Final Information - Historic Castles and Epic Highlands

Al-Thani

Thursday 5th June – Tuesday 17th June 2025

Number of Travellers:  2
Duration: 13 Days / 12 Nights

Overview

Final Information published  9th May 2025

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 – 17:00 (BST)

Out of Office Numbers: for use 17:00 – 09:00 and at 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

Highlights

  • Private experienced driver-guide throughout your trip.
  • Private exploration of the historic Edinburgh Castle.
  • Cruise the serene waters of Loch Lomond on a private boat.

Day by Day

Day 1 - Thursday 5th 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.

This evening, indulge in a private tour of the Palace of Holyrood House—explore royal chambers, uncover rich history, and toast with champagne in an unforgettable experience.

Overnight: Edinburgh | The Balmoral Hotel
Room Type: x1 Junior Suite
Meals Included: None

Day 1 - Flight Details Read More +

Airline: Qatar Airways | Flight Number: QR 29
Arrival Airport: Edinburgh | Arrival Time: 13:40

Day 1 - Transfer Details Read More +

Supplier: Littles Chauffeur Hire
Booking Reference: 2720190
Pick Up Location: Edinburgh Airport - Arrivals | Pick Up Time: 13:40
Phone: +44 (0)141 883 2111

Your private driver will have a sign with your name on.

Transfer Company 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 1 - Transfer Details Read More +

Supplier: Littles Chauffeur Hire
Booking Reference: 2720191
Pick Up Location: Balmoral Hotel | Pick Up Time: 18:15
Phone: +44 (0)141 883 2111

Transfer to the Palace of Holyrood from the Balmoral Hotel. Please note this a Wait and Return service, your driver will arrange where they will collect you after your tour, to transfer you to the Witchery for your dinner resercvation.

 

Transfer Company 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 1 - Private Tour of the Palace of Holyroodhouse Read More +

Activity: Private Tour of the Palace of Holyroodhouse
Start Location: Palace of Holyroodhouse | Start Time: 18:30 | Approx Duration: 2 hrs
Booking Reference: Al Thani - 5578804
Phone: +44(0)303 123 7321

Your guide will be expecting your arrival at the main entrance to begin your tour. No tickets required, just reference Al Thani.

Day 1 - Dinner Details Read More +

Restaurant: The Witchery, Edinburgh | Location: The Witchery by the Castle Castlehill The Royal Mile Edinburgh EH1 2NF
Reservation Time: 20:45 | Booking Reference: Al Thani
Phone: +44(0)131 225 0974 | Website: https://www.thewitchery.com/

Please note this is a reservation only, please pay directly.

Day 2 - Friday 6th June - Exploring Edinburgh

Meet your guide at your hotel and begin your day exploring Edinburgh’s rich history. Start with a guided visit to the iconic Edinburgh Castle before continuing on a tour of the city, with the option to stop for tea or coffee along the way.

In the afternoon, immerse yourself in a delicious Foodie Tour, sampling local flavors and culinary delights as you explore the city’s vibrant food scene.

Overnight: Edinburgh | The Balmoral Hotel
Room Type: x1 Junior Suite
Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch

Day 2 - Guide Details - Alan Wright Read More +

Name: Alan Wright
Contact Number: +44 (0)7976 520 990
Meeting Place: The Balmoral Hotel, Reception | Meeting Time: 09:00

Your guide will meet you at your hotel this morning, before heading out to explore the city.

Day 2 - Foodie Tour Read More +

Activity: Foodie Tour
Guide: Nell Nelson
Start Location: Balmoral Hotel Reception | Start Time: 13:00 | Approx Duration: 3 hrs
Phone: +44 (0)7796 298 163

Your guide, Nell, will meet you at the hotel reception to lead you on a taste-ful tour of the city, sampling Scottish delicacies along the way.

Day 2 - Dinner Details Read More +

Restaurant: The Balmoral Hotel
Reservation Time: 19:30 | Booking Reference: Shaika Al-Thani
Phone: +44(0)131 556 2414

Please note this is a reservation only, please pay directly.

Day 3 - Saturday 7th June - Transfer to Perthshire

This morning you will meet your private driver and guide who will be with you throughout your trip through Scotland. Together, you will set off for Perthshire. Stop en route at Stirling Castle, where you’ll wander through the royal apartments and learn of pivotal battles that shaped Scotland’s history.

