South of Mull and South West of Oban lie the charming islands of Colonsay and Oronsay – joined only at low water. Journey back exploring the bays and beaches of Mull.
Cruising with the wind on our historic wooden sail ship ‘Provident‘ this sailing and walking adventure for women is an intimate and hands-on adventure for those who enjoy an active holiday in a small group. Anchoring in remote locations we access beautiful and secret places on the Inner Hebridean Islands Mull, Colonsay and Oronsay to explore on foot. Discover sea lochs and islands, beaches, cliffs and waterfalls. Enjoy hands on sailing (if you like!) and excellent wildlife spotting opportunities in one of Europe’s best sea-cruising locations.
*Crew is made up of both men and women
both under sail and on foot, this superb outdoor adventure is a real journey of discovery! We will be island hopping, visiting remote communities, sailing along scenic coast line and anchoring in beautiful locations. Sailing takes us to places otherwise unreachable and thus offers fantastic walking in diverse and wild landscapes along with excellent opportunities for spotting a wide variety of wildlife: from seabirds such as gannets and guillemots to otters, dolphins, whales and seals.
is your home for your sailing and walking holiday. She is a strong and sturdy 100 year old wooden yacht which has been lovingly restored.
Below deck there is comfortbale accommodation for 8 guests in 4 twin bunk cabins. Each bunk has its own locker, reading light and shelf. There are 2 modern toilets and 1 shower on board.
Provident has a lovely deck house where you can experience the adventure on deck but stay warm and dry. Her spacious and cosy saloon is perfect to enjoy a quiet hour, social evenings and delicious dinners.
You’ll be looked after by a welcoming crew of experienced sailors, our on board cook and an experienced Walk Wild guide.
as you like, help hoisting the sails, find yourself at the helm, tidy the ropes or simply sit and listen to the wind in the sails.
Your journey begins in the pretty fishing harbour Oban where we meet you at the rail station at 2pm. Provident’s crew and your Walk Wild guide will be welcoming you with a first cup of tea and introductions before we set sail to head to our first destination, the Isle of Kerrera. Skipper will set us ashore in the north end of the island for our first walk to our anchorage in the south.
Walk ca 8km, pathed and rough ground, 2 hours
(-/-/D)
The Slate Islands Luing and Easdale were quarried for centuries for their valuable slate mainly used for robust roofing of dwellings. Today’s inhabitants live a tranquil life enjoying stunning scenery and abundant wildlife.
Walking ca 10 km, 3 – 4 h, pathed and rough ground
(B/L/D)
A stop at one of the uninhabited Garvellach islands, once home to Scotland’s first monastery is always an adventure into remote history and wild land. Then sailing west throught the Sound of Jura we venture through the infamous tidal Corryvreckan whirlpool to the north of Jura (where Orson Wells nearly lost his life in his rowing boat), hopefully able to enjoy the spectacle.
(B/L/D)
Walking 7km, 2 hours
(B/L/D)
Delightful Colonsay Island will make you want to stay. Colonsay tempts with beautiful unspoilt beaches, dramatic cliffs, wildlife, tranquility, dramatic cliffs and tropical gardens. There is a pub, a grocery store, even a book shop as well as the historic remains of a priory. Our guides will be busy ushering you back on baord ….
Walking 10km, 3 – 4 hours
(B/L/D)
Covering some sea miles today but not getting bored with the scenery. Mull’s southern shore offers spectacular cliffs and bays and even though a large island, it feels remote. We enjoy a hike along a ancient route connecting coastal communities past and present.
Walking 9km, 3 – 4 hours
(B/L/D)
The tiny settlement of Lochbuie sits in a beautiful bay and enjoys one of the most stunning locations on Mull. Easy walking takes us along a forested shoreline with wonderful views to the mainland, we visit a tiny church with history, the grand and still inhabited laid’s house, a medieval castle, a mausoleum and even a prehistoric stone circle – all backed by beautiful scenery. Today’s treat: a fabulous cafe has opened its doors serving delicious coffee and home baking to be enjoyed with superb views.
Walking 8km, 3 hours
(B/L/D)
Following breakfast we enjoy the short sail to Oban and bid our farewells to crew, newly found friends and of course – our wonderful ship!
Travel on from Oban by train to Glasgow or Edinburgh.
(B)
Your home during your sailing and walking holiday is the historic Brixham Trawler Gaff ‘Provident’ which offers accommodation for 8 guests in twin bunk cabins and a comfortable saloon for relaxing and enjoying delicious dinners in the evening. Provident also has a lovely deck house where you can experience the adventure above but stay warm and dry.
You’ll be looked after by a welcoming crew of experienced sailors, our on board cook and your knowledgeable walking guide.
Your group on this trip is of a personable size of no more than 8 and is accompanied throughout by an experienced and knowledgeable guide who will do her/ his best to make your time with us in Scotland interesting, enjoyable and comfortable.
The walking on this trip is designed for people with a good general level of fitness and mobility. We hike on some good trails but also on some rough, rocky, wet and uneven paths. Therefore, you should be sure footed, have robust balance and be used to regularly walking on unpaved and rough tracks. You may like to consider bringing some walking poles. Please read our itinerary which lists distances and walking times for each day. If you are unsure, please contact us and we are happy to discuss any issues.
Once we receive your booking we will send you further details regarding the trip as well as our recommended and comprehensive list of useful items to pack.
Oban/ Slate Islands Easdale and Luing/ Isle of Jura/ Colonsay/ Isle of Mull
From Edinburgh or Glasgow by coach or train. For further travel information please visit Traveline Scotland or get in touch with us.