Overview
This is one of the classic Scottish paddling journeys, following the River Spey from Loch Insh all the way down to Spey Bay on the Moray coast. We’ll plan to complete the 68 mile journey over 5 days.
This is a non-residential course. We’ll camp out throughout the week, with one night in the grounds of Glenmore Lodge, one night at a simple campsite and two further nights spent wild camping.
DETAILED INFO
AIMS
To complete a 5 day, 68 mile journey from Loch Insh down the river Spey, reaching the sea at Spey Bay.
PRE-REQUISITES
Fitness for a 5 day expedition.
10 – 15 days canoeing.
Some previous river experience is useful, but not essential.
IS IT FOR ME?
If you want to complete this iconic Scottish paddling trip, camping out, canoeing the rapids and enjoying the landscape as the river meanders its way past forest, farms and distilleries, then this is the course for you.
CONTENT
We’ll begin the week on Loch Insh, with some coaching in the basic skills needed to control your canoe. Then we’ll paddle down the Spey to Aviemore and return to the Lodge. We’ll camp at Glenmore Lodge that night, getting used to our tents and stoves before we commit to the expedition.
On day 2 we’ll load up our boats and head off with all our food and camping gear. We’ll spend the day consolidating our skills on the gently flowing river. We’ll plan to spend the evening at a very basic campsite which has toilet facilities and a campfire.
From day 3 onwards, the river picks up its pace with classic rapids such as “the Washing Machine” and “Knockando”. It’s wild camping from here on down, seeking out the quiet islands and sheltered corners beyond the fishing beats.
On day 5 we’ll reach the sea at Spey Bay. We’ll head back to Glenmore Lodge to clean and return the kit and partake in some celebratory tea and cake.
We’ll normally paddle the Spey in tandem canoe (2 people) but more experienced paddlers are welcome to paddle solo.
DATES & PRICES
| 2024 | ||||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| COURSE DATE | COST (no accommodation) |
PLACES | BOOKING | |
| Date30/09/24 | Cost (no accommodation)£740.00 | Places | ||
| Need a different date? Call 01479 861 256 to arrange your own date, or email [email protected] | ||||
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USEFUL INFORMATION
WHAT'S INCLUDED?
Instruction.
Use of kit.
Expedition food from packed lunch on day 1 to packed lunch on day 5.
In-course transport.
NEED TO KNOW
WHAT WILL I NEED
Glenmore Lodge has a large store of clothing and equipment. You are welcome to use your own equipment and pick and choose odd items from the store. Your instructor will want to check that personal equipment is appropriate for the activity.
GLENMORE LODGE CAN SUPPLY:
- Canoe
- Paddle
- Kneeling mat
- Buoyancy aid
- Helmet
- Cag
- Wetsuits
- Wetsuit boots
- Drybags
- Paddling Trousers
- Pogies/Paddling Gloves
- Throwline
- Tent
- Sleeping bag
- Sleeping mat
- Stove & gas
- Cutlery & crockery
- Expedition food
- Toilet roll and trowel
YOU’LL NEED TO BRING:
- Off the water clothing
- Thermal paddling layers
- Flask/Water Bottle
- Blister kit/ small first aid kit
- Personal toiletries & medications
- Sun cream
- Sun hat & sunglasses
- Insect repellent
- Book/MP3 player
