Edinburgh and the Scottish Highlands

Day 1 - Wednesday 7^th May - 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 | The Bonham
Room Type: Superior King
Meals Included: None

Day 2 - Thursday 8^th May - Exploring Edinburgh

This morning immerse yourselves in the winding cobbled streets of historic Old Town Edinburgh as you enjoy a private walking tour with an expert local guide. Discover the highlights of this unique capital city from the Palace of Holyroodhouse all the way up the ‘Royal Mile’ 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 leave you here so that you can spend as much time in the castle as you wish.

You then have a free afternoon to continue explorations at your own pace, pick up souvenirs or relax as you prefer.

Overnight: Edinburgh | The Bonham
Room Type: Superior King
Meals Included: Breakfast

Day 3 - Friday 9^th May - Journey north to the Cairngorm National Park

After a hearty breakfast, meet your main guide (who will also act as your driver for your time together) and commence your journey to the Cairngorms National Park. Along the way, enjoy a visit to historic Scone Palace, once the crowning place of Scottish Kings and Queens. Stroll the beautiful gardens and explore the unique Murray Star Maze before you continue north.

Embrace the scenic drive, absorbing the breathtaking landscapes en route. If time allows and you’re eager for adventure, take a picturesque walk with your guide amidst the stunning countryside. Settle into your accommodations and perhaps take a leisurely stroll and prepare for your adventures ahead in the Cairngorms.

Overnight: Ballater | Darroch Learg
Room Type: Master Room
Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch

Day 4 - Saturday 10^th May - Loch Muick and The Royal Lochnagar Distillery

Today you head to the sparkling waters of Loch Muick in the Balmoral Estate where the mountains of the Cairngorms rise up from the loch shores.  This beautiful location has a long standing association with the British Royal Family and a pretty hunting lodge built for Queen Victoria sits on the northern shore.  Enjoy the peace and serenity of this remote loch as you take a short hike, and keep an eye out for the mighty red deer that frequent this place.

In the afternoon enjoy a tour and tasting at the Royal Lochnagar Distillery, which was issued a Royal Warrant by Queen Victoria in 1848.  You may also have a chance to stop and see Crathie kirk, which is a tiny church that is the regular place of worship for the Royal family when they are in residence at Balmoral Castle.

Overnight: Ballater | Darroch Learg
Room Type: Master Room
Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch

Day 5 - Sunday 11^th May - Transfer to Perthshire and Blair Castle

Take the rugged snow road today as you wind your way through the Cairngorm National Park to your next stop in stunning Perthshire.  There are options to stop and enjoy the incredible vistas over this wild, untamed part of Scotland.  You will notice the landscapes change to rolling hills with ancient pine forests as you head into the Perthshire countryside.

Before arriving at your luxury accommodations stop and visit Blair Castle; a castle that has been the home of the Atholl family for over seven centuries.  Home to politicians, soldiers, agriculturalists and entrepreneurs, the family history is brought to life against a backdrop of the fine 18th century interiors and Scottish baronial architecture.

Arrive in your luxury castle hotel for the evening, enjoy exploring the grounds or just relax and enjoy the surrounding views.

Overnight: Pitlochry | Fonab Castle Hotel
Room Type: Castle Signature
Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch

Day 6 - Monday 12^th May - Exploring Pitlochry and Highland Chocolate

Enjoy a morning exploring the beautiful village of Pitlochry.  Lined with quaint shops, cosy cafes and set against the stunning backdrop of the Scottish Highlands, it is easy to while away a few hours here.

Hear more about the history of the area as you head to Castle Menzies, a spectacular turreted castle, dating from the 16th Century and seat of the clan Menzies for over 500 years. On the way back you will have time to stop and enjoy walking around the small town of Aberfeldy.  If you enjoy good coffee why not stop at a local coffee roasters, enjoying their on site roasted coffee.

After a morning of exploring and history why not enjoy an artisan tasting experience at the Highland Chocolatier.  Try some of his world-famous truffles as you take in the sights and smells of delicious chocolate.  This afternoon head back to your luxurious castle hotel and spend the rest of the day relaxing, take in the beautiful views and maybe get pampered as you enjoy your hotel’s spa facilities.

Overnight: Pitlochry | Fonab Castle Hotel
Room Type: Castle Signature
Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch

Day 7 - Tuesday 13^th May - Stirling Castle and transfer to Edinburgh

Today you bid farewell to the Highlands and make your way back to the historic city of Edinburgh.  On the way stop to visit Stirling Castle, one of the grandest castles in Scotland with an imposing location that overlooks the entire city of Stirling.

As you arrive into the city, your afternoon is free to relax and settle in to your hotel or take a last wander around these historic streets.

Overnight: Edinburgh | The Bonham
Room Type: Superior King
Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch

Day 8 - Wednesday 14^th May - Depart

A private transfer will collect you from your accommodation and take you to the airport to make your onward connections. Waving farewell for now but taking with you special memories and wonderful stories of your explorations.

Meals Included: Breakfast