Arriving at Fonab Castle Hotel, nestled by Loch Faskally and surrounded by rolling hills, the castle’s ivy-clad stone walls exude charm and elegance – a perfect home to explore the local area.

Overnight: Pitlochry | Fonab Castle Hotel
Room Type: x1 Castle Suite
Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch

Day 3 - Guide Details - Alan Smith Read More +

Name: Alan Smith
Contact Number: +44 (0)7880343487
Meeting Place: The Balmoral Hotel, Reception | Meeting Time: 09:00

Your Driver Guide, Alan, who will be with you for the next few days, will meet you at your hotel this morning. Alan will be in touch the night prior to check in. and confirm plans for the morning.

Day 3 - Dinner Details Read More +

Restaurant: 1892 Restaurant, Fonab Castle
Reservation Time: 18:00 | Booking Reference: Al-Thani

Please note this is a reservation only, please pay directly.

Day 4 - Sunday 8th June - Hidden Hut Picnic

This morning, join a expert guide for a private tour of Blair Atholl Castle, your guide unveils centuries of history as you explore the grand halls, lush Victorian gardens, and storied rooms of this ancestral seat of the Dukes of Atholl. Walk through opulent chambers, including the Victorian Ballroom and State Dining Room, each filled with treasures and artefacts.

For lunch, embark on a stunning remote picnic at a hidden hut nestled in the hills of the Cairngorm National Park. Choose between a scenic hour’s walk or a thrilling thirty-minute off-road drive in a Land Rover to reach this remote gem. Upon arrival, your well-earned picnic awaits, allowing you to savour delicious treats amidst nature’s tranquility. A rare and exclusive experience amongst the beautiful Scottish hills.

Overnight: Pitlochry | Fonab Castle Hotel
Room Type: x1 Castle Suite
Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch

Day 4 - Blair Castle Tour Read More +

Activity: Blair Castle Tour
| Start Time: 10:30 | Approx Duration: 2 hrs

Your guide will handle all tickets and logistics for the day.

Day 4 - Lunch Details Read More +

Restaurant: Wild Picnic
Reservation Time: 13:00

Your guide will take you to meet the local Ghillie to set off on a countryside tour in a 4×4. Journey to a hidden bothy for a luxury picnic.

Day 4 - Dinner Details Read More +

Restaurant: Private Pod, Fonab Castle
Reservation Time: 18:00 | Booking Reference: Al-Thani

Please note this is a reservation only, please pay directly.

Day 5 - Monday 9th June - Journey North

This morning, travel with your guide to visit a local ranger, who will provide you with insight into the surrounding natural environment and the wildlife that call this place home. Later, venture further north to Inverness with an insightful stop at the historic Culloden Battlefield for a private tour. Step back to the fateful day of 1746 as your expert guide leads you through the haunting moorland where the Jacobite rising met its tragic end. Hear vivid accounts of the fierce clash between Jacobite and British forces, walk among memorial stones marking the clans, and explore the Visitor Centre’s fascinating exhibits.

Checking into your hotel, rest and relax in preparation for explorations of Loch Ness in the morning.

Overnight: Inverness | Ness Walk
Room Type: x1 Rowan Suite
Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch

Day 5 - Wildlife Ranger Tour Read More +

Activity: Wildlife Ranger Tour
| Start Time: 10:30

Meet a local Ranger to learn of the local wildlife, forestry, and conservation in the area, while enjoying a guided walk.

Day 5 - Culloden - Private Tour Read More +

Activity: Culloden - Private Tour
| Start Time: 14:30

Your guide will handle all tickets and logistics.

Day 5 - Dinner Details Read More +

Restaurant: The Kitchen Brasserie | Location: 15 Huntly St Inverness Inverness IV3 5PR
Reservation Time: 18:00 | Booking Reference: 146927098 - Al-Thani
Phone: +44 (0)1463 259 119 | Website: https://www.kitchenrestaurant.co.uk/

Please note this is a reservation only, please pay directly.

Day 6 - Tuesday 10th June - Discover Loch Ness

Today, set off on a captivating private boat tour of Loch Ness, where breathtaking scenery and intriguing legends come together on this iconic stretch of water. As you cruise along the loch’s deep, mysterious waters, your guide will reveal tales of the fabled Loch Ness Monster, local folklore, and the history that surrounds these shores.

