A Birthday Trip to the 'Misty Isle'

Day 1 - Friday 26^th September - Welcome to London

On arrival in London, transfer to your centrally located hotel and take some time to relax ahead of your first evening in England. An unmissable destination for travellers, the capital city is an international melting pot that brims with culture, history and iconic landmarks. With a well-known and well-deserved reputation for an eclectic and globally diverse food scene, your dinner this evening is sure to be a thoroughly enjoyable affair.

Later, draw the curtains on the twinkling lights of the city to enjoy a good night’s sleep ahead of an exciting day of exploring tomorrow.

Overnight: London | Firmdale Charlotte Street
Room Type: 1x Deluxe

Day 2 - Saturday 27^th September - Culloden Battlefield

On arrival at Inverness airport, you’ll be met by your private guide who will be with you for the duration of your trip. After a refreshing coffee break, head to Culloden Battlefield and its visitor centre. Featured in the Outlander series, learn about one of the most harrowing battles in Scottish history and walk across the rough moor where the Jacobites and the Government fought in 1746. From here, hit the road to the Isle of Skye and your accommodation for the night. Time depending, you have two routes ahead of you. Maybe you would prefer to journey along the smaller roads, pass mirror-like lochs and the quaint village of Plockton, with its whitewashed cottages and palm-lined shores. Or perhaps you would prefer to skim the shores of Loch Ness, keeping your eyes peeled for the famous monster lurking deep in the murky waters. This evening, take a moment to rest and relax at your hotel or wander into town to listen to some live music at one of the local pubs.

Overnight: Isle of Skye | Cuillin Hills Hotel
Room Type: 1x Premier Seaview
Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch

Day 3 - Sunday 28^th September - Exploring the Misty Isle

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 landscapes, with unusual rock formations and sweeping coast and mountain views to enjoy in almost every direction. Take a visit to Dunvegan Castle the ancestral home of the Macleods, who have owned this castle for over 700 years. Spend some time exploring the beautiful gardens before stepping inside for a look at the castle. Hear stories of the myths and legends, the history and battles that all made their mark on this small part of Skye. On your way back to Portree, stop by a local pub that holds weekly folk music jam sessions. Get your feet tapping as you’re swept up in the beats and sounds that have resonated throughout this area for centuries. 

Overnight: Isle of Skye | Cuillin Hills Hotel
Room Type: 1x Premier Seaview
Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch

Day 4 - Monday 29^th September - A Day of Leisure

With an independent free day in Portree, let the island’s charm unfold at your own pace. Wander the colourful harbourfront, where fishing boats bob on the water, and savour the salty tang of sea air or lose yourself in the town’s artisan shops and cosy cafés. Your guide will be on hand to assist you should you wish to venture further afield. However you choose to spend your day, Portree’s tranquil beauty and warm Highland welcome will leave you enchanted.

Overnight: Isle of Skye | Cuillin Hills Hotel
Room Type: 1x Premier Seaview
Meals Included: Breakfast

Day 5 - Tuesday 30^th September - A Taste of Liquid Gold

This morning, you’ll return to the mainland and journey onwards to the picturesque town of Pitlochry, nestled amidst the breathtaking Perthshire hills. Along the way, stop to discover the time-honoured craft of whisky-making, as expert guides share the secrets of the region’s rich heritage. From the malting of barley to the warm glow of the copper stills, every detail of the process unfolds before you. Round off your experience with a tasting of the distillery’s finest drams, perfectly paired with artisanal chocolates that enhance and complement the complex flavours of each whisky—a true taste of Speyside’s spirit.

Drive Time: 4 Hours

Overnight: Pitlochry | Fonab Castle Hotel
Room Type: 1x Castle Suite
Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch

Day 6 - Wednesday 1^st October - Exploring Pitlochry

Today is yours to enjoy at leisure, soaking in the tranquil beauty of your surroundings. Take full advantage of the luxurious facilities at your hotel or wander into the charming town of Pitlochry to explore its delightful shops, cafés, and scenic riverside walks. Whether you choose to unwind or adventure, your guide will be nearby and on hand to assist with anything you need, ensuring your day unfolds just as you wish.

Overnight: Pitlochry | Fonab Castle Hotel
Room Type: 1x Castle Suite
Meals Included: Breakfast

Day 7 - Thursday 2^nd October - Exploring Perthshire

This morning stretch your legs on a scenic walk enjoying the Autumnal colours through Faskally Woods, the filming location of many of the Native American scenes in Outlander. This afternoon, take a trip to Blair Castle;  the home of the Atholl family for over seven centuries. Home to politicians, soldiers, agriculturalists and entrepreneurs, the family history is brought to life against a backdrop of fine 18th century interiors and Scottish baronial architecture, in 30 rooms.

Overnight: Pitlochry | Fonab Castle Hotel
Room Type: 1x Castle Suite
Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch

Day 8 - Friday 3^rd October - A Trip to St Andrews

This morning, set off with your guide towards St Andrews, a historic town celebrated as the home of golf and one of Scotland’s oldest universities. Stroll through its cobbled streets, visit the striking ruins of St Andrews Cathedral, and take in views of the famous Old Course. Perhaps indulge in some freshly prepared fish and chips from a local spot as you soak in the town’s coastal charm. After taking time to enjoy all that St Andrews has to offer, continue your journey to Edinburgh later in the day. On arrival, your guide will escort you to your hotel, where you can bid farewell and reflect on the unforgettable experiences of your time together.

Overnight: Edinburgh | The Bonham
Room Type: 1x Deluxe King
Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch

Day 9 - Saturday 4^th October - Historic Edinburgh

This morning 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 beneath the shadows of the mighty ancient fortress which is Edinburgh Castle. This afternoon, take a journey back into your family history with a private meeting with a genealogist, discovering some of the links to locations which have been important to your ancestors over the years. This evening is yours to enjoy at your own pace—whether you choose to continue exploring or simply relax and reflect on the wonderful memories you’ve made during your final night in Scotland.

Overnight: Edinburgh | The Bonham
Room Type: 1x Deluxe King
Meals Included: Breakfast

Day 10 - Sunday 5^th October - A Fond Farewell

A private transfer will collect you from your accommodation and take you to the airport to make your onward connections. Waving farewell for now but taking with you special memories and wonderful stories of your explorations.

Meals Included: Breakfast