Murray Family Explore Scotland - V4 - Final Information Document

4 Adults & 2 Kids (9 & 12)

Sunday 4th August – Thursday 8th August 2024

Number of Travellers:  6
Duration: 5 Days / 4 Nights

Overview

We are delighted to share the Final Information details for your clients trip below, and are very much looking forward to welcoming them here!

While we hope things run smoothly for the duration of their stay, we know that unforeseen circumstances do happen and there are times when the clients may need to contact us for assistance. Please see below for ways to get in touch while on the trip;

Email: If you have a general question please feel free to email your Sales Consultant or Agent.
Note – Emails are monitored during office hours only.

Call us directly: Office number ++44 (0) 1479 420 020
Please note: Office hours are Mon- Fri 9:00 – 5:30

Out of Office Number: +44 (0)7766 794 640 for use after 5:30pm and at the weekends.
Note: If you require immediate assistance for an issue, problem or emergency, please call or Whatsapp our Out of Office Hours Number

 

Create fabulous family memories together as you adventure through the Highlands of Scotland. Exploring beautiful landscapes and discovering fun together at every turn.  Your private guide will not just take care of all the logistics (and driving), but will add their expertise and local knowledge to share their favourite insiders secrets with you. You are sure to all be smiling about times on this trip for years to come.

Itinerary at a Glance

Day 1 | Sunday 4th August | Welcome To Scotland! Meet Your Guide & Head West via Loch Ness | Overnight: Near Fort William

Day 2 | Monday 5th August | Explore The 'Road To The Isles' | Overnight: Near Fort William

Day 3 | Tuesday 6th August | Transfer To Highland Perthshire via Distillery Discoveries | Overnight: Blair Atholl

Day 4 | Wednesday 7th August | Enjoy a 4x4 'Safari' With A Kilted Ranger & Local Highland Games | Overnight: Blair Atholl

Day 5 | Thursday 8th August | Transfer To Edinburgh, Explore & Train To London

Day by Day

Day 1 - Sunday 4th August - Welcome To Scotland! Meet Your Guide & Head West via Loch Ness

This morning your Private Guide (who will also act as your driver) will meet you at Inverness Airport today, and together you head towards the West Coast. Stop to explore the ruins of Castle Urquhart on the shores of Loch Ness. This large castle has a rich and bloody past that dates back centuries. It was eventually destroyed by government troops so it could no longer be used as a stronghold by local clans.

After lunch set out onto the deep secretive waters from Fort Augustus, keeping your eyes open for the infamous monster herself and hear about the ongoing search from the locals. Then continue onwards to your unique castle hotel, situated on the foothills of mighty Ben Nevis.

Overnight: Near Fort William | Inverlochy Castle Hotel
Room Type: 1 x Junior Walled Garden Suite for Parents, 1 x Small Walled Garden Room as twin for kids & 1 x Small Walled Garden Room as twin for Sister & nephew
Meals Included: Lunch

Day 1 - Flight Details Read More +

Travel Date: August 4, 2024 | Airline: British Airways | Flight Number: BA 1468
Departure Airport: LHR | Departure Time: 08:50
Arrival Airport: Inverness Airport | Arrival Time: 10:25

Day 1 - Guide Details - Andrew McMurtrie Read More +

Name: Andrew McMurtrie
Contact Number: +44 (0) 7741 314 872
Meeting Place: Inverness Airport Arrivals | Meeting Time: 10:25

Day 1 - Dinner Details Read More +

Pub: Black Isle Brewery | Location: Gordon Square, Fort William, PH33 6DY
Phone: +44 (0) 1397 700 876 | Website: https://www.blackislebrewery.com/visit-us/fort-william-bar

Please note that the Black Isle Brewery does not take table reservations. They do not anticipate any issues with availability on this date.

Your guide will take you to this meal, but it is not included. Please pay directly.

Day 2 - Monday 5th August - Explore The 'Road To The Isles'

Today you will enjoy superb views as your guide takes you west along the stunning Road to the Isles. This is frequently listed as one of the most beautiful drives in the world and it is easy to see why. Your guide will share the tales of the local area as you go, making the landscape come alive with characters and history. You may wish to stop at the historic Glenfinnan Monument, and see if you can spot the famous ‘Harry Potter Train’ puffing its way over the graceful arches of the viaduct. Take a stroll on the white sand beaches of Arisaig and soak in the views of the Small Isles, this is some of the most scenic beach-combing in the country. 

Your guide will arrange a meeting time with you the night before.

Overnight: Near Fort William | Inverlochy Castle Hotel
Room Type: 1 x Junior Walled Garden Suite for Parents, 1 x Small Walled Garden Room as twin for kids & 1 x Small Walled Garden Room as twin for Sister & nephew
Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch

Day 2 - Dinner Details Read More +

Pub: The Highland Cinema | Location: Cameron Square, Fort William, PH33 6AJ
Reservation Time: 19:00 | Booking Reference: Murray
Phone: +44 (0) 1397 609 696 | Website: https://highlandcinema.co.uk/

Please note that this is a table reservation only. Please pay directly.

