Get ready for a week of white water kayaking across some of Scotland’s best dam-release rivers. This trip is designed for those with previous white water experience who are looking to paddle new rivers with expert guidance and a sociable adult group. With a mix of iconic rapids, scenic locations, and time to play on the water, it’s a fantastic opportunity to develop your paddling in a supportive setting.
The week begins with a travel day on Saturday to reach our first base near the River Tummel. Sunday is spent on the Lower Tummel—an ideal warm-up with plenty of continuous grade 2/3 features to refresh your skills. Monday shifts to the Upper Tummel, where you’ll take on more technical and steeper lines. On Tuesday, we run the River Tay, offering a longer paddle with a mix of easier rapids and scenic stretches perfect for catching your breath.
Wednesday brings a second run of the Upper Tummel, followed by a transfer north to Invergarry, our base for the remainder of the week. Thursday sees us paddling the River Garry, a dam-release favourite with consistent water levels and playful rapids. Friday is flexible, offering a well-earned rest day or the option to paddle the Spean Gorge or take on the more advanced Etive triple step, depending on group interest and conditions. We’ll wrap up with another Garry run on Saturday before heading home on Sunday.
Throughout the trip, there’s an emphasis on both progression and enjoyment. Coaches will be on hand to support you in refining techniques, choosing lines, and building confidence across a variety of river features. Off the water, it’s a relaxed and sociable environment with time to unwind at camp, share stories, and review the day’s paddling.
We’ll start the week in Grandtully, Perthshire, which provides easy access to the Tay and Tummel rivers—classic white water destinations in central Scotland. This area is well-known for its reliable dam-release rivers and beautiful river valleys.
Midweek, we head further north to Invergarry in the Highlands, which opens up access to the Garry, Etive and Spean Gorge. This region offers more challenging terrain and a more remote feel, with rivers set amongst forested glens and mountain views.
Accommodation is provided at two camping locations: the SCA campsite in Grandtully and a campsite near Invergarry. Both are well-situated for river access and have shared facilities. Participants will need to bring their own tents and camping gear.
This trip is best suited to paddlers who are confident on grade 2–3 white water and have experience paddling rivers independently or as part of a group. You should be comfortable with breaking in and out of flow, ferry gliding, and have a reliable white water roll or self-rescue technique.
Some prior experience on Scottish rivers is useful but not essential. The coaching team will support your development on each river, but you should come prepared to challenge yourself and be self-sufficient on the water.
The team behind this trip brings decades of paddling experience across the UK and beyond. With a strong emphasis on safety, skill-building and enjoyment, the coaching staff work hard to ensure every paddler gets the most out of their time on the water.
From the moment you arrive, you’ll be part of a small, supportive group of like-minded paddlers. The coaches tailor their input to each individual, helping you build confidence and make the most of the rivers—while still leaving plenty of time to have fun and enjoy the surroundings.
About the centre
Grandtully, Scotland
We partner with Rewilding Britain to help protect our natural spaces for future adventures.
All centres are vetted for safety and quality. Your adventure is in good hands with adventuro.
Operated by London Kayak School, a partner of adventuro.
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