hostel/hotel accommodation
• 1 night on a campsite
• 4 nights wild camping
• tents, sleeping bags and sleeping mats provided for all camping sections

Spaces are limited – book your spot today and start your adventure!
**********************************
EXAMPLE ITINERARY
The specific route will be decided when group size and weather is known. We could hike north-south/east-west/any other variant...

Day 1 – Saturday (Arrival & Exploration)
Gather in Inverness at 10am, where the adventure begins! Travel north through the rugged Scottish Highlands, passing stunning landscapes on the way to Thurso. Keep an eye out for red deer and soaring golden eagles as we make our way to the coast.
Board the ferry to Stromness for a scenic 90-minute crossing, where you might spot seals or even a pod of dolphins. As we approach Orkney, take in the first views of the archipelago’s dramatic coastline.
After arriving in Stromness, pitch tents at a welcoming campsite, then set off to explore the charming, historic town. Wander along narrow flagstone streets, browse local craft shops, and visit the Pier Arts Centre. End the day with a hearty meal at a cozy local pub, enjoying traditional Orcadian hospitality.

Day 2 – Sunday (Hiking Hoy)
Rise early for a ferry ride to Hoy, the wildest and most mountainous of the Orkney Islands. Begin an exhilarating hike through the Glens of Kinnaird, surrounded by heather-clad hills and breathtaking scenery. A detour to Ward Hill, Orkney’s highest point at 479m, offers rewarding panoramic views across the islands.
Descend towards the remote beauty of Rackwick Bay, a secluded sandy beach framed by towering cliffs. Set up your wild camp with a spectacular view of the North Sea. Relax and soak in the serene atmosphere as the sun sets over the waves, with the sound of seabirds echoing across the bay.

Day 3 – Monday (Old Man of Hoy Hike)
Prepare for an unforgettable hike to one of Scotland’s most iconic landmarks, the Old Man of Hoy. This 137m sea stack rises dramatically from the ocean, defying gravity with its towering sandstone cliffs. If you're lucky, you might witness rock climbers scaling its vertical face!
Enjoy a picnic lunch with awe-inspiring sea views before trekking back over the hills. Along the way, look out for puffins, fulmars, and other seabirds nesting in the cliffs. Return to camp at Rackwick Bay for a second night wildcamping under the stars, with the rhythmic sound of the waves as your backdrop.

Day 4 – Tuesday (Coastal Trek to Skaill Bay)
Hike back through the glen and catch the ferry to Stromness. Stock up on supplies before setting off on an epic trek along Orkney’s rugged west coast.
Marvel at the towering sea cliffs and the dramatic Yesnaby sea stacks, sculpted by centuries of wind and waves. The landscape here is wild and untamed, offering countless photo opportunities. Finally, arrive at the picturesque Skaill Bay, where we’ll wild camp beside the beach, falling asleep to the soothing sound of the surf.
For those interested, there’s an optional visit to Skara Brae, a remarkably well-preserved Neolithic settlement over 5,000 years old. Wander through ancient stone dwellings and imagine the lives of Orkney’s prehistoric inhabitants.

Day 5 – Wednesday (Brough of Birsay Exploration)
Continue trekking along the west coast towards Birsay, passing windswept cliffs and open moorland. Arriving at the Brough of Birsay, a tidal island steeped in history, we’ll cross the causeway (tide permitting) to explore Viking ruins, a medieval monastery, and a striking lighthouse.
This is also one of the best places in Orkney for wildlife spotting. Scan the waves for orcas, seals, and diving seabirds as we set up wild campfor the night with sweeping coastal views.

Day 6 – Thursday (St Magnus Way & Ancient Ruins)
Join the historic St Magnus Way pilgrimage route, following in the footsteps of Viking-era travelers. Hike via Costa Head, one of Orkney’s highest sea cliffs, with views stretching across the North Atlantic. Arrive at the Iron Age Broch of Gurness, an impressive circular stone fort that once housed ancient islanders.
After a day of exploration, transfer to Kirkwall, where a warm hostel awaits. Enjoy a well-earned shower before heading to a lively local pub for a delicious meal and a toast to our adventure so far.

