Coons Scottish Explorations - V3 - Final Information Document

Monday 16th September – Saturday 28th September 2024

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

Overview

While we hope things run smoothly for the duration of their stay, we know that unforeseen circumstances do happen and there are times when the clients may need to contact us for assistance. 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: Office number ++44 (0) 1479 420 020Please note: Office hours are Mon- Fri 9:00 – 5:30

Out of Office Hours Number: +44 (0)7766 794 640 for use after 5:30pm and at the weekends.Note: If you require immediate assistance for an issue, problem or emergency, please call or Whatsapp our Out of Office Hours Number

Itinerary at a Glance

Day 1 | Monday 16th September | Welcome to Scotland | Overnight: Edinburgh

Day 2 | Tuesday 17th September | Exploring Edinburgh | Overnight: Edinburgh

Day 3 | Wednesday 18th September | Meet Your Private Guide & Head North to Try Fly Fishing | Overnight: Near Inverness

Day 4 | Thursday 19th September | Over The Sea To Skye via Loch Ness & Eilean Donan Castle | Overnight: Portree

Day 5 | Friday 20th September | Exploring Skye | Overnight: Portree

Day 6 | Saturday 21st September | Return To The Mainland, 'Road To The Isles' to Fort William | Overnight: by Fort William

Day 7 | Sunday 22nd September | Glencoe & Transfer Down The Coast | Overnight: By Oban

Day 8 | Monday 23rd September | Exploring The West Coast With Your Guide | Overnight: By Oban

Day 9 | Tuesday 24th September | Ancient History & Ferry To Islay | Overnight: Port Ellen

Day 10 | Wednesday 25th September | Highlights of Islay & Special Lagavulin Experience | Overnight: Port Ellen

Day 11 | Thursday 26th September | Return To The Mainland | Overnight: Glasgow

Day 12 | Friday 27th September | Free Day In Glasgow | Overnight: Glasgow

Day 13 | Saturday 28th September | Depart

Day by Day

Day 1 - Monday 16th September - 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: Deluxe King
Meals Included: None

Day 1 - Flight Details Read More +

Airline: Delta | Flight Number: DL 0208
Departure Airport: JFK Arrival Airport: Edinburgh (EDI) | Arrival Time: 10:05

Day 1 - Transfer Details Read More +

Supplier: West & East of Scotland Chauffeur Drive
Booking Reference: 125034
Pick Up Location: Edinburgh Airport Arrivals | Pick Up Time: 10:05 | Approx Duration: 0.75 hrs
Phone: +44 (0) 141 483 1555

Your Private Driver will have a sign with your name on it

Day 1 - Dinner Details Read More +

Restaurant: Noto | Location: 47a Thistle Street, Edinburgh, EH2 1DY
Reservation Time: 19:00 | Booking Reference: BQXGXLFC
Phone: +44 (0) 131 241 8518 | Website: https://notoedinburgh.co.uk/

Please note that this is a table reservation only. Please pay directly.

From The Restaurant;

Dear Ronald Coons

Happy to confirm your booking at Noto Edinburgh on Monday, 16 September 2024 at 7:00 PM. Your booking details are below:

Ref: BQXGXLFC
Date: Monday, 16 September 2024
Time: 7:00 PM
Guests: 2

Please note we have a 24 hour cancellation policy so we need at least 24 hours notice of a cancellation for parties of 1-4 guests, for parties of 5 guests or more we need 48hrs notice, if the party does not show or cancel within that time frame, this will incur a £50 per head penalty fee.

Kind Regards, Noto Edinburgh

If you need to EDIT or CANCEL the booking, please use these links.

Day 2 - Tuesday 17th September - 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: Deluxe King
Meals Included: Breakfast

Day 2 - Private Walking Tour Read More +

Activity: Private Walking Tour
Expert Local City Guide: Mary Birch
Start Location: The Bonham Hotel Reception | Start Time: 09:00 | Approx Duration: 4 hrs
Phone: +44 (0) 7711 517 508

Includes entry to Edinburgh Castle

Day 2 - Dinner Details Read More +

Restaurant: White Horse Oyster & Seafood Bar | Location: 266 Canongate, Royal Mile, Edinburgh, EH8 8AA
Reservation Time: 19:00 | Booking Reference: 78404
Phone: +44 (0) 1316 295 300 | Website: https://www.whitehorseoysterbar.co.uk/

Please note that this is a table reservation only. Please pay directly.

