Travel Associates, Noller & Turner - Scotland

Day 1 - Arrive in Edinburgh.

Welcome to Scotland! Your private transfer will meet you at Edinburgh airport and transfer you to your welcoming hotel. Take some time to relax and settle in, enjoying an oasis of calm as the city’s characterful streets buzz and bustle beyond the window.

Overnight: Edinburgh | The Bonham Hotel
Room Type: Townhouse Double
Meals Included: Dinner

Day 2 - Private Foodie & History Walking tour & Royal Military Tattoo Experience.

Spend today exploring the city with a local guide who is passionate about the layers of history and stories in these streets, as well as the incredible selection of food that this wonderful city has to offer.  Be led through the hidden gems of the city to the places only the locals know about so you can taste some of the local delicacies and hear about the incredible lives which have been lived here.

This evening immerse yourselves in the wonderful spectacle of The Edinburgh Military Tattoo. This world-renowned outdoor performance started way back in 1950. It is different every year and is staged on the castle esplanade with incredible views over the city. Start your special evening with a delicious dinner (no need to dress up, smart casual only) before settling into your premium seats before the entertainment begins. The show ends with a spectacular fireworks display and is sure to blow you away.

Overnight: Edinburgh | The Bonham Hotel
Room Type: Townhouse Double
Meals Included: Breakfast

Day 3 - Meet Scottish Genealogist & Enjoy the Festival Atmosphere

This morning you will meet with a genealogist who has been researching your family history in this country. Enjoy discussing their findings and discovering the stories and locations which make up your ancestry. This afternoon is free for you to enjoy the Edinburgh Festival celebrations,  you may wish to get right into the swing of it or just soak in the vibrant atmosphere of the streets as you discover impromptu performances, or book concert seats. You will be spoilt for choice and there is something for every taste.

Overnight: Edinburgh | The Bonham Hotel
Room Type: Townhouse Double
Meals Included: Breakfast

Day 4 - Fly To Shetland & Meet Your Private Shetland Guide

This morning a private transfer will take you to Edinburgh Airport to board your flight north.Upon arrival you will be met by your private guide (who will also act as your driver) for your time here in this remote archipelago of the Shetland Isles. Start exploring right away with a visit to the fascinating Jarlshof Prehistoric & Norse Settlement. This site shows evidence of settlements all the way back to 2500 BC, with wonderful examples of buildings throughout the ages. Immerse yourself in the past as you imagine the everyday lives of people in this place through the years. Your guide will then take you north to your hotel, maybe stopping to explore a coastal stroll or a traditional croft along the way depending on your interests.

Overnight: Shetland | Scalloway Hotel
Room Type: Double Room
Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch

Day 5 - Hike the Dramatic Cliffs of Eshaness.

Enjoy exploring the main island of Shetland today, and take in some of the most dramatic scenery with a coastal hike on the dramatic headland of Eshaness. Explore the awe-inspiring coastal scenery around the wonderfully named Villains of Ure, the Grind of the Navir and the Holes of Scraada. The wildlife spotting opportunities are also numerous, with sightings of otters and even orcas reported from here.

Overnight: Shetland | Scalloway Hotel
Room Type: Double Room
Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch

Day 6 - Broch of Mousa

Head south and board the boat to Mousa and enjoy an afternoon exploring the island with your guide, as well as the famous Broch of Mousa. This is the tallest broch still standing in the whole of Europe, as well as one of the most well preserved. Admire how this incredible building has stood the test of time and then climb the winding staircase to enjoy the views from the top. The broch is also home to hundreds of Storm Petrels that nest in the walls, so keep your eyes peeled for them flitting in and out.

Overnight: Shetland | Scalloway Hotel
Room Type: Double Room
Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch

Day 7 - Almost As Far North As You Can Go

Head to the very top of the country today as you travel by ferry to the islands of Yell and Unst in the very far north of Shetland. On Unst, take a walk at Hermaness National Nature Reserve, one of the largest breeding colonies of Bonxie in the world. This is a superb and wild spot to gaze out across the sea to the sensationally placed lighthouse on the island of Muckle Flugga, and the tiny rock of Out Stack, the most northerly point of land in the United Kingdom.

Overnight: Shetland | Scalloway Hotel
Room Type: Double Room
Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch

Day 8 - Soak in The Character Of Shetland in Lerwick

Today may be a good day to slow down a bit and maybe enjoy spending time exploring Lerwick, which is full of character and history. Stop into the Shetland Museum & Archives, visit the Brock of Clickimin and discover the traditions of Shetland wool woven through the fabric of everyday life on the islands. Follow your curiosity, and of course your guide can take you out of town if there is somewhere else still on your wishlist.

