Exploring Scotland

Day 1 - Thursday 11^th July - Welcome to Edinburgh

Arrive in the architecturally stunning city of Edinburgh today and settle into your lovely accommodation. Depending on your arrival time, you may wish to head out and explore the winding alleys and cobblestone streets. Full of history, the capital is very accessible by foot. Wander up the Royal Mile, starting at the Palace of Holyrood House, once the home of Mary Queen of Scots and finishing at the impressive Edinburgh Castle, visiting St Giles’ Cathedral (which has been a working church for over 900 years) as you explore. This evening, enjoy dinner and a good night’s sleep.

Overnight: Edinburgh | The Balmoral Hotel
Meals Included: None

Day 2 - Friday 12^th July - To the Highlands

This morning, your Wilderness guide will pick you up at your hotel, and together you will travel to the west coast. On the way, stop at Doune Castle, a mediaeval stronghold which has since been used as a location of film and TV, most notably the Outlander series. Stretch your legs as you explore the impressive castle and grounds. Then continue on to your castle hotel, situated on a private island home to a huge amount of wildlife. Settle in this evening, perhaps taking a stroll round the island looking out for otters.

Overnight: Isle of Eriska | Isle of Eriska Hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch

Day 3 - Saturday 13^th July - Hiking Iconic Peaks

This morning meet your guide early to head out for a bigger hiller walking day. There are so many fantastic options to choose from. One option is to hike the mighty Ben Nevis, the highest peak in the UK. Starting from sea level it’s a long day but the views from the top on a clear day are worth it. Or, if you prefer a quieter hike, your guide can suggest options to suit you. Choose one of the surrounding peaks in the area or head into Glencoe for some iconic hiking there. Back at your hotel relax after a long day in the spa.

Overnight: Isle of Eriska | Isle of Eriska Hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch

Day 4 - Sunday 14^th July - Hiking in Glencoe

Enjoy breakfast before meeting your guide and heading out to explore Glencoe. This spectacular glen, carved out centuries ago by glaciers and volcanic eruptions, offers some wild and scenic hiking. One great option is to hike along a narrow rowan-hung gorge until you reach the Lost Valley. This enclosed meadow – high, green, and hidden by precipitous tors, is said to be where the Macdonald clan used to conceal their rustled cattle. Surrounded by jagged peaks that shift in and out of mountain mist. Then enjoy a quick visit to the Glencoe Center to learn about the landscape as well as the area’s tragic history. Later, transfer into the heart of the Cairngorms National Park and to your incredible hotel.

Overnight: Balmoral | The Fife Arms
Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch

Day 5 - Monday 15^th July - The Cairngorms & Royal Lochnagar Distillery

This morning, head out with your guide for another wonderful hike. A great option is to try for the summit of Lochnagar, a fantastic hill with a distinctive curved corrie that plunges down to a little lochan. The hill was immortalised by Lord Byron, who grew up not far away in Aberdeen and is a favourite of locals. Later this afternoon, end the day with a tour and tasting at the Royal Lochnagar Distillery, tasting to your time in the Highlands before returning to your hotel for a final dinner.

Overnight: Balmoral | The Fife Arms
Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch

Day 6 - Tuesday 16^th July - Exploring Balmoral

Today, head out with your guide for a stunning hike in the beautiful Balmoral Estate. A Highland residence of the Royal Family since it was bought for Queen Victoria in 1852, walk through the ancient Caledonian pine forests, listening out for the white-water rush of a river and the bright sing-song call of a blackbird. Whether you fancy a mellow circular walk or a more demanding high-level stomp, your guide will be able to suggest the perfect option for you. Later, visit Balmoral Castle, only open for a short while during the summer, you’ll explore the Highland residence of the Royal Family and a favourite of her late Majesty, Elizabeth II.

Overnight: Balmoral | The Fife Arms
Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch

Day 7 - Wednesday 17^th July - Highland Estate and return to Edinburgh

This morning, leave Balmoral and head back towards Edinburgh. On the way, stop at a local Highland Estate. Here, you will meet the owners, recuse donkeys and try your hand a fly fishing on the local loch. Then head up into the hills in a Landrover and enjoy a luxury lunch in a secluded Highland bothy. Later, continue your journey to Edinburgh, where your guide will leave you at your hotel and you can spend the evening enjoying the sights and sounds of the capital city.

Overnight: Edinburgh | The Balmoral Hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch

Day 8 - Thursday 18^th July - A day in Edinburgh

Set out to explore the historic capital. Visit Dean Village and pick up a fresh coffee and a buttery pastry from one of the many independent cafes as you browse the art galleries, booksellers and artisanal food shops. After lunch, enter the mighty ancient fortress of Edinburgh Castle. Walk the ramparts atop Castle Rock, watch the firing of the One O’Clock gun, and visit the dungeon, chapel and The Crown Jewels. This evening, head enjoy a ghost tour down into the catacombs of the city and the winding alleys that exist under the streets today. A fun and informative way to end the trip.

Overnight: Edinburgh | The Balmoral Hotel

Day 9 - Friday 19^th July - Depart Edinburgh

After a relaxed breakfast, head to the airport and depart for home.