Upon reaching Urquhart Castle, step ashore to explore the fascinating ruins of this ancient fortress, which has stood watch over Loch Ness for over a thousand years. Wander through its historic towers, peer out from battlements that once served as lookout points against Viking invaders, and soak up the panoramic views of the loch below. This scenic and historically rich journey will leave you immersed in the spellbinding allure of Loch Ness.

Overnight: Inverness | Ness Walk
Room Type: x1 Rowan Suite
Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch

Day 6 - Private Loch Ness Boat Trip Read More +

Activity: Private Loch Ness Boat Trip
| Start Time: 09:30 | Approx Duration: 1 hrs 30 mins

Your guide will handle all tickets and logistics for the day. The tour will cruise from Foyers Pier to Urquhart Castle, where your guide will meet you to disembark.

Day 6 - Dinner Details Read More +

Restaurant: Bunchrew House Hotel | Location: Bunchrew House Inverness IV3 8TA
Reservation Time: 18:00 | Booking Reference: Al-Thani
Phone: +44(0)1463 234917 | Website: https://www.bunchrewhousehotel.com/

Please note this is a reservation only, please pay directly.

Day 7 - Wednesday 11th June - Journey to the NW Highlands

Today, depart from Inverness and embark on a scenic journey into the heart of the North West Highlands, where stunning landscapes await. As you travel through rolling hills, rugged mountains, and charming villages, you’ll witness the breathtaking beauty of the Scottish countryside. Upon arrival at the iconic Torridon Hotel, nestled amid the majestic Torridon Mountains, take a moment to appreciate the stunning surroundings. After settling in, indulge in a luxurious afternoon tea, featuring a selection of freshly brewed teas, delicate finger sandwiches and freshly baked scones with clotted cream and preserves.

Overnight: by Achnasheen | The Torridon
Room Type: x1 Torridon Suite
Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch

Day 7 - Afternoon Tea Details Read More +

Restaurant: Torridon
Reservation Time: 15:00 | Booking Reference: Al-Thani

Please note, Afternoon Tea is included. There is no payment required, unless for any extras.

Day 7 - Dinner Details Read More +

Restaurant: Bo & Muc - Torridon Hotel
Reservation Time: 18:00 | Booking Reference: Al-Thani

Please note this is a reservation only, please pay directly.

Day 8 - Thursday 12th June - Explore Majestic Torridon

Start your day with an invigorating morning hike led by your expert guide through the breathtaking landscapes of Torridon. As you traverse scenic trails, be mesmerised by the dramatic mountains, lush valleys, and sparkling lochs that define this stunning region. Your guide will share insights into the local flora, fauna, and fascinating geological history.

For lunch enjoy a delightful picnic lunch amidst nature, complete with gourmet treats and a bottle of champagne to toast the day’s adventures, surrounded by the serene beauty of Torridon.

In the afternoon, return to your beautiful hotel to relax and recharge. Unwind in the luxurious surroundings, perhaps enjoying a good book or a soothing spa treatment. the evening is yours to enjoy!

Overnight: by Achnasheen | The Torridon
Room Type: x1 Torridon Suite
Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch

Day 8 - Lunch Details Read More +

Outdoor Dining: Picnic Hamper

Day 8 - Dinner Details Read More +

Restaurant: 1887 - Torridon Hotel
Reservation Time: 18:45 | Booking Reference: Al-Thani

Please note this is a reservation only, please pay directly.

Day 9 - Friday 13th June - Tartan & Castles

Begin your day with a scenic transfer to Inverlochy Castle, soaking in the breathtaking Highland landscapes as you travel. Your first stop is at Lochcarron Weavers, where you can immerse yourself in the rich tradition of tartan. Here, you’ll have the opportunity to shop for souvenirs and sample tartan products.

After your visit, stop at the beautiful Attadale Gardens, where you can enjoy stunning landscapes before continuing your journey to the charming village of Plockton for lunch. Nestled by the water’s edge, Plockton offers a delightful atmosphere and stunning views. Choose from a selection of local eateries where you can savour fresh seafood or traditional Scottish dishes, all while enjoying the picturesque scenery.

Next, make your way to the iconic Eilean Donan Castle, one of Scotland’s most photographed landmarks. Explore the castle’s fascinating history and enjoy its stunning surroundings, set against the backdrop of the loch and mountains. Have the option to visit the nearby Isle of Skye for a short stop and hike with your guide before continuing your journey to Inverlochy Castle, where you’ll arrive in the early evening, ready to unwind and reflect on a day well spent.

