Roaming Scotland - Alloa

Madeline D.

If you want to see the “real” Scotland, go with Martin!! Our time with him was the highlight of our trip through the UK and Ireland. We elected to do the 2 day trip to the Highlands (book a longer trip if you have the time!). Martin brought us to a lesser known hike with a beautiful view at the top. All the other smaller hikes, sight seeing, and other fun activities were wonderful too. You will want Martin’s assistant, Zach (his Welsh Collie) to come along as well!! Martin has extensive knowledge of the Highlands and Scottish history. He made us feel like family as soon as we met. Of note, Martin’s van and our accommodation were very comfortable. We were completely satisfied with our whole experience.

In summary, Roaming Scotland is 100% the way to go when traveling through Scotland. I will be recommending Martin to all friends and family that will be traveling in Scotland!

Patty F.

Our small group experienced the Isle of Skye with Martin from Roaming Scotland. We had a fabulous and challenging adventure exploring places on the Isle of Skye with Martin and his adorable companion dog, Zak. Martin is an excellent experienced guide and is very knowledgeable of Scotland history. We hiked in places that we wouldn't have found on our own. If you are looking for an unique hiking adventure in Scotland contact Martin from Roaming Scotland.

Karen Z.

Amazing, amazing day out - would give this 10 stars if possible!

Starting with the hike itself, Martin took us on a beautiful, empty trail that had a lot of varying and dramatic views. He adapted the pace to fit both my mom and me, and we never felt rushed. The day was timed out perfectly to optimise for time outside transport - a relatively quick drive out of Edinburgh (with pick-up and drop-off at our accommodation), restroom stop at a farm shop to grab some last min snacks/drinks and see some Highland cows, 12km hike with a very relaxed break at the top for lunch and an unexpected (but very much appreciated) post-hike stop at the nearby cafe at the loch. We had luck on our side, as the weather was beautiful and sunny - but seeing how Martin was also equipped with safety supplies and maps, I'd also be very comfortable hiking with him if the weather had turned, as it so often does in Scotland.

Admin-wise, Martin was extremely responsive via email. He was upfront about what we trail we might go on (weather permitting), what we should pack in our day bags, open to listening to what we most wanted to see and even clarified his dog would be traveling with us (I am very mildly allergic to fur, but had no issue as the vehicle was thoroughly cleaned and Zak is incredibly well behaved).

All-in-all, could not have expected anything better! We very much look forward to hiking again with Martin on our next trip to Scotland, ideally on a multi-day hike 🙂

Andrea S.

If you are checking the reviews thinking if you should invest in this trip or not with Martin read here.
Firstly the human factor. Martin is an extremely kind and soft person. The companionship and exchange of stories while we traveled really built something. It never felt for a single minute as a professional relationship or a job from his side. Roaming Scotland it's his world, and showing people hidden gems his passion. I felt like traveling with him and not his customer even once. There is absolutely no way I would have found certain spots or areas by myself so if you are looking not to fall into the basic tourist areas you are in the right place. It was worth every single pound.
If that's still not enough the amount of historical knowledge and facts he will pass on to you at any moment will give you much more sense at what you will be looking at, what you will experience. I'm waiting to see the misty hills of Scotland once more. And hopefully meet Martin again.

Andrea. 30

Kristen P.

Martin (and his wonderful dog) were excellent guides. He was flexible with our plans and welcoming to everyone in the group, which was made up of different abilities. Martin picked us up at our hotel in Edinburgh and drove us to a 7.5 mile hike, and then returned us to our hotel. He was so thoughtful in choosing a hike filled with different terrain and a gorgeous summit. On the way back to our hotel he added a few fun stops to share some of the historical sites of the area with us and even a lovely spot for refreshments. If you want to do a hike in the highlands you must go with Martin!

Marisa

I really enjoyed the trip with Martin and his adorable dog Sparky. We hiked in a small group of 3 people. Martin is a great guide, watches out for everyone. Despite rain and wind, we reached the summit. The weather couldn't make this experience any less good. Martin really tries to give you exactly the experience you wish for and I appreciate that a lot. I'll definitely come back to Scotland and do another tour with Roaming Scotland!

Suraj K.

What a stroke of luck it was to find Martin for our hill climb in Scotland! We couldn’t have asked for a more experienced guide. Thanks to Martin and his super adorable dog Sparky, we braved the chilly winds, rain and steep terrains to reach the summit. I would never have made it up to the top if it wasn’t for Martin’s guidance. What’s more, Martin also makes it a very enjoyable hike, getting to know us personally and sharing stories from his own life. I would totally recommend Roaming Scotland to anyone interested in an authentic Scotland Ben climbing experience.

Marie D.

My husband and I were in Edinburgh for a few days and wanted to spend a day hiking in the highlands. We contacted Martin through the Roaming Scotland website and he kindly customized a day hike (climb a ben/hill) based on our schedule and fitness - with transportation to and from our hotel in Edinburgh which was incredibly convenient. We’re avid hikers so Martin took us on a more rigorous hike up ben Vrackie and off path in the surrounding area. The views and scenery were spectacular and Martin provided us with great information on Scottish history and vegetation. He and his dog Sparkie made for great company and were a pleasure to spend the day with. We’d highly recommend doing one of the Roaming Scotland tours for anyone interested in seeing the natural wonders of Scotland. The hike was a highlight of our trip and we’d absolutely do others with Roaming Scotland if we’re ever back in the area.