From The Restaurant;

What to know before you go

Important dining information
We have a 15 minute grace period. Please call us if you are running later than 15 minutes after your booked time.
Your table will be booked for 2 hours.

Additional notes
No-shows or cancellations less than 1 day in advance will be subject to a charge of £20 per person.
Changes to guest count made less than 1 day in advance may be subject to a charge of £10 per person.

If you need to MODIFY or CANCEL this booking, please use these links.

Day 3 - Wednesday 18th September - Meet Your Private Guide & Head North to Try Fly Fishing

This morning your private guide (who will also act as your driver while you are together) will meet you at your hotel and together you will head north towards the Highlands. There are many options along the way for a leg stretch to take in the beautiful scenery, which your guide will bring to life for you as you travel. So maybe take a stroll to discover a special beauty spot, or visit the fascinating recreated historic buildings in Highland Folk Museum (a key Outlander filming location), before continuing north.

This afternoon enjoy a private fly fishing experience. Your guide will take you to a quiet trout loch where you will be met by your expert local fisherman. Spend the afternoon immersing yourselves in the techniques and lovely location with the added benefit of specific insider knowledge. Your guide will then take you to your welcoming hotel.

Overnight: Near Inverness | Loch Ness Country House Hotel
Room Type: Junior Suite
Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch

Day 3 - Guide Details - Fiona Newcombe Read More +

Name: Fiona Newcombe
Contact Number: +44 (0) 7708 405 151
Meeting Place: The Bonham Hotel Reception | Meeting Time: 09:00

Day 3 - Private Fly Fishing Session with Experienced Guide Read More +

Activity: Private Fly Fishing Session with Experienced Guide
| Start Time: 13:00 | Approx Duration: 3.5 hrs

Duration is approx 3 to 4 hours. All equipment provided.

Day 3 - Dinner Details Read More +

Restaurant: Loch Ness Country House Hotel Dining Room | Location: Your Hotel
Reservation Time: 19:00 | Booking Reference: Coons
Website: https://lochnesscountryhouse.cobbshotels.com/restaurant

Please note that this is a table reservation only. Please pay directly.

Day 4 - Thursday 19th September - Over The Sea To Skye via Loch Ness & Eilean Donan Castle

Enjoy some fabulous scenery as you make your way to Skye today through steep sided mountain glens on the way, and past the deep water of secretive Loch Ness. Take a scenic cruise to enjoy the vista and keep your eyes peeled for ‘Nessie’ as you stop off at the mighty ruins of Urquhart Castle.

Later in the day stop to explore the elegant Eilean Donan castle, set out on the water on a private island and surrounded by majestic scenery. Your guide will then take you onwards, passing over the graceful arc of the Skye Bridge onto ‘the misty isle’ itself and carrying on to your welcoming hotel.

Your guide will arrange a meeting time with you the night before.

Overnight: Portree | The Bosville
Room Type: Mrs Beaton's Cottage (over road from main hotel, 2 floors with lounge)
Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch

Day 4 - Loch Ness Cruise Read More +

Activity: Loch Ness Cruise
Start Location: Dochgarroch | Start Time: 10:00 | Approx Duration: 2 hrs

Day 4 - Dinner Details Read More +

Restaurant: Cuillin Hills Hotel | Location: Portree, Isle Of Skye, IV51 9QU
Reservation Time: 18:00 | Booking Reference: BPZDMVKX - The Restaurant
Phone: +44 (0) 1478 612 003 | Website: https://www.cuillinhills-hotel-skye.co.uk/dine.html

Please note that this is a table reservation only. Please pay directly.

Day 5 - Friday 20th September - Exploring 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: Portree | The Bosville
Room Type: Mrs Beaton's Cottage (over road from main hotel, 2 floors with lounge)
Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch

Day 5 - Dinner Details Read More +

Restaurant: The Rosedale Hotel | Location: Beaumont Crescent, Portree, IV51 9DF
Reservation Time: 19:00 | Booking Reference: BRWKT2MX
Phone: +44 (0) 1478 613 131 | Website: https://rosedalehotelskye.co.uk/restaurant

Please note that this is a table reservation only. Please pay directly.