Day 7 – Friday (Exploring Kirkwall & Beyond)
Enjoy a relaxed day exploring Kirkwall, Orkney’s vibrant capital. Options include:

• Visiting the majestic St Magnus Cathedral, a stunning red sandstone church founded in 1137.
• Exploring the Bishop’s and Earl’s Palaces, rich in medieval and Renaissance history.
• Discovering Orkney’s Viking and wartime past at local museums.
• Strolling through charming shops and cafes, picking up unique souvenirs and tasting local delicacies.

For those eager for more adventure, take a road trip to Scapa Bay, The Ring of Brodgar (a dramatic Neolithic stone circle), or The Gloup, a dramatic sea cave. Alternatively, hike up Wideford Hill for panoramic views over Kirkwall and beyond.
In the evening, we’ll gather for a group dinner and a second night in the Kirkwall hostel.

Day 8 – Saturday (Final Adventures & Return to Mainland)
Begin the day with a drive across the historic Churchill Barriers, causeways built during WWII. Stop at the Italian Chapel, a beautifully decorated chapel built by Italian prisoners of war, a poignant reminder of Orkney’s wartime history.
For those interested, there’s an optional coastal walk to spot orcas one last time before catching the ferry from St Margaret’s Hope back to the Scottish mainland. Enjoy the final scenic drive to our hostel/hotel accommodation and a celebratory farewell dinner, reminiscing about our unforgettable journey.

Day 9 – Sunday (Departure)
Transfer back to Inverness, where our adventure comes to an end. Say your goodbyes and depart with incredible memories, new friendships, and a deep appreciation for the wild beauty of Orkney.

**********************
Small group!! (Maximum 7-people)

This trip is suitable for everyone and no prior experience of multi-day hiking is necessary.

The small group size will enable us to enjoy the tranquility of the area whilst enabling a flexible itinerary to explore the hidden gems that Orkney has to offer.
**********************
Join this week-long adventure for just £945! Simply RSVP and pay the £150 deposit to secure your place and we’ll be in contact with further details

Included:

• Guided hiking by an experienced and qualified Mountain Leader
• Road travel and logistical Support from Inverness
• 4 ferry crossings
• All food on the wild camping sections of the itinerary
• 2-3 nights hostel/hotel accommodation
• 1-2 nights on a campsite
• 4-5 nights wild camping
• tents, sleeping bags and sleeping mats provided for all camping sections

Excluded:

• Return transport between home and Inverness
• Your personal hiking kit
• food & drink when not wild camping and/or when in cafes/restaurants/bars

--------------------------------------

All City Mountaineering trips are compliant with the 2018 Package Travel regulations (including financial protection)

**Just 3 spaces available**
Current Group: 3 female, 2 male. All solo travellers

3-days and 2-nights under the stars in The Cairngorms National Park.
Includes return travel on The Sleeper Train (bed in twin room)!
***
Escape to the wild heart of Scotland with a weekend adventure in the UKs largest National Park! Join us for an unforgettable experience of hiking through breathtaking landscapes, camping under the stars, and immersing yourself in the untamed beauty of the Highlands.

As always, we’ll sort out the travel, logistics and accommodation, so just meet in London and leave the rest to us.
***
ITINERARY
Please note that exact timings and order of activities are subject to change, based on the local conditions at the time.

Friday evening: Departure

• Meet outside London Euston train station at 8pm, you will board the Caledonian Sleeper train for a relaxing overnight journey to The Scottish Highlands (twin beds in single-sex cabins on the train)

Day 1: Arrival and Orientation

• You will be met at the train station in Scotland for a brief introduction before being transported into the heart of the national park to begin your first hike
• After a day of hiking to a remote corner of The Cairngorms your guide will select a suitable spot to set up your wild camp, where you'll spend the night revelling in the tranquility of the night sky filled with stars (instruction will be provided in how to pitch the tents)

Day 2: Summiting a Peak and Exploring Hidden Gems

• Wake up to the sounds of nature and enjoy an al fresco breakfast surrounded by the huge mountains of The Cairngorms
• Today, you'll tackle a challenging ascent, summiting one of The Cairngorms's majestic peaks and reveling in panoramic views from the summit.
• As the sun begins to set, you'll set up camp in another picturesque location, where you'll enjoy a cozy evening under the stars.

