Description

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Summers in the far north can be fleeting, causing nature to burst into a frenzy of activity to make the most of the brief warmer months. As a result, our summer trips focus more on nature than other seasons. While we maintain a wide and inclusive view of potential subjects, coastal birds and close-up nature will be key elements of the trip. The long days of summer mean our itinerary includes early starts and late finishes to take full advantage of the seasonal light – this far north, it almost doesn’t get dark at this time of year!

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A Burst of Life and Colour. Summer in the Highlands is a time of vibrant transformation. The fleeting warmth of the season brings a burst of life and colour into the landscape. Rolling hills and valleys are blanketed in lush, green foliage, while wildflowers add splashes of vivid hues to the scenery. The long daylight hours seem to infuse everything with a golden glow, creating an atmosphere of warmth and vitality.

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Endless Light and Scenic Beauty. In the Highlands, summer days stretch long into the night, with the sun barely dipping below the horizon. This extended twilight, known as the "gloaming," bathes the landscape in soft, ethereal light. Photographers find this time particularly magical, as the interplay of light and shadow highlights the natural beauty of the region's mountains, lochs, and glens.

Wildlife in Abundance. The highlands teem with wildlife during summer. Birds return to nest and raise their young, filling the air with their songs. Coastal cliffs become bustling colonies of seabirds, including Puffins, Guillemots, Razorbills and Arctic Terns. On land, Red Deer graze in the meadows, and otters patrol the riverbanks. This season of abundance offers endless opportunities for capturing the diverse fauna of the region.

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The Rhythm of Nature. Summer in the Highlands is a time of frenetic activity. Nature seems to operate at a heightened pace, making the most of the brief warm months. Rivers and streams team with insects, waterfalls cascade with renewed vigour, and the forests hum with the activity of birds. This dynamic environment provides a rich tapestry for photographers to explore.

Cultural and Historical Richness. Beyond the natural beauty, summer in the Highlands also brings the cultural and historical richness of the region to life. Ancient castles, weathered croft houses, and Iron Age Brochs stand against the backdrop of verdant landscapes, telling stories of the past. Festivals and gatherings celebrate Highland traditions, adding a human element to the timeless scenery.

A Sense of Serenity and Wonder. Despite the bustling activity, there is a profound sense of serenity in the Highland summer. The vast, open spaces and the majestic, unspoiled landscapes evoke a feeling of peace and wonder. Whether watching the sunrise over a misty loch or walking through a quiet glen at dusk, visitors often find a deep connection with the natural world, capturing not just images, but also the essence of a truly magical season.

Tour Highlights

• Landscapes: A vast range of accessible landscapes, including dramatic beaches, waterfalls, and hills. The region features characterful man-made structures like Iron Age Brochs and weathered croft houses rich in colour and texture.

• Wildlife: An evening hide visit for nesting Terns and Gulls, featuring two specialised hides that allow photography at eye level with the birds. Up to a dozen species are visible here in high summer, with nesting Arctic Terns and Black-headed Gulls as highlights. Expedition to a wild island, where over 200,000 birds breed each year on dramatic, towering cliffs.