Assynt Adventure Expedition, North-West Scotland

THE BEST HILLWALKING IN SCOTLAND

£385pp

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About Us

We are passionate about the natural world and its beautiful wild places.

We have a deep respect and appreciation for the environment and a love for adventure and silent human-powered sports.

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Embark on an expedition in remote North West Scotland!

Welcome to the most sparsely populated corner of Europe: A 3000 million year old wilderness of rock and water

Adventures in the Scottish Highlands

Exploring Assynt: A Three-Day Adventure

Ocean Vertical’s Assynt Expedition is a three-day, two-night adventure that takes you deep into the wild beauty of the Highlands. You’ll explore two remote peaks by day and unwind each evening at the stunning Achmelvich Beach.

The highlight of this expedition is the ascent of Suilven—one of the UK’s most iconic mountains. Standing at 731m, its dramatic profile is as striking as the journey to its summit via the breathtaking Bealach Mor.

Guided by Ocean Vertical’s expert team, your adventure also includes the chance to summit one of Quinag’s peaks—a majestic mountain with three summits and awe-inspiring ridges. Your expedition includes all transport to and from Scotland’s central belt, with additional pick-up locations available along the route, in the Ocean Vertical van.

Adventures in Scotland’s Wild North West

Discover a vast expanse of rolling moorland, dramatic mountains, rugged coastline, and countless fresh-water lochans. Assynt is a place of deep geological significance, home to the oldest rock formations and the earliest evidence of life in Europe.

Step into a timeless landscape of unparalleled natural beauty. Free from urban distractions, this wilderness is dominated by towering peaks, tranquil lochs, cascading rivers, and waterfalls that flow into turquoise seas. Marvel at pristine white-sand beaches and jagged cliffs teeming with wildlife—this is one of Europe’s premier locations to spot whales, dolphins, and porpoises.

At the heart of Assynt stands Suilven, The Pillar. With its striking 731m profile, it is one of the most iconic mountains in the UK. Reaching its summit via the dramatic Bealach Mor is as rewarding as the views are spectacular.

Your adventure also includes the chance to summit one of Quinags peaks, a complex and majestic mountain with three summits and breathtaking ridges. From its heights, you’ll take in stunning panoramic views of Assynt’s extraordinary terrain.

Unforgettable Wilderness Escape

This two-night expedition offers the chance to explore two remote peaks and spend your nights relaxing by the beach. Each moment is steeped in the rugged charm of Assynt, where the words of poet Norman MacCaig resonate deeply:

“Who possesses this landscape? The man who bought it or I who am possessed by it.”

Prepare for an adventure that will stay with you long after you’ve left.

Adventures in Assynt

Expedition Itinerary

Day One: Journey to the Highlands & Quinag Summit

Your adventure begins early as we set off from Edinburgh Park and Ride at 06:30, heading North into the heart of the Scottish Highlands. Along the way, we’ll stop in Aviemore at 09:00 —an opportunity to grab a coffee and soak in the mountain scenery before continuing our journey.

By 12:00, we’ll arrive in Ullapool for lunch, a charming coastal town. After lunch we’ll embark on our first climb: Quinag, a rugged and majestic mountain with three summits and breathtaking ridges. Reaching the peak will reward us with panoramic views over Assynt’s unique landscape of lochs, peaks, and sea.

After descending, we’ll travel to our accommodation at the Achmelvich Beach Hostel, arriving around 18:30. Here, you can unwind, refresh, and take in the serene surroundings.

As the day draws to a close, we’ll head to the beach for a spectacular sunset at 20:00, imagine golden light, white sand and turquoise waters— an unforgettable way to end the day.

Day Two – The Suilven Summit

By 08:00, we’ll set off towards Suilven, one of Scotland’s most striking mountains. Its towering, fortress-like silhouette dominates the landscape, making the journey to its 731m summit via the dramatic Bealach Mor both exhilarating and deeply rewarding. We’ll reach the summit by around 12:30, where we’ll pause for lunch and take in the vast, awe-inspiring views stretching across the wild Assynt landscape.

After descending, we’ll return to our accommodation to relax before heading out for a group meal at a local restaurant at 19:00—a chance to celebrate our achievement.

As night falls, we’ll gather around a campfire on the beach to reflect on the day’s journey. With the sound of the waves in the background, it’s the perfect moment to soak in the experience before settling in for another night.

Day Three – Sunrise Walk and Return South

Our final day begins with a sunrise walk or sea dip at 07:30 followed by breakfast. After packing up, we’ll begin the final leg of our journey at 08:00, taking in the last glimpses of Assynt’s dramatic landscapes as we head south.

We’ll stop for an early lunch in Aviemore at 11:00, before continuing our journey back to Edinburgh, arriving by 16:00—bringing our unforgettable Highland adventure to a close.

Reviews of adventures to Assynt

Did the Assynt overnight experience with Mollie and Stevie and a wonderful group of people. The weather was not ideal and the details of wild camping, timing, and safety of ascending Suilven along with alternative plans were clearly communicated. I learned the most about mountaineering in terms of practical informtion and logistical planning with Ocean Vertical relative to previous professionally guided experiences. Safety was the first priority and we were well looked after. Thanks!

Alison | USA

What a magical adventure. Went on the Assynt trip with Mollie & Stevie, had no idea what to expect as this was my first wild camp out with OV. It didn’t disappoint, I learned so much from pitching the tent, sleeping under the stars, eating and travelling ‘light’ lacing up boots ‘properly’ all in expert hands. The team had so much wisdom to impart for the novice and the experienced climber. Can’t wait to go again!

Lisa | East Lothian

My sister signed up for this trip so I thought I’d join her. Great decision! I loved spending time with her in the hills, everything was thought of and planned to perfection by OV so we just had to enjoy the experience. A very relaxed and friendly vibe to the 3 days with help and encouragement from Stevie and Mollie where it was needed. I couldn’t recommend this enough. Just go!

The Bean Shop | Edinburgh

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