Final Information - The Myers Family Adventure to Scotland

Curt, Kim, Curtis, Miriam, Julia and Richard

Saturday 27th July – Saturday 3rd August 2024

Number of Travellers: 6
Duration: 8 Days / 7 Nights

Overview

Spend time as a family as you explore the Highlands of Scotland with your private driver guide.  From the jagged mountains of Glencoe to the crystal clear waters of the west coast, and from the hallowed green fairways of St Andrews to the theatrical extravaganza of the Military Tattoo, this trip will tingle all your sense and leave you wanting to return for more.

Highlights

  • Hear stories passed down from generations with a local storyteller
  • Explore some of the most beautiful scenery in Scotland with your knowledgeable guide
  • Spend your last night at the Royal Military Tattoo complete with fireworks and dinner in the Castle

Day by Day

Day 1 - Saturday 27th July - Welcome to Scotland

On arrival at Edinburgh airport you will be met by your private driver guide and will head out of the city on the first leg of your adventure.  Your first stop will be Bannockburn where you will meet with an expert guide who will really bring this landscape to life as you imagine what it was like standing shoulder to shoulder with Robert the Bruce before his greatest victory. After lunch there will be the option to visit Stirling Castle or just head on through the ever changing landscape to the jagged mountains of Glencoe where you will check into your  accommodation in the heart of the valley for the next three nights.

Overnight: Glencoe | Glencoe House
Room Type: 1 x One Bedroom Suite (Double) & 1 x Two Bedroom Suite (Doubles)
Meals Included: Lunch

Day 1 - Flight Details Read More +

Airline: United Airlines | Flight Number: UA0161
Departure Airport: EWR Arrival Airport: Edinburgh (EDI) | Arrival Time: 11:40

Day 1 - Guide Details - Ian Jones Read More +

Name: Ian Jones
Contact Number: +44 (0)7910 717 044
Meeting Place: Edinburgh Airport Arrivals Hall | Meeting Time: 11:40

Your guide will be holding a sign with your names on it as you emerge from arrivals.

Day 1 - Guide Details - Jim Ewing Read More +

Name: Jim Ewing
Contact Number: + 44 (0)7570 440 018
Meeting Place: Bannockburn | Meeting Time: 15:00

Your expert local tour guide will meet you at Bannockburn visitor centre

Day 1 - Dinner Details Read More +

Restaurant: Laroch Restaurant | Location: Loan Fern, Ballachulish, PH49 4JB
Reservation Time: 19:30 | Booking Reference: Kim Myers
Phone: +44(0)1855 811 940 | Website: https://www.facebook.com/people/The-Laroch-Restaurant-and-Bar/100040875445553/

Ian will take you to dinner and bring you back, only 5 to 10 mins drive time.

This is a table reservation only, please pay locally.

Day 2 - Sunday 28th July - Steam trains and Sea Kayaking

Set off on an adventure this morning as you board the famous Jacobite Steam Train and be transported to the coast behind one of the most famous Steam Engines in the UK.  Thunder over the iconic viaduct and pass alongside loch before arriving at the seaside resort of Mallaig.  This afternoon, take to the sea as you enjoy an afternoon of sea kayaking on the crystal clear waters of the west coast.  With only the swish of your paddle and the lap of the waves to keep you company, this is the perfect way to connect with Scotland – especially when the friendly seal colony pop their heads up to say hello!

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

Overnight: Glencoe | Glencoe House
Room Type: 1 x One Bedroom Suite (Double) & 1 x Two Bedroom Suite (Doubles)
Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch

Day 2 - Jacobite Steam Train Read More +

Activity: Jacobite Steam Train
Start Location: Fort William | Start Time: 10:30

Your guide will take you to the station this morning and then collect you at Mallaig.

It is an approximate 30 minute drive from your hotel to the train station and your guide will arrange a pick up time with you the night before.

Day 2 - Private Sea Kayaking Read More +

Activity: Private Sea Kayaking

Start Location: Arisaig | Start Time: 14:30

After lunch, your guide will take you to the start point for your private sea kayaking adventure.

Day 2 - Dinner Details Read More +

Restaurant: Ben Nevis Inn | Location: Claggan, Achintee, Fort William PH33 6TE
Reservation Time: 18:00 | Booking Reference: BZP997TF
Phone: +44 (0)1397 701227

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

Name on reservation Kim Myers.

