Your Scottish adventure begins as you arrive in the charming town of Moffat, nestled in the heart of the Southern Uplands. Transport will be arranged to collect you from Lockerbie station, which is easily accessible by train from both London and Edinburgh. If you’re driving, you’re welcome to meet us directly at the accommodation.
To make the most of your trip, we recommend arriving in the morning or afternoon, giving you time to settle in before the evening welcome drinks. This is a great opportunity to meet your fellow adventurers and go over the plans for the week’s hiking. If you’re arriving a day early, we can suggest excellent accommodation options to ensure a relaxed start to your journey.
For the duration of the trip, Moffat will be your base. This means you won’t have to carry all your belongings from place to place, and after each day of hiking, you’ll return to the comfort of a warm shower and a cosy bed. Get ready for an unforgettable week exploring one of Scotland’s most scenic hiking destinations.
Distance – 5.1 Miles, Elevation – 502m, Time – 4.5 Hours
The adventure truly begins with a spectacular hike to Grey Mare’s Tail, one of Scotland’s most striking waterfalls. Cascading from a height of 60 metres, this dramatic natural landmark is set within the rugged Moffat Hills, offering breathtaking views and a true sense of wilderness.
Starting from the trailhead near Moffat, the route follows a steady ascent through heather-covered slopes and rocky paths, gradually revealing the full grandeur of the waterfall as it plunges into the valley below. The surrounding landscape is vast and untamed, with rolling hills stretching as far as the eye can see.
Continuing past the falls, the trail leads to Loch Skeen, a remote glacial lake nestled high in the hills. The effort to reach it is well worth it—this tranquil body of water, framed by steep cliffs and open moorland, feels like a hidden treasure in the Scottish wilderness.
Along the way, keep an eye out for native wildlife, including red deer grazing on the hillsides and golden eagles soaring overhead. After taking in the incredible views and the peaceful atmosphere of Loch Skeen, the return route follows the same path back down, offering fresh perspectives of the surrounding landscape.
This hike is a fantastic introduction to the beauty of the Southern Uplands, setting the stage for more adventures to come.
Distance – 11.6 Miles, Elevation – 476m, Time – 5 Hours
The walk from Sandyhills to Rockcliffe along the Solway Coast in Dumfries and Galloway, Scotland is a wonderfully scenic coastal route that offers a mix of rugged shoreline, wooded paths, and panoramic sea views. This section of the Jubilee Path winds gently through undulating terrain, passing rocky coves, quiet bays, and areas rich in birdlife and wildflowers. Along the way, walkers can enjoy glimpses of the Solway Firth and, on clear days, the distant hills of Cumbria across the water. The route is well-marked and accessible for most reasonably fit walkers, with several opportunities to stop and take in the tranquil atmosphere. The walk ends in the picturesque village of Rockcliffe, where there’s a small beach, tea room, and connections to other local paths, making it a rewarding and peaceful day out on Scotland’s often-overlooked south coast.
Distance – 8.1 Miles, Elevation – 715m, Time – 3.5 Hours
A walk in Galloway Forest Park offers a rich and immersive experience through one of Scotland’s most beautiful and wild landscapes. Covering over 300 square miles, this vast area of forest, loch, moor, and mountain is often called the “Highlands of the Lowlands” and is a haven for walkers seeking both solitude and natural beauty. One particularly rewarding route is the Loch Trool circuit, a circular trail of around 9 km that follows the shoreline of the loch through dense conifer woodland, open glades, and rocky outcrops, all with constant views of the tranquil water and surrounding hills. The walk includes historic points of interest, such as Bruce’s Stone, a monument commemorating Robert the Bruce’s victory in 1307, and offers a gentle but varied terrain suitable for most abilities. Along the way, walkers are likely to encounter red squirrels, deer, and a wealth of birdlife, with the possibility of spotting golden eagles in the more open skies above. The sense of remoteness is palpable, even though the trails are well-maintained, and the stillness of the loch framed by steep hills and thick forest creates a deeply atmospheric setting. The park is also designated a Dark Sky Park, so if you extend your visit into the evening, you’ll be treated to some of the clearest stargazing in the UK. Whether you’re visiting in the crisp freshness of spring, the golden hues of autumn, or even the snow-dusted quiet of winter, a walk in Galloway Forest Park is a deeply rewarding way to experience the wild heart of southern Scotland.
After several days of hiking through the rugged beauty of the Southern Uplands, today is your chance to slow down, explore Moffat at your own pace, or set off on another gentle walk through the surrounding countryside.
