Adventures in Scotland

Frequently asked questions

Are the horses well-trained and accustomed to walking with guests?

Yes, the horses are very comfortable around people and are accustomed to us walking with them. They also work as riding ponies so are very used to being around people.

What should I do if I feel uneasy or scared during the walk?

Make sure you let your guide know if there are any issues at all during the walk but there is really no reason to feel at all uneasy if you are comfortable in the outdoors. There are no large predators in Scotland and there is something very comforting about walking in the company of the ponies whose rhythem is very calming.

Are helmets provided, and are they mandatory?

There is no need for guests to wear helmets as you will not be riding the ponies. You will be walking as a group between the 2 ponies who will be carrying the bags and camping equipment.

Is this a riding holiday?

No. This is a relatively gentle to moderately strenuous hiking and wild camping (hot tenting) trip accompanied by pack ponies Foxy and Maggie. The pones carry all the camping gear leaving you to carry little more than a day rucksack plus a change of clothing.

The number of people on the trip is from 2 – 5. Does this mean that as a single person I can’t book on this trip?

To offer this trip at the advertised price we need at least 2 people to book. If you are a single person trying to book on a trip that already has guests on it please just simply phone us (+44 1479 831 331) and we will book you on the trip. If you are a single person trying to book on a trip that as yet has no one else booked on please call us on the above number and we can put you on a waiting list.

Can I bring my dog?

We have made exceptions in the past but we do try to minimise the disturbance to the wildlife. Odours left by dogs in the natural environment can affect the wildlife. Also barking dogs very much increase the level of disturbance as well as there being a question mark with respect to how they behave around horses.

Can I bring my own pony/horse?

No. This is a hiking trip not a riding holiday. We may have guests on the trip who are not necessarily used to being around horses plus there would be a question mark as to whether the horses would get on with our ponies. Sections of the route in and out to our campsite are not suitable for riding due to overhanging branches. We also camp in any environmentally sensitive area so again want to minimise the disturbance.

What happens when it rains?

As the saying goes: ” there’s no such thing as bad weather, just the wrong clothing.”

Would you have to cancel the trip if the weather was bad?

No, we have deliberately created a trip which can run in most kinds of weather without being dangerous. We can change the routes and activities a wee bit. The main thing is that everyone will remain safe and cosy.

Interaction with Horses:

Can I pet or interact with the horses before the walk?

Yes, you can pet the horses.

How do I approach a horse safely?

Ask the guides about the best way to approach the ponies, but try to make sure that you don’t walk behind them, and don’t approach them where they can’t see you as this may make them nervous.

Are there specific rules for feeding or treating the horses during the walk?

Always check with the pony handlers who usually carry mints as treats for the ponies during the walk. They will treat themselves a lot as they walk though. As with most “ruminant” animals, they need to eat a lot to produce enough energy for the day.

Experience Level:

Do I need any prior experience with horses to participate?

You don’t need any prior experience with horses or ponies to take part in the trip, but it is a good idea to know if you are comfortable around them before you sign up. The handlers will manage the ponies throughout the trip but ponie are sensitive to human emotions so always try to be calm and friendly when around them.

Are the walks suitable for beginners, or are they more advanced?

The walks are aimed to be suitable for almost anyone and can be managed to relatively young kids and older relatives too. If you are at all unsure, the details of the routes are listed in the trip information and you can discuss any concerns with us beforehand. We wouldn’t necessarily recommend bringing babies along but you know your child/children best – feel free to let us know your previous experience.

Trail Information:

What kind of trails will we be walking on?

The trails are mostly very well graded and suitable for all abilities but there are short sections of very rough going, especially close to our campsite – which keeps it private! You will need to wear full walking boots to keep your feet dry and your ankles well protected. Comprehensive route details are provided in the trip information including the stats on the length of walks and anticipated ascent etc.

Weather Considerations:

What happens if the weather is inclement?

Our trips are carefully scheduled in periods where the weather is traditionally benign. Despite the popular belief that our weather in the UK is unpredictable; there are periods when you can expect dry periods and also periods when we’d anticipate more precipitation.

Group Size and Guides:

How large are the walking groups, and is there a guide accompanying us?

Groups are small; no more than 8 people.

This is a guided trip. There will be a guide on all activities.

Physical Requirements:

Is there a weight limit for participants?

There is no weight limit for the people but there is a weight consideration for the bags the ponies are carrying.

Do I need to be physically fit to walk with horses?

You do need to be able to walk up to 10km without feeling under too much strain. If you are at all worried about the walk in, or walking during the trip then please don’t hesitate to give Andy a call. There is some rough walking immediately before the camp site because it is a true wild camp and ont on a prepared campsite.

Booking and Logistics:

How do I book a walking experience with horses?

You should be able to book directly on the website, but if you are looking for a private departure for your family or group of friends, please do contact us first with your preferred dates so we can put them aside for you.

What is the cancellation policy?

We charge a 25% deposit which is non-refundable. For full terms and conditions please check here.

Are there age restrictions for participants?

We don’t really recommend the trip for children under 8 or anyone with mobility issues. However, you know your capabilities best, so if you are any doubt just give us a call or send us a message.

Photography and Personal Items:

Can I take photographs during the walk?

Absolutely. Do take as many photos as you want. We’ll set up a WhataApp group and you’ll be able to share your photos with everyone in the group and us (if you want).

Is it advisable to bring personal items like water bottles or snacks?

It is advisable to bring your own favourite water bottle but we’ll provide plenty of snacks in your packed lunches (though usually not sweeties). There will be chocolate bars, sandwiches and other snacks and you will receive a request to let us know what your favourite snacks are so we can accommodate as many as we can.

It is a good idea to limit your personal possessions as much as possible as you could well end up carrying the majority of the extras. The ponies only have so much capacity and will be carrying all the heavy stuff like the tent, chairs, stove etc so you are comfortable at camp. You should have space for a pack of cards or Bananagrams though!

Post-Walk Care:

Are there facilities for washing up or cleaning after the walk?

You’ll be returning to Fraoch Lodge at the end of the trip to the room you had before you set off. You’ll have access to all the facilities at the Lodge and there are both a toilet and a shower tent at camp; so you don’t have to return smelly at all.

Can we spend time with the horses after the walk?

Absolutely – though the ponies are always keen to catch up with their mates in the herd at the end of the trip and may not want to hang around with us. At camp though you can spend time with both ponies.