Overnight: Shetland | Scalloway Hotel
Room Type: Double Room
Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch

Day 9 - Fly to Orkney, Meet Your Northern Scotland Guide & visit the Italian Chapel.

Your Shetland guide will take you to the airport this morning, where you will catch your flight to Orkney. On arrival you will be met by your Northern Scotland Private Guide, who will also act as your driver for your time together. Together you will start your explorations of the Orkney ‘mainland’, as the locals call the main island in this unique archipelago. A wonderful start is to take in the Italian Chapel, two Nissan huts converted into a place of worship by prisoners of war.

Head over the Churchill Barriers, narrow causeways which were built as wartime protection but now provide a vital link to these smaller islands. Explore the charming village of St Margaret’s Hope, where you can clearly see the artistic inspiration of these islands in the local galleries. Your guide will take you to check into your welcoming accommodation with plenty of time to freshen up before dinner.

Overnight: Orkney | The Lynnfield Hotel
Room Type: Double Room
Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch

Day 10 - UNESCO Site of Skara Brae, Coastal Hikes & Explorations

Skara Brae is one of the most famous archaeological sites in the world, and probably the best known of the UNESCO World Heritage Site known as the Heart of Neolithic Orkney. An early start this morning will ensure that you get a chance to immerse yourself in this fascinating site while it is still quiet. Then you can hike north along the coastline with your guide along cliffs which are home to a multitude of seabirds and thousands of years of history in the form of archaeological sites. If you are feeling energetic then you can continue all the way to the rocky Point of Buckquoy. If the tides are in your favour you may be able to cross the tidal causeway to explore the Norse settlement on the tiny isle of the Brough of Birsay. There will be time for explorations with your guide this afternoon, or you can choose to have some time to yourself to explore at your own pace.

Overnight: Orkney | The Lynnfield Hotel
Room Type: Double Room
Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch

Day 11 - Ring of Brodgar, Maeshowe & Stones Of Stenness

Today you head to Maeshowe and the Stones Of Stenness, where 4 huge standing stones are all that remain of what is possibly the oldest stone circle in the British Isles. Take your time at the incredible massive stone circle that is the Ring Of Brodgar. Theories still abound about the purpose of this site, so join a chat by one of the local expert rangers to hear all the evidence and decide for yourself if it was a ritual site, a giant astronomical observatory or something completely different.

Before you return to your hotel you may also want to take some time today to explore the characterful town of Stromness, full of narrow alleys and always with the character of the sea permeating the air.

Overnight: Orkney | The Lynnfield Hotel
Room Type: Double Room
Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch

Day 12 - Chambered Cairns of Rousay OR The Old Man of Hoy

Today you will visit one of the smaller islands in the Orkney grouping. Discuss with your guide if you wish to visit an ongoing archaeological dig and the chambered cairns in Rousay. Or take the passenger ferry to Hoy and hike the cliffs to admire ‘The Old Man’. Whichever you choose, you are sure to discover some fascinating history and sweeping sea vistas.

Overnight: Orkney | The Lynnfield Hotel
Room Type: Double Room
Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch

Day 13 - Orkney explorations - Flexible Options

Today you have a flexible day so you can choose what will suit you best. Maybe take some free time to yourselves to relax at your hotel, or wander in Kirkwall town. Or perhaps choose to explore with your guide further into the far flung places of Orkney, voyaging into the remote and unspoiled quiet places where time seems to stand still.  As you venture beyond the main island’s charming towns and well-preserved history, you can uncover hidden gems where ancient ruins and seabird colonies coexist. Maybe find a beautiful and secluded spot to enjoying the fresh sea air and a gentle walk.  The choice is yours, your guide will discuss the options with you, ensuring that whatever you choose, you will have a day to remember.

Overnight: Orkney | The Lynnfield Hotel
Room Type: Double Room
Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch

Day 14 - Ferry To Mainland Scotland, John O'Groats & Castle Of Mey

Today we will embark on a ferry journey from Orkney to the mainland.  As the islands gradually recede into the horizon, you will begin to see the rugged coastline of the Scottish mainland. Visit John O’Groats, with its iconic signpost, and maybe take a coastal walk to see the incredible variety of seabirds who call these northern cliffs home. Castle Of Mey, a former Royal residence, offers an elegant contrast to the wild freedom of these spaces. Your guide will then take you to your welcoming accommodation to settle in.

