Route Overview

Where is the Rob Roy Way?

The Rob Roy Way is a walking route that stretches 127 Km (79 miles) between Drymen and Pitlochry through the Lowlands and Highlands of Scotland. The trail takes its name from Rob Roy MacGregor, a famous Scottish folk hero and outlaw of the late 17th and early 18th centuries. The route follows many of the tracks and paths that might have been used by this man who was a clansman, cattle breeder and rebel, and the hike gives you a feel of the place where he worked, fought and lived.

Why should you walk the Rob Roy Way?

Experience some of Scotland’s greatest scenery as the Rob Roy Way guides you through enchanting glens and along glistening lochs, rivers and burns into the enchanting heart of Scotland. Follow in the footsteps of the notorious outlaw and Scottish folk hero, Rob Roy, as you hike along ancient cattle drovers’ trails. Enjoy views of beautiful lochs and majestic mountains and get a sense of history on this quieter but beautiful alternative to the West Highland Way. Relaxation calls each evening in some of Scotland’s most picturesque little towns and villages, such as Callander, Killin, Aberfeldy and Pitlochry.

Easily accessible from Glasgow or Edinburgh the Rob Roy Way is a great hiking trail to experience the magic of the Highlands and its Lochs without too much strain and effort. Opened in 2002 as one of Scotland’s Great Trails the route passes by the Lochs of Venachar, Lubnaig, Earn and Tay while at the same time giving you a taste of what makes the Highlands so special. The highest point is Ceann Creagach at 555m and there aren’t too many tough ascents on the trail.

When is the best time to walk the Rob Roy Way?

Spring

As nature reawakens from its wintry slumber, life is once again restored along the Rob Roy Way. Wildflowers bloom and the days grow longer, allowing for an atmospheric hike against a breathtaking backdrop. In spring, temperatures begin to rise, reaching an average of 9-14°C (48.2-57.2°F), while rainfall begins to diminish, providing more opportunities to enjoy hiking on the Rob Roy Way.

Summer

The region basks in the warmth of the sun, offering an invitation to explore its wonders. Lush greenery covers the land, providing a vibrant backdrop for your hiking adventures. During summer, temperatures climb to a pleasant 16-19°C (61-66°F), making it the ideal time to hike. Rainfall remains relatively low, allowing for long days of exploration and discovery!

Autumn

Nature paints a masterpiece as the landscape transforms into a tapestry of autumnal colours. The leaves swap their summer greens for warm, earthy colours. Temperatures gradually cool during autumn, ranging from 9-17°C (48-63°F), while occasional showers enhance the lushness of the landscape.

Winter

During winter, temperatures hover around 2-6°C (36-43°F). Due to this and the fact that a lot of the accommodations are closed, it is only recommended that very experienced hikers take on Rob Roy Way during this time of year. There is a high likelihood of snowfall during these months, making sections of the trail treacherous and at times impassible.

With all that said, The weather in the UK is extremely unpredictable and can be very difficult to predict. The Hillwalk Tours hiking season is from March to October, during which time we are happy to help you organise your hiking trip.

How long does it take to hike the Rob Roy Way?

The full Rob Roy Way is 127km in length in total, including all alternatives and extensions. It usually takes between 5 and 10 days to complete. This depends on the pace you walk it, fitness levels and what activities and attractions you may like to visit along the way.

At Hillwalk Tours, we offer Gentle, Moderate and Challenging tour grading levels depending on the balance of physical challenge and comfort level that you require. Within these levels, you can choose between 5 to 10-day hiking tours to complete the full trail or part of it. All you have to decide is how many kilometres/miles you would like to walk per day and we’ll take care of the rest!

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Tour Route

Types of Trails

Choosing the right hiking tour for you can be, at times, tricky. It is always important to consider your own physical capability and comfort levels.

For example, at Hillwalk Tours, we have grouped each trail route we offer into three categories depending on personal preference and fitness levels. These are – gentle, moderate, and challenging. Each of these categories, depending on the destination, will include anything from 4 to 13-day itineraries, with customers given the option to add rest days where they see fit.