Day 3 - Monday 29th July - Exploring Glencoe or Free Time

Glencoe – a valley of myths and legends, where you can feel the true essence of Scotland seeping from the well trodden trails and drifting down the towering peaks. Your guide will discuss all the options for hikes today – from hidden valleys to secret glens, there are many choices where you can get off the beaten track with your guide and hear stories about the tragic past of this beautiful area. End the day with a warming dram, reminiscing of a wonderful family adventure.
Alternatively you could choose to relax in the serene atmosphere of your suites and just soak in the beautiful surroundings. Your guide will be available if you choose to explore.

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

Overnight: Glencoe | Glencoe House
Room Type: 1 x One Bedroom Suite (Double) & 1 x Two Bedroom Suite (Doubles)
Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch

Day 3 - Dinner Details Read More +

Hotel: Your Hotel | Location: Private Dining in your Suite
Reservation Time: 18:00

Please note, this will be served in Suite 6 as they no longer do dining in the Great Hall.  Please pay directly.

Day 4 - Tuesday 30th July - To Perthshire

It is time to head east towards your next destination today.  On the way to Highland Perthshire, you will stop off to explore Blair Castle, the home to the same family for over 700 years!  This castle is the home of the only remaining Private Army in Europe, and has an incredible collection of weaponry which is fascinating to explore.  Follow in the family’s footsteps as you explore the castle and the immaculate gardens before venturing on to your welcoming hotel that overlooks the famous River Tay.

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

Overnight: Pitlochry | Fonab Castle Hotel
Room Type: 1 x Castle Signature and 2 x Castle Signature Views
Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch

Day 4 - Spa Treatments Read More +

Activity: Spa Treatments
Start Location: Fonab Castle | Start Time: 15:00

3 x spa treatments as below;

  • 2 x Highland Glow Facial for 1 hour & 1 x Castle Classic Massage for 90 mins

These will be charged to your room to be settled on departure.

Day 4 - Clay Shooting Read More +

Activity: Clay Shooting
Start Location: Fonab Castle | Start Time: 16:00

Clay Shooting Experience with 50 clays per person for Curt, Curtis and Richard.  Your guide will pick you up at take you to the activity,

This is payable locally at £100 per person and will be charged to your room.

Day 4 - Dinner Details Read More +

Restaurant: 1892 on the Loch | Location: Fonab Castle, Foss Road, Pitlochry
Reservation Time: 18:30 | Booking Reference: 3U55N93Z
Phone: +44 (0)1796 470 140

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

Name on reservation is Kim Myers.

Day 5 - Wednesday 31st July - Visiting a Scottish Hill Farm and a Landrover Safari

Head into the hills today to visit a traditional Scottish hill farm. Enjoy meeting the local farmer and gaining an insight into what daily life looks like in rural Scotland. Meet the farm’s friendly herd of swiss goats and hear about how the award-winning cheese is made. Afterwards, continue into the enchanting glen, delving deeper into the wilderness on a private landrover 4×4 tour. As you explore, look out for the russet red coats of red deer and the soaring silhouettes of golden eagles. Listen out for the chattering disapproval of grouse as they flap comically above the heath, chatting to your guide about the land’s topography.

Tonight, you will meet with a local storyteller who will regale you with tales of myths and legends.  Sit back and relax with a mocktail or a wee dram and let the stories wash over you and transport you to a time that is woven into the very fabric of the lives of the people of Scotland.

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

Overnight: Pitlochry | Fonab Castle Hotel
Room Type: 1 x Castle Signature and 2 x Castle Signature Views
Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch

Day 5 - Private Highland Safari Read More +

Activity: Private Highland Safari
Start Location: Aberfeldy | Start Time: 09:00

Your guide will arrange a meeting time the night before and take you for the start of your Highland adventure.

Day 5 - Private Farm Tour Read More +

Activity: Private Farm Tour
Drumturk Cheeses:
| Start Time: 15:00

Final details TBC

Day 5 - Storyteller Read More +

Activity: Storyteller
Lindsay Gibb:
Start Location: Fonab Castle | Start Time: 17:00

Your guide will take you to meet Lindsay at the library within the hotel.

Day 5 - Dinner Details Read More +

Restaurant: Port-Na-Craig Inn | Location: Port Na Craig, Pitlochry, PH16 5ND
Reservation Time: 18:00
Phone: +44 (0)1796 472777

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

Name on the reservation is Kim Myers.

Day 6 - Thursday 1st August - The Home of Golf

St Andrews – the home of golf and the place where the Prince and Princess of Wales met as students many years ago.  Arrive in time to explore the city – from the cathedral to the beachfront and all the hidden gems in between.  There will be time to visit the pro shop before enjoying lunch at the Clubhouse and then heading onto Edinburgh in the mid afternoon.  With the fringe festival about to get underway, enjoy the atmosphere that seeps into every corner of the city and perhaps end the day with a drink in the bar.