Day 6 - Saturday 21st September - Return To The Mainland, 'Road To The Isles' to Fort William

After taking the short ferry back to the mainland you’ll travel along the stunning Road to the Isles with your guide. This is frequently listed as one of the most beautiful drives in the world and it is easy to see why. Admire the silver sand beaches of Arisaig and admire the views back to Skye and out to the small isles. Admire the Glenfinnan Viaduct, which you may well recognise from the Harry Potter films. Hear the tales of the Glenfinnan Monument and see if you can spot the Jacobite Steam Train puffing its way along the tracks. There is much to explore before settling in to enjoy the traditional Scottish hospitality of your hotel.

Your guide will arrange a meeting time with you the night before.

Overnight: by Fort William | Glenfinnan House Hotel
Room Type: Loch View Junior Family Suite
Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch

Day 6 - Ferry Details Read More +

Departure Port: Armadale | Departure Time: 10:25
Arrival Port: Mallaig | Arrival Time: 10:55

Just in here for reference of the times, your guide will handle all the tickets and logistics.

Day 6 - Dinner Details Read More +

Restaurant: Glenfinnan House Restaurant | Location: Your Hotel
Reservation Time: 19:30 | Booking Reference: RC-21092024-01

Please note that this is a table reservation only. Please pay directly.

Day 7 - Sunday 22nd September - Glencoe & Transfer Down The Coast

The dramatic mountains and ridges of Glencoe have featured as the backdrop in many films and once you are looking up at these summits it is easy to see why! Today you will explore this famous valley with your guide, there are plenty of options to suit every level of energy and challenge. After your hike (or stroll!) settle down with a celebratory beverage in a traditional climbers pub and listen to local legends and fascinating tales of the dark past of Glencoe told by a local storyteller. Your guide will then transfer you down the coast to your welcoming accommodation.

Your guide will arrange a meeting time with you the night before.

Overnight: By Oban | Loch Melfort Hotel
Room Type: Junior Suite
Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch

Day 7 - Dinner Details Read More +

Restaurant: Loch Melfort Restaurant | Location: Your Hotel
Reservation Time: 19:00 | Booking Reference: BYQQTLH3
Website: https://www.lochmelfort.co.uk/food/

Please note that this is a table reservation only. Please pay directly.

Day 8 - Monday 23rd September - Exploring The West Coast With Your Guide

There are plenty of options for explorations today, depending on your preferences. One superb option is to head to the colourful harbour town of Oban where you catch a small ferry for a short trip to Kerrera Island. Spend the afternoon exploring the ancient ruins of Glyen Castle and the rest of the island before you relax in the island tea room.

Your guide will arrange a meeting time with you the night before.

Overnight: By Oban | Loch Melfort Hotel
Room Type: Junior Suite
Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch

Day 8 - Dinner Details Read More +

Restaurant: Loch Melfort Restaurant | Location: Your Hotel
Reservation Time: 19:30 | Booking Reference: BJ9LHYKN
Website: https://www.lochmelfort.co.uk/food/

Please note that this is a table reservation only. Please pay directly.

Day 9 - Tuesday 24th September - Ancient History & Ferry To Islay

Heading south today stop for a short walk; exploring the fascinating neolithic standing stones at Kilmartin or admiring the Crinan Canal which is a scenic and lovely reminder of an age when travel was slower and the world was smaller.

After lunch you will board the ferry to the Isle of Islay, which is also known as the “Queen Of The Hebrides” and famed throughout the world for its distinctive whisky flavours. The island boasts 8 working distilleries but also has beautiful scenery and abundant wildlife. It is also one of the friendliest places in Scotland and you will notice that every driver will wave to other cars as they pass by, anyone who looks confused isn’t a local!

On arrival enjoy a true Islay welcome with a special tasting at one of key distilleries to toast your arrival on the island!

Your guide will arrange a meeting time with you the night before.