Our gentle hikes are perfectly suited for those who would consider themselves as a part-time hiker who enjoys taking photos and meeting locals while taking in the spectacular scenery. Our moderate hikes will suit people who are used to regular exercise and appreciate the opportunity of covering plenty of ground each day without going beyond their limits. Finally, our challenging hikes are for hikers who look to set off early in the morning and not stop until they have reached their destination.

With regards to our Rob Roy Way, we offer Gentle, Moderate and Challenging hikes. Each of these hiking categories cover the following average hiking distance and time each day:

Gentle: 12-15km or 7.5-9 miles and between 3-5 hours per day

Moderate: 18-22km or 11-14 miles and between 4-7 hours per day

Challenging: 26-30km or 16-19 miles and between 5-8 hours per day

Hillwalk Tours Guide Notes

If you decide to walk the trail with Hillwalk Tours, you will receive a detailed walking pack once you have fully booked your hiking holiday. This walking pack will include detailed Ordnance Survey (OS) maps and unique route notes and walking directions written and constantly updated by our route development team. By personally walking each trail and creating our own detailed route notes, it allows us to provide more itineraries, route options and alternatives than what you will typically find across generic guidebooks. It also includes GPS tracks meaning you will never have to worry about getting lost.

Starting and Finishing Point

The Rob Roy Way winds through some incredible Highland scenery, passing various lochs and rivers and offering stunning mountain views. The trail starts in the small village of Drymen, near the southern shores of Loch Lomond. The route wanders through tracks, mountain paths, minor roads, cycle paths and footpaths to reach the final destination in Pitlochry.

You will be at one with nature when reaching Aberfoyle, located in the heart of the Trossachs National Park. This park boasts some of the most stunning scenery in the world. From breathtaking mountains and glens, to the vast tranquil beauty of the lochs. Experience areas of outstanding natural beauty with magnificent views above Loch Tay.

Fancy a tipple along the way? Enjoy a well deserved dram of whisky at Dewar’s Whisky Distillery in Aberfeldy, or indulge in a local ale or some tasty Scottish cuisine in the cosy and traditional pubs and inns along the route. Immerse yourself into the Scotland of times gone-by.

Be invited into the pretty towns of Callander, Strathyre, Killin and Aberfedly to name a few, before you end the trail in the picturesque Victorian spa town of Pitlochry. Although the trail passes through the majestic highlands, it avoids the summits and keeps mainly to the glens

Sample Rob Roy Way Itineraries

The following are examples of Hillwalk Tours Gentle, Moderate and Challenging itineraries of hiking the Rob Roy Way.

Gentle 7-Day

Day 1: Arrival in Callander

Day 2: Callander to Strathyre (9.3 Miles / 15 Km)

Day 3: Strathyre to Lochearnhead (6.8 Miles / 11 Km)

Day 4: Lochearnhead to Killin (7.5 Miles / 12 Km)

Day 5: Killin to Ardeonaig (9.3 Miles / 15 Km)

Day 6: Acharn to Aberfeldy (9.9 Miles / 16 Km)

Day 7: Departure from Aberfeldy

Challenging 6-Day

Day 1: Arrival in Drymen

Day 2: Drymen to Callander (20.5 Miles / 33 Km)

Day 3: Callander to Lochearnhead (16.2 Miles / 26 Km)

Day 4: Lochearnhead to Ardtalnaig/ Acharn (18 or 22.4 Miles / 29 – 36 Km)

Day 5: Acharn to Pitlochry (19.9 Miles / 32 Km)

Day 6: Departure from Pitlochry

Moderate 8-Day

Day 1: Arrival in Drymen

Day 2: Drymen to Aberfoyle (11.2 Miles / 18 Km)

Day 3: Aberfoyle to Callander (9.3 Miles / 15 Km)

Day 4: Callander to Lochearnhead (16.2 Miles / 26 Km)

Day 5: Lochearnhead to Ardeonaig (14.9 Miles / 24 Km)

Day 6: Acharn to Aberfeldy (9.9 Miles / 16 Km)

Day 7: Aberfeldy to Pitlochry (9.9 Miles / 16 Km)

Day 8: Departure from Pitlochry

Hillwalk Tours Rob Roy Way Map

The Rob Roy Way Terrain

Waymarking

The Rob Roy Way is well waymarked. Throughout the path, you’ll find clear and visible signage, including distinctive markers such as 2 R’s and a W and directional arrows. These waymarks guide you along the designated route, ensuring that you stay on track and don’t miss any of the stunning coastal views or important landmarks along the way.