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

Overnight: Edinburgh | The Bonham
Room Type: 1 x Junior Suite and 2 x Superior Rooms
Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch

Day 6 - Dinner Details Read More +

Restaurant: The Balmoral Hotel | Location: 1 Princes Street, Edinburgh, EH2 2EQ
Reservation Time: 18:00 | Booking Reference: Number One - Kim Myers
Phone: +44(0) 131 556 2414 | Website: https://www.roccofortehotels.com/hotels-and-resorts/the-balmoral-hotel/dining/number-one/

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

Name on the reservation is Kim Myers.

Day 7 - Friday 2nd August - Fringe Festival and the Royal Military Tattoo

The streets of Edinburgh will be buzzing with energy due to the various festivals running this month and you will pass street performers and entertainment on every corner as you explore. Follow your curiosity through the twisting cobbled streets of the Old Town and enjoy the vibrant ambience. There will be a huge variety of different shows and concerts to choose from if you wish to catch a performance and your fringe guide will make sure you get the most out of this world famous institution!

The Edinburgh Military Tattoo is a world-renowned outdoor performance that started in 1950. It is different every year and is staged on the castle esplanade with incredible views over the city. Your evening starts with a 3-course dinner and whisky tasting within the castle, this includes a brief recital by members of the tattoo cast. After your meal, you will be escorted to your premier seats for the start of the performance. The show ends with a spectacular fireworks display and is sure to blow you away on your final night on Scottish soil.

Overnight: Edinburgh | The Bonham
Room Type: 1 x Junior Suite and 2 x Superior Rooms
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Day 7 - Guide Details - Rob Bushby Read More +

Name: Rob Bushby
Contact Number: +44 (0)7789 222463
Meeting Place: Lobby of your hotel | Meeting Time: 09:30

Your expert local guide will meet you at the reception of your hotel.

Day 7 - Edinburgh Royal Military Tattoo Read More +

Activity: Edinburgh Royal Military Tattoo
Start Location: Edinburgh Castle | Start Time: 18:30
Booking Reference: 2440331

Your guide will have given you your tickets earlier in the week and Rob will escort you to the castle for your pre show dining.

The host will then take you from dinner and escort you to your seats in the Premier Section of the stands.

Day 8 - Saturday 3rd August - Depart Edinburgh

A private transfer will take you to the airport this morning in time for your onward connection, taking with you a small part of this ancient land in your heart and a longing to return.

Meals Included: Breakfast

Day 8 - Transfer Details Read More +

Supplier: Littles Chauffeur Company
Booking Reference: 2704423
Pick Up Location: Lobby of your hotel | Pick Up Time: 10:00
Phone: +44 (0) 141 883 2111

Your private transfer will meet you at the reception of your hotel.

Day 8 - Flight Details Read More +

Airline: United Airlines | Flight Number: UA0162
Departure Airport: Edinburgh (EDI) | Departure Time: 13:30

Trip Details

Inclusions Read More
  • All accommodation as specified in the itinerary
  • Most meals as indicated above
  • Services of an experienced and knowledgeable qualified guide from Day 1 to Day 6
  • Ground transportation driven by their guide on guided days
  • Private airport transfer on Departure Day
  • All guided hikes and activities mentioned in the itinerary
    – Entry to Bannockburn
    – Private expert guide at Bannockburn
    – First Class tickets on the Jacobite Express
    – Private afternoon Sea Kayaking session with an expert guide
    – Entry to Blair Castle
    – Visit and cheese tasting at a local farm
    – Private Landrover Safari into the Perthshire hills
    – Private Session with a local storyteller
    – Private Full Day Fringe Guide in Edinburgh
    – Dinner in the castle followed by Premier Seats for the Royal Military Tattoo
  • Personalised trip design and delivery
  • Snacks throughout the trip
  • 24 hour 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

 

Notes On Weather & Flexibility

Weather – July 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.

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 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

Terms & Conditions Read More

Please see our booking terms here.


Accommodation

Glencoe House

Glencoe | West Highlands |
PH49 4HT | Scotland
Phone: +44 (0)1855 811 179
Web: glencoe-house.com

Fonab Castle Hotel

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

The Bonham

35 Drumsheugh Gardens | Edinburgh | Midlothian |
EH3 7RN | Scotland
Phone: 0131 226 6050
Web: thebonham.com


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.