Moffat is a charming historic town with a welcoming atmosphere, making it the perfect place to unwind. Take a leisurely stroll through its quaint streets, browse the independent shops, or visit the Moffat Museum to learn more about the town’s fascinating past. If you’re in the mood for some extra relaxation, the town’s famous mineral waters have long been known for their therapeutic qualities.
For those still craving adventure, there are plenty of shorter hikes to enjoy. Gentle trails along the River Annan or through the rolling hills offer beautiful views without the intensity of previous days. Alternatively, the surrounding countryside is perfect for a scenic cycle or a quiet afternoon taking in the peaceful atmosphere of the Scottish Lowlands.
Whether you choose to rest, explore, or stretch your legs on another trail, today is all about making the most of your time in Moffat before the final days of the trip.
Distance – 7.9 Miles, Elevation – 822m, Time – 5.5 Hours
Today’s challenge takes you through the Pentland Hills Regional Park where you’ll find lots of highland cows chilling out. This exhilarating hike through offers incredible views, diverse landscapes, and a real sense of remoteness.
The trail begins in the peaceful village of Swanston, following a path from the golf course before emerging onto open moorland.
As you reach the summit of , the effort is well rewarded with uninterrupted 360-degree views, stretching as far as Edinburgh and the hills around. This is a place to pause, take in the vast expanse of wilderness, and appreciate the wild beauty of Scotland’s lesser-travelled lowlands.
Distance – 8.8 Miles, Elevation – 1042m, Time – 6 Hours
The hike up Ben Lomond, one of Scotland’s most popular Munros, is a classic Highland experience that combines accessibility with dramatic natural beauty. It’s located on the eastern shore of Loch Lomond, offering sweeping views over the loch and the surrounding Trossachs. Most walkers follow the Tourist Path, a well-maintained and clearly marked trail that begins in the village of Rowardennan. The route ascends gradually through oak woodland before opening out onto heather-covered slopes and ridgelines, with increasingly panoramic vistas the higher you climb. On a clear day, you’re rewarded with far-reaching views across Loch Lomond, west toward Ben Lui and the Arrochar Alps, and even as far as the Highlands to the north. For a more adventurous loop, many choose to descend via the Ptarmigan Ridge, a steeper and rockier path that adds a touch of drama and solitude to the return journey. While Ben Lomond is generally considered a good “starter Munro,” conditions can change quickly, and the summit can be cold and cloud-covered even when the loch below is sunny — so good footwear, layers, and preparation are essential. In spring and summer, the trail is often busy, with wildflowers and birdsong accompanying the climb, while in autumn and winter, it takes on a quieter, more atmospheric tone. Whether you’re aiming to bag your first Munro or simply enjoy one of Scotland’s most iconic hikes, Ben Lomond delivers a rewarding and unforgettable day in the hills.
After an unforgettable week exploring Scotland’s breathtaking landscapes, it’s time to pack your bags and begin your journey home or onwards to your next adventure. Transport will be arranged to take you back to the airport, ensuring a smooth and hassle-free departure.
If you’re extending your stay in Scotland, there’s so much more to discover. From the historic streets of Edinburgh to the dramatic Isle of Skye or the remote beauty of the Outer Hebrides, Scotland has endless opportunities for adventure. We’d be happy to share recommendations to help you make the most of your time.
As you leave the rugged peaks and rolling hills behind, you’ll take with you lasting memories of incredible hikes, stunning landscapes, and the unique magic of Scotland’s wild places. Until next time!
Please note: Airfares and most meals are not included in the trip price. This gives you the flexibility to choose your preferred flights and enjoy local dining experiences at your own pace.
We always think a local touch is best. You’ll be staying at Moffat Independent Hostel in the village. Even though it’s a hostel by name, it’s much fancier than that.
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Secure your place with a deposit of 30%. Final payment is due 30 days before departure. When booking a trip starting within 30 days, deposit payments are not accepted.
If your circumstances change and you can no longer make it, you can transfer your deposit to another trip up until 10 days before departure.
Prices are per person, based on two people sharing a twin room. Please inquire about supplemental costs for a private room for each individual trip.
Arriving
Mon 22 Sep 2025Leaving
Mon 29 Sep 2025Trip status
Secure your place with a deposit of 30%. Final payment is due 30 days before departure. You can also pay in full immediately if you wish.
If your circumstances change and you can no longer make it, you can transfer your deposit to another trip up until 10 days before departure.
Prices are per person, based on two people sharing a room. Any supplemental costs will be shown on the next screen.
The organisation was seamless, and the guides were fantastic—knowledgeable, supportive, and great company on the trails. I couldn’t have asked for a better experience. Huge thanks to Trailmates for making it so memorable!