Bank Holiday Weekend! - Hiking & Wild Camping in The Cairngorms

*TRIP FULL*
Our next Cairngorm Wild Camp trip with availability is taking place on the 24 May Public holiday weekend. More information can be found here: https://www.meetup.com/citymountaineering/events/307108290/

Return travel on The Sleeper Train included! (bed in single-sex, twin room)

3-days hiking and wild camping in The Cairngorms National Park.

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Is there a better way to spend a long weekend than sleeping under the stars, hidden away from the crowds, in the mountains?

This long weekend will involve exploring the The Cairngorm Plateau - The highest plateau, featuring 5 of the highest 6 mountains, in the UK - hiking and wild camping away from the crowds to clear your mind and open your senses to your majestic surroundings.

Over 500 miles north of London, it's amazing that this trip is even possible within this timeframe and we are so excited about it!
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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 Begin the adventure

• 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 journey
• Today will involve hiking on relatively easy terrain (although the heavy rucksacks will ensure a slow pace) up the valley - through lush green forests, along beautiful rivers and across the site of many BBC Nature Programmes (look out for Golden Eagles, Red Deer, Red Squirrel, Black Grouse, Ptarmigan, Otters, Water Voles, Pine Martin... I could go on and on... This place is as diverse in nature as the UK has to offer!)
• Evening: You will pitch your tents next to the river/lake (wild swim anyone?) before enjoying dinner and retiring to bed under the stars

Day 2

• Wake up to the sounds of nature and enjoy an al fresco breakfast surrounded by the huge mountains of The Cairngorms
• Continue the Hike: After breakfast and taking down the tents, you will continue your journey on the great Cairngorm Plateau. Once up high, you will hike over the rolling hilly landscape on your journey to your next camp
• Camp Setup: Set up camp near a remote and serene location, perfect for a restful night.
• Evening: Share stories around the stove and enjoy another night under the stars.

Day 3: Braeriach Ridge and Return to Aviemore

• 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.
• Breakfast: Start the day with a nutritious breakfast before packing up camp.
• You will continue on your journey north, towards Aviemore. Reaching Aviemore at around 6pm, you will head to a local pub for a hearty dinner before boarding the Caledonian Sleeper Train back to London
• Departure: 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

• Arrive back at Euston station at 8am, feeling accomplished and with memories to last a lifetime.

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

• This trip is designed for individuals with a reasonable level of fitness. The hikes involve hiking up and down hills over rugged terrain.
• You should be prepared to carry their own camping gear and supplies during hikes.

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 Challenge trip. We can provide you with a tent, sleeping bag and sleeping mat if you don't already have them
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Join us for an unforgettable 3-day adventure hiking and wild camping adventure in The Cairngorms National Park! Reserve your spot now and get ready for a challenging and rewarding experience in the heart of the Scottish Highlands.

COST: £545
To join simply RSVP and pay the £100 non-refundable 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
• All meals from lunch on Saturday until lunch on Monday
• Guiding hiking with a highly experienced and qualified Mountain Leader

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

Please be aware of our Participation Statement and Terms & Conditions prior to joining