Day 3 - Tuesday 6th August - Transfer To Highland Perthshire via Distillery Discoveries

Today you head into the heart of Highland Perthshire, taking a quick diversion first to take in the stunning scenery of Glencoe. These dramatic mountains and ridges have featured as the backdrop in many films and once you are looking up at these summits it is easy to see why!

There are various options for scenic leg stretches or stops as you journey East, and your guide will discuss the best options for you you along the way. Then break your journey at the highest distillery in Scotland which prides itself on producing gently warming spirits in the coldest and harshest of conditions. Take a fascinating tour and enjoy a tasting of one of their famous drams (tasting for adults only of course!). The perfect way to round off your day’s exploration before your guide takes you to your welcoming hotel.

Your guide will arrange a meeting time with you the night before.

Overnight: Blair Atholl | The Old Manse of Blair
Room Type: 1 x Stables Family Suite (Double & Twin - not in main house) & 1 x Georgian Suite as Twin
Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch

Day 3 - Dinner Details Read More +

Pub: Atholl Arms Hotel - Restaurant | Location: North end of Blair Atholl, B8079, Pitlochry PH18 5SG
Reservation Time: 19:00 | Booking Reference: Murray
Phone: +44 (0) 1796 481 205 | Website: https://www.athollarmshotel.co.uk/

Please note that this is a table reservation only. Please pay directly.

Day 4 - Wednesday 7th August - Enjoy a 4x4 'Safari' With A Kilted Ranger & Local Highland Games

This morning get an insider’s insight of the area as you head out on a fun private Landrover safari with a kilted Ranger. Exploring private estate tracks to see what traditional gillies and estate managers drive every day. Keep your eyes open for the local wildlife, Red Deer, Mountain Hares and Eagles that are all to be found here before you head back down into the valley.

This afternoon enjoy a special experience as you immerse yourself in true Scottish culture and tradition at a local Highland Games. The air is filled with the invigorating sounds of bagpipes and rhythmic pounding of drums, and the lively cheers of the crowd. As you watch the competitors in their kilts, showcasing feats of strength and agility, you become part of a centuries-old spectacle that celebrates heritage and camaraderie.

The games are a sensory feast, with the aroma of traditional foods wafting through the air, colourful tartans adding a visual spectacle to the Highland dancers twirls and the thrill of events like caber tossing and tug-of-war creating an electrifying atmosphere that you can’t help but be caught up in.

Note: An alternative option would be to explore locally with your guide instead this afternoon if you would prefer.

Your guide will arrange a meeting time with you the night before.

Overnight: Blair Atholl | The Old Manse of Blair
Room Type: 1 x Stables Family Suite (Double & Twin - not in main house) & 1 x Georgian Suite as Twin
Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch

Day 4 - Dinner Details Read More +

Restaurant: The Loft Country Kitchen & Restaurant | Location: Invertilt Road, Blair Atholl, PH18 5TE
Reservation Time: 19:00 | Booking Reference: Murray
Phone: +44 (0) 1796 481 377 | Website: https://loftblairatholl.homestead.com/

Please note that this is a table reservation only. Please pay directly.

Day 5 - Thursday 8th August - Transfer To Edinburgh, Explore & Train To London

This morning your guide will transfer you to Edinburgh. They will help you secure your luggage at the Left Luggage facility in Waverley Train Station, and introduce you to your expert local city guide before they depart.

Immerse yourselves in the winding cobbled streets of historic Old Town Edinburgh as you enjoy a private walking tour this morning. Discover the highlights of this unique capital city and discover some hidden gems with your guide’s insider knowledge. Enjoy the buzz of the ‘Royal Mile’ as you head up to the mighty ancient fortress which is Edinburgh Castle itself. Walk the ramparts atop castle rock and hear the tales of the One O’Clock gun and the stories of locals of times past. Your guide will tailor the day to your interests as you get a sense of the stories and history of these streets. 

Your guide will depart at 1pm, leaving you to enjoy lunch before you pick up your luggage and board the early afternoon train to London and the next part of your adventures.

Your guide will arrange a meeting time with you the night before.

Meals Included: Breakfast

Trip Details

Inclusions Read More
  • 4 nights accommodation, as stated in the itinerary above
  • Most meals, as stated in the itinerary above
  • The services of a qualified and experienced guide from Day 1 to drop-off in Edinburgh on the morning of Day 5
  • All transfers in a private vehicle driven by our guide during guided time
  • All guided hikes mentioned in the itinerary
  • Entrance fees and activities mentioned in the itinerary, specifically:
    • Loch Ness Boat Trip (approx 1 hr – not private)
    • Entry to Urquhart Castle
    • Distillery Tour & Tasting (Tasting for adults only)
    • 4×4 Mountain ‘Safari’ with Kilted Ranger (not private)
    • Entry to Killin Highland Games
    • Private Walking Tour in Edinburgh with Expert Local City Guide
    • Entry to Edinburgh Castle
  • Personalised trip design and delivery
  • 24/7 In-Country Support from the Wilderness Team
Exclusions Read More
  • Flights
  • Travel insurance
  • Meals not mentioned in the inclusions
  • Activities and entrance fees not mentioned in the inclusions
  • Gratuities for the main driver guide
Notes Read More

Activities are only private if so specified

Notes On Weather & Flexibility

Weather in Scotland can be very changeable. Suitable clothing and footwear is essential, as well as a flexible attitude. Plans may have to be changed to accommodate Mother Nature, and your guide will have back-up plans that they will discuss with you if required.