Day 3: Farewell Hike and Reflection

• Rise early to catch the sunrise and savour the tranquility of the morning as we embark on our final hike through the Cairngorms's unique landscapes.
• Today’s hike will take you through lush glens, past sparkling lochs, and possibly to a hidden waterfall. This hike will highlight the diverse beauty of the Cairngorms.
• Reflect on your weekend of adventure as you make your way back to civilisation, pausing to appreciate the beauty that surrounds you.
• You will then head to a local Highland pub for a hearty meal before the train arrives to whisk you back to London.
• Board the Caledonian Sleeper Train for a relaxing overnight journey home (first class, twin, single-sex bedrooms with en suite toilet and shower facilities).

Tuesday Morning: London Arrival

• Arriving in London at 8am, you can head straight to work glowing in the knowledge that you maximised your long weekend away.

***
DIFFICULTY: This trip is designed to be a moderate 3-days in The Cairngorms National Park and requires a good level of fitness:

• You should be prepared to carry their own camping gear and supplies during hikes.
• Leave no trace: We'll practice responsible wilderness ethics to minimize our impact on the environment.
• Safety is our top priority, and our qualified and experienced guides will provide support and guidance throughout the journey.

Your qualified guide is highly experienced enough to keep the pace slow and everyone happy, safe and motivated throughout the trip

TRANSPORT: Return sleeper train journey from London to The Cairngorms. Bed in twin, single-sex cabins (first class on the return journey)

ACCOMMODATION: 1-person tents.
This is a Wild Camping trip. We can provide you with a tent, sleeping bag and sleeping mat if you don't already have them
***
Join us for an unforgettable three-day adventure in the Cairngorms, where each day brings new landscapes, challenges, and experiences! Reserve your spot now and get ready to create lasting memories in the heart of Scotland's most stunning wilderness!

COST: £595 for the all-inclusive long weekend!
To join simply RSVP and pay the £150 deposit. We will then be in contact with more information.

INCLUDED IN THE PRICE
• Return sleeper train travel from London to The Cairngorms
• All logistical support in Scotland
• Use of our tents, sleeping bags, sleeping mats, water purifiers and cooking equipment
• Camping dinners and breakfasts (from dinner on Saturday until breakfast on Monday)
• Guiding hiking with a highly experienced and qualified Mountain Leader

NOT INCLUDED IN THE PRICE
• Personal hiking kit
• Personal travel insurance
• Lunches
***
All City Mountaineering trips are compliant with the 2018 Package Travel regulations (including financial protection)

A 9-day trip (just 4-days off work!), including 7-days of hiking the Skye Trail - an unmarked route of 127km (79 miles) through the island of Skye.

Embark on a once-in-a-lifetime journey through the rugged and mystical landscapes of the Isle of Skye on the iconic Skye Trail!

Join us for an unforgettable hiking adventure as we traverse this legendary route, immersing ourselves in the breathtaking beauty and rich history of Scotland's Highland wilderness.

There are no waymarks for the route and we are off the beaten track so many sections do not even have a path.

🗻 Spectacular mountain views - passing under the shadow of the Jagged Cuillin mountains;
🏝️ Coastal scenery - from beaches to cliff-tops that are remarkable but almost unvisited;
🏞️ Haunting deserted villages - destroyed in the highland clearances;
🐬 Wildlife watching - From Sea Eagles to Dolphins

***
ITINERARY
Saturday (AM)
Meet in Inverness (train station or airport) at 11am, then drive to Isle of Skye for a short walk to your first wild camp location on the farthest northern point on the island

Sunday: Coastal hike to Flodigarry (17km)
The trail starts from Skye's most northerly tip, Rubha Hunish, and follows a spectacular section of the coastline, continuing above dramatic cliffs to reach Flodigarry for a night of wild camping

Monday: Hike inland to The Storr - Trotternish Ridge (25km)
A slightly more challenging stage climbs from Flodigarry beneath the amazing rock formations of The Quiraing, continuing south on the Trotternish Ridge towards the Storr - this must be one of the most dramatic ridge traverses in Britain!

The day will end with a wild camp amongst the dramatic scenery of our surroundings

Tuesday: Cliff-top hike to Portree (18km) then Kayak to remote beach
The third stage of the Skye Trail, takes a short walk to The old man of Storr before a descent to the road, which leads to a fabulous parade along the top of dramatic coastal cliffs with superb views.

You will restock supplies in Portree before you head out to sea on a kayak to your hidden beach camp for the night (bags will be transported separately for you).

