Final Information - Barg Scottish Adventure

Irwin and Rose

Sunday 18th August – Sunday 25th August 2024

Number of Travellers:  2
Duration: 8 Days / 7 Nights

Itinerary at a Glance

Day 1 | Sunday 18th August | Welcome to Scotland | Overnight: Edinburgh

Day 2 | Monday 19th August | Exploring Edinburgh | Overnight: Edinburgh

Day 3 | Tuesday 20th August | Perthshire and journey to the Highlands | Overnight: Ballater

Day 4 | Wednesday 21st August | Discover the Cairngorms | Overnight: Ballater

Day 5 | Thursday 22nd August | Highland Delights | Overnight: Glencoe

Day 6 | Friday 23rd August | Glencoe | Overnight: Glencoe

Day 7 | Saturday 24th August | Loch Lomond and Stirling Castle | Overnight: Glasgow

Day 8 | Sunday 25th August | Depart Edinburgh

Day by Day

Day 1 - Sunday 18th August - 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. Depending on your arrival time, perhaps head out to explore the local area, or simply relax and refresh after your travels.

Overnight: Edinburgh | Kimpton Charlotte Square
Room Type: King Bed Premium with Sofa Bed
Meals Included: None

Day 1 - Flight Details Read More +

Airline: Aer Lingus (EI) | Flight Number: EI 3556
Departure Airport: Dublin Arrival Airport: Edinburgh Airport (EDI) | Arrival Time: 19:05

Day 1 - Transfer Details Read More +

Supplier: Littles Chauffeur Hire
Booking Reference: 2708704
Pick Up Location: Edinburgh Airport (EDI) | Pick Up Time: 19:05 | Approx Duration: 0.75 hrs
Phone: +44 (0) 141 883 2111

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 +44 (0)141 883 2111, which operates 24/7.

Day 2 - Monday 19th August - Exploring Edinburgh

After breakfast, meet your guide in the foyer of your hotel and head out for a day spent exploring the beautiful cobblestone streets of the city. Full of history, the capital is very accessible by foot. Wander up the Royal Mile, stopping to visit the architecturally stunning St Giles Cathedral, and enjoy panoramic views from Edinburgh Castle. Dip into local galleries, cheesemongers and bookshops.

If you fancy an afternoon with a twist, head to the Surgeons’ Hall Museums, which holds one of the largest collections of surgical pathology in the world. This evening enjoy a special dining experience before the spectacle that is the famous Royal Military Tattoo. Watch the amazing performance from the pipers to the dancers and the fireworks to finish.

Overnight: Edinburgh | Kimpton Charlotte Square
Room Type: King Bed Premium with Sofa Bed
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Day 2 - Private Walking Tour Read More +

Activity: Private Walking Tour
Expert local guide: Shauna Ansell
Start Location: Kimpton Charlotte Square Reception | Start Time: 10:00 | Approx Duration: 4 hrs
Phone: +44 (0) 7989 664 023

Your expert local guide will meet you at the reception of your hotel.  They will have all of the tickets and information needed for your explorations.

Day 2 - Edinburgh Military Tattoo Experience - Spirit Of The Tattoo Package Read More +

Activity: Edinburgh Military Tattoo Experience - Spirit Of The Tattoo Package
Start Location: The Scotch Whisky Experience, 354 Castlehill, Edinburgh, EH1 2NE | Start Time: 18:45 | Approx Duration: 4 hrs
Booking Reference: 2435459
Phone: +44 (0)131 225 1188 | Website: https://www.edintattoo.co.uk/

Your tickets for the Edinburgh Tattoo will be held at the reception of your hotel – Please make sure to collect these and take them with you on the day.

Seats = East Stand, Section 7 – H9 & H10

Performance Time = 9:30pm

From The Edinburgh Military Tattoo – About Your Package;

On the day:

  •  General information

Please ensure you have your ticket with you at all times during your Tattoo experience. You will be moving between locations within the area, so you may be asked to present your ticket at several points throughout the evening. Please check the time and date on your ticket ahead of the show.

  • Arriving at The Scotch Whisky Experience

The Scotch Whisky Experience sits near the top of Castlehill, just before the Tattoo stands. Proceed through the Tattoo ticket barriers and find The Scotch Whisky Experience on your left before you arrive at the Tattoo stands. Your hosts will expect you up to 15 minutes before your arrival time.

  • The Show

After your meal, the Scotch Whisky Experience team will escort you into the Tattoo stands where you will find your seats. You will be seated approximately 30 minutes before the show starts. The show runs for approximately 90 minutes.

