Scottish Explorations

Day 1 - Thursday 9^th May - Welcome To Scotland

On arrival at Edinburgh 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 as you enjoy a free evening.

Restaurant Recommendations – Edinburgh

Overnight: Edinburgh | The Bruntsfield Hotel
Room Type: Executive Double
Meals Included: None

Day 2 - Friday 10^th May - Morning Private Walking Tour. Free Afternoon

Spend the morning exploring the tales of the cobbled streets and alleyways of Edinburgh’s historic Old Town with an expert local city guide. You will visit some of the famous sights as well as discovering some fascinating lesser known gems. This afternoon is free for you to continue exploring at your own pace, maybe using some tips from your guide this morning.

Overnight: Edinburgh | The Bruntsfield Hotel
Room Type: Executive Double
Meals Included: Breakfast

Day 3 - Saturday 11^th May - Free Day For Self-Explorations

Today is free to visit some of Edinburgh’s wonderful attractions independently; venture underneath the streets into the dark tales, discover the Georgian opulence of the New Town or go aboard the Royal Yacht Britannia, once the floating palace of Queen Elizabeth II and The Duke of Edinburgh.

Overnight: Edinburgh | The Bruntsfield Hotel
Room Type: Executive Double
Meals Included: Breakfast

Day 4 - Sunday 12^th May - Meet Your Guide & Head North via Scone Palace

This morning your Private Guide (who will also act as your driver) will meet you at your hotel and together you will head north towards the Highlands. Stop to visit the splendours of this elegant palace that was once the crowning place of Scottish Kings and Queens. Stroll the beautiful gardens and explore the unique Murray Star Maze before you continue North. There are many options for gentle strolls taking in the beautiful scenery, which your guide will bring to life for you. A visit to an award-winning chocolatier would be the perfect place to enjoy a delectable sweet treat before your guide takes you to your accommodation with plenty of time to settle in before dinner.

Overnight: Pitlochry | Craigatin House & Courtyard
Room Type: Double ensuite
Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch

Day 5 - Monday 13^th May - Transfer To Fort William. Afternoon Wildlife Boat Trip

Today you head west to Fort William, the ‘Outdoor Capital’ of the UK and situated at the bottom of the highest mountain in the country. Your route takes you through the stunning scenery of Glencoe, which you may recognise as the backdrop to several big Hollywood films and TV series. Your guide will share some of the stories about this hauntingly beautiful place as you learn about the ancient treachery and cattle rustling. Then you continue your journey to Fort William. This afternoon take a boat trip to look out for the local wildlife. Seals and seabirds are almost guaranteed, but you may be lucky enough to catch a sighting of an Eagle or a cheeky otter too.

Restaurant Recommendations – Fort William

Overnight: Fort William | Nevis Bank Inn
Room Type: Suite
Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch

Day 6 - Tuesday 14^th May - Road To The Isles & Afternoon Sea Kayaking

Enjoy superb views as you make your way up the coast to Fort William and then drive west along the stunning Road to the Isles, this is frequently listed as one of the most beautiful drives in the world and it is easy to see why. You may wish to stop at the historic Glenfinnan viaduct, whose graceful arches featured in several of the Harry Potter films.
On arrival in Arisaig you will take to the waters for an afternoon of guided sea kayaking. This location is a worldwide destination for paddlers due to the beautiful crystal clear waters, white sandy beaches and fun tiny rocky islands to explore, complete with a wide variety of local wildlife. At the end of a wonderful day your guide will take you back to your hotel for some well-earned relaxation.

Overnight: Fort William | Nevis Bank Inn
Room Type: Suite
Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch

Day 7 - Wednesday 15^th May - Transfer to Inverness via Loch Ness Cruise

Wave farewell to the west coast today as you head to Inverness via the Great Glen, the divide which splits the country with the aid of the Caledonian Canal. This takes you to the canalside village of Fort Augustus on the shores of Loch Ness. The dark waters of this infamous loch are of course reported to be the home of Nessie herself. Take to the water on a scenic cruise and look out for wildlife such as feral goats, golden eagles and of course the elusive monster! When back on shore you will drive up the northern shore of the loch and will stop at the ruins of Castle Urquhart. This large castle has a rich and bloody past that dates back centuries. Then you continue to Inverness where your guide will drop you at your hotel and wave farewell.

Overnight: Inverness | Kingsmills Hotel
Room Type: Luxury King
Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch

Day 8 - Thursday 16^th May - Depart

This morning a private transfer will take you to Inverness Airport to catch your onward travel to Ireland. Taking with you many happy memories of unique moments of your Scottish explorations, which are sure to make you smile for years to come. Now, to the Emerald Isle!

Meals Included: Breakfast