A Scottish Adventure

Number of Travellers:  2
Duration: 14 Days / 13 Nights

Overview

Embark on a captivating 14-day guided journey through the enchanting landscapes of Scotland, exploring the cultural richness of Edinburgh, the rugged beauty of Glencoe, and the mystical allure of the Isle of Skye. Your adventure begins in the historic capital, Edinburgh, where you’ll delve into its medieval and modern marvels, from the iconic Edinburgh Castle to the vibrant Royal Mile. Throughout your journey, enjoy some of the finest local cuisine, sample cultural delicacies and pull back the curtain of mystique that surrounds whisky distillation in the rich region of Speyside. each evening, relax in handpicked accommodation and enjoy the company of your expert guide who will bring the landscapes to life with stories from each region’s fabled history.

Highlights

  • Explore the vibrant streets of Scotland's capital and indulge in its rich history and culinary culture.
  • Journey across the Highlands and immerse yourself in some of Scotland's most beautiful and contrasting landscapes.
  • Relax in excellent handpicked accommodation.

Day by Day

Day 1 - Arrive in Edinburgh

As you arrive in the picturesque city of Edinburgh, take your time settling into your hotel. Depending on your time of arrival you may wish to step out and explore the city’s charms at your own pace. Perhaps a wander through the historic Royal Mile, where ancient stories come alive, or a meander along the vibrant Grassmarket area, filled with cosy cafes and intriguing shops. A peaceful stroll through the scenic Dean Village or indulge in local Scottish treats. Enjoy the relaxed atmosphere and let Edinburgh’s rich history and beauty unfold gently, ensuring a laid-back and enjoyable start to your trip.

Overnight: Edinburgh | The Balmoral
Meals Included: None

Day 2 - A Wander Through the Capital

Today is a free day to explore the historic capital at your own pace. Perhaps stroll down to the Waters of Leith, meandering your way along the river to the beautiful Dean Village and looking out for the solitary statues that stand silently in the water. Pick up a fresh coffee and a buttery pastry from one of the many independent cafes as you browse the art galleries, booksellers and artisanal food shops. This evening, head out into the twinkling streets to dine at one of Edinburgh’s many award-winning restaurants.

Overnight: Edinburgh | The Balmoral
Meals Included: Breakfast

Day 3 - Exploring Edinburgh

After breakfast, meet your city guide in the foyer of your hotel and head out for a day spent exploring the beautiful cobblestone streets of the city. Full of history, the capital is very accessible by foot. Wander up the Royal Mile, stopping to visit the architecturally stunning St Giles Cathedral, and enjoy panoramic views from Edinburgh Castle. Pick up a coffee and a pastry from one of the wee artisan shops, dipping into local galleries, cheesemongers and bookshops. If you fancy an afternoon with a twist, head to the Surgeons’ Hall Museums, which holds one of the largest collections of surgical pathology in the world.

Overnight: Edinburgh | The Balmoral
Meals Included: Breakfast

Day 4 - North to Glencoe

Today we leave the city behind us and head for the iconic valley of Glencoe. Enjoy breakfast before meeting your Wilderness guide and transferring north. The spectacular Glencoe, carved out centuries ago by glaciers and volcanic eruptions, offers some wild and scenic hiking. One great option for a short stomp this afternon is to hike along a narrow rowan-hung gorge until you reach the Lost Valley. This enclosed meadow – high, green, and hidden by precipitous tors, is said to be where the Macdonald clan used to conceal their rustled cattle. Surrounded by jagged peaks that shift in and out of mountain mist, visit the Glencoe Center to learn about the landscape’s haunting history. Settle into your luxurious accommodation this evening, tucked away at the tip of Loch Leven.

Overnight: Glencoe | Glencoe House
Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch

Day 5 - Jacobite Steam Train

After a relaxed breakfast, head out to hop aboard the Jacobite Steam Train. Warm drink in hand, sit back and relax as it chugs through some of the most stunning scenery of the Highlands. Cross the Glenfinnan viaduct (a location made famous in the Harry Potter films) which overlooks Loch Shiel and the Jacobite monument. Enjoy a local seafood lunch in the fishing port of Mallaig before hopping back on board for the return journey. Arriving back in Fort William this afternoon, where your guide will meet you off the train and transfer and transfer you back to your Glencoe retreat.

Overnight: Glencoe | Glencoe House
Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch

Day 6 - Over the Sea to Skye

After a leisurely breakfast, head west to the Isle of Skye. Wind by mountain glens ribboned with narrow waterfalls and through woodlands of old trees that break the tarmac into a jigsaw of leafy shadows. Stop to explore Eilean Donan Castle, one of the most iconic and striking sights in all of Scotland, taking your time to appreciate the unique beauty of this remote and historical place. Once on the Misty Isle, meet a local ghillie for an afternoon of wild foraging, connecting with the landscape as you learn how to forage sensitively and ethically.