Overnight: Thurso | Forss House Hotel
Room Type: Deluxe Double In Main House
Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch

Day 15 - Caithness & The Whaligoe Steps

Take a full day to explore Caithness, with its unique blend of history and breathtaking landscapes. Discover the trades that historically supported the locals and how things have changed locally with the passage of time. Visit the Whaligoe Steps and test your stamina on the 330 stone steps which descend dramatically to the sea. Originally built by fisherwomen in the 18th century, they reveal a hidden harbour which kept tiny family  fishing boats safe for generations.

Overnight: Thurso | Forss House Hotel
Room Type: Deluxe Double In Main House
Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch

Day 16 - North Coast Landscape

Your destination today is the small village of Tongue, which enjoys some beautiful views of the remote mountains and coastline. The space and sweeping skies of this wild landscape give a wonderful sense of freedom. This area has become much more popular in the last few years with the awareness of the NorthCoast500, but your guide will share their favourite peaceful and little-visited spots that hide just off the main road. There may also be some places with family connections to explore along the way too.

Overnight: Tongue | Lundies House
Room Type: Main House Room
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Day 17 - Transfer To Kylesku via Durness & Cape Wrath

Head west with your guide this morning and immerse yourself in the incredible landscapes around you. You could fully embrace the remote adventure and hop aboard the small ferry boat to catch the local minibus to Cape Wrath, the most North-Westerly point of the Scottish mainland. Keep an eye out while you are enjoying the views, it is not unusual to spot whales from here.

Maybe delve into Smoo Cave, where underground chambers echo with the crash of an underground waterfall and limestone formations create a surreal subterranean world. Or stay in the sunshine as you discover the local craft village, stocked by a variety of local artists who draw their inspiration from this landscape. Your guide will help you discover the best options for you before you head down the coast to your welcoming hotel in the picturesque village of Kylesku.

Overnight: Kylesku | Kylesku Hotel
Room Type: Superior King
Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch

Day 18 - Boat Trip & Flexible Afternoon

Enjoy a tranquil morning as you take a wildlife boat trip through some of Scotland’s most enchanting and unspoiled scenery.  Setting out from the hotel jetty, glide through the deep-blue sea loch waters surrounded by steep mountains and dramatic cliffs. If you are lucky you may see the local seal colony sunbathing and eagles gliding past the highest waterfall in the UK. This afternoon you can choose to soak in the quiet environment and relax, or discuss another option with your guide.

Overnight: Kylesku | Kylesku Hotel
Room Type: Superior King
Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch

Day 19 - Unique Northwest & Transfer to Ullapool

The route south is a journey filled with breathtaking landscapes and remote charm. There are so many options for stops with incredible vistas to explore with a walk along the way, winding roads that hug the rugged coastline, deep lochs, towering mountains and beautiful beaches. This is a unique area geologically, and there are ancient traces of civilisation in some of the local caves in the hills too. Stop in one of the local villages to maybe taste the delicious local seafood and baking before carrying on to the harbour town of Ullapool.

Overnight: Ullapool | Ardvreck House
Room Type: King Loch View
Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch

Day 20 - Ferry to Lewis in The Outer Hebrides

The ferry journey out to Stornoway in the Outer Hebrides is one to savour and enjoy as fabulous coastal views are often complemented by wildlife sightings. Arriving on Lewis take some time to have a look around the main town of the Western Isles, full of island inspiration. After lunch you can head up to the Butt of Lewis to explore the cliffs and photogenic lighthouse of the Butt of Lewis before heading to your welcoming guesthouse to settle in.

Overnight: Lewis - Outer Hebrides | Borve Country Hosue
Room Type: Deluxe Double
Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch

Day 21 - Traditional Blackhouses & The Awe-Inspiring Callanish Stones

Discover the heritage of crofting life on the islands as you explore a restored village of traditional ‘blackhouses’, so called because they were stained black by the smoke of their central fireplaces. Small communities cling to life with vibrant fervour here on some of the wildest and most beautiful islands in Europe. Life can be hard here, but the sense of community is like nothing else and the friendships shine bright.

Standing tall amid a windswept landscape, the Neolithic Callanish Stones, evoke a profound sense of timelessness. Erected around 5,000 years ago, the main stone circle with its central monolith and avenues of towering stones, is a place where myth and history intertwine. As you wander among these enigmatic giants, you can’t help but wonder about the rituals and beliefs of the people who placed them here.

Overnight: Lewis - Outer Hebrides | Borve Country House
Room Type: Deluxe Double
Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch

Day 22 - Glens and Beaches of North Harris.

Today you transfer to Harris, this island is one of the most spectacular areas of the Outer Hebrides. We spend the day exploring the glens and beaches, perhaps visiting the white sands of Hushinish or hiking into the glens to see the massive cliffs of Sron Uladal. A wonderful day with views of incredible turquoise waters whichever route you choose!

