Hynek Scottish Adventures - V3 - Final Information Document

Tuesday 10th September – Tuesday 17th September 2024

Number of Travellers: 4
Duration: 8 Days / 7 Nights

Overview

Get under the skin of Scotland exploring historic cities and remote glens with a private guide to share all the hidden gems and local’s favourites with you. Feel the stories of the past come alive as you explore beautiful wild areas and visit fascinating cultural sites which inspired the Outlander filming. Take a boat trip on Loch Ness and walk in the footsteps of history along crenellated castle walls before relaxing in the luxurious warmth of traditional Scottish hospitality at your top hotels.

 

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 420 020
Please 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 | Tuesday 10th September | Welcome to Scotland & Exploring Edinburgh | Overnight: Edinburgh

Day 2 | Wednesday 11th September | Leith Foodie tour & The Royal Yacht Britannia | Overnight: Edinburgh

Day 3 | Thursday 12th September | St Andrews & Outlander Connections | Overnight: Edinburgh

Day 4 | Friday 13th September | North to Inverness | Overnight: Inverness

Day 5 | Saturday 14th September | Culloden Battlefield, Clava Cairns & Loch Ness | Overnight: Inverness

Day 6 | Sunday 15th September | Transfer to Fife Arms & Whisky Distillery Tour | Overnight: Braemar

Day 7 | Monday 16th September | Explore Royal Deeside | Overnight: Braemar

Day 8 | Tuesday 17th September | Depart - Farewell Scotland

Day by Day

Day 1 - Tuesday 10th September - Welcome to Scotland & Exploring Edinburgh

On arrival at Edinburgh Airport you will be met by a private driver who will transfer you to your city centre hotel to drop your bags. Then head right out to 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. The rest of the day is free for you to explore at your own pace. maybe take in the deep history in the National Museum, admire the world acclaimed galleries, or simply head back to your hotel to relax. The choice is yours.

Overnight: Edinburgh | The Balmoral Hotel
Room Type: Deluxe Castle View
Meals Included: None

Day 1 - Flight Details Read More +

Airline: United Airlines | Flight Number: UA36
Departure Airport: Newark (EWR) Arrival Airport: Edinburgh (EDI) | Arrival Time: 08:05

2 pax – Mindy & Alan Swift

Day 1 - Flight Details Read More +

Airline: United Airlines | Flight Number: UA118
Departure Airport: Chicago (ORD) Arrival Airport: Edinburgh (EDI) | Arrival Time: 08:25

2 pax – Jacqueline & Steven Hynek

Day 1 - Transfer Details Read More +

Supplier: Little's Chauffeur Hire
Booking Reference: 2710158
Pick Up Location: Edinburgh Airport Arrivals | Pick Up Time: 08:25 | Approx Duration: 0.75 hrs
Phone: +44 (0) 141 883 2111

Transfer is for all 4 pax

Your private driver will have a sign with your name on.

Transfer Company system will send contact details for the chauffeur as an SMS 30 minutes prior to the reservation taking place, to the mobile number for the travelling passenger. If the client is unable to locate our chauffeur, they must call the mobile number provided, or call the Little’s Office on 0141 883 2111, which operates 24/7.

 

Day 1 - Private Walking Tour Read More +

Activity: Private Walking Tour
Expert City Guide: Kirsten Grew
Start Location: The Balmoral Hotel Reception | Start Time: 09:30 | Approx Duration: 4 hrs
Phone: +44 (0) 7730 524 932

Includes entry to Palace of Holyrood House & Edinburgh Castle

Day 1 - Dinner Details Read More +

Restaurant: Kyloe Restaurant & Grill | Location: 1-3 Rutland Street, Edinburgh, EH1 2AE
Reservation Time: 19:00 | Booking Reference: 6804505 - Jackie Hynek
Phone: +44 (0) 131 229 3402 | Website: https://kyloerestaurant.com/

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

From the Restaurant;

If you need to MODIFY or CANCEL the Booking, please use these links.