After a 45minute kayak, you will reach your secluded beach camp and set up tents in the remote bay before having dinner on the beach

Wednesday: Hike to Sligachan (17 km)
After a beachside breakfast, you will pack away your tents and hike, mostly on road/easy tracks, to Sligachan Campsite (and access to showers!)

Check in, have a shower, then head to the pub for a hearty dinner before retiring to bed under the mighty Cuillin Mountains

Thursday: Hike below the mighty Cuillin mountains to Elgol (15km)
This day we follow a good track through the remote Glen Sligachan (a valley separating the mighty Black Cuillin with the Red Cuillin) to the beautiful bay at Camasunary . Arriving at the coast on the south-west of the island, we will camp on the shores of the Atlantic ocean

From here a vertiginous cliff path with fantastic views across the water to the Cuillin

You will set up camp on the coast for wonderful sunset views over the ocean and the Cuillin mountains

Friday: Hike on good trails to Torrin (17km)
The sixth stage presents a lovely day with great views to Sleat and the small isles, ending at Torrin.

Depending on the weather, you may be spending your final night on a summit with views over the bay, the ocean and the mountains, or next to a beach which often has visits from otters and the local seal colony.

Saturday: Coastal hike to Broadford (20km)
The final stage follows the coast from Torrin to the cleared villages of Suisnish and Boreraig before heading inland to pick up the Marble Line, the old railroad route into Broadford and the end of the Trail.

We will then check-in to our accommodation and celebrate the completion of the Skye Trail with a hearty meal and drinks

Sunday (AM)
Return to Inverness (expect to arrive around 2pm)

***
Join us for the adventure of a lifetime as we trek the Skye Trail and discover the wild beauty of the Scottish Highlands! Reserve your spot now and get ready to experience the magic of Skye's legendary landscapes!

***
9-days for an all inclusive price of just £895 To reserve your place, simply click on the RSVP, pay the £150 deposit and we'll be in contact with further details

Cost includes
• Travel and logistical Support from Inverness
• All food whilst hiking (from breakfast on Sunday to lunch on Saturday), excluding any food in pubs/restaurants/cafes.
• All accommodation (tents provided for wild camping sections, hostel/B&B on the final night of the trip)
• Guided hiking by an experienced and qualified Mountain Leader

Not included
• Return transport between home and Inverness
• Your personal hiking kit
• Your personal travel insurance
• food & drink before/after the hike

***
All City Mountaineering trips are compliant with the 2018 Package Travel regulations (including financial protection)

Hike in the beautiful Yorkshire Dales to see the Autumn Equinox sun rising and falling as we make our way around this classic walking circuit
Begin the hike in the dark to ascend the first hill as the sun rises and aim to complete the circuit 12 hours later as the sun is setting
---------------------------
ITINERARY
Friday PM
Meet at Kings Cross train station on Friday evening for a relaxing journey north in the comfort of the train (train ticket included in the cost) where you will be met at the destination train station and driven to our accommodation in The Yorkshire Dales National Park

Saturday
Day 1 will involve hiking the Yorkshire 3-Peaks: A 26-mile hike over Pen-y-ghent (736m), Wearnside (723m) and Ingleborough (694m).
Please don't worry about your own fitness or ability. We will have several leaders on hand to cater to everyones pace/ability. We will also have a base camp manager supporting the trip to assist anyone that decides to drop out at any point in the day.
We will then retire to the warmth of a local hostelry to compare photos over a soft drink, or two.

Sunday
Day 2 will involve an easy walk to stretch your legs, visiting the fascinating rock formations offered by the Limestone synonymous with the area.

Departure - After the short walk we will make our way back to the buses for your transfer back to the train station and a relaxing journey back to London - arriving back in London around 9pm
---------------------
ACCOMMODATION
We have exclusive use of a bunkhouse (6 single-sex bedrooms)

Cost: The price of this all-inclusive weekend is just £395
To join, simply RSVP and pay the £100 deposit. We'll then be in contact with more details

The price includes:
• Return train travel from London
• Mountain transfers and logistical support
• 2-nights Accommodation
• 2-days guided hiking

The Price excludes:

• All food
• Personal hiking kit
• Personal travel insurance

***
All City Mountaineering trips are compliant with the 2018 Package Travel regulations (including financial protection)