Difficulty of the Rob Roy Way Path

The long distance hiking trail in Scotland is quite beginner friendly, so it’s ideal for first time hikers and those who like to take their time and see the sights. That said, the Rob Roy Way is suitable for walkers of all abilities, with some sections being more challenging than others.

At Hillwalk Tours, we offer three tour grading levels (gentle, moderate and challenging) depending on the balance of physical challenge and comfort level that you require. Within these levels, you can choose between 5 to 10-day hiking tours to complete the trail. All you have to decide is how many kilometres / miles you would like to walk per day and we take care of the rest!

Sights & Attractions on the Rob Roy Way

Highland Boundary Fault

Millions of years ago, carbonated serpentine underwent crystallization within a fissure that formed in the Earth’s crust, known as the Highland Boundary Fault Line. This offers a rare opportunity to witness the one of the most significant faults in the region. However, when viewed from above, be it from the air or space, the distinct division caused by this fissure becomes truly remarkable, leaving an even more profound impact on the history of Scotland.

Loch Lomond & The Trossachs National Park

Scotland’s first National Park is brimming with captivating corners awaiting exploration. From the open, lush landscapes in the southern section to the sprawling glens and rocky peaks in the north, it becomes evident why geologists hold this place in such high esteem. The fault line that divides the Highlands from the Lowlands runs directly across Loch Lomond & The Trossachs National Park, resulting in a remarkably diverse environment. With rugged hills, wooded nooks, and inviting waters, this region offers a constant array of alluring scenery.

Ben Ledi

Ben Ledi stands as a recognisable landmark visible from Callander and proudly holds the title of the highest peak in the central Trossachs region. Renowned as a beloved destination for hillwalking, its strategic location on the fringes of the Highlands grants it an exceptional vantage point, attracting visitors seeking awe-inspiring views.

Loch Lubnaig

Nestled between the magnificent mountains of Ben Ledi and Benvane to the south-west, and Ben Vorlich to the north-east, lies Loch Lubnaig – a small yet breathtaking freshwater body with a remarkable location. From a bird’s eye perspective, the origins of its name become apparent, as Lúbnaig translates to “crooked” reflecting the distinct meandering shape of the loch.

Loch Earn

Located in the southern highlands of Scotland, lies Loch Earn – a picturesque freshwater loch. The name of this enchanting waterbody is believed to originate from “Loch of Ireland,” adding an intriguing touch to its rich history and cultural significance.

Loch Tay

Loch Tay is a large and deep freshwater lake in Perthshire, Scotland. It stretches for about 15 miles (24 km) and reaches a depth of approximately 508 feet. It is the biggest lake in the area and one of the deepest in all of Scotland. To the north of the lake, you’ll find the impressive Ben Lawers mountain range, which is home to a special area called the National Nature Reserve. A long time ago, people used to live on man-made islands called crannogs in Loch Tay. While most of these islands are now underwater, there is one near the northern shore in Kenmore that you can still see. This particular island has historical significance as it was the burial place of Queen Sybilla, the wife of Alexander, the King of Scots.

Birks of Aberfeldy and the Falls of Moness

Just outside the Scottish town of Aberfeldy, there is a beautiful place called the Birks of Aberfeldy. It features a series of waterfalls surrounded by dense forests of birch trees. A circular trail allows people to walk alongside the falls and enjoy stunning views of the river flowing through the gorge. It’s a truly breathtaking experience for nature lovers. The Falls of Moness are a series of waterfalls on the Moness Burn in the Birks of Aberfeldy.

