Murray Family Explore Scotland - V4

Day 1 - Sunday 4^th 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 2 - Monday 5^th 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. 

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 3 - Tuesday 6^th 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.

Overnight: Near Blair Atholl | 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 - Wednesday 7^th 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.

Overnight: Near Blair Atholl | 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 5 - Thursday 8^th 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.

Meals Included: Breakfast