You should book A Taste of the Scottish Highlands on Foot if you’re looking for a walking holiday that balances scenic trails with a touch of indulgence. This flexible itinerary lets you explore at your own pace, with rewarding hikes through lochs, glens and forests, and the option to tackle a Corbett or opt for a gentler path. What sets this trip apart is the quality of the accommodation: you’ll stay in hand-picked, high-standard guesthouses and boutique hotels known for their comfort, hospitality and Highland charm. Think stylish rooms, peaceful settings, generous breakfasts and thoughtful details that elevate the experience. With visits to Blair Castle, a local whisky distillery, and plenty of time to enjoy the cafes and culture of Pitlochry, it’s a relaxed yet richly rewarding escape – easily reached by train from Edinburgh or Glasgow, and ideal for walkers who value both adventure and comfort.

It is very easy to travel to this part of Scotland. Getting to Pitlochry by train from either Edinburgh or Glasgow is straightforward, scenic, and takes around 2 hours. From Edinburgh Waverley, there are direct trains to Pitlochry several times a day, operated by ScotRail. The journey takes approximately 1 hour 50 minutes to 2 hours 10 minutes, depending on the service. From Glasgow Queen Street, you can also travel direct to Pitlochry, typically via the Highland Main Line. These services also take around 2 hours, with a few requiring a simple change at Perth. Both routes offer comfortable, scenic rail journeys through the rolling hills and woodlands of Perthshire, and Pitlochry Station is centrally located – just a short walk from most local accommodations. The station at Blair Atholl is on the same train line just a few minutes north of Pitlochry. It’s recommended to book tickets in advance for best availability, especially during summer or festival weekends.

The walks on this trip are designed to be flexible, offering options to suit different energy levels, weather conditions and personal preferences each day. Whether you’re looking for a rewarding summit hike or a gentler riverside stroll, there are choices to match. Key walks, like the ascent of Ben Vrackie or the stage of the Rob Roy Way, include shorter alternatives or opportunities to return by local transport. This flexibility allows you to set the pace that suits you, with time to enjoy the scenery, explore local highlights or simply relax and soak up the Highland atmosphere.

Yes, you can visit a whisky distillery during the trip. In Pitlochry, the Blair Athol Distillery offers guided tours and tastings, providing a fascinating insight into traditional Scotch whisky production. It’s within easy walking distance from your accommodation, making it a perfect optional activity after a day on the trail. There’s also the chance to sample a dram as part of a relaxed lochside stop during your walk – ideal for those looking to combine walking with a taste of local culture. The distillery at Edradour, just outside Pitlochry, is one of the smallest in Scotland - it was closed to visitors in 2025 but we hope it will reopen in 2026.

Adding an extra day or two is a great idea if you have the time. Pitlochry and Blair Atholl both offer more than you can see in just a few days, from woodland trails and gardens to local food, historic sites and relaxing cafes. An extra night in Pitlochry gives you time to explore the town more deeply, visit both local distilleries, or take in a performance at the Pitlochry Festival Theatre. In Blair Atholl, you could spend longer exploring Blair Castle and its estate, enjoy additional low-level walks, or simply relax and soak up the Highland atmosphere. Extra days also build in some weather flexibility – useful in the Highlands – and let you enjoy the trip at an even more leisurely pace.

Rob Roy, born Robert MacGregor in 1671, was a Scottish outlaw, folk hero and clan leader often referred to as the “Scottish Robin Hood.” Originally a respected cattleman and member of Clan MacGregor, Rob Roy became an outlaw after a financial dispute with the Duke of Montrose and the outlawing of his clan name by the British crown. He was known for his resistance to authority, his role in the Jacobite uprisings, and his reputation for stealing from the rich and aiding the poor – though fact and legend are often intertwined in his story. Rob Roy’s life inspired poems, ballads, and novels, most famously Sir Walter Scott’s 1817 novel Rob Roy, which helped cement his place in Scottish cultural history. Today, his name lives on in the Rob Roy Way, a long-distance walking trail through the landscapes he once roamed.