Overnight: Port Ellen | The Machrie, Islay
Room Type: Comfy Luxe Double
Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch

Day 9 - Ferry Details Read More +

Departure Port: Kennacraig | Departure Time: 13:00
Arrival Port: Port Askaig | Arrival Time: 15:05

Just in here for reference of the times, your guide will handle all the tickets and logistics.

Day 9 - Bunnahabhain Distillery - Premium Tasting Read More +

Activity: Bunnahabhain Distillery - Premium Tasting
| Start Time: 16:00 | Approx Duration: 1 hrs

Please note that this is a tasting flight only, not a distillery tour.

Day 9 - Dinner Details Read More +

Restaurant: Restaurant 18 | Location: Your Hotel
Reservation Time: 19:00 | Booking Reference: BC73R7H7

Please note that this is a table reservation only. Please pay directly.

From the Restaurant;

Dear Ronald Coons

This email is to confirm your booking at Restaurant 18 on Tuesday, 24 September 2024 at 7:00 PM.

Your booking details are below:

Ref: BC73R7H7
Date: Tuesday, 24 September 2024
Time: 7:00 PM
Guests: 2
Thank you for booking.

Kind Regards, Restaurant 18

If you need to MODIFY or CANCEL this booking, please use these links.

Day 10 - Wednesday 25th September - Highlights of Islay & Special Lagavulin Experience

Explore some of the highlights of Islay with your guide this morning, maybe taking in the beautiful walk on the Oa Peninsula in the far south of Islay. Here you will find the American Monument, which commemorates the loss of two troops ships in 1918. And you can choose if you wish to carry on to a superb viewpoint – on a clear day, the coast of Northern Ireland can be seen from here! 

This afternoon you head towards your favourite distillery for a special experience at Lagavulin as you discover some of the tales and unique tastes of this classic distillery. You can also explore along the rest of the ‘Three Distilleries’ pathway between the legendary Lagavulin, Ardbeg and Laphroig (the plan is for a cheeky tasting flight and lunch at Ardbeg before heading to Lagavulin). Thankfully your guide will be driving, leaving you free to just enjoy yourselves! What a perfect finish to your Highlands & Island explorations.

Your guide will arrange a meeting time with you the night before.

Overnight: Port Ellen | The Machrie, Islay
Room Type: Comfy Luxe Double
Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch

Day 10 - Lagavulin Distillery Exclusive Experience & Tasting Read More +

Activity: Lagavulin Distillery Exclusive Experience & Tasting
| Start Time: 14:00 | Approx Duration: 2 hrs

Day 10 - Dinner Details Read More +

Restaurant: Restaurant 18 | Location: Your Hotel
Reservation Time: 19:00 | Booking Reference: BC2KDY76

Please note that this is a table reservation only. Please pay directly.

From the Restaurant;

Dear Ronald Coons

This email is to confirm your booking at Restaurant 18 on Wednesday, 25 September 2024 at 7:00 PM.

Your booking details are below:

Ref: BC2KDY76
Date: Wednesday, 25 September 2024
Time: 7:00 PM
Guests: 2

Thank you for booking.

Kind Regards, Restaurant 18

If you need to MODIFY or CANCEL this booking, please use these links.

Day 11 - Thursday 26th September - Return To The Mainland

This morning your guide will drop you at the airport to catch your short flight to Glasgow, waving farewell. On arrival at Glasgow Airport you will be met by a private driver who will transfer you to your hotel in the city to drop your bags. Spend the afternoon on a private walking tour with an expert local city guide who will lead you on a fascinating walking tour of some of the key highlights of ‘Scotland’s friendliest city’. Discover layers of history and culture, as well as varied and elegant architecture at every turn. Keep your eyes open for the vibrant street art too, it’s a flourishing and ever-changing theme of this bustling city. You then have a free evening to spend as you wish.

Overnight: Glasgow | Kimpton Blythswood Square
Room Type: King Premium Garden View
Meals Included: Breakfast

Day 11 - Flight Details Read More +

Airline: Loganair | Flight Number: LM0422
Departure Airport: Islay | Departure Time: 09:05
Arrival Airport: Glasgow (GLA) | Arrival Time: 09:45

Day 11 - Transfer Details Read More +

Supplier: West & East of Scotland Chauffeur Drive
Booking Reference: 131207
Pick Up Location: Glasgow Airport | Pick Up Time: 09:45 | Approx Duration: 0.5 hrs
Phone: +44 (0) 141 483 1555

Your Private Driver will have a sign with your name on it.