Overnight: Isle of Skye | Kinloch Lodge
Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch

Day 7 - Wild Loch Coruisk & The Black Cuillin Mountains

Feeling rested, head south with your guide, arriving in Elgol – a tiny hamlet scattered along the western cliffs of the Strathaird peninsula. From a small jetty, board the charming Bella Jane and sail over Loch Scavaig into the very heart of the Black Cuillin. As the lovely first mate provides some fascinating history about the surrounding islands, look for sleepy seals lounging on the warm rocks. Upon reaching the shore, leave the boat to explore Loch Coruisk, also known as the Cauldron of the Waters, a deep dark loch that stretches like a shadow below the impressive volcanic peaks. Choose to walk around the loch or climb the rugged mountain of Sgurr na Stri – which is considered by many to offer one of the wildest and most spectacular views in Scotland.

Overnight: Isle of Skye | Kinloch Lodge
Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch

Day 8 - Travel to Torridon

This morning, wind your way up the stunning west coast – a remote and spectacular drive. Beyond the window, shimmering lochs stretch out peaty and dark below rocky knolls, gorse fringes the road in thick scrub and hardy sheep graze amongst the bracken, heather and golden grasses. With many stunning places to stop and stretch your legs, enjoy the journey before arriving rosy-cheeked and relaxed to the welcoming warmth of your award-winning hotel, overlooking the cobalt blue waters of Loch Torridon.

Overnight: Torridon | The Torridon
Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch

Day 9 - A Shellfish Safari

After breakfast, sail out onto the smooth water to catch your lunch for the day. Glide through the waves on a traditional fishing boat and learn how to haul in creels full of lobster and prawn. Chat with the wonderful skipper, whose family has been fishing these west coast waters for over 200 years. Back on dry land, enjoy a crisp glass of wine as your seafood bounty is touched to the pan, squeezed in lemon, and set out on a picnic table in the garden. This afternoon, join your guide for a scenic hike that ribbons along the coast, returning to your hotel for dinner.

Overnight: Torridon | The Torridon
Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch

Day 10 - Transfer to Cairngorms National Park

Leaving the towering mountains of Torridon behind, we transfer to the northern reaches of the Cairngorms National Park, your home for the final few nights of your adventure. A short drive, with views into the Northern Corries and out across Insh Marshes, will take you towards your lovely local guesthouse. Along the way, enjoy a pretty walk around a local loch. It’s common to see highland cows grazing in the fields here, so keep an eye out for their caramel-coloured manes and soft, friendly faces. Take some time to settle into your accommodation this evening before enjoying a delicious dinner.

Overnight: Cairngorms | Killiehuntly Farmhouse
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Day 11 - Exploring Glenfeshie

As the soft morning sun creeps slowly across the fields, head out for a walk in Glenfeshie. Considered by many to be one of the most beautiful glens in Scotland, the estate (which encompasses 47,000 acres) is carefully managed and protected, supporting wildlife such as pine martens, ospreys, black grouse and ptarmigan. Chat with your guide about the rewilding of this enchanting glen as you wind your way up the banks of the River Feshie, reaching a small collection of lochans hidden below the towering trees. This evening, relax back at your guesthouse, taking some time to yourself before dinner.

Overnight: Cairngorms | Killiehuntly Farmhouse
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Day 12 - Spirit of Speyside

After coffee overlooking the tranquil grounds, head out with your expert guide to Glenlivet Estate to hike the Smugglers Trail. The landscape here was once a battleground for illicit distillers, and as you venture deep into the glen, you’ll discover its secrets hidden in the highs and lows of the land. As you walk, keep an eye out for wildlife. Red deer, the stags often adorned in impressive antlers, can often be seen in the higher reaches of the moor, as well as roe deer and mountain hare. After a spot of lunch, we’ll visit the Glenlivet Distillery for a tour and tasting, offering insights into the mystical world of distillation.

Overnight: Cairngorms | Killiehuntly Farmhouse
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Day 13 - Private Cookery Workshop

Spice up your trip with some Scottish Mezze. Based in a remote croft in the Glenlivet hills, you’ll join a skilled chef who combines local Highland ingredients with mouth-watering flavours from far-flung corners of the world to create incredible dishes. Cooking – and eating – these dishes together, surrounded by magnificent views, is an experience you will never forget.

Overnight: Cairngorms | Killiehuntly Farmhouse
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Day 14 - Depart Edinburgh

After breakfast, we’ll bring your adventure to a close and return to Edinburgh.

Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch

Trip Details

Inclusions Read More
  • All accommodation from Day 1 to Day 14
  • All meals included in the itinerary
  • Services of an experienced guide from Day 4 to Day 14
  • Ground transportation, ferries and parking from Day 4 to Day 14
  • All guided hikes and activities mentioned in the itinerary
  • Entry to all attractions described in the itinerary, specifically;
  • Half-day walking tour in Edinburgh
  • Jacobite Steam Train Experience
  • Half-day foraging on Skye
  • Boat trip into the heart of the Cuillin Mountains
  • Shellfish Safari Experience
  • Glenlivet Whisky Distillery tour and tasting
  • Private cookery workshop in the Cairngorms
  • Personalised trip design and delivery
  • 24-hour in-country support
Exclusions Read More
  • Flights
  • Travel insurance
  • Meals not mentioned in the inclusions
  • Activities and entrance fees not mentioned in the inclusions
Virtuoso

A Scottish Adventure