While on a tour of the Scottish Highlands with his friend William Nicol, Robert Burns wrote the song “The Birks of Aberfeldy” in 1787. This is the reason why there is a statue of him composing the tune in his notebook, enthusiasts often sit to have their photograph taken with the monument. Take your time and sit with Burns as he reflects on the magic of the location, you may hear his words…

Now Simmer blinks on flowery braes,
And o’er the crystal streamlets plays;
Come let us spend the lightsome days
In the Birks of Aberfeldy.

Ben Vrackie

Ben Vrackie is a well-known and beloved hill near the lively town of Pitlochry in Highland Perthshire. It’s called the “speckled mountain” because it used to have white quartz rocks scattered on its slopes. On a clear day, when the weather is good, you can climb to the top at 2,757 feet (841 meters) and enjoy an amazing view. You’ll see the Beinn a Ghlo mountain range to the north and the beautiful Strathtay and Strathtummel landscapes to the west. If the conditions are exceptional, you might even be able to see Arthur’s Seat in Edinburgh.

Glen Ogle Viaduct

One of the most amazing parts of the trail is when it goes over the Glen Ogle Viaduct. This old bridge was built in 1749, fifteen years after Rob Roy passed away. It sits on a beautiful mountainside in the Scottish Highlands, and it’s a really stunning sight to see.

Loch Venachar

The trail stretches along the entire length of Loch Tay, which is a well-known lake in the Scottish Highlands. But don’t miss out on the equally remarkable Loch Venachar. This peaceful nature reserve is filled with rich historical significance. Towards the northern part of the lake, you’ll find a Crannog, which is a man-made island, adding to the fascinating heritage of the area.

Wildlife

The Rob Roy Way has diverse wildlife that inhabits its surroundings. Along this magnificent trail, hikers have the opportunity to encounter a rich variety of wildlife species. The forests and woodlands are home to red deer, one of the largest land mammals in the country. As you venture further, you may spot pine martens darting through the trees or catch a glimpse of the iconic red squirrel, with its vibrant russet coat.

The rivers and lochs along the Rob Roy Way are alive with the activity of otters, playfully diving into the water and hunting for fish. Bird enthusiasts will be delighted by the songs of woodland birds such as the great spotted woodpecker and the charming call of the cuckoo.

In the open moorland areas, watch out for soaring buzzards and kestrels as they hunt for prey. The wildlife found on the Rob Roy Way is truly a testament to Scotland’s natural beauty and a delightful surprise for nature lovers exploring this remarkable trail.

History of the Rob Roy Way

The Rob Roy Way is steeped in history and folklore. The trail takes its name from the legendary figure who was a renowned cattleman and a skilled warrior who became a symbol of resistance. His exploits and daring escapades earned him a place in Scottish folklore and inspiring books and movies. In one of the most turbulent periods of Scottish history where cattle rustling, clan loyalty and battling the English was the norm, Rob Roy stands tall as the Scottish figure who caused havoc for the Sassenach (Saxons, non Gaelic speakers i.e. the English). Born in 1671 in Glengyle near Loch Katrine into the clan of the Wild MacGregors, he fought against the crown forces of King William of Orange with his father in the Jacobite Rebellion.

In spite of the fact that he was on the losing side in that struggle when relative peace returned to the highlands he worked in the family business of cattle droving. Raids on neighboring clans and theft of livestock was a common enough occurrence to warrant security in this era. Rob Roy duly offered protection for cattle as well as occasionally taking the opportunity to steal them when it suited. He was successful at this becoming well known in Scotland with holdings in Inversnaid and Craigrostan.

The mystery of his life deepens when he borrowed £1,000 to increase the size of his herd. His chief herder was entrusted with the money but he disappeared or was killed leaving MacGregor with no money, no cattle to show for it and a creditor in the 1st Duke of Montrose who wanted a return on his outlay. One article suggests that MacGregor in fact borrowed £1,000 from Montrose every year between 1702 and 1712. MacGregor once growled that he “never desired a more pleasant and satisfying breakfast any morning than to see a Whig’s house in flames”. Among his raids was an attack on the church in Arngask during a service where he forced the congregation to strip and then stole their Bibles. If this is true you can see where the Robin Hood similarities are a bit of a stretch.

