Average rating Learn Sea Kayaking in the Highlands

Safe, fun, eco-friendly and super relaxing, sea kayaking has to be one of the best ways to explore a region. Learn Sea Kayaking in Scotland’s spectacular northwest Highlands, the setting for this five-day course, the perfect introduction to this fantastic sport.

When the mile-thick ice sheets finally retreated from the north of Britain at the end of the Pleistocene epoch, they left in their wake a topography gnarled, fissured and pockmarked by violent glaciation. The result is some of the wildest country in Europe; mountain massifs, rift valleys, riven volcanoes and crinkle-cut islands are just some of the extraordinary features of the Scottish landscape. Unsurprising, then, that the country has become something of a mecca for adventure travel enthusiasts, with every imaginable pursuit on offer. So whether you surf or ski, sail or kayak, hike or bike, Scotland is bound to have something special for you. (There’s also 12,000 years of history, some of Europe’s finest architecture and the prized national drink (no, not Irn-Bru!), in case you’re interested!)

Based at magical Loch Torridon in Scotland’s wild northwest, this five-day course will equip you with the essential skills needed for full-scale kayak adventures! Starting on sheltered sea-lochs, you’ll learn some basic kayaking strokes before heading out to sea to test your technique. Here you’ll explore the stunning coastline, enjoy a picnic in a sandy bay and perhaps visit one of the nearby islands. You’ll also paddle across Loch Shieldaig to Shieldaig Island, a National Trust site renowned for its bristling Scots Pines, heronry and seal population. Then at the end of the day you can retire to the loch-side bunkhouse, where hot showers, a hearty dinner and a warming dram of whisky await!

This is without doubt one of the loveliest tours we’ve come across, a fantastic five days that can be enjoyed by almost anyone. You don’t need any experience or equipment, nor do you have to be super fit; all that’s needed is a love of the great outdoors and an open mind. This kayaking course is all about engaging with this spectacular landscape in a new way. The emphasis is on adventure and exploration, but also on peace, quiet and relaxation. Obviously if you prefer your water sports high-speed and petrol-powered you’re going to find sea kayaking a bit mellow, but if you like the sound of a day spent exploring wooded coves, watching seals at play and sipping whisky ‘round a wood stove then this might be right up your creek!

Getting there

You will be met by your guide at Inverness Railway Station. You can get there by rail from Edinburgh, Glasgow or London.

Price includes

Accommodation, meals (all breakfasts and lunches, one dinner), equipment, training, transfers. Three dinners are not included.

Price details

During July & August, the price will be £499

Comfort level

Reasonably comfortable (Inns, B&Bs, luxury camping etc.)

Experience required

A reasonable interest is all that is needed