Trek the Skye Trail

Home , Boreraig, Camasunary, Flodigarry, Talisker distillery

Trek the Skye Trail

Europe | 900m

www.360-expeditions.com Trek the Skye Trail Europe | 900m

Join us on this 9-day expedition trekking the clearances and visit remote island Skye Trail, an established but less trodden communities and also have superb and, for the most part, deserted route opportunities for watching wildlife and if covering 27km (79 miles) from the North to the we’re lucky we may catch sight of seals, South of theisland of Skye. There are no otters, golden eagles and sea eagles! waymarks on the route and many sections do not even have a path, however, we know this This route is perfect for those who want to get route well and the rewards as you walk south well away from the beaten track and is a trek from the most northerly point on the island never to be forgotten! are spectacular.

Whilst on ourtrek we will be treated to some of the finest mountain views in the UK, passing under the shadows of the jagged Red and Black Cuillins (possibly the finest mountain range in Britain). We’ll also be taking in the breath-taking coastal scenery from beaches to cliff-tops in areas that are remarkable but almost unvisited. We’ll encounter haunting ruins of villages deserted during the highland

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Europe | 900m

Physical - P2 Technical - T1

Prolonged walking over varied terrain. There No technical skills are needed. A good steady may be uphills and downhills, so a good solid walking ability only is required. fitness is required. Expect to be able to do a 6 to 8 hour walk over undulating terrain with a few punchy uphill climbs carrying a pack up to 6kg in weight.

Please note that the grading system used is a rough guide only.

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ITINERARY

DAY 1 : Arrive Isle of Skye DAY 4 : Cliff-top trek to Portree

This morning you will be met by your guide at Glasgow After a hearty breakfast at camp, we will start the third Airport/train station and transferred to the Isle of Skye, stage of the Skye Trail. This stage takes a short section where you’ll then have some time to settle into the of road which leads to a fabulous parade along the top of B&B/hostel. dramatic coastal cliffs with superb views.

In the evening we will have a full trip briefing covering all We will restock supplies in Portree and spend the night in the essential information for the following days before a local bunkhouse, connected to arguably the best pub on enjoying a relaxing dinner. the island.

(BL) DAY 2 : Coastal trek to Flodigarry (18km) After an early breakfast, we will start our trek from Skye’s most northerly tip, Rubha Hunish. DAY 5 : Rest Day The trail follows a spectacular but rough section of the coastline, continuing above dramatic cliffs to reach Today you have the option of either trekking stage 4 of Flodigarry for a night of wild camping. the Skye Trail or seeing the trail in the comfort of the minibus. (BLD) We will also visit some other local attractions that are not (17km) on the trail (e.g. Fairy Pools, Talisker distillery, Black Cuillins).

DAY 3 : Trek inland to the Storr-Trotternish We will follow a rough track along Loch Sligachan to the Ridge Hotel, where we will stop for lunch before heading through the remote Glen Sligachan (a valley separating the mighty Black Cuillin with the Red Cuillin) to the Today sees us taking on a slightly more challenging beautiful bay at Camasunary. stage than the first day. Arriving at the coast on the south-west of the island, we We will climb from Flodigarry beneath the amazing rock will camp on the shores of the Atlantic ocean. formations of The Quiraing then continue south on the Trotternish Ridge towards the Storr before a final descent (B) to the road. The rewards are tremendous – this must be one of the most dramatic ridge traverses in Britain! (15km) The day will end with a wild camp amongst the dramatic

scenery of our surroundings.

(BLD)

(25km)

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ITINERARY

DAY 6 : Cuillins mountains to Elgo DAY 9 : Return home

Transfer back to Glasgow airport or train station. Today sees us traversing a vertiginous cliff path with fantastic views across the water to the Cuillin that reaches Elgol.

This little fishing village has a shop, cafe, B&B and seafood restaurant.

Today will be a shorter hiking day, where we can spend the afternoon relaxing in Elgol for the afternoon.

(BLD)

(15km)

DAY 7 : Trek on good trails to Torrin

Today will be a lovely day with great views to Sleat and the small isles, ending at Torrin where there is a summer cafe and a B&B.

Depending on the weather, we may be spending our final night on the trail on a summit with views over the bay, the ocean and the mountains!

(BLD)

(17km)

DAY 8 : Coastal trek to Broadford

Today sees us trekking along the final stage of the Skye Trail.

This stage follows the coast from Torrin to the cleared villages of Suisnish and Boreraig before heading inland to pick up the Marble Line, the old railroad route into Broadford. Once at the end of the Trail, we check in to our accommodation and celebrate the completion of the Skye Trail with a hearty meal and drinks.