His battle with the authorities gave birth to the legend which was further embellished by Sir Walter Scott. On New Year’s Eve 1817, Scott published his fictional account of Rob Roy who lived a century before. It was a smash hit with a print run of 10,000 copies selling out within two weeks it saw the romantic legend go global. Two more editions came out within a year. In the book Rob Roy appears infrequently but it is the talk of his exploits that fill the pages.

Even his end is shrouded in mystery. He is rumored to have killed a man and escaped punishment, kidnapped a widow, been hung in Edinburgh or lived out his life and peacefully buried with his family in Balquhidder in 1734. We may never know for sure but we do know that his legend is so big they named a highland trail after him!

Drymen, the drovers rest and Rudolph Hess’ hospital

Drymen is located within the Loch Lomond & Trossachs National Park and also on two long distance walks: the West Highland Way and the Rob Roy Way. In the 18th and 19th centuries Drymen was used as a stopover point for Highland cattle drovers as they made their way to and from markets in central Scotland. The Clachan Inn in Drymen claims to be the oldest pub in Scotland. It has been licensed since 1734 and it is claimed that the first licence was held by the sister of Rob Roy MacGregor.

Just 3km west of the village, are the ruins of Buchanan Castle, a 19th century country house. It was owned by the Duke of Montrose and used as a hospital in World War II when it also housed Rudolf Hess, deputy Führer to Adolf Hitler. Hess was captured nearby in 1941, after a solo flight to Scotland where he tried to negotiate a peace deal with the United Kingdom during World War II. The roof was taken off Buchanan Castle in order to save on taxes in 1954 and as a result its condition has deteriorated.

Aberfoyle, gateway to the Trossachs and the Fairies of Doon Hill

Aberfoyle, nestled by the River Forth, is a gateway to the Queen Elizabeth Forest Park’s splendors. Doon Hill, just beyond Aberfoyle, is steeped in the mystique of Reverend Robert Kirk and his fairy fascinations. His 1691 manuscript, ‘The Secret Commonwealth of Elves, Fauns, and Fairies,’ published posthumously in 1815 by Walter Scott, delves into the supernatural. Kirk’s spirit, as legend has it, was ensnared by fairies within a pine tree atop Doon Hill for betraying their secrets. Today, Doon Hill beckons visitors to bind wishes to its branches, hoping for fairy favor. Circumnavigating the summit’s pine seven times is rumored to summon the elusive beings. 

Quality whisky on tap and on the trail!

Located at the Aberfeldy Distillery, Dewar’s World of Whisky puts on an impressive show of describing the making of whisky, including a series of rooms that display a history of the Dewar’s blend and a look at how it was advertised over the last 100 years. Dewar’s rose to prominence in the United States when Andrew Carnegie (one of the most consequential of ex-pat Scots) requested a small keg of the whisky be sent to the White House for President James Garfield’s inauguration. Carnegie also sent the same gift to President Benjamin Harrison on his inauguration eight years later.

Whisky never tastes as well as it does in the distillery within which it was made so you will have a wide range of choice and opportunity to imbibe the liquid gold. A ‘wee dram’, in Scotland is a 35 ml measurement, just enough to clear your throat and warm your cheeks. In comparison, an American shot size is 1.5 ounces or 44 ml.

The distillery has an interactive exhibition where you can discover how they double age whisky for extra smoothness. Enjoy a whisky tasting from the Fine Scotch Whisky Emporium or fill your own bottle from hand-selected casks. The Aberfeldy Distillery has a number of experience tours and events for whisky lovers, all are available to book online. More information is available on their website. Booking is essential.

Along the trail, walkers can explore ancient castles, such as the magnificent Doune Castle, which was used as a filming location for popular movies like Monty Python and the Holy Grail. The history of the Rob Roy Way is intricately tied to the stories of Scotland’s past, making it a captivating journey that combines natural beauty with a sense of adventure and heritage.

