



Step into the Cairngorms for a truly unique adventure—an off-grid hiking experience with pack ponies and luxury hot tent camping in the Highland wilderness. This guided trek offers rare access to remote areas while maintaining a high level of comfort at wild campsites supported by native Highland ponies. Ideal for those who want a deeper connection with the landscape, wildlife, and history of the region, while travelling light and sleeping well.
Day 1 – Arrival and Expedition Training
Arrive by lunchtime at Fraoch Lodge, settle in and meet the group. After lunch, get hands-on with the expedition prep, learning how to set up and take down both the corral for the ponies and the Nordic tipis. Enjoy fresh cake while reviewing kit lists and logistics for the trip. Dinner is a home-cooked meal followed by a night in a comfortable twin en-suite room at the lodge.
Day 2 – Start of the Trek
Following breakfast, travel to the stables to meet the ponies before heading out onto the Rothiemurchas Estate. The route passes through heather moorland, birch and pine woods, and past Lochan Eilean, ending in a remote woodland spot surrounded by ancient flora. Camp is set up with heated tipis, hot showers, and proper beds—more comfortable than your average wild camp.
Route: 8km | Gentle gradients | Approx. 3 hrs walking
Day 3 – Summit Day or Scenic Loop
From camp, choose between two routes depending on conditions and group preference. One option includes a hike up to the Munro summit of Sgòr Gaoith (1,118m) with views across Loch Einich and towards Braeriach. The alternative is a shorter walk to the Argyll Stone, still offering impressive glacial views.
Route: 15.5km with 971m ascent (harder) or 9km with 584m ascent (easier)
Day 4 – Return to Base
Pack down camp and retrace the Thieves’ Road, a historic cattle rustling route used by the Jacobites, through Rothiemurchas back to the stables. Return to the lodge for a hot shower, dinner, and a final overnight stay. Depart the next morning after breakfast.
Route: 8km | Gentle gradients | Approx. 3 hrs walking
This experience takes place in the heart of the Cairngorms National Park, starting from Boat of Garten and heading into the Rothiemurchas Estate and Inshriach National Nature Reserve.
The area is a hotspot for wildlife and conservation, home to species such as golden eagles, capercaillie, pine martens, and Scottish wildcats. The landscapes include Caledonian pine forests, glacial valleys, and remote mountain ridges.
Your base before and after the trek is Fraoch Lodge in Boat of Garten. Guests stay in twin en-suite rooms with access to a cosy guest lounge. Home-cooked meals made with local produce are provided.
During the trek, camping is in heated Nordic tipis with proper camp beds, hot showers, and a sit-down toilet—wild camping made comfortable.
Participants should have a reasonable level of fitness and be comfortable walking over uneven and occasionally steep terrain for several hours. Prior camping experience is not necessary, and full training is provided on how to set up and break down camp. The trip runs with a minimum of 2 people.
The guiding team blends deep local knowledge with international mountain experience, creating meaningful adventures that go beyond the path. The lead guide’s background in geology and environmental science enhances every walk with insight into the land's formation, ecology, and wildlife.
Hospitality is a key part of the experience too, with carefully prepared meals, considered logistics, and a welcoming base. This trip supports ecological restoration, with 1% of bookings going toward Cairngorms conservation efforts.
About the centre
Fraoch Lodge, Deshar Road, Boat of Garten, PH24 3BN
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 Scot Mountain Holidays, a partner of adventuro.