(BL)

(20km)

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KIT LIST

Bags & Packs Headwear

Rucksack Warm headgear

A large rucksack – minimum 65L. That is well This can be a warm hat, beanie, balaclava, worn in and with a good waist belt. A anything to reduce the heat loss from your head waterproof cover is advisable (remember that these covers are not 100% waterproof but act as Wide brimmed hat a barrier). Whilst on the trek you will need to carry all of the kit that you are not wearing Keeps the sun off exposed areas like ears and the nape of the neck Waterproof/Dry bags (optional) Sunblock Sleeping Gear Essential for protection from the sun 4 Season sleeping bag Lip salve You should get a sleeping bag rated to -5C and choose a sleeping bag that functions within the Sun cream will not work on your lips and they comfort rating of this temperature. A silk are very susceptible to burn without proper sleeping bag liner will enhance this rating on the protection coldest nights. Upper Body Sleeping mat Non-cotton T-shirts (with one long-sleeved) A full length self-inflating rather than ¾ length Thermarest Ideally at least 2, with one being long-sleeved

Sleeping bag liner Mid layer (long sleeved fleece tops)

Silk is best for keeping the bag clean and you a These are typically lightweight microfleeces or little warmer similar technology that provide varying degrees of warmth and insulation without being overly bulky or heavy to pack

Warm insulated jacket

Waterproof jacket

In case it rains

Warm gloves

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KIT LIST

Lower Body Hydration

Trekking trousers Water bottles / bladder

These tend to be polyester so they dry quickly 2L capacity either in a combination of bladder after a shower and weigh little in your pack. and Nalgene bottle or just Nalgene bottles Consider perhaps a pair with detachable lower legs as an alternative to shorts Evening Wear

Waterproof trousers Clothes for Rest day

In case it rains Clothes to wear in town on Rest day

Long Johns (optional) Toiletries

Thermal insulation for the lower body Wash kit

Underwear Keep it simple on the trek. Essentials are toothbrush, toothpaste and deodorant. How many pairs you take is entirely up to you Moisturiser is advisable, everything else is a luxury! Feet Travel towel 3-4 season walking boots Travel towels from the likes of Lifesystems are Well worn in 3-4 season waterproof boots with perfect mid to high ankle support Wet wipes Comfortable trainers Preferably biodegradable, these are great for Comfortable trainers for Rest day and the washing when modern shower facilities become evenings a thing of the past

Thick socks Alcohol gel

A must have for good camp hygiene

Nappy sacks or dog poo bags

Only needed to bag your toilet paper if you are caught short in between camps and for keeping your rubbish tidy in your tent

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KIT LIST

Medications Snacks

Personal first aid kit Although you will be fed well we do we advise bringing a small selection of energy bars. Have The 360 med kits are designed to be used in a couple per trekking day emergencies and akin to an A&E rather than a pharmacy on Expeditions so please come prepared with useful meds for yourself such as painkillers (Ibuprofen if you can take it and a Paracetamol) plus blister plasters, plasters, antiseptic, rehydration sachets and any muscle rubs you wish to use.

Personal medication

Keep this in your daysack

Miscellaneous

Trekking poles

These tend to be a personal preference but help with your stability and can dampen the pressure on the knees coming down hill

Camera

Bring plenty of spare batteries and memory cards

Thermal flask (optional)

Maps (optional)

Compass (optional)

Insect repellent

Head torch

We recommend Petzl head torches. Bring spare batteries.

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FAQ'S

Guides Accommodation

Where do I meet my guide? What kind of accommodation will we use?

Your guide will meet you in the morning at During the wild camping sections, we will be Glasgow airport or the train station. using 3-person tents between 2-people (or feel free to bring your own tent if preferred).

Food and Water When in town, we will be staying in dorm-style accommodation in B&B’s or hostels. What will the meals be like?

Whilst wild camping, breakfast will be porridge Health and Safety and lunches/dinner will be dehydrated camp food (a variety of options are available). What medication do I need to bring?

When in town we will be staying in B&B’s or You will need to bring your specific medication hostels where breakfast will be of a continental- that you take for any medical condition that you style. Dinner will be in a local pub. have and pack it in your rucksack for each trek. Please notify your guide of any specific medication that you may be on prior to the How often will water be replenished throughout expedition. the day? It is also worth taking a simple first aid kit such We will use fresh Scottish Spring water directly as painkillers, blister plasters, plasters, from its source. antihistamines and insect repellent.

I have food allergies, can these be catered for?

Absolutely, please inform the office of any allergies or intolerances and we will ensure that these are taken into account on the expedition.

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FAQ'S

What happens if there is an accident on the How warm does my sleeping bag need to be for mountain? the wild camping?

Accidents can happen and anyone undertaking These should be rated to a comfort rating of these adventures has to accept there is a -5C. Whilst we are likely to be experiencing end degree of risk due to the nature of the activity. of summer temperatures, it is not uncommon for Our mountain crew are all experienced in colder temperatures at any time of year in the dealing with problems that may arise. Highlands.