Overnight: Near Fort William | Inverlochy Castle Hotel
Room Type: x1 Junior Walled Garden Suite
Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch

Day 9 - Dinner Details Read More +

Restaurant: Seasgair - Inverlochy
Reservation Time: 19:00 | Booking Reference: Al-Thani

Please note this is a reservation only, please pay directly.

“Seasgair costs £145 per person, and includes freshly prepared canapés, a 5-course set menu, petit fours with tea and coffee, and a custom welcome drink created by our sommelier. Drinks and canapés are served at 7pm and you’ll be shown to your table shortly after.

We request that gentlemen wear a jacket when dining in our restaurant.”

Day 10 - Saturday 14th June - Glencoe Legends

Start your day with a visit to the iconic Glenfinnan Viaduct, timing your arrival to witness the magical sight of a train crossing the soaring arches, surrounded by breathtaking Highland scenery. Explore the nearby Glenfinnan Monument, steeped in Jacobite history, before taking a scenic drive to the atmospheric landscapes of Glencoe. Take a stroll with your guide to fully appreciate the sweeping ridges and hidden corners which lead blockbuster films to choose this backdrop and make this one of the most photogenic spots in Scotland. Then settle down with a beverage to hear some of the local history and legends spun by a local storyteller, drawing you into the past with their fascinating tales.

Overnight: Near Fort William | Inverlochy Castle Hotel
Room Type: x1 Junior Walled Garden Suite
Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch

Day 10 - Dinner Details Read More +

Restaurant: Crannog Restaurant | Location: Town Pier Fort William PH33 6DB
Reservation Time: 19:00 | Booking Reference: BJ3PVDZP - Al-Thani
Phone: +44(0)1397 705589 | Website: https://www.garrisonwest.co.uk/

Please note this is a reservation only, please pay directly.

Day 11 - Sunday 15th June - Loch Lomond Boat Trip

Today you make your way south, relishing the varied views of the Highland mountains as you continue onwards into the Loch Lomond & Trossachs National Park. Here you will take to the water on a private boat to explore around the islands of the loch.Once back on shore your guide will take you to your luxurious castle hotel to settle in. Your guide will bid you farewell this evening, leaving you to relax and enjoy, before meeting your expert guide tomorrow for further exploration.

Overnight: High Blantyre | Crossbasket Castle
Room Type: x1 Castle Junior Suite
Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch

Day 11 - Lunch Details Read More +

Restaurant: Cameron House

Please note this is included; your guide will handle the payment.

Day 11 - Loch Ness Boat Trip Read More +

Activity: Loch Ness Boat Trip
Start Location: Cameron House | Start Time: 12:00 | Approx Duration: 1 hrs

Your guide will handle all logistics for this private 1-hour boat trip.

Day 11 - Dinner Details Read More +

Restaurant: Trocadero’s | Location: Crossbasket Castle
Reservation Time: 18:00 | Booking Reference: BLG9NZ6J - Al-Thani
Phone: +44(0)1698 829461

Please note dinner is included, up to the value of £300 GBP. Any extras to be paid directly.

Day 12 - Monday 16th June - Exploring Glasgow

This morning a private transfer will collect you from your hotel to head into the centre of Glasgow to meet a local expert city guide. Discover the highlights of Scotland’s ‘friendliest city’, from the historic architecture to the vibrant street art you are sure to find many inspirations. Finish your trip with a relaxing afternoon at the hotel and a special meal at ‘Michel Roux Jr at the Castle’. The perfect setting to reminisce over your adventures on your final evening.

Overnight: High Blantyre | Crossbasket Castle
Room Type: x1 Castle Junior Suite
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Day 12 - Transfer Details Read More +

Supplier: Littles Chauffeur Hire
Booking Reference: 2720192
Pick Up Location: Crossbasket Castle | Pick Up Time: 09:00
Phone: +44 (0)141 883 2111

Transfer Company 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 12 - Guide Details - Moira Goldie Read More +

Name: Moira Goldie
Contact Number: +44(0)7975 723 365

Your guide, Moria, will be in contact with your private transfer to ensure an appropriate meeting location.

Day 12 - Lunch Details Read More +

Restaurant: Ralph & finns Bar, Restaurant | Location: 23-25 St Vincent place Glasgow G1 2DT
Reservation Time: 13:00 | Booking Reference: 2109983465 - Al Thani
Phone: +44(0)1412485636

Please note this is included, your guide will settle the bill here.

