The Rob Roy story is often likened to that of a real-life Robin Hood. A tale of clan politics and resisting the changing world from the insular world of the remote highlands, Rob Roy himself gained notoriety as a cattle thief and would end his life as a hero to all of Scotland. Along the Rob Roy Way, we visit locations where Rob Roy did battle with Spanish pirates, hid and escaped from the law, the historic home of the Macgregor clan, and the site of his eventual burial. 

Beyond following the life of Rob Roy, the route of The Rob Roy Way explores remote stretches of the Southern Scottish Highlands, crossing massive moors, enjoying a sheep show in the village of Aberfeldy, walking along the shores of Loch Tay, and a night in a hotel at the site of an old Roman war camp in Callander. As we explore these wonders and more, it’s hard not to fall in love with the Scottish sense of life. At night cheery traditional Scottish music fills the pubs with the sounds of fiddles, guitars, pipes, flutes and drums. Meals are prepared with heart and expertise. All of the accommodations have the touches of love that only those truly dedicated to the craft of hospitality can create. Overall, you won’t find more warmth and cheer than in the chilly reaches of the Scottish Highlands. 

The Rob Roy Way is the perfect hike for someone who is looking for an adventure without any grueling challenge. While the Scottish wilderness is impressive and often austere, the hiking maintains a certain levity, and the Scottish Munros are never so huge that the hiking becomes truly difficult for any reason other than distance. As a cultural excursion, the Rob Roy Way may be one of Ryder-Walker’s richest hikes; full of historic locations, local lore, and accompanied the entire way by the legend of Rob Roy himself. Scottish food is also an unsung hero, with the local pies, pub fare, and farm to table restaurants far exceeding the United Kingdom’s dim reputation for cuisine. You might even get a chance to try the infamous haggis, a spiced sheep’s intestines, which while intimidating is actually a genuinely delicious dish with unique character.