A Scottish Adventure - Highlights of the Highlands - Final Information
Saturday 7th June – Saturday 21st June 2025
Overview
On Trip
While we hope things run smoothly for the duration of your stay, we know that unforeseen circumstances do happen and there are times when you may need to contact us for assistance. Please note that on days with your main driver-guide(s), please ask your guide for assistance in the first instance. As they are best placed to answer any queries directly & in a timely manner. 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 on the appropriate country’s office number – see the useful phone numbers at the bottom of the document in the drop down section.
Please note: Office hours are Mon- Fri 9:00 – 5:00
Out of Office Numbers: for use after 5:00pm and at the weekends.
Note: If you require immediate assistance for an issue, problem or emergency, please call, message or Whatsapp the Out of Office Hours Number for the appropriate country
Day by Day
Day 1 - Saturday 7th June - Welcome to Scotland
On arrival at the airport you will be met by a private driver who will transfer you to your city centre hotel. Depending on your arrival time you can choose to relax at the hotel or head out to start exploring this unique city.
Overnight: Edinburgh | Hilton Edinburgh Carlton
Room Type: 1 x Deluxe Double (with 2 double beds)
Meals Included: None
Day 1 - Flight Details Read More +
Airline: Delta | Flight Number: DL 0034
Departure Airport: Atlanta GA Arrival Airport: Edinburgh (EDI) | Arrival Time: 12:05
Day 1 - Transfer Details Read More +
Supplier: Littles Chauffeur Hire
Pick Up Location: Edinburgh Airport | Pick Up Time: 12:05
Phone: +44 (0) 141 883 2111
BOOKING TBC
Your private driver will meet you at arrivals and have a sign with your name on.
Transfer Company system will send contact details for the chauffeur as an SMS 30 minutes prior to the reservation taking place, to the mobile number for the travelling passenger. If the client is unable to locate our chauffeur, they must call the mobile number provided, or call the Little’s Office on +44(0)141 883 2111, which operates 24/7.
Day 2 - Sunday 8th June - Exploring Edinburgh
Your morning is yours to enjoy at your own pace. Savour a leisurely breakfast or step out to explore the charming cobbled streets of Edinburgh’s historic Old Town. Wander along the iconic Royal Mile, where you can take in the grandeur of the Palace of Holyroodhouse before making your way up to the awe-inspiring Edinburgh Castle, perched atop its ancient volcanic rock.
Later, head to the train station to catch the train to Darlington for the next part of your vacation.
please note transfer to the train station is not included but your hotel will be more than happy to call you a taxi.
Overnight: Self Arranged
Meals Included: Breakfast
Day 2 - Train Details Read More +
Travel Date: June 8, 2025 | Rail Operator: LNER
Departure Train Station: Edinburgh Waverly | Departure Time: 10:00
Arrival Train Station: Darlington | Arrival Time: 12:01
You will find your train tickets located in the important documents section of this final information document.
Booking Reference: 25S6VNLTK5
Day 3 - Monday 9th June - Self Arranged
Day 4 - Tuesday 10th June - Self Arranged
Day 5 - Wednesday 11th June - Self Arranged
Day 6 - Thursday 12th June - Self Arranged
Day 7 - Friday 13th June - Self Arranged
Day 8 - Saturday 14th June - Self Arranged
Day 9 - Sunday 15th June - Flight to Inverness - Journey to the Isle of Skye
Your guide will warmly welcome you at Inverness Airport and take you to pick up your hire car before you drive in convoy on a scenic journey to the legendary Isle of Skye. Before heading West, enjoy some time at the historic Culloden Battlefield, the site of the last battle of the Jacobite rising in 1746. Here you will take a tour of the battlefield with your guide, sharing stories from that monumental day. You will also have the opportunity to see Bronze Age burial chambers and standing stones known as the Clava Cairns. This site is exceptionally well preserved and a great example of prehistoric history in Scotland dating back over 4,000 years.
As you continue your journey towards the stunning Isle of Skye, soak in the breathtaking landscapes of rugged mountains, shimmering lochs, and charming villages—setting the stage for an unforgettable adventure in one of Scotland’s most iconic destinations.
Overnight: Isle of Skye | Duisdale House Hotel
Room Type: x1 Deluxe Room
Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch
Day 9 - Flight Details Read More +
Travel Date: June 15, 2025 | Airline: Easyjet | Flight Number: 847
Departure Airport: London Gatwick | Departure Time: 12:25
Arrival Airport: Inverness | Arrival Time: 14:10
Day 9 - Guide Details - Ian Jones Read More +
Name:
Ian Jones
Contact Number: +44 (0)7910 717 044
Meeting Place: Inverness Airport - Arrivals | Meeting Time: 14:10
Your Guide Ian will meet you in Arrivals and take you to pick up your hire vehicle and make sure you are happy before you travel in convoy – vehicle self arranged.