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. We may contact you about this booking, so please ensure your email and phone number are up-to-date. Your table will be booked for 2 hours for parties of up to 4; 2 hours 15 minutes for parties of up to 6; and 2 hours 30 minutes for parties of 7+.
Credit card policy
This restaurant requires a credit card to secure this booking, which has been done for you. All credit card information will be processed securely. No-shows will be subject to a charge of £10 per person.

Day 2 - Wednesday 11th September - Leith Foodie tour & The Royal Yacht Britannia

A local taxi will take you down to Leith this morning, where you will meet a local expert who is passionate about the wide variety of delicious tastes to be found here. Delight your tastebuds as you discover some local hidden gems, sampling some of Scotland’s wealth of local and international cuisine on this walking tour. From South American empanadas to locally brewed ale, you are sure to enjoy this journey of tastes. Once you are replete you have a free afternoon, so you can choose if you want to return to the hotel to relax or continue exploring at your own pace.

A special experience awaits you in the early evening as you are welcomed aboard the Royal Yacht Britannia, walking along the same red carpet graced by royalty. Enjoy an exclusive personal after hours tour as you explore the elegant decks of the Royal Yacht Britannia, once the floating palace of Queen Elizabeth II and the Duke of Edinburgh. The rest of the evening is free for you to spend as you wish.

Overnight: Edinburgh | The Balmoral Hotel
Room Type: Deluxe Castle View
Meals Included: Breakfast

Day 2 - Transfer Details Read More +

Pick Up Location: The Balmoral Hotel | Pick Up Time: 10:40 | Approx Duration: 0.25 hrs

Your hotel Concierge will arrange this pre-paid taxi for you.

Day 2 - Private Foodie Tour Of Leith Read More +

Activity: Private Foodie Tour Of Leith
Local Expert: Nell Nelson
Start Location: Williams & Johnson Coffee Co, CUSTOM LANE, 1 Customs Wharf, Leith, Edinburgh, EH6 6AL | Start Time: 11:00 | Approx Duration: 3 hrs
Phone: +44 (0) 7796 298 163

Day 2 - Private After-Hours Tour Of Royal Yacht Britannia Read More +

Activity: Private After-Hours Tour Of Royal Yacht Britannia
Start Location: Quayside Entrance, Royal Yacht Britannia, Ocean Terminal, Leith, Edinburgh, EH6 6JJ | Start Time: 17:30 | Approx Duration: 2 hrs
Booking Reference: Hynek - EFIN003124
Phone: +44 (0) 131 555 8800 | Website: https://www.royalyachtbritannia.co.uk/exclusive-use/private-tours-in-edinburgh/

From the Royal Yacht;

Ahoy there, we hope you are looking forward to your upcoming tour.

Private Quayside Arrival
As guests arrive along the quayside they are greeted with the sight of majestic Britannia.
Please see the attached directions for access, as there is no access through the Ocean Terminal building in the evenings.

Welcome to Britannia
A red carpet awaits as your guests come on board via the Royal Brow, an entrance previously reserved for Queen Elizabeth II and the Royal Family.

Highlights of the Royal Yacht Britannia
A personal guide will give guests a unique insight into the history of the Royal Yacht and how theRoyal Family and crew lived and worked on board.

Champagne
A glass of Champagne is served in our Royal Chart Room prior to departure via our Quayside.*
*If no evening event the champagne will be served in the State Dining Room.

Guidebook
Upon departure, each guest will receive a ribboned Britannia official guidebook as a memento.

Day 3 - Thursday 12th September - St Andrews & Outlander Connections

This morning your Private Guide (who will also act as your driver) will meet you at your hotel and together you will head north into the Kingdom of Fife. Step back in time as you discover several fascinating locations used in the filming of the ‘Outlander’ series. Walking the picturesque cobbled streets of the Royal Burgh of Culross, a once-bustling port with wonderful views out over the firth. 