 

Take a culinary journey through the heart of Scotland in the award-winning Amber Restaurant within The Scotch Whisky Experience, located moments away from the Edinburgh Castle Esplanade. Amber’s larder celebrates Scotland’s glens, rivers and seas. Prime beef, salmon and seasonal vegetables are carefully sourced to showcase the very best of Scotland’s cuisine.

  • A three-course celebratory Scottish meal with wine and a dram of whisky with your dessert, followed by coffee, tea and traditional Scottish fudge
  • A personal copy of the menu featuring a map of Scotland highlighting the regions from which your food was sourced and tasting notes of your whisky
  • A host to escort you from The Scotch Whisky Experience to the Castle Esplanade
  • A bespoke recital by members of our Tattoo cast
  • A prime seat in the outdoor arena with exceptional views of the performance
  • Fast-track access. Bypass the main Tattoo queue by using our ‘Fast-track queue’
  • A complimentary gift of the official Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo Souvenir Show Programme

Dress Code
Please note, whilst there is no dress code for this package, we ask that you respect your host and fellow guests and dress accordingly, i.e. smart casual, avoiding short trousers and sports shoes. As you are sitting in the outdoor arena for the Tattoo performance, a warm top layer or coat is recommended.

This is a mixed dining experience and guests will be seated at shared tables for dinner.

Day 3 - Tuesday 20th August - Perthshire and journey to the Highlands

This morning your guide for the next few days will meet you at your hotel to begin your journey north. Visit the splendours of Scone Palace; this elegant palace was once the crowning place of Scottish Kings and Queens. Stroll the beautiful gardens and explore the unique Murray Star Maze.

Perhaps enjoy a spot of lunch before heading further into the hills 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. Arrive at your artistic highland hotel this evening to relax and unwind.

Overnight: Ballater | Darroch Learg
Room Type: Master Room
Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch

Day 3 - Guide Details - Helen Ord Read More +

Name: Helen Ord
Contact Number: +44 (0)7714 331 786
Meeting Place: Kimpton Charlotte Square Reception | Meeting Time: 09:00

Day 3 - Dinner Details Read More +

Hotel: Balmoral Arms | Location: Ballater
Reservation Time: 19:00 | Booking Reference: 1852 - Irwin Barg
Phone: +44(0) 13397 55443

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

Day 4 - Wednesday 21st August - Discover the Cairngorms

This morning, head out with your guide for a stunning hike. Your guide will discuss all the options with you as there are some wonderful low level hikes as well through some of the ancient Caledonian forests and around the lochs that are plentiful in this part of Scotland.  Whatever you decide, your guide will ensure you have the most wonderful day in the wilderness.

After lunch, enjoy a private tour and tasting at the Royal Lochnagar Distillery, which was issued with a royal warrant by Queen Victoria in 1848. Learn about the history of Scotland’s most famous tipple while also having the chance to indulge in a tasting.

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

Overnight: Ballater | Darroch Learg
Room Type: Master Room
Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch

Day 4 - Dinner Details Read More +

Restaurant: Darroch Learg | Location: Ballater
Reservation Time: 19:00 | Booking Reference: Barg
Phone: +44(0) 13397 55443 | Website: https://www.darrochlearg.co.uk/restaurant-1

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

Day 5 - Thursday 22nd August - Highland Delights

This morning your guide will take you through the beautiful heart of the Highlands, to the highland village of Glencoe. Stop off to explore the huge open air site of the Highland Folk Museum and relive history in its painstakingly recreated buildings. This fascinating 80 acre site has over 30 dwellings “frozen in time” from the early 1700s to the mid 1900s so that you can experience the details of Highland life as it was back then. Don’t miss the old fashioned sweetie shop, it’s our favourite! Continue on to your luxurious accommodation for the next two nights.

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

Overnight: Glencoe | Glencoe House
Room Type: One Bed Suite
Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch

Day 5 - Dinner Details Read More +

Restaurant: The Ballachulish Hotel, Glencoe
Reservation Time: 19:30 | Booking Reference: Irwin Barg
Phone: +44(0)1764 651842

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

Day 6 - Friday 23rd August - Glencoe

Today you have the full day in the hills, your guide will lead you on a hike through the atmospheric landscapes of Glencoe. The route for this day will be discussed with your guide the evening before, to take in consideration of the weather and the terrain you would like to cover. This can be a short walk in the valleys or a more challenging walk to a summit. After you have returned from your hike settle into your accommodation and refresh before hearing of local legends and fascinating tales of the dark past of Glencoe by a local storyteller.