Overnight: Harris | Hotel Hebrides
Room Type: Kirklea Suite
Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch

Day 23 - The Machair of Harris and The Golden Road.

The Machir plains are a rare grassy habitat is only found on the exposed western coastline of Scotland and Ireland. Your guide will share some of the best places to discover the varied flora and fauna unique to these areas. to these islands. Keep a careful eye on the shoreline and the rocky outcrops for the sleek otters that inhabit this area. This afternoon discover the spectacular views from ‘The Golden Road’ and some of the many inlets and coves along one of the ancient ‘coffin roads’, beautiful ways along which coffins were traditionally carried to their final resting place.

Overnight: Harris | Hotel Hebrides
Room Type: Kirklea Suite
Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch

Day 24 - Over The Sea To Skye

Connecting two of Scotland’s most captivating Islands, this morning you take the ferry from Harris to the iconic Isle of Skye.  As the vessel departs, keep a watchful eye for marine life such as seals and seabirds.  As you near Skye, if the weather is in your favour, you will begin to see the distinctive sharp Black Cuillin Mountains gradually come into view on the horizon. Skye is known for its landscape of ethereal beauty, where majestic mountains, cascading waterfalls, and serene lochs offer a glimpse into the islands unique allure.  It is easy to see why so many legends of magical creatures about here as your guide shares the unique Fairy Glen with you before you head to your hotel in Portree. The rest of the day is free to explore this bustling harbour town or rest at your hotel.

Overnight: Portree - Isle Of Skye | Cuillin Hills Hotel
Room Type: Premier Sea View
Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch

Day 25 - Unique Landscape Of 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. Head north to unique hiking routes through stark and unusual rock formations, including the awe-inspiring Old Man of Storr and the Quiraing.  The rugged coastline of this island means that you can enjoy incredible sweeping views of islands and mountains in almost every direction.

Overnight: Portree | Cuillin Hills Hotel
Room Type: Premier Sea View
Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch

Day 26 - Wildlife Boat Trip & Mountain Views

Get a different perspective on the island this morning, as you step aboard a boat which takes you out of Portree harbour to explore the intricate coastline of the Sound of Raasay. Look out for sea eagles, dolphins, seals and even whales, as well as the lively seabird communities. And don’t forget to enjoy the scenery too, the views back to the Cuillin Mountains from the water are awe inspiring.

This afternoon head out with your guide to enjoy the mountain views as you take a gentle hike. There are so many route options to discuss with your guide, you will be spoilt for choice but are sure to discover gorgeous views no matter what. Your guide will share some of the best hidden gems and personalise the day to suit your interests.

Overnight: Portree | Cuillin Hills Hotel
Room Type: Premier Sea View
Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch

Day 27 - Insights Into Islander Life

Meet the locals today and discover what life on this beautiful island is really like, living with such necessary respect for Mother Nature. Get transported back in time to witness how luxuriously soft sheepskins are made using sustainable and time honoured methods of leather making. Visit a local farm to see how they live and work, with sustainable farming at the forefront everything they do.  After a tour of the farm with the couple who live there and enjoy a fascinating chat about conservation in the area while enjoying a delectable slice of cake and a hot drink.

This afternoon head to Dunvegan Castle, which is the home of Clan MacLeod and has been continuously occupied by the family for over 800 years. The family proudly look after “Am Bratach Sith”, The Fairy Flag of Dunvegan and the clan banner, which is said to have miraculous powers and ensure victory when unfurled in battle.

Overnight: Portree | Cuillin Hills Hotel
Room Type: Premier Sea View
Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch

Day 28 - Ferry to Mainland & Jacobite Steam Train

After taking the short ferry back to the mainland you’ll travel 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. However, you will be enjoying a special perspective as you step aboard the Jacobite Steam Train (known as the ‘Harry Potter Train’) and settle into your First Class Seats after lunch. It will puff its way over the Glenfinnan Viaduct and through the wonderful scenery all the way to Fort William. On arrival you will be met by your guide and continue onwards to arrive at your luxurious hotel.

Overnight: Fort William | Inverlochy Castle
Room Type: Large Double
Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch

Day 29 - Exploring Glencoe & Local Legends

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 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 drop you at your hotel at the end of the day and depart, leaving you to enjoy the rest of your adventures at your own pace.

Overnight: Fort William | Inverlochy Castle
Room Type: Large Double
Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch

Day 30 - Start the rest of your own adventures with a relaxing self-arranged stay

Continue your Scottish adventure with a self-arranged cottage stay and the freedom to explore at your own pace. Immerse yourself in the local culture, rich heritage and enjoy the warm hospitality that the Highlands are famous for.

Meals Included: None