Activities on the Glen Dessary Estate

Glen Dessary is 15,000 acres of stunningly beautiful mountains, glens, rivers and lochs. It is one of the remaining true wilderness locations in the United Kingdom which we can help you explore during your visit.

Guided Hikes & Adventures

Outings can be arranged to suit every level of fitness, from gentle walks along the paths and open moors in the glen or, up to the high tops of our majestic mountains. On reaching an altitude of 2000 feet the islands of Rhum, Eigg and Skye come in to view. Higher still and North and South Uist in the outer Hebrides can be seen. Alternatively go with the guide all the way down the Slighe na h-Inca, herring pony trail, to the sea at Loch Nevis at the far west end of the estate; a place of peaceful solitude and remoteness. Days of adventure to be remembered can be arranged for all our guests.

Argocat Adventures For All Ages

Argocats are special purpose all-terrain vehicles designed for off road remote and challenging environments. Designed and made in Canada, with eight wheels their low ground pressure makes them ideally suited for both soft peatlands and also steep hill tracks. Our experienced estate guides can take parties safely on exciting adventure trips, such as the dramatic western area to experience fishing on remote lochs with picnic lunches. Alternatively guests can be taken high into the mountains to visit the ruins of Highland summer grazing pasture houses called in Gaelic ‘araidh’ or sheilings.

Guided Red Deer Photo Stalking

Red deer in the mountain environment can be difficult to spot and not easy to get within photographic range. Our experienced deer stalkers will guide you through the adventure of finding and discreetly getting to within a suitable distance to take exciting photographs whilst not disturbing the herd. There will be a rich variety of landscapes shots available, as well as wildlife. The weather patterns in this coastal and mountainous area provide an ever-changing array of different light and landscape mood shots; from narrow shafts of sunlight piercing through clouds on to summits or dark shadows over deep corries

Fishing

Guests are welcome to enjoy brown trout fly fishing on the estate’s rivers at no additional charge. These peaceful stretches of water offer classic Highland sport, with clear pools, gentle runs and the occasional deeper pocket that holds surprisingly strong fish.

Whether you prefer a relaxed wander upstream or a more focused session with guidance, the estate's rivers and lochs provide a calm and scenic setting to enjoy time on the water during your stay.

Clay Pigeon Shooting

Clay pigeon shooting at Glen Dessary takes place in one of the most dramatic settings in the Highlands. The layout looks out across the glen, with sweeping views of the hills and forestry creating a truly memorable backdrop as the clays arc through the air. It is an enjoyable way to spend a morning or afternoon, combining fresh air, light competition and some of the finest scenery on the estate.

An Evening With World Champion Piper Stuart Liddell

Stuart is one of the world’s outstanding pipers. He has won every major solo award and, as Pipe Major of Inveraray and District Pipe Band, has led them to four World Championship titles. His playing is admired for its clarity, control and unmistakable musical expression.

He has a long association with Glen Dessary Estate and is a regular visitor when time allows. For guests, Stuart can provide a remarkable evening’s recital by special arrangement - an intimate performance from one of the finest pipers of the modern era, set against the atmosphere of the West Highlands.

Whisky Tasting

Enjoy a guided whisky tasting that showcases the depth, character and heritage of Scottish whisky. Guests are introduced to a hand picked selection of single malts and distinctive blends, each chosen for its flavour profile, regional style and story. It is a relaxed and enjoyable way to explore one of Scotland’s most celebrated traditions.

Expect plenty of discussion, insight into the distilling process and the opportunity to discover something entirely new amongst Highland, Speyside and Island drams.

Other Adventures to Enjoy While at Glen Dessary

Explore more of what the Highlands have to offer with additional experiences that make the most of the water, weather and night sky.

Wild Swimming

Brave a dip in the estate's many rivers and lochs. Wander down from the lodge and dip into the river pools and enjoy a refreshing swim with the forests and hills as a backdrop.

Star Gazing

On clear nights the sky above Glen Dessary can be spectacular, with no light pollution, the Milky Way fills the sky. If you're lucky, you may even see the aurora. Wrap up warm, step outside and let your eyes adjust for a truly memorable Highland night.

Experience the majestic wilderness of the Scottish Highlands

Exploring Further

Scotland offers some of the most exhilarating and unique places on Earth, climb the highest peak in the United Kingdom, take a trip on the World famous Harry Potter Train through Glen Finnan from Fort William to Mallaig or sample some of our best whiskies at the local distilleries.