Day 11 - Private Walking Tour Read More +

Activity: Private Walking Tour
Expert Local City Guide: Allan Stephen
Start Location: Kimpton Blythswood Square Hotel Reception | Start Time: 14:00 | Approx Duration: 4 hrs
Phone: +44 (0) 7533 455 022

This includes 2 x entry fee as per interest if required

Day 11 - Dinner Details Read More +

Restaurant: The Ubiquitous Chip | Location: 12 Ashton Lane, Glasgow, G12 8SJ
Reservation Time: 19:00 | Booking Reference: B7JFVJKN
Phone: +44 (0) 141 334 5007 | Website: http://www.ubiquitouschip.co.uk/

Please note that this is a table reservation only. Please pay directly.

From The Restaurant;

Dear Ronald

Thank you for your reservation at Ubiquitous Chip: Restaurant.
Your booking details are below:

Ref: B7JFVJKN
Date: Thursday, 26 September 2024
Time: 19:00Guests: 2
Option: À la carte
Leave Time: We respectfully require your table back by 21:30

We respectfully ask that all guests please respect COVID-19 regulations while dining with us. Please see our website for our full health and safety protocols.

We are an independent restaurant and rely on reservations being honoured. We kindly ask that should you need to make any amendments to your reservation that you do so as soon as possible. Please do make us aware of any special requirements you may have along with any allergies.

Cancellations or Late Notice
We ask for 4 hours’ notice of a cancellation or reduction in numbers (48 hours’ notice throughout December) and reservations that fail to give this notice will automatically incur a £25 per person fee.
Unfortunately our experience of parties failing to cancel or amend bookings means this policy is now required. We will contact you via email a day or two prior to your reservation to confirm your booking – we are unable to hold unconfirmed bookings.

We politely ask you to contact us if you are running late as we can only hold tables for 15 minutes.

By making a reservation at The Ubiquitous Chip you are agreeing to our reservation cancellation terms.

We look forward to welcoming you to The Ubiquitous Chip.

Kind Regards, Ubiquitous Chip: Restaurant

If you need to MODIFY or CANCEL this reservation, please use these links.

Day 12 - Friday 27th September - Free Day In Glasgow

Enjoy the bustling city centre with a full free day today, exploring the varied architecture of streets that have been home to all kinds of creatives over the years. Discover the historical influences of Charles Rennie MackIntosh or set out to find the popular contemporary graffiti murals tucked into unexpected corners all over the city. Maybe spend a relaxed few hours exploring the magnificent halls and collections of Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum. Whatever you choose, you are sure to be inspired.

Overnight: Glasgow | Kimpton Blythswood Square
Room Type: King Premium Garden View
Meals Included: Breakfast

Day 12 - Dinner Details Read More +

Restaurant: Gamba | Location: 225A West George Street, Glasgow, G2 2ND
Reservation Time: 19:00 | Booking Reference: BDNMD7HA
Phone: +44 (0) 141 572 0899 | Website: https://www.gamba.co.uk/

Please note that this is a table reservation only. Please pay directly.

From The Restaurant;

Dear Ronald Coons,

This email is to confirm your booking at GAMBA on Friday, 27 September 2024 at 7:00 PM.

Thank you for choosing Gamba. Your booking details are below:

Ref: BDNMD7HA
Date: Friday, 27 September 2024
Time: 7:00 PM
Guests: 2
Leave Time: We respectfully require your table back by 9:00 PM

If you need to MODIFY or CANCEL this reservation, please use these links.

