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The Trip

Spey Descent Expeditions

This memorable four day river trip is without question a life enhancing experience. In light of the team work required to prepare, engage and complete this event is can be an effective, challenging team exercise. It involves overnight camps and an opportunity to become steeped in nature at it very best whatever the weather!

OPEN CANOE DESCENT OF THE RIVER SPEY

 

Kincraig (Loch Insh) ~ Tugnet (Spey Bay)

Paddle an open-canoe over 70+ miles of this most beautiful of Scottish rivers, at a leisurely pace through four unforgettable days. All canoeing (boats, paddles, buoyancy, etc.) & camping (tents, stoves, etc.) equipment; transport shuttles and food provided.

The adventure will begin in the Highland village of Newtonmore, where the first evening and overnight will be spent in our comfortable Victorian home. Shortly after arrival, all personal equipment will be issued. Then, by way of an introduction to the Spey and, to ensure a healthy appetite for a delicious four course dinner, a gentle stroll along the banks of the river just 400 metres away.

Day 1 ~ Basic paddle strokes will be learned/revised on the flat waters of the Spey downstream of Kincraig Bridge. Then, at a leisurely pace, the group will set off downstream, past Aviemore and Boat of Garten, to the first night campsite just above Grantown on Spey. A mixture of small rapids and flat sections, this is our longest day but very satisfying!

Day 2 ~ The river starts to flow more decidedly seaward as it passes Grantown on Spey and Cromdale, to our next overnight stop at Blacksboat, upstream of Aberlour.

Day 3 ~ On into the area of famous malt whisky names such as Knockndo, Tamdhu, Cardhu and on to Aberlour, (where we might stop for afternoon tea) camping in Craigellachie just above where the River Fiddich leaves its glen and makes its contribution to the Spey. As a reward for all your efforts ~ a relaxing, tasty bar meal in the Highlander Inn in Craigellachie.

Day 4 ~ After passing the village of Rothes the river takes us on to Fochabers, where the Baxter family factory sits above the road bridge, heralding our approach to the coast. From here on one can smell the sea air (perhaps witness otters at play) and finally paddle towards the rolling waves of Spey Bay, where the ‘fresh meets the salt’.

Join with us in this unforgettable journey. Develop new skills and awareness, of how to handle this versatile craft, thus enhancing competence and confidence. Award yourself the pleasure of being steeped in nature and experience immense personal satisfaction in guiding, with a partner, your canoe through some of Scotland’s most beautiful countryside.
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