Carry on your explorations as you visit Falkland Palace, a Royal pleasure palace beloved by Mary Queen Of Scots with fabulous tapestries and artworks that are hundreds of years old. See the oldest surviving real Tennis Court, walk in the beautiful grounds and explore the basement Apothecary, used in season 2. Then head onwards to St Andrews to explore this university town which is full of history and stories.

NOTE – Your guide is aware of the request to walk over The Swilcan Bridge on The Old Course. However, please do note that The Swilcan Bridge is on the Golf Course itself, which is very busy. You must ensure not to disrupt play, and if the course is very busy then this may not be possible. Your guide will do their best to coordinate, but you cannot inconvenience players on the course or place yourself at risk of being struck by a ball!

Overnight: Edinburgh | The Balmoral Hotel
Room Type: Deluxe Castle View
Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch

Day 3 - Guide Details - Craig McDonald Read More +

Name: Craig McDonald
Contact Number: +44 (0)7738 665 418
Meeting Place: The Balmoral Hotel Reception | Meeting Time: 09:00

Day 3 - Dinner Details Read More +

Restaurant: Restaurant Martin Wishart | Location: 54 The Shore, Edinburgh, EH6 6RA
Reservation Time: 19:00 | Booking Reference: BL6X3ZMA
Phone: +44 (0) 131 553 3557 | Website: https://restaurantmartinwishart.co.uk/

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

From the Restaurant;

Dear Mrs Jackie Hynek,

Thank you for booking Restaurant Martin Wishart.

Reservation Date Thursday, 12 September 2024
Time 7:00 PM
Guests 4
BOOKING CONFIRMATION

We look forward to welcoming you on the day.

If you need to amend or cancel your booking please call 0131 553 3557 option 1 

Cancellation Policy

Please call or email the restaurant 48 hours prior to your reservation to reconfirm the booking.

As per our terms and conditions, we reserve the right to cancel any reservation that has not been reconfirmed by the guest.

For all online reservations and for parties of 6 or more guests our cancellation policy applies.

Credit card details have been taken to guarantee the booking.  Guests have until 48 hours before the reservation to cancel or amend the booking.  

For late cancellations or no shows within 48 hours of the arrival booking time there will be a charge of £90.00 per person made to the card for a dinner reservation and £45.00 for a lunch reservation.

Here you can view our Á La Carte and Tasting Menus.   

DIRECTIONS: 54 Shore, Leith, Edinburgh EH6 6RA
For directions to the restaurant, please click here.

Restaurant Martin Wishart is situated on the section of the Water of Leith dockside known as the Shore. This is a 10 minute taxi ride from the centre of Edinburgh and also lies on the direct route of Lothian Bus 22 in the direction of Ocean Terminal. There is no on-site parking, but free street parking is available throughout the local area. Please allow time to find a space.We look forward to welcoming you soon. 

Day 4 - Friday 13th September - North to Inverness

This morning your guide will meet you at your hotel and together you will head north towards the Highlands. Stop to visit the splendours of elegant Scone Palace, 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 as you travel. So maybe take a leg stretch to discover a special beauty spot, or visit the fascinating recreated historic buildings in Highland Folk Museum (a key Outlander filming location), before continuing to Inverness.

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

Overnight: Inverness | Ness Walk
Room Type: Laurel King
Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch

Day 4 - Dinner Details Read More +

Restaurant: The Kitchen Brasserie Restaurant | Location: 15 Huntly Street, Inverness, IV3 5PR
Reservation Time: 19:00 | Booking Reference: 135907135
Phone: +44 (0) 1463 259 119 | Website: https://www.kitchenrestaurant.co.uk/

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

From the Restaurant;

If you need to cancel your reservation please use THIS link.

Cancellation policy
In the event of a late cancellation or no-show, you may be charged a fee depending on the following conditions:• Cancellation less than 24 hours prior to the reservation or no-show • £48

NOTE FROM The Kitchen Restaurant
Dear diners, Please note that all reservations are for a maximum period of 1 hour and 30 minutes.
Your table will be held for 15 minutes after the reservation time, after which it may be given away.