We look forward to seeing you soon,
Gamba

Day 13 - Saturday 28th September - Depart

A private transfer will collect you from your accommodation and take you to Edinburgh 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

Day 13 - Transfer Details Read More +

Supplier: West & East of Scotland Chauffeur Drive
Booking Reference: 125043
Pick Up Location: Kimpton Blysthwood Square Hotel | Pick Up Time: 09:45 | Approx Duration: 1.25 hrs
Phone: +44 (0) 141 483 1555

Finish Location = Edinburgh Airport

Day 13 - Flight Details Read More +

Airline: Delta | Flight Number: DL 0209
Departure Airport: Edinburgh (EDI) | Departure Time: 13:35
Arrival Airport: JFK

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 the morning of Day 11 (when they drop you at Islay Airport)
  • All transfers in a private vehicle driven by your guide on guided days
  • Private Airport Transfer on Arrival Day, includes Meet & Greet
  • Private Transfer from Glasgow Airport to Glasgow Hotel on Day 11
  • Private Airport Transfer to Edinburgh Airport on Departure Day
  • All Ferry Travel Included in the Itinerary
  • All guided hikes mentioned in the itinerary
  • Entrance fees and activities mentioned in the itinerary, specifically:
    • Private Half Day Walking Tour with Expert Local City Guide in Edinburgh
      • Includes entry to Edinburgh Castle & one other entry fee as per interest
    • Private Fly Fishing Experience
      • Includes experienced instructor & all equipment hire
    • Boat Trip on Loch Ness, includes entry to Urquhart Castle
    • Entry to Eilean Donan Castle
    • 2 x Entry Fees on Skye as per interest, eg Dunvegan Castle
    • Private Storyteller Experience in Glencoe
    • 2 x Entry Fees as per interest in/around Oban
    • Entry to Kilmartin Museum
    • 3 x Distillery Tours OR Distillery Tasting Flights on Islay (as per interest and availability)
    • Lagavulin Distillery Exclusive Experience & Tasting
    • Private Half Day Walking Tour with Expert Local City Guide in Glasgow
      • Includes 2 x entry fee as per interest
  • Personalised trip design and delivery
  • 24/7 In-Country Support from the Wilderness Team
Exclusions Read More
  • All Flights (including internal)
  • 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 so stared in the inclusions

 

Notes On Weather & Flexibility

Weather in Scotland can be 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 for Hiking

  • 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.

 

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).

 

Useful Contacts

24 hour in-country support (Wilderness Scotland):  +44 (0)1479 420 020, or out with regular office hours +44 (0)7766 794 640 (urgent calls only)

Emergency services:  999 or 112NHS 24 (24 hour free medical advice):  111

 

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.

Important Contact Numbers Read More
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

+44 (0)7766 794 640

Emergency Services

999

Pricing Read More

Pricing:

The NET price for this itinerary, based on 2 clients on a twin-share basis, and including a £12 per person conservation contribution is £9,895 GBP per person

  • 22nd May 2024 – Supplement of £615 added (Total Cost, not pp)
    • This covers an additional night in Glasgow & a departure Airport Transfer to Edinburgh Airport
    • This supplement will be added to the final balance invoice as discussed

Conservation Contribution

This voluntary donation of £12 per person goes towards conservation projects in the locations we operate.  If you would like to opt out just let your trip designer know.

Click here for more information.

Terms & Conditions Read More

Please see our booking terms here.

Meet Your Guide

Fiona Newcombe

Contact Number: +44 (0) 7708 405 151

Me In Three = Enthusiastic | Curious| Friendly

My 1 year in Scotland studying for my Masters’s degree has turned into a 27-year love affair full of adventure and fun. I was lucky to work for 15 years full-time in nature conservation and land management across Scotland. More recently I have combined ecology fieldwork with being a mountain leader and tour guide across the Highlands and Islands. I’m also an Overseas Expedition Leader and I particularly enjoy introducing young people to outdoor adventure.

I get great pleasure from the variety of landscapes and wildlife we enjoy in Scotland, whether it’s awesome and challenging mountain adventures or a quiet interaction with nature. I qualified as an STGA Green Badge Tour Guide in 2016 and have become beguiled by the history and culture of this amazing place.

Place to Play

Despite the amazing variety in Scotland, the Cairngorms remain my special place especially when they have their coat of snow and ice.

Not a lot of people know this

I was a professional chocolate research scientist, working in the Cadbury-Schweppes labs for 6 months. I retain a strong interest in Chocolate as a key adventure fuel!

Virtuoso

Coons Scottish Explorations – V3 – Final Information Document

Monday 16th September – Saturday 28th September 2024