Scotland, with its dramatic landscapes and rich history, offers an unparalleled setting for outdoor adventures. Active Outdoor Pursuits harnesses this natural beauty through expertly guided walking and Mountain Scrambles in Scotland. These adventures immerse participants in Scotland’s breathtaking scenery and provide numerous benefits that enrich both body and mind.
Whether you are a seasoned hiker or a newcomer to the trails, joining a group expedition with Active Outdoor Pursuits promises an experience you won’t forget.
What are the Benefits of Group Walking Expeditions?
One of the greatest joys of group walking expeditions is the camaraderie that develops among participants. Walking alongside others who share your passion for the outdoors fosters a sense of community and belonging. Sharing stories around the camp, encouraging each other through challenging sections, and celebrating the triumphs of the journey together create bonds that often last long after the expedition ends.
Safety and Expert Guidance
Navigating Scotland’s rugged terrain requires experience and knowledge. As an AALA-licensed provider, Active Outdoor Pursuits ensures safety by providing skilled and knowledgeable guides on every expedition. These guides lead the way and offer insights into local geology, flora, and fauna, making the trek educational and enjoyable. Their expertise allows you to fully immerse yourself in the experience without worrying about the technical aspects of the journey.
Learning and Skill Development
Each group expedition is an opportunity to learn and grow. Whether you’re interested in improving your navigation skills, understanding outdoor survival techniques in winter, or learning about the natural environment, the group dynamic encourages shared learning. Guides and fellow participants alike contribute to a wealth of knowledge, making each trek a comprehensive educational experience.
Environmental Awareness
Active Outdoor Pursuits is committed to promoting responsible tourism and environmental stewardship. Group travel helps minimise the environmental impact, and participants are encouraged to follow . By choosing group expeditions, you contribute to sustainable tourism practices that help preserve Scotland’s natural beauty for future generations.
Explore Scotland's Diverce Landscapes
Active Outdoor Pursuits offers guided expeditions across some of Scotland’s most stunning regions. Here are a few highlights:
Cairngorm 4000ers
The Cairngorms National Park, home to five of Scotland’s six highest peaks, is a paradise for adventurous hikers. The Cairngorm 4000ers expedition leads you through ancient Caledonian pine forests, across vast plateaus, and up formidable peaks. It’s a quintessential Scottish hillwalking challenge. This remarkable circuit covers the five peaks of the Cairngorms Mountain range that rise above 4000 feet: Ben MacDui, Devils Point, Cairn Toul, Angel’s Peak, and Braeriach.
On day one, you ascend Ben MacDui and descend into the Lairig Ghru, where you can camp beneath the stars and even take a refreshing dip in the Dee River. Day two sees you ascending again to traverse a breathtaking ridge, rewarded with panoramic vistas and the remaining four peaks of the expedition. This journey promises stunning views and an opportunity to immerse yourself in the unspoiled beauty of Scotland’s mountainous heartland.
Fiacail Ridge Scramble
For those in search of an adrenaline-pumping scramble, the Fiacaill Ridge in the Cairngorms offers an exhilarating challenge. Mountain scrambling entails ascending steep mountain ridges with minimal protection. A strong head for heights is crucial!
This route blends rock climbing with hiking, providing awe-inspiring vistas of the Northern Corries. In winter, the route becomes even more challenging with an ice axe and crampons required. The scramble demands a high level of fitness and confidence in negotiating rocky terrain, making it a perfect walking adventure near Aviemore for those eager to test their boundaries.
Cairngorm Northern Corries
The Northern Corries of the Cairngorms are famed for their dramatic scenery and superb walking trails. These corries boast a range of paths catering to various skill levels, from gentle strolls to more challenging hikes. The area’s distinctive geological features and rich wildlife make it an enthralling destination for nature enthusiasts and adventurers alike.