Thanks!

Day 5 - Saturday 14th September - Culloden Battlefield, Clava Cairns & Loch Ness

This morning you take to the waters of an iconic Scottish location, the secretive waters of Loch Ness. Cruise down the loch searching for Nessie before alighting at the magnificent ruins of Urquhart Castle. These walls played a key role during the Wars of Independence as this was once one of Scotland’s largest castles.

This afternoon visit the atmospheric Culloden Battlefield, the site of the last battle of the Jacobite rising in 1746. Here you will take a tour of the battlefield and the visitor centre before heading to the site of three Bronze Age burial chambers and standing stones known as Clava Cairns. This site is exceptionally well preserved and a great example of prehistoric history in Scotland dating back over 4,000 years. Your guide will take you to your luxurious hotel and leave you to enjoy a relaxed evening to finish the day.

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

Overnight: Inverness | Ness Walk
Room Type: Laurel King
Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch

Day 5 - Dinner Details Read More +

Restaurant: Rocpool Restaurant | Location: 1 Ness Walk, Inverness, IV3 5NE
Reservation Time: 18:30 | Booking Reference: BWZ22FDM - Jackie Hynek
Phone: +44(0)1463 717274 | Website: https://www.rocpoolrestaurant.com/

Unfortunately your first choice of the River House Restaurant was not available for either of the Inverness nights.
We hope that you very much enjoy Rocpool instead.

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

From The Restaurant;

to confirm your booking at rocpool on Saturday, 14 September 2024 at 6:30 PM.

Your booking details are below:
Ref: BWZ22FDM
Date: Saturday, 14 September 2024
Time: 6:30 PM
Guests: 4
Leave Time: We respectfully require your table back by 8:30 PM
Please ensure that you have read, and understood, the restaurants Terms and Conditions.
If you wish to edit or cancel your reservation up until 24 hours online just click here and follow instructions.

Thank you for booking.

Kind Regards rocpool

Day 6 - Sunday 15th September - Transfer to Fife Arms & Whisky Distillery Tour

Today you head deep into the Cairngorms National Park following the ‘Snow Road’ with your guide. There are several intriguing art installations along the way, all inviting you to focus on certain views in this wild landscape. Enjoy a proper Scottish welcome with a tour and tasting at the Royal Lochnagar Distillery this afternoon. Raise your glass and toast your adventures with the traditional Scottish ‘Slainte Mhath’, meaning good health. Your guide will then take you to settle into your unique and opulent hotel.

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

Overnight: Braemar | The Fife Arms
Room Type: Nature & Poetry
Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch

Day 6 - Dinner Details Read More +

Restaurant: Braemar Bistro | Location: 9 Invercauld Road, Braemar, AB35 5YP
Reservation Time: 19:00 | Booking Reference: Hynek
Phone: +44 (0) 1339 741 234 | Website: https://www.facebook.com/BraemarBistro/about

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

Day 7 - Monday 16th September - Explore Royal Deeside

Take a fascinating stroll with your guide in the Balmoral Estate this morning, which has been one of the favourite retreats of the Royal Family since it was bought for Queen Victoria in 1852. Wind your way through the woodland to visit some of the unique memorial cairns erected by the royals over the years, including a pyramid dedicated to Prince Albert. 

Explore more of the local area with your guide this afternoon, discovering more Royal connections or local artisans. Or you could choose a more challenging hike for the whole day if you prefer. Discuss the options with your guide to decide on the best choice for your final day in the Highlands.

Please note that this day may need to be modified if the Royal Family are in residence on the estate.

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

Overnight: Braemar | The Fife Arms
Room Type: Nature & Poetry
Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch

Day 7 - Dinner Details Read More +

Restaurant: Flying Stag | Location: Your Hotel
Reservation Time: 19:00

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

Day 8 - Tuesday 17th September - Depart - Farewell Scotland

Enjoy a relaxed breakfast before your guide takes 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.