Day 12 - Transfer Details Read More +

Supplier: Littles Chauffeur Hire
Booking Reference: 2720192
Pick Up Location: Crossbasket Castle | Pick Up Time: 17:00
Phone: +44 (0)141 883 2111

Your guide will assist you to the meeting location for this return transfer to your hotel.

Day 12 - Dinner Details Read More +

Restaurant: Trocadero’s | Location: Crossbasket Castle
Reservation Time: 18:00 | Booking Reference: A-16062025-01 - Al Thani
Phone: +44(0)1698 829461

Please note dinner is included, up to the value of £300 GBP. Any extras to be paid directly.

Day 13 - Tuesday 17th June - Depart

Make your own way 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

Trip Details

Inclusions Read More
  • 12 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 3 to Day 11 inclusive
  • All transfers in a private vehicle driven by your guide on guided days
  • Private Airport Transfer on Arrival Day, includes Meet & Greet
  • Private Transfer to Edinburgh Castle on Day 2
  • All guided hikes mentioned in the itinerary
  • Entrance fees and activities mentioned in the itinerary, specifically:
    • Private Evening Tour of Holyrood Palace
    • Private Morning Walking Tour of Historic Edinburgh with Expert City Guide
    • Edinburgh Castle Admission
    • Private Foodie Tour
    • Entry to Stirling Castle (not private)
    • Private Tour of Blair Castle
    • Private Luxury Picnic Lunch in ‘Hidden Hut’ (Subject to availability)
    • Private Tour of Culloden Battlefield
    • Private Boat Tour of Loch Ness
    • Entry to Urquhart Castle (not private)
    • Afternoon Tea at Torridon Hotel
    • Private Luxury Picnic Lunch with Champagne
    • Entry to Eilean Donan Castle (not private)
    • Private Storyteller Experience in Glencoe
    • Private Boat Trip on Loch Lomond
    • Private Morning Walking Tour of Glasgow with Expert Local City Guide
      • Includes 2 x Entry Fees or Donations as required (or taxi transfers)
    • Final Night Dinner in ‘Michel Roux Jr at the Castle’ at Crossbasket Castle (Subject to availability)
  • 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 specifically stated in the inclusions.

Notes On Weather & Flexibility

Weather – In Scotland, the weather can be very varied 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

We don’t generally recommend a set amount. We would encourage you to ask yourself what you were expecting from your guide and then think about how they have exceeded those expectations. Choose what you think reflects this and 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 Read More
Wilderness Scotland Office | 9:00am – 5:30pm

UK: +44 (0)1479 420 020
US: 888 351 5707


Out of Office Hours | 5:30pm – 9:00am

+44 (0)7766 794 640


Emergency Services

999

Terms & Conditions Read More

Please see our booking terms here.


Accommodation

The Balmoral Hotel

1 Princes Street | Edinburgh |
EH2 2EQ | Scotland
Phone: +44 (0)131 556 2414
Web: roccofortehotels.com/hotels-and-resorts/the-balmoral-hotel

Fonab Castle Hotel

Foss Road | Pitlochry | Perthshire |
PH16 5ND | Scotland
Phone: +44 (0)1796 470140
Web: fonabcastlehotel.com

Ness Walk

12 Ness Walk | Inverness |
IV3 5SQ | Scotland
Phone: +44 (0)1463 215 215
Web: nesswalk.com

The Torridon

by Achnasheen | Wester Ross |
IV22 2EY | Scotland
Phone: +44 (0)1445 791 242
Web: thetorridon.com

Inverlochy Castle Hotel

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

Crossbasket Castle

Stoneymeadow Road | High Blantyre | Glasgow |
G72 9UE | Phone: +44 (0)1698 829461
Web: crossbasketcastle.com


Meet Your Guide

Alan Smith

Contact Number: + 44 (0) 7880343487

Mini Bio

My passion for wild places began early with youthful explorations of the woods and beaches of Morayshire. My youth was spent living in Strathnaver, Sutherland. I worked alongside local crofters and helped my father in his work as water bailiff on the River Naver. I studied outdoor pursuits at Ilkley College before working at Outward Bound Ullswater. I’ve been involved in Youth Expeditions to the Yukon, Iceland and Alaska as well as a 3-year spell as a field assistant with the British Antarctic Survey at Rothera base. I live in Forres on the Moray coast, a great base for exploring the wilds of Scotland.