Washington and Lee University
Glen Coe, Oban, Mull, Staffa, Kilmartin, and Iona-the names resound with Gaelic legend. To know them well, you must measure them on foot. The Argyll (Gaelic for "Land of the Gaels") region of western Scotland offers a land of gentle farmland and wide peat bogs surrounded by rugged hills, secret glens, and hidden lochans. The landscape fronts a unique seascape of wilderness islands dotted with hill forts and huddled villages. The Isle of Mull, one of the largest of the Hebridean Islands, has so many sea lochs biting into it that the sight and sounds of the sea are never far away. Scotland's western coastline, with its high cliffs, rocky bays, caves, and arches, is forever luring the visitor around the next bend.
The W&L Traveller offers at least one walking tour each year. None will be more picturesque than this gentle foray into the stunning scenery of western Scotland. We have chosen our walks and visits to showcase the pleasing variety of beautiful and historic places in the Argyll. Some of these places lie literally off the beaten track, and yet all are easily accessible for people with basic fitness. No two days will be the same, as sun and cloud, light and shade, breeze and mist continuously alter the tableau. Daily walking distances will not exceed six miles, nor do we expect to walk more than four hours each day. Most of our route will be on paths, tracks, or quiet roads with a few gentle climbs for amazing views. Our accommodations will be in small, high-quality hotels and guest houses. Group size will be limited to 16. Two native Scots thoroughly versed in all aspects of Scotland's culture, history, geology, and wildlife will serve as guides.
If you wish engage a marvelous panorama by walking through it rather than just viewing it from a scenic overlook, then this adventure afoot should appeal.
Download the complete itinerary and registration form (.pdf)