The River Spey - 5 day Expedition

5th - 9th October 2026

Join us for this epic adventure on the River Spey and paddle it as it leaves the Cairngorms and descends to Spey Bay, This is easily one of Scotlands most beautiful rivers 

Loch Insh to Spey Bay 

Five days. One rather splendid river.

Join us on this epic canoe expedition along the River Spey, drifting through ancient forests, open moorland, and the heart of Scotland’s whisky country. Expect some lively water paddling through the infamous 'Washing machine" and 'Knockando' rapids, as well as, long steady stretches with epic mountain views, and evenings spent camped beneath wide, dark star filled skies. There’s a fine balance of effort and ease—enough to feel you’ve earned your supper, but with plenty of time to take in the scenery (and perhaps a dram or two if you’re so inclined round the campfire).

 

Soul warming food 

You won’t be going hungry, that’s for certain.

Each evening we’ll rustle up a proper meal over the fire—think our much-loved chicken handi curry or a hearty honey & Mediterranean veg pasta. It is proper soul warming  food that tastes even better after a day on the water, eaten fireside while recalling the stories of the day.

Epic Wild Camp Locations 

Wild camping on the River Spey is something rather special too. Each night we will pull up on quiet, remote riverbanks or islands with plenty of space to set up however you like—whether that’s a hammock strung between Scots pines or a simple bivvy beside your canoe.

As the light fades you will get to experience some of the darkest skies in the UK, where the stars come out in force to offer an unforgettable display. Mix in a crackling fire, good food, and the gentle sound of the river drifting by, and you’ve got the kind of evenings people talk about for years after.

What experience do I need?

Minimal canoe experience is needed, Along the way we will offer tips and tweeks to your paddling technique to help you get the most for thise experience. Our quilified instructors will look after you at the rapids too offering advice to help you pick a dry or more exciting line and a warming cup of tea/coffee/hotchocolate should you have an out of boat experience. 

What food is included?

evening meals and breakfast included... But what kind of food? Well we cater for any taste, Have you heard about our famous Chicken Handi curry with fire baked garlic flatbreads? or our Mediterranean veg and honey pasta with garlic bread? or Bannock bread cooked on the fire for breakfast?

Pre trip you will be involved in choosing the meal types to ensure we cater your tastes, potential allergies and dietry requirements. 

Where do we start ?

We will meet you at the start at Loch Insh and can pick you up/drop you off at Inverness airport if you would rather fly up. 

Do i need my own canoe?

No, We provide good quality Solo, 2 or 3 seat canoes specifically equipped for expedition paddling on white water. However if you wish to bring your own canoe then transport for you and your boat back to the start is included in the trip. 

How do I get back to my car?

Transport back to the start is included 

The date doesn't work for me...

We can run any date that suits you, It's worth noting that there is a fire ban between April 1st and the end of September each year for the first half of the trip so we plan our dates to be outside of this time and to match the autumn colours each year too allow (conditions being suitable) for an evening fire. 

If you would like to choose a date not listed we need a minimum of 4 people to have a new date and if you have more than our normal 8 maximum then this is no problem we can make that work too. Pop us an email to see how we can tailor the trip to your individual group needs.

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