DATES

MAKE IT EXCLUSIVE

PRICE

£1895

DEPOSIT

£300

PRICE INCLUDES

PRICE EXCLUDES

ITINERARY

Our exact itinerary varies according to local factors, including the weather. Here, we present a sample of the experiences we enjoy on our Connect to Nature journey.

Day 1: Arrival

After arrival and introductions, we savour welcoming ‘Scottish’ cocktails and a pre-dinner presentation sets the scene for the coming days. We then gather around our farmhouse dining table to enjoy our first evening meal together.

Day 2: Rewild yourself

After a hearty breakfast, we step outside to begin our journey with a walk and talk along the River Feshie within our rewilding reserve. As part of the Northwoods Rewilding Network, the emphasis here is on letting nature shape and govern the landscape, assisted by a free-roaming herd of Highland cattle that replicate the grazing patterns of lost wild herbivores.

A short drive takes us into the heart of Glenfeshie, where we’ll wander alongside the tumbling river, through the regenerating native woodland that is finding its way back after decades of suppression. As we take in this landscape of hope, we’ll slow down, breathe in the pine-scented air, and ease into the rhythm of the forest.

After dinner, we may gather around the fire pit near the river to reflect on the day and enjoy the night sky.

Day 3: Slow down 

We start the day with a pre-breakfast introductory yoga session. Our teacher's holistic approach revolves around a moving meditation, helping to align the mind and body, and offering a soothing counterbalance to the fast pace of modern life.

After a nourishing breakfast, we stretch our muscles with a gentle walk to a stunning local viewpoint overlooking a series of pools to the glen beyond. 

In the afternoon, we meet an experienced wild swimming coach for an introduction to cold water immersion and its many benefits. This elemental and invigorating experience will deepen our connection to nature, followed by cosy dryrobes and hot drinks to warm up.

Our evenings are flexible offering the option of a local walk or simply a relaxing glass of wine and a cosy chat!

Day 4: Rewild your food/Working with nature

This morning we meet a passionate local forager who will show us how we can incorporate foraged treats into our everyday cooking. We’ll learn about plant identification, their historic medicinal uses and discover how to make pine needle tea to enjoy in the outdoors.

After lunch we head to Northwoods partner Ballinlaggan Farm near Dulnain Bridge. Formerly a sterile sheep pasture, thanks to the vision and hard work of its owners, it is slowly being transformed into a vibrant mosaic of habitats. Gale and Mark will introduce us to their small tree nursery and we’ll get our hands dirty by helping to plant seedlings, contributing to the forests of tomorrow.

Day 5: Sustainable living

Today we visit Lynbreck Croft, another Northwoods partner. Owned by Lynn and Sandra since 2016, Lynbreck is a 150-acre farmholding that has become a haven for wildlife, trees and people. Lynn and Sandra's strong connection to the land is inspirational and we leave feeling uplifted after touring their kitchen garden, meeting their livestock and learning about their life connected to nature. 

After our final evening meal, we’ll unwind with a ‘wee dram’ and enjoy a film that ties together many of the places and rewilding principles we have seen and learned about during our journey.

Day 6: Farewell

We say our farewells after a hearty breakfast.

THINGS YOU NEED TO KNOW

Where do we stay?

Our Rewilding Learning Hub is a beautifully converted farm steading, known as ‘Ballintean Mountain Lodge’ and is located in Glenfeshie, near the village of Kincraig in the Cairngorms National Park.

The lodge has a rustic, contemporary feel with furnishings inspired by nature. All rooms have private facilities and there is Wi-Fi throughout. Mobile phone reception is generally good.

We strive to ensure that the lodge is as accessible as possible to everyone. If you have a disability or a health condition, please let us know at the time of booking and we will do our best to accommodate your needs.

What meals are served?

Breakfast and evening meals are taken within our accommodation and prepared by our own catering team. We offer home-cooked, wholesome food prepared with fresh, local ingredients. In the field, we take a picnic lunch and home-bakes. We might also squeeze in coffee and cake stops along the way!

Reasonable dietary requirements can be catered for, taking into consideration allergies and health conditions, as well as ethics, faiths and cultures. Please indicate your requirements on the booking form and we will do our best to accommodate your needs.

How do I get there?

Public transport is generally reliable and we offer free transfers from Kingussie, our nearest village (8 miles). Your room will be available from 4pm and we will schedule transfers around this time too. 

Train: Services to Kingussie are regular and can be booked here. 

Bus: Services to Kingussie are regular and can be booked here.

Car: Safe parking is available and there is an EV charging point. Directions will be sent as Satnav is not always reliable. Our postcode is PH21 1NX.

Air: Our nearest airport is Inverness (45 miles)

Can you collect me from the airport?

Yes. Inverness airport is one hour from our base and we charge a flat fee of £50 per single airport collection or drop off. This can be shared if there are other members of the group travelling by air. Transfer times will be arranged depending on guest arrivals, but are usually around 4pm on arrival day and 10:30am on departure day. 

How do we get around during our stay?

We use a modern, comfortable 9-seater minibus. For larger groups, we use an additional 9-seater minibus.

Who are your guides?

We work with knowledgeable and friendly guides from within the Cairngorms area and all are familiar with Scotland’s rewilding narrative.

What size are your groups?

We generally work with small groups of between 5 and 8 guests (a trip is confirmed once 5 guests book). For private journeys, 12 guests is our maximum group size (no minimum).

Do I need to be fit?

Our walks are mostly on established paths and tracks but the terrain can be uneven and sometimes wet and/or slippery. Ideally, you will be able to walk at a leisurely pace for up to 5-7km. If you have mobility issues or need to take things slow, please let us know and we will be happy to discuss alternative activities.

What wildlife will we see?

Our Rewilding Journeys are not focused on wildlife sightings, but during our walks, we will keep an eye out for any interesting wildlife and where appropriate, spend time enjoying the sighting.

Will biting insects be an issue?

Midges aren’t usually an issue but can be irritating on calm, mild evenings in late summer. If you’re travelling with us during this period, we suggest you bring a suitable repellent. For anyone who has experienced midges on Scotland’s west coast, they don’t come anywhere close in the Cairngorms!

What will the weather be like?

Weather in the Highlands is very changeable and at any time of year, you should expect anything from warm, calm conditions to wintry squalls. Temperatures are likely to range from 10c to 22c in the spring/summer to 0c to 10c in autumn. If you’re unsure what to pack, we’ll be pleased to advise. 

READ OUR FAQS FOR MORE INFO

OUR REWILDING LEARNING HUB

Set in a private, elevated position, Ballintean Mountain Lodge is a beautifully converted farm steading, perfectly located for exploring the wild landscapes of the Cairngorms National Park.

FIND OUT MORE ABOUT OUR REWILDING LEARNING HUB