Foraging Trip in the Ancient Caledonian Pine Forests

Spend two unforgettable days in the heart of the ancient Caledonian pine forests, deep within the Cairngorm National Park, and experience a rare opportunity to learn about the region’s rich landscape. Under expert guidance, you will forage for wild berries, mushrooms, and other delicious natural treats, which are later transformed into amazing meals. This foraging experience provides not only an opportunity to connect with nature but also an enriching insight into the history, wildlife, and geology of this unique area.

Key Details

Group size: 1-8 people
Duration: 2 Days
Meeting point: Fraoch Lodge, Deshar Road, Boat of Garten, PH24 3BN

Itinerary

Day 1:
The adventure begins at Fraoch Lodge, where you’ll meet your guide and head out to explore the Caledonian pine forest, one of the oldest and most important ecosystems in Scotland. As you walk through the towering pines, junipers, and moss-covered grounds, your guide will point out a variety of edible plants and fungi. Depending on the season, you may forage for wild berries, mushrooms such as Chanterelles, and other delicious finds.

During this walk, you’ll not only be learning about the plants but also their relationship with the surrounding environment and their historical significance. Along the way, you’ll have panoramic views of the Cairngorm peaks and vast moorlands, immersing you in the beauty and tranquillity of the area.

In the evening, you'll return to Fraoch Lodge where the day’s foraged ingredients are used to prepare a delicious dinner. This meal is made with care, using locally sourced ingredients and a variety of herbs and plants you’ve collected earlier. The experience is complemented by a cooking demonstration, where you’ll gain insights into how to use your foraged finds in everyday cooking.

Day 2:
On the second day, your foraging adventure continues with a peaceful riverside walk in Carrbridge. The walk takes you through a variety of landscapes, from open fields to wooded glades, offering a serene contrast to the previous day’s forest walk. As you make your way along the river, enjoy views of the distant high peaks of the Cairngorms. Along the way, you’ll have the chance to identify and gather more wild edibles, while your guide provides information about the area’s geology, history, and ecology.

The day concludes with your return to Fraoch Lodge, where you can savour another delicious meal made from your foraged ingredients. This is a perfect opportunity to reflect on your experience and the connection you’ve developed with the land. Should you wish to extend your stay or explore more of the Cairngorms, the Lodge is a perfect base to continue your adventure.

Location

Fraoch Lodge is located in Boat of Garten, a charming village nestled at the edge of the Cairngorm National Park. The Lodge provides easy access to the surrounding forests, rivers, and mountains, allowing guests to experience the gorgeous landscapes of the Highlands. Its central location also offers convenience for travelling from Aviemore and other nearby towns.

The area itself is rich in natural beauty, from ancient woodlands to moorlands, rivers, and high mountain peaks, making it an ideal destination for outdoor activities such as hiking, wildlife watching, and foraging.

Accommodation

At Fraoch Lodge, you’ll be staying in comfortable, well-appointed rooms designed to offer a cosy and restful environment after a day spent exploring the outdoors. The Lodge’s welcoming atmosphere is further enhanced by its delicious meals, made from fresh, local ingredients. The team at Fraoch Lodge prides itself on creating a relaxing and hospitable environment, where you can unwind and enjoy the beauty of the surrounding area.

In addition to the meals provided during your stay, you’ll also have the opportunity to participate in a cooking demonstration, learning how to prepare and cook the wild foods you’ve foraged during your walks.

Prerequisites

No prior foraging experience is necessary for this experience, but participants should be comfortable walking on varied terrain for several hours each day. The terrain can be uneven, and weather conditions in the Cairngorms can change rapidly, so participants should be prepared for all types of weather.

A good level of fitness is recommended, as there will be walking at a moderate pace over distances of several miles. It’s also important to bring appropriate clothing, including sturdy footwear and waterproof layers, to ensure comfort during the experience.

Why Choose Us

The team behind this foraging experience combines years of expertise in guiding, environmental science, and geology to offer an informative and engaging experience. With a deep passion for the Highlands, the guides provide more than just a walk—they offer a unique insight into the natural world. From understanding the geology of the Cairngorms to identifying plants and fungi, every aspect of this experience is designed to enrich your knowledge and connection with the landscape.

The focus on small group sizes ensures that each participant receives personal attention, allowing the guides to tailor the experience to individual interests and learning styles.

2 guided foraging days
2 nights accommodation at Fraoch Lodge
All meals from the evening of arrival
Pick-up from Aviemore station if required
Transport to all foraging sites
Recipe booklet
Cooking demonstration

Alcoholic drinks
Transport to Scotland
Personal insurance

The closest airport is Inverness, which has a growing number of UK domestic flights. Travellers are encouraged to check the airport’s website for current routes and airlines.

Once flight details are confirmed, guests can provide their arrival information so arrangements can be made for collection. Return transfers to the airport are also available.

Yes, accommodation is always included in the price of all courses and holidays.

Stays are on a full board basis with all meals provided, including home-baked bread.

There are no hidden expenses.

The only money guests may need is for personal items, such as a forgotten bit of kit, or for buying drinks like alcohol either to enjoy with dinner or at a local pub if the group decides to go out.

The foraging experience includes two guided days of foraging in the Caledonian pine forests, accommodation at Fraoch Lodge for two nights, all meals from the evening of arrival, transport to and from foraging sites, a cooking demonstration, a recipe booklet, and pick-up from Aviemore station if required.

The foraging experience involves walking through varied terrain, including forests and moorlands. While it is not a particularly strenuous hike, a moderate level of fitness is recommended, as you will be walking for several hours each day on uneven ground.

The walks are at a relaxed pace but do involve some uphill sections.

Midges can appear from mid-June to early September but are rarely an issue. They prefer still, damp air and boggy terrain—which is less common in the Cairngorms.

West coast trips are scheduled to avoid peak midge season. When necessary, guides carry effective repellent such as Avon Skin-So-Soft, known locally as the go-to defence.

No prior foraging experience is needed. The guides will provide full instructions and teach you how to identify and gather edible plants, fungi, and berries.

Participants should have a reasonable level of fitness to enjoy the walks, as they involve walking for several hours over varied terrain.

Please read the prerequisites section above. If guests are still unsure about their suitability, it’s best to speak directly with a guide or instructor via the adventuro chat below before booking.

That way, the right course or holiday can be recommended based on fitness level and experience.

Not at all. All meals are home-cooked and tailored to individual needs. Guests simply note allergies and preferences on the booking form.

Because the food is prepared in-house, it's easy to accommodate special diets. Many guests have commented on the care and attention put into ensuring they feel safe and well-fed during their stay.

Depending on the season, you’ll forage for wild berries, mushrooms, and other edibles found in the Caledonian forest.

Common finds include Chanterelles, Porcini, juniper, and a variety of berries, all of which will later be incorporated into delicious meals.

Explore the Cairngorms with expert-led guided and self-guided tours designed for all levels - from gentle walks to demanding expeditions. With over 20 years of experience, your guide brings deep local knowledge, a passion for teaching outdoor skills, and a commitment to safety in all conditions. Based at Fraoch Lodge in Boat of Garten, guests enjoy a warm welcome, home-cooked meals using organic produce, and thoughtful touches like fresh bread and afternoon cake. Tours run year-round and focus on low-impact travel, family-friendly adventures, and skill-building in Scotland’s wild and beautiful landscapes.