Day 10 - Monday 16th June - Guided Explorations on the Isle of Skye
Today you have a full day to explore some of the special corners of this magical island with your guide. You will be spoilt for choice with fascinating history and dramatic landscape on offer, with unique hiking routes through stark and unusual rock formations and sweeping coast and mountain views to enjoy in almost every direction. This ‘misty isle’ is also home to so many curious stories and legends of fairies and islander culture, your guide will share some of the best hidden gems and personalise the day to your interests.
Your guide will arrange a meeting time with you the night before.
Overnight: Isle of Skye | Duisdale House Hotel
Room Type: x1 Deluxe Room
Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch
Day 11 - Tuesday 17th June - The iconic road to the Isles
This morning, take a ferry back to the mainland and enjoy a scenic journey with your guide along the road to the isles. This is frequently listed as one of the most beautiful drives in the world and with its secluded waters and rugged mountains, it is easy to see why. En-route, why not enjoy a hike in the scenic Arisaig, with its white sandy beaches and wild coastline.
Continue onward to a warm Highland welcome at your accommodation, set near the spectacular shores of Loch Lochy. Your guide will leave you here allowing you to continue the rest of the trip under your own steam.
Your guide will arrange a meeting time with you the night before.
Overnight: Near Spean Bridge | Whispering Pine Lodge
Room Type: x1 Loch View Superior
Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch
Day 12 - Wednesday 18th June - Lochs, Monsters & Historic Castles
Today you will visit the iconic ruins of Urquhart Castle. Perched on the shores of Loch Ness, the castle offers a glimpse into a bygone era of conflict, clans and legends. As you explore the ramparts and peer through the weathered windows, you will be rewarded with breathtaking views over Loch Ness, its serene waters shrouded in legendary tales. Your adventure will continue as you take a lovely cruise across the Loch in search of the fabled Nessie. Return to your hotel for a warming drink, with memories of an unforgettable adventure.
Drive time from Whispering Pine Lodge to Urquhart Castle is around 1 hour depending on traffic and without stops.
Overnight: Near Spean Bridge | Whispering Pine Lodge
Room Type: x1 Loch View Superior
Meals Included: Breakfast
Day 12 - Entry Read More +
Activity: Entry
Urquhart Castle:
Start Location: Urquhart Castle | Start Time: 10:30
Booking Reference: 20250409-207423034
*TICKETS*
You should allow around 1 hour to explore Urquhart Castle.
Google map link: https://maps.app.goo.gl/GSoZB8QXrre3tZD57
Day 12 - Scenic Cruise Read More +
Activity: Scenic Cruise
Cruise Loch Ness:
Start Location: Cruise Loch Ness, PH32 4BD(Next to Clansman Centre in Fort Augustus) | Start Time: 13:00 | Approx Duration: 1 hrs
Booking Reference: 116449-Daily-18-06-2025-13:00
Phone: +44 (0) 1320 366 277
*TICKETS?*
Start Location: Cruise Loch Ness, PH32 4BD(Next to Clansman Centre in Fort Augustus. Please arrive 15 minutes prior to your cruise start time.
Drive time from Urquhart Castle to Cruise Loch Ness, Fort Augustus is around 40 minutes without stops and depending on traffic.
Google map link: https://maps.app.goo.gl/FwvqoySckyfCSfxN6
Day 13 - Thursday 19th June - Transfer to Pertshire
Heading into the heart of Perthshire you will notice the rugged mountain peaks give way to ancient pine forests, hidden lochs and rolling hills. As you make your way South, there are plenty of places to stop should you wish.
Perhaps you might like to stop off at Scotland’s highest distillery for a tour and tasting (don’t worry they provide driver packs!) of the delicious amber nectar.
Or you may wish to stop off at Blair Castle, which is home to the only private army in the UK and enjoy some time wandering through the gardens and the castle. You could also stop off at the Harrods of the North – House of Bruar – to pick up some Scottish souvenirs to take home with you.
However you decide to spend your day, you will arrive at your country house hotel this afternoon which is set in 280 acres of beautiful Scottish wilderness.
Overnight: Dunkeld | Dunkeld House Hotel
Room Type: x1 River View Suite
Meals Included: Breakfast
Day 14 - Friday 20th June - To St Andrews - The Home of Golf
This morning make your way to iconic St Andrews. You will have some time to explore this historic university town. Known as the home of golf, this town is more recently famous as the place where the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge met during their studies.