The Cairngorm and Northern Corries guided walk is a must-do experience when visiting Aviemore and its surroundings. This mountain walk, classified as a Munro, offers a relatively straightforward day of hill walking. Join our guided walks to summit Cairngorm and traverse the Northern Corries, soaking in breathtaking views of the Cairngorm Mountain range and Rothiemurchus forest. Depending on weather and group capabilities, we may even descend to Loch Avon on the southern side of Cairngorm. Flanked by Cairngorm on one side and Ben Macdui on the other, this loch is among the most picturesque in the region.
Ben Nevis Guided Ascent
Ben Nevis, Britain’s highest peak, is a must-visit for keen hikers. Active Outdoor Pursuits offers a guided ascent ensuring safety and a rewarding experience. Enjoy stunning views and a sense of achievement at the summit, while our guides enrich the journey with stories of the mountain’s history and natural features.
The most popular route up Ben Nevis is the Mountain Track, a well-marked path that zigzags up the mountain. The red burn marks the halfway point and time to rest and refuel before tackling the steeper terrain towards the summit. No previous hillwalking experience is necessary, but a good level of fitness is essential. Despite the path, conditions can change quickly, especially in winter, making professional guidance crucial for safety.
For a more adventurous ascent, consider the CMD Arête route starting from the North Face Car Park. This path winds uphill before revealing stunning mountain vistas. Climbing Carn Mor Dearg first provides panoramic views of Ben Nevis’s impressive North Face, popular among climbers. The CMD Arête offers an exposed and thrilling Grade 1 scramble with narrow sections adding excitement. After summiting, we descend partway via the Mountain Track, then follow a smaller track back to the North Face, requiring good fitness and some prior mountain walking experience due to its unpathed sections.
Scottish Walking Expeditions Offered by Active Outdoor Pursuits
Active Outdoor Pursuits is dedicated to providing exceptional outdoor experiences tailored to every adventurer’s needs. Our offerings include:
Guided Walking and Scrambling Holidays
Active Outdoor Pursuits offers a wide range of guided walking and scrambling holidays designed for all skill levels. From day hikes to multi-day expeditions, each trip is led by experienced guides who ensure a safe and enjoyable experience. These holidays not only showcase Scotland’s stunning landscapes but also provide insights into its history, culture, and natural environment. For our multi-day expeditions, the package includes transport, accommodation, camping equipment, and guiding. Pick-ups can be arranged from various locations in South and Central Scotland.
Private Expeditions and Training
For those seeking a bespoke adventure, Active Outdoor Pursuits provides customised expeditions and outdoor skills training. Whether you’re planning a corporate team-building retreat, a family adventure, or a private group excursion, their team can create a tailored itinerary that meets your specific goals and interests. One of our most popular private activities is the Tower Ridge Scramble. As one of the most adventurous and gratifying climbs of Ben Nevis, the guided scramble up Tower Ridge is iconic. With a Grade 3 rating, it requires some prior hillwalking experience and a good standard of fitness.
We also offer training in essential outdoor skills, ensuring you’re well-prepared for any adventure.
Duke of Edinburgh
Active Outdoor Pursuits is an approved provider of Duke of Edinburgh (DofE) activity expeditions and residentials, with over 25 years of experience and a proven track record in facilitating and supporting groups, individuals, and schools in achieving The Duke of Edinburgh’s Award in Scotland. As a DofE Approved Activity Provider, we aim to deliver high-quality, exciting, and adventurous expedition training, supervision, and assessments throughout Scotland. Each level of the award involves elements of expeditions, and we are pleased to support young people in achieving their awards across bronze, silver, and gold levels with the option of exciting hillwalking journeys across the Highlands.
Embark on an Unforgettable Adventure with Active Outdoor Pursuits
Joining a group walking expedition with Active Outdoor Pursuits offers a gateway to unforgettable adventures and meaningful connections with nature and fellow adventurers. Whether you’re drawn to the challenge of scaling majestic peaks, the serenity of ancient forests, or the rich cultural heritage of Scotland, each expedition promises to enrich your understanding of this remarkable country and leave you with cherished memories.
Contact us today to find out more!