Note; Drive time is approx 2.5 hours.

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

Meals Included: Breakfast

Day 8 - Flight Details Read More +

Travel Date: September 17, 2024 | Airline: Aer Lingus | Flight Number: EI 3253
Departure Airport: Edinburgh (EDI) | Departure Time: 12:00
Arrival Airport: Dublin (DUB) | Arrival Time: 13:15

All 4 Pax on the same flight

Trip Details

Inclusions Read More
  • 7 nights accommodation, as stated in the itinerary above
  • Some meals, as stated in the itinerary above
  • The services of a qualified and experienced guide from Day 3 to Day 8 inclusive
  • All transfers in a private vehicle driven by our guide on guided days
  • Airport Transfer on Arrival day, includes Meet & Greet
  • All guided hikes mentioned in the itinerary
  • Entrance fees and activities mentioned in the itinerary, specifically:
    • Private Walking Tour of Historic Edinburgh with Expert Local Guide
      • Includes Entry to Palace of Holyroodhouse & Edinburgh Castle
    • Private Foodie tour of Leith
      • Includes Local Taxi Transfer to start of tour
    • Private Tour of the Royal Yacht Britannia, after normal opening hours
    • Entry to Culross
    • Entry to Falkland Palace
    • Entry to St Andrews Cathedral
    • Entry to Scone Palace
    • Donation Entry to Highland Folk Museum
    • Loch Ness Cruise, including entry to Urquhart Castle (approx 2.5hrs)
    • Entry to Culloden Battlefield & Vist to Clava Cairns
    • Whisky Distillery Tour & Tasting at Royal Lochnagar Distillery
  • Personalised trip design and delivery
  • 24/7 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 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

The NET price for this itinerary, based on 4 clients on a twin-share basis, and including a £12 per person conservation contribution is:

  • £6,455.50 GBP per person

 

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.

Important Additional Information Read More
  • Royal Yacht Britannia Quayside Directions - PDF: View Now
Terms & Conditions Read More

Please see our booking terms here.

Accommodation

The Balmoral Hotel

1 Princes Street | Edinburgh |
EH2 2EQ | Scotland
Phone: +44 (0)131 556 2414
Web: roccofortehotels.com/hotels-and-resorts/the-balmoral-hotel

Ness Walk

12 Ness Walk | Inverness |
IV3 5SQ | Scotland
Phone: +44 (0)1463 215 215
Web: nesswalk.com

The Fife Arms

Mar Rd | Braemar | Royal Deeside |
AB35 5YL | Scotland
Phone: +44 (0)1339 720 200
Web: thefifearms.com

Meet Your Guide

Craig McDonald

Contact Number: +44 (0)7738 665 418

Me In Three = Knowledgeable | Passionate | Humorous

Although hailing from the Central Belt my passion and love for Scottish History was destined to draw me to my ancestral homelands. This passion led to a deep love for the Scottish mountains and Glens, and so I embarked on a career working in this stunning environment.

I love hillwalking, mountaineering and biking all over Scotland, all year round. My passion for exploring the history of these areas is infectious and I love sharing these experiences with other people.

My idea of heaven is a cracking long day on foot or on a bike exploring Scotland’s stunning scenery and history, followed by a good hearty dinner and some mirth and laughter by a roaring fire with a wee dram in the evening.

Place to Play

A tough question to answer – but probably Ardnamurchan. It is wild feeling and very peaceful, offering stunning peaks, glorious coastline and untrampled miles of heather-clad goodness! And of course being a McDonald means I am close to where it all began…

Not a lot of people know this

I am hugely interested in paranormal activity – I was even a member of the Ghost Club (started by Sir Arthur Conan Doyle himself) for a few years before moving to Fort William to be closer to the mountains. I started out as a sceptic but several experiences may have changed my mind!

Virtuoso

Hynek Scottish Adventures – V3 – Final Information Document

Tuesday 10th September – Tuesday 17th September 2024

Last updated: Thursday 29th August - 12:37