Rob Roy Way Pop Culture

Film and TV

Rob Roy (1995)

“Rob Roy” is a biographical drama directed by Michael Caton-Jones, starring Ballymena born Liam Neeson as Rob Roy MacGregor. The film depicts the 18th-century Scottish clan chief’s battle against a sadistic nobleman in the Scottish Highlands. Alex von Tunzelmann has a very interesting review in The Guardian rubbishing the historic accuracy of the film.

Rob Roy – The Highland Rogue (1953)

“Rob Roy: The Highland Rogue” is a thrilling adventure film produced by RKO-Walt Disney British Productions in 1953. Centered around the legendary figure Rob Roy MacGregor, the movie tells his captivating story. The film starred the Dublin man Richard Todd. Notably, this film marked the final release by Disney through RKO Radio Pictures.

Rob Roy (1922)

“Rob Roy” is a British silent historical film from 1922, directed by W. P. Kellino and featuring an impressive cast including David Hawthorne, Gladys Jennings, and Simeon Stuart. This captivating film delves into the life of the notorious outlaw Rob Roy MacGregor, who lived during the early 18th century.

The Hills of Aberfeldy – Ed Sheeran Song (2023)

Not a movie, but a song dedicated to Aberfeldy on the Rob Roy Way. “The Hills of Aberfeldy” is the last song on Ed Sheeran’s latest album, and it is a beautiful acoustic love song that pays tribute to the stunning scenery of Scotland. The song creates images of snow-covered leaves and frozen water, capturing the essence of the traditional Scottish sound.

Books

Rob Roy – Walter Scott

Set in the 1715 Jacobite uprising, Rob Roy brilliantly evokes a Scotland on the verge of rebellion, blending historical fact and a novelist’s imagination to create an incomparable portrait of intrigue, rivalry and romance.

Food and Drink

On the Rob Roy Way there is not only excellent whisky, the (other) side of physical well-being is also more than taken care of. Along the hiking trail you can stop to eat in hotels, pubs and restaurants, or go shopping in supermarkets. Vegetarians and vegans also get their money’s worth in the restaurants on the Rob Roy Way.

Walker’s Shortbread

Made in Speyside, another great place to hike, is a true delicacy of Scottish snacks – Walker’s Shortbread. Shortbread is a type of rectangular Scottish shortbread that is exported all over the world. In addition to the biscuits, you can try other delicious pastries such as meringues, oat biscuits and cakes at the factory in Aberlour.

Haggis

When you think of Scottish cuisine, Haggis is probably one of the first things that comes to mind. It is a savoury pudding which is made up of a delicious combination of sheep’s pluck (organ meats), oatmeal, onions, salt, and spices. To some, haggis isn’t often the prettiest of foods, but makes up for it with its palatable taste..

Deep-Fried Mars Bars

Deep-fried Mars bars are a unique dessert that were invented in 1992 by John Davie. The famous chocolate bar is battered with a mixture of flour, eggs, and milk, then deep fried. You can find this delightful snack sold in fish and chip shops (also known as chippers) throughout Scotland.

Neeps and Tatties 

Often accompanying the national dish of haggis, neeps and tatties are made from root vegetables that have been boiled and mashed into two delicious side dishes. When served alongside Haggis, the meal in its entirety is called a “Burns supper”. Neeps and tatties is just another name for potatoes and turnips.

Cullen Skink

Originating in the northeastern part of Scotland in a small village named Cullen, this creamy smoked fish soup is another traditional Scottish dish. Cullen skink consists of smoked haddock, cream, potatoes, and onions, and is typically served with a side of toasted bread. While it originated as a local specialty of Cullen, you can find this popular soup on Scottish menus nationwide.

Scotch Whisky

It is hard to not mention Scotland without ever thinking of their world-renowned scotch whisky. It can be made from malted barley, wheat and/or rye with every whisky having to be aged in an oak barrel for at least three years. With the first written record of whisky recorded in 1494, there are now around 140 whisky distilleries currently operating in Scotland.

