On May 29, 2025
By Rebecca Field
More Than a Walk: Why join a Guided group holiday?
At Scot Mountain Holidays, we often say that walking brings people together—but it’s more than just a nice sentiment. It’s something we see time and again, week after week, with every group that stays with us at Fraoch Lodge.
In a recent Tourpreneur article, Mitch Bach beautifully captured what we’ve believed for years:
“Unlike private tours, which insulate travelers within their familiar group… public tours gather strangers together, offering a shared experience that transcends background, age, and ideology.”
This is exactly what happens here in the Cairngorms. Whether you’re arriving from Belfast or Berlin, Bristol or Barcelona, if you book a place on one of our guided walking holidays, you’re joining a small, friendly group of fellow adventurers who are just as curious about this landscape—and each other—as you are.
We’ve hosted solo travellers who found walking companions for life. We’ve seen guests swap emails, postcards, and even arrange to return the following year at the same time. And all of this starts simply—over shared meals at the long table, or a cuppa in front of the fire after a day on the trail.
As Mitch puts it:
“In divisive times like ours, where politics and algorithms push us into increasingly narrow versions of reality, the public tour offers a rare and radical act: being present with people outside your bubble.”
The best way of relaxing after a walk, no matter how hard or easy it may have been
When you join a Scot Mountain Holidays trip, you may be walking beside someone whose worldview is different from your own—but you’re both fascinated by the light on the hills, listening to the same story about Highland history, and pausing in silence to watch a red squirrel dart through the trees. That shared context has a quiet power. It builds bridges, sometimes in ways no words could.
Guided hiking holidays in the HIghlands of Scotland
Of course, private tours have their place. We occasionally offer them, especially for families or small walking clubs. They can be deeply personal and tailored in detail. But there’s something about the open-group dynamic that we find immensely satisfying. It brings out the best in people. It’s a reminder that connection doesn’t have to be complicated—it can begin with simply lacing up your boots next to someone else doing the same.
We don’t just guide walks here—we create space for connection. And in today’s world, that might just be more valuable than ever.
Looking to join a group walking holiday in the Cairngorms?
Check out our latest trips at scotmountainholidays.com or give us a ring. Whether you come alone or with a friend, you’ll leave with more than just good memories.