 

Essential Packing List

  • Waterproof jacket with hood
  • Waterproof over-pants
  • Sturdy hiking boots/shoes (sneakers or tennis shoes are not suitable for any hiking in Scotland)
  • Day pack 20-30 litre for carrying water and extra layers
  • Reusable water bottle
  • Warm layers
  • Warm hat, gloves and a neck gaiter
  • Hat, sunglasses and sunscreen
  • Smart casual attire for dinners

Note: If you would like us to provide trekking poles for your use then please just let us know and we will ensure these are available for you.

 

Luggage Notes

Please note that we expect travellers to bring an average of One Large Holdall or Suitcase and up to Two smaller day-bags or hand-luggage sized pieces. If you expect to bring more than this then please let us know well in advance of arrival so that we can ensure there is capacity for this (additional charges will apply if separate luggage transfers are required).

 

Useful Contacts

24 hour in-country support (Wilderness Scotland):  +44 (0)1479 420 020, or out with regular office hours +44 (0)7766 794 640 (urgent calls only)

Emergency services:  999 or 112NHS 24 (24 hour free medical advice):  111

 

Tipping Guidelines

For tipping our guides – We don’t generally recommend a set amount as tipping is not expected in the same way that it is in North America. However, similar North American travel companies generally suggest something along the lines of £10-30 per person per day for your guide, which is a wide range to choose from. Generally, we would encourage you to ask yourself what you were expecting from your guide, and then think about how they have exceeded those expectations and choose an amount you are comfortable with.

For local services such as restaurants again tipping is not expected but if you receive great service then 10-15% of the bill is normal.

Terms & Conditions Read More

Please see our booking terms here.

Accommodation

Inverlochy Castle Hotel

Torlundy | Near Fort William |
PH33 6SN | Scotland
Phone: +44 (0)1397 702 177
Web: inverlochycastlehotel.com

The Old Manse of Blair

Blair Atholl | Perthshire |
PH18 5TN | Scotland
Phone: +44 (0)1796 48 33 44
Web: theoldmanseofblair.com

Meet Your Guide

Andrew McMurtrie

Contact Number: +44 (0) 7741 314 872

Me In Three : Reliable | Interested | Calm

Growing up in Glasgow, the Scouts took me on many adventures, close and far, mainly by foot. I studied Topographic Science (the making of maps), thinking I’d get paid to walk up hills, but ended up working offshore on boats and rigs making sure all the infrastructure was put in the right place, then surveying it once it was there. Having spent over 30 years in the offshore survey sector serving the energy industries, with nearly half of that time offshore, my career has taken me all over the world from Australia to Brazil, and Angola to Vietnam – always looking for a hill to walk or run up – although living in Aberdeenshire at all times. I gained a few outdoor qualifications along the way in my adult Scouting roles, and I’m now able to ‘work’ in the outdoors, which truly is my passion.

I regularly orienteer competitively, including winter night-time events, so my navigation skills are well-honed! I have twice competed in Finland at Jukola an 11-person relay and the world’s largest orienteering event where approximately 1700 teams compete through the night. I have also completed 17 mountain marathons in various regions of the UK. These involve 2 days running over mountainous terrain while navigating a route and carrying all the kit you need.

Hiking and biking are my two main passions nowadays, but I’ve been known to sail and ski too, mostly in Scotland. My wife says I have an addiction to bikes – buying them!

Place to Play

Living on the edge of the Southern Cairngorms, much of my ‘play time’ is spent here and it is a great place to bike and hike. The journey over to the west coast is one I enjoy and there is always a sense of excitement when I’m in the campervan heading west. It is hard to leave Scotland for adventure though I have managed the occasional trip – climbing Mt Toubkal in Morocco, cycling and sailing holidays in Mallorca and skiing trips to the Alps.

Not a lot of people know this

I spent five summers in a row as a teenager on some form of Scout camp/expedition: Switzerland, Massachusetts, Austria, Bavaria and Norway. Scouts played a large part of my teenage life and the reason for my love of the outdoors, camping and adventuring. My first Munro was Ben Nevis, aged 12, at my first summer camp on the banks of Loch Sunart – 38-years later I compleated (yes, correct spelling) my Munros on Beinn Sgritheall, overlooking the dramatic Loch Hourn, Knoydart and with stunning views to the Skye Cullins and beyond. I’ve also managed 50 Corbetts so far but still climb Munros too.

Virtuoso

Murray Family Explore Scotland – V4 – Final Information Document

Sunday 4th August – Thursday 8th August 2024