In the afternoon, unwind with an invigorating round of golf on a stunning course set amidst dramatic coastline. Enjoy awe-inspiring views and beautifully contoured greens as you immerse yourself in this unforgettable golfing experience.
Overnight: St Andrews | Rufflets
Room Type: x1 Feature Suite
Meals Included: Breakfast
Day 14 - Golf Game - Kingsbarns, St Andrews Read More +
Activity: Golf Game - Kingsbarns, St Andrews
Kingsbarns Golf Links:
Start Location: Kingsbarns Golf Links, St Andrews | Start Time: 15:40
Booking Reference: 881662
Phone: +(0)1334 460860
Your tee time is 15:40, please be there in plenty of time to collect your hire clubs.
Day 15 - Saturday 21st June - Depart
Head to the airport to make your onward connections this morning, dropping off your hire car on arrival at the airport. Waving farewell for now but taking with you special memories and wonderful stories of your explorations.
Meals Included: Breakfast
Day 15 - Flight Details Read More +
Travel Date: June 21, 2025 | Airline: Delta | Flight Number: 0123
Departure Airport: Edinburgh | Departure Time: 11:20
Trip Details
- Inclusions
-
- 7 nights accommodation, as stated in the itinerary above – 3 pax on night 1 and 2 pax D9-D15
- Most meals, as stated in the itinerary above
- The services of a qualified and experienced guide from Day 9 to Day 11 inclusive
- All transfers in a private vehicle driven by our guide on guided days if required
- Private Airport Transfer on Arrival Day, includes Meet & Greet
- All ferries included in the itinerary
- First Class Train Tickets – Edinburgh to Darlington for 2 adults & 1 child
- All guided hikes mentioned in the itinerary
- Entrance fees and activities mentioned in the itinerary, specifically:
- Entry Fee – Culloden Battlefield for 2 adults
- Entry Fee – Urquhart Castle
- Scenic Cruise on Loch Ness
- Green Fees & Trolley hire included for Kingsbarns – 2 adults
- Personalised trip design and delivery
- 24/7 In-Country Support from the Wilderness Team
- Exclusions
-
- Flights
- Car Hire and Insurance
- Travel insurance
- Meals not mentioned in the inclusions
- Activities and entrance fees not mentioned in the inclusions
- Gratuities for the main driver guide
- Notes
-
- Activities are only private if specifically stated
Notes On Weather & Flexibility
Weather – June in Scotland can be a very wide range of weather, and 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.
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.
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).
- Important Contact Numbers
-
Wilderness Scotland Office | 9:00am – 5:30pm
UK: +44 (0)1479 420 020
US: 866 740 3890
Out of Office Hours | 5:30pm – 9:00am
Emergency Services
- Terms & Conditions
-
Please see our booking terms here.
Accommodation
Hilton Edinburgh Carlton
Edinburgh |
EH11SD |
Scotland
Phone: 0131 472 3000
Web: hilton.com/en/hotels/edicahi-hilton-edinburgh-carlton/hotel-info
Duisdale House Hotel
Sleat, Isle of Skye |
Isle of Skye |
IV43 8QW |
Scotland
Phone: +44 (0) 1470 373737
Web: sonascollection.com/our-hotels/duisdale
Whispering Pine Lodge
Loch Lochy |
Near Spean Bridge |
Highland |
PD34 4DZ |
Scotland
Phone: +44 (0)1809 335021
Web: blacksheephotels.com/the-whispering-pine-lodge
Dunkeld House Hotel
Dunkeld House Hotel |
Dunkeld |
Perthshire |
PH8 0HX |
Scotland
Phone: +44(0)1350 727771
Web: dunkeldhousehotel.co.uk/offers
Rufflets
Strathkinness Low Rd |
St Andrews |
Fife |
KY16 9TX |
Scotland
Phone: +44 (0) 1334 472594
Web: rufflets.co.uk
Meet Your Guide
Ian Jones
Contact Number: +44 (0)7910 717 044
Born and educated in Edinburgh, I began my teaching career. Throughout over 40 years in education in Scotland and abroad, I have used the outdoors both as a classroom and for leisure. Some of my fondest memories are of introducing young people to the varied Scottish landscapes and encouraging them to develop their skills in a range of activities including skiing, hill walking, climbing, sailing, canoeing, and cycling. I now look forward to sharing my knowledge of Scotland with a different audience.
A Scottish Adventure – Highlights of the Highlands – Final Information
Saturday 7th June – Saturday 21st June 2025