Irn Bru

Often referred to as Scotland’s second national drink, Irn-Bru is an orange-coloured soft carbonated drink that holds a distinctively sweet, tangy taste. It is so popular throughout Scotland that it has long been the best-selling carbonated drink ahead of Coca-Cola and is the third largest selling soft drink across the United Kingdom. The Scots are such fans of this fizzy pop that they even use it to glaze their ham or to make cupcakes!

Drambuie

Drambuie is a Scottish liqueur. It was invented in the 18th Century by John MacKinnon. The name Drambuie is thought to originate from the Scottish Gaelic phrase An Dram Buidheach. This means “the drink that satisfies” or “the satisfying dram”.

Is the Rob Roy Way Vegan Friendly?

The vegan diet has become more and more popular throughout Europe in recent years, and you will find that there are plenty of vegan options available in most eateries. Each of the accommodation we work with at Hillwalk Tours have given us their guarantee that vegan breakfasts will be catered for once they have been informed. That being said, some of the more rural locations of the trail may have limited options so we advise bringing certain items such as plant-based milk, nut butters or protein powders if you so choose.

In addition, the following apps show restaurants which offer vegetarian and/or vegan opions:

• Happy Cow (€0.99)
• Vanilla Bean (free)

Nearby Trails

There are various other Scottish trails available to you once you have completed Rob Roy Way. Here are the other Hillwalk Tours Scottish hiking tours we offer:

• West Highland Way
• Fife Coastal Path
• Great Glen Way
• Speyside Whisky Trail

Rob Roy Way Tips and FAQs

Rob Roy Way Image Gallery

Hillwalk Tours

About Us

Hillwalk Tours is an award-winning walking tour operator which specialise in self-guided walking holidays in Ireland, Scotland, England, Wales and along the Camino de Santiago in Spain. Our goal is to create happy experiences for all of our customers, suppliers & staff.

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Leave No Trace

We like to walk in nature and since you are reading this – we believe you do too! It is important to ensure that our impact on the environment is limited so that hikers can enjoy the same view after us. The rule applies: when you leave, make sure that nature looks the same as when you arrived or simply put “leave no trace.” As more and more people take to the great outdoors, our collective mark on the environment increases.

What does this mean in reality? Of course, do not leave any rubbish or waste behind. Do not collect stones, flowers, or other “souvenirs”. Don’t carve your name on a tree or break branches… I think you get the drift. It is imperative for walkers to play their part in making sure litter, damage to vegetation and all forms of pollution are limited.

Noise can also be a form of pollution. Whoever walks through a forest talking and laughing loudly, for example, ruins the peace and quiet of other walkers, who can no longer hear the birds. The same goes for cell phones that suddenly start ringing. Keep the volume down and respect your surroundings. Ultimately, the point is to ensure that as many people as possible can enjoy walking through nature. So that applies to you, but also to those who tread the path after you.

Hillwalk Tours proudly supports sustainable tourism and loves the countryside as it is – wild, peaceful and clean. We are proud to support the “Leave No Trace” initiative that aims to preserve the natural beauty of each nations countryside where we offer hiking holidays. We try to create happy experiences for our accommodation too, and the restaurants, shops and taxi companies that serve our walkers. These are often small businesses located in isolated areas that have been left behind by urban migration and a lack of investment in rural regions. Their warm hospitality and friendly welcomes epitomise the magic of a Hillwalk Tour and we’re dedicated to helping keep these rural communities alive.

The Benefits of Hiking

In recent years, walking and hiking outdoors has been widely reported to have numerous physical and mental health benefits. The following are examples of some of these benefits:

Improve strength and fitness

• Weight loss
• Muscle gain
• Improve metabolism
• Improve digestion
• Better quality sleep
• Increase in Vitamin D
• Improve discipline
• Sense of achievement
• Living in the present moment

Hiking Equipment List

For a more in-depth list of recommended hiking equipment list, click here.