All leaders hold wilderness first aid certificates and can handle any emergency to the highest Is it possible to rent equipment before I go? level of competency. It is possible to rent trekking equipment in the UK before you travel. However, we recommend Kit the use of personal equipment whenever possible. This is so you know your equipment as What is the best type of footwear to use for best as possible and we can’t guarantee the this trip? quality of rented equipment.

Because of the huge variety of terrain If you decide to hire equipment in the UK, please encountered when trekking in the Scottish take a look at Outdoorhire where a wide range Highlands it is very important to have the right of clothing and equipment can be hired. footwear. Boots should be sturdy, waterproof, insulated against the cold and offer adequate ankle support. In addition it is highly The Trek recommended that your boots are well worn in to prevent the formation of blisters. How big is the group?

Additionally, it is highly recommended that you The group will have a maximum of 8 people. bring an old pair of trainers for use on the rest day.

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FAQ'S

The Weather Insurance

What is the weather like? Do I need special travel insurance for the trip?

We will be on the west coast of Scotland which You must carry individual travel insurance to can have unpredictable weather at the best of take part in the expedition. We cannot take you times. It could be hot and sunny, it could be cold on the mountain without proof of insurance. and wet. But, generally, we experience warm, long sunny days. It is your responsibility to ensure that you have the appropriate insurance for your intended trip. To include medical evacuation and Will there be midges at this time of year? coverage up to the maximum altitude of this trip. Your insurance details are requested on the The peak midge season in Scotland is end of booking form, however this can be arranged at May until mid September. We do not expect to a later date. have a problem with midges, but you never know! 360 Expeditions will be requesting your insurance details 8 weeks before your departure. Travel

Do I need to book my own travel to Glasgow? Training

Yes, you will. There are regular How fit do I need to be to join this trip? flights/trains/buses to Glasgow from most places in the UK. You don’t need to be super-fit and all treks and mountain routes will be geared towards the group. However, you should be of a level of fitness that enables you to trek up to 10 hours with a 12-15kg rucksack.

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TRAINING PROGRAM

To begin 6 months prior to the expedition where MONTH 1 possible. OPT 1 OPT 2

1. CVS: Cardiovascular exercise which is low impact 2 x 30 mins weekday walk 1 x 30 mins weekday walk such as swimming, cycling, cross trainer, rowing. 1 x 1 hour weekend walk 2 x 1 hour weekend walk 1 x 10 mins CVS 1 x 10 mins CVS 2. Weekend walk should be done over undulating terrain. Only a light rucksack needs to be carried. MONTH 2

3. For specific exercises it is worth doing static OPT 1 OPT 2 squats and heel raises on a regular basis to improve leg muscles prior to the trip. Static squats 2 x 45 mins weekday walk 1 x 45 mins weekday walk 1 x 2 hours weekend walk 2 x 2 hours weekend walk are especially useful to help protect the knees. 2 x 10 mins CVS 2 x 10 mins CVS Please remember that it is still important to have a well balanced workout using a variety of muscle groups. MONTH 3

4. It is worth winding down and resting in the week OPT 1 OPT 2 leading up to the trip, doing several light walks to 2 x 45 mins weekday walk 1 x 45 mins weekday walk keep things going. 1 x 2 hours weekend walk 2 x 2 hours weekend walk 2 x 10 mins CVS 2 x 10 mins CVS 5. When walking going at a pace of a brisk walk with a light sweat and enough to feel breathless is MONTH 4 recommended OPT 1 OPT 2 6. During the program, rather than step up 3 x 1 hour weekday walk 2 x 1 hour weekday walk suddenly each month (example, going for 3 one 1 x 4 hours weekend walk 2 x 4 hours weekend walk hour walks each week during the weekdays in April 3 x 15 mins CVS 3 x 15 mins CVS to 3 one and half hour walks suddenly in May) it is better to build up gradually each week so there isn't a large transition (example, going for 3 one MONTH 5 hour walks during week 1 in April, going for 3 one OPT 1 OPT 2 hour and ten minute walks during week 2 in April, going for 3 one hour and fifteen minute walks 3 x 1.5 hours weekday walk 2 x 1.5 hours weekday walk during week 3 in April, going for 3 one hour and 1 x 5 hours weekend walk 2 x 5 hours weekend walk 3 x 20 - 25 mins CVS 3 x 20 - 25 mins CVS twenty minute walks during week 4 in April)

6. It is important you seek medical advice prior to MONTH 6 starting any training program, especially if you are not used to regular physical exertion OPT 1 OPT 2 3 x 2 hours weekday walk 2 x 3 hours weekday walk All the best with your training! 1 x 6 hours weekend walk 2 x 6 hours weekend walk 3 x 30 mins CVS 3 x 30 mins CVS

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Dream it. Plan it. Live it.

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