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

Overnight: Glencoe | Glencoe House
Room Type: One Bed Suite
Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch

Day 6 - Storyteller Experience Read More +

Activity: Storyteller Experience
Start Location: Your Suite Living Room | Start Time: 17:00 | Approx Duration: 1.5 hrs

Day 6 - Dinner Details Read More +

Restaurant: Glencoe House | Location: Glencoe
Reservation Time: 19:30
Phone: +44 (0) 1855 811 179

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

Day 7 - Saturday 24th August - Loch Lomond and Stirling Castle

Travel to the spectacular Loch Lomond and the Trossachs National Park today, one of Scotland’s two National Parks. Perhaps have a stroll to bask in the beauty of your surroundings before travelling on to Stirling to explore one of the most important castles in Scotland’s history. Walk the impressive corridors and discover the history. Afterwards, your guide will take you to your city centre hotel in the characterful city of Glasgow to spend your final evening of your Scottish explorations.

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

Overnight: Glasgow | Kimpton Blythswood Square
Room Type: King Premium Garden View
Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch

Day 8 - Sunday 25th August - Depart Edinburgh

A private transfer will collect you from your hotel to today to take you to Edinburgh Airport, in time for your departing flight homeward bound.

Meals Included: Breakfast

Day 8 - Transfer Details Read More +

Supplier: Littles Chauffeur Hire
Booking Reference: 2708705
Pick Up Location: Kimpton Blythswood Square | Pick Up Time: 09:30 | Approx Duration: 0.75 hrs
Phone: +44 (0) 141 883 2111

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

 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 +44 (0)141 883 2111, which operates 24/7.

Day 8 - Flight Details Read More +

Travel Date: August 25, 2024 | Airline: United Airlines | Flight Number: UA162
Departure Airport: Edinburgh Airport (EDI) | Departure Time: 13:30

Trip Details

Inclusions Read More
  • 7 nights accommodation, as indicated above
  • Most meals as indicated above
  • Services of an experienced and knowledgeable qualified guide from Day 3 to Day 7
  • Ground transportation on Day 3 to Day 7
  • Arrival Airport Transfer – Edinburgh Airport to Edinburgh Hotel
  • Departure Airport Transfer – Glasgow Hotel to Edinburgh Airport
  • All guided hikes and activities mentioned in the itinerary,  specifically:
    • Half Day Private Walking Tour with Expert Edinburgh City Guide
      • Includes Edinburgh Castle Admission
    • Royal Military Tattoo Package, dinner included
    • Scone Palace Admission
    • Goat Farm Tour
    • Private Whisky Distillery Tour
    • Highland Folk Museum Donation Admission
    • Private Storyteller Experience
    • Stirling Castle Admission
  • 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 – August 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.

 

Essential Packing List

  • 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.

 

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

Kimpton Charlotte Square

Charlotte Square | Edinburgh | Midlothian |
EH2 4HQ | Scotland
Phone: 800 44445 566
Web: kimptoncharlottesquare.com

Darroch Learg

56 Braemar Road, Ballater | Ballater |
AB35 5UX | Scotland
Phone: +44 (0)13397 55443
Web: darrochlearg.co.uk

Glencoe House

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

Kimpton Blythswood Square

11 Blythswood Square | Glasgow |
G2 4AD | Scotland
Phone: +44 (0)141 248 8888
Web: kimptonblythswoodsquare.com

Meet Your Guide

Helen Ord

Contact Number: +44 (0)7714 331 786

Born and bred in Scotland, I nonetheless spent 20 years living in exile (strangely self-enforced) both “down south” (ie. England!) and overseas. Having spent so much time living and working away from home, including in some countries you wouldn’t normally find on a bucket list (Afghanistan for one), I realised that, regardless of location, I would always be the person enthusiastically regaling colleagues and friends with tales and descriptions of the most exciting and beautiful country in the world… Their trips, real or imagined, would be entirely organised by me and of course, I would be the one showing them around.

From an early age, I was brought up in some of the most beautiful and iconic locations we have to offer. The Cairngorm mountains and Western Highlands hold a particularly special place in my heart, but having called Edinburgh, St Andrews, fairy-tale Glamis and beautiful Royal Deeside “home” at various points in my life, my love of our amazing landscape, history and culture runs deep.

So although I didn’t realise it 20 years ago, of course, it was inevitable that I would end up returning to my beloved Scotland and making guiding my profession. And I love it! I get to explore my own extraordinary country and watch the delight on others’ faces as I help them discover it for themselves too. You could say that I truly am living the dream.

Virtuoso

Final Information – Barg Scottish Adventure

Sunday 18th August – Sunday 25th August 2024