Final Information - MacDonell's Family Adventure to Scotland

John, Hayes, Connor, Tina & Frank

Thursday 3rd October – Sunday 13th October 2024

Number of Travellers: 5
Duration: 11 Days / 10 Nights

Itinerary at a Glance

Day 1 | Thursday 3rd October | Welcome to Scotland | Overnight: Edinburgh

Day 2 | Friday 4th October | Exploring Edinburgh | Overnight: Edinburgh

Day 3 | Saturday 5th October | Hidden Streets of Edinburgh & Hibs vs Motherwell Soccer Match | Overnight: Edinburgh

Day 4 | Sunday 6th October | Journey North to Glengarry | Overnight: Invergarry

Day 5 | Monday 7th October | Discover the MacDonnell Lineage & Fishing | Overnight: Invergarry

Day 6 | Tuesday 8th October | The Road to the Isles & Sea Kayaking | Overnight: Portree

Day 7 | Wednesday 9th October | Explore the Misty Isle | Overnight: Portree

Day 8 | Thursday 10th October | Fairy Pools & Jurassic Dinosaur Footprints | Overnight: Portree

Day 9 | Friday 11th October | Head South to the Cairngorm National Park | Overnight: Aviemore

Day 10 | Saturday 12th October | Watersports & Reindeer | Overnight: Aviemore

Day 11 | Sunday 13th October | Farewell to Scotland

Day by Day

Day 1 - Thursday 3rd October - Welcome to Scotland

On arrival at Edinburgh airport you will be met by a private driver who will transfer you to your city centre hotel. Depending on your arrival time you can choose to relax at the hotel or head out to start exploring this unique city.

Overnight: Edinburgh | The Bonham
Room Type: 2 x Deluxe Kings
Meals Included: None

Day 1 - Flight Details Read More +

Travel Date: October 3, 2024 | Airline: Delta | Flight Number: 122
Departure Airport: Boston (BOS) | Departure Time: 21:15
Arrival Airport: Edinburgh Airport (EDI) | Arrival Time: 08:35

Day 1 - Transfer Details Read More +

Supplier: Littles Chauffeur Hire
Booking Reference: 2711350
Pick Up Location: Edinburgh Airport | Pick Up Time: 08:35
Phone: +44 (0) 141 883 2111

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 - Dinner Details Read More +

Restaurant: Forage & Chatter | Location: 1A Alva St, Edinburgh EH2 4PH
Reservation Time: 18:00
Website: https://www.forageandchatter.com/

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

Please note that if the booking is not honoured or cancelled within 24 hrs of the reservation time there is a £35 charge per person. The table is required back at 8pm.

Day 2 - Friday 4th October - Exploring 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 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.

You then have a free afternoon to continue explorations at your own pace, pick up souvenirs or relax as you prefer.

Overnight: Edinburgh | The Bonham
Room Type: 2 x Deluxe Kings
Meals Included: Breakfast

Day 2 - Expert Local Guide Read More +

Activity: Expert Local Guide
Hugh Salvesen:
Start Location: The Bonham Hotel | Start Time: 09:00
Phone: +44(0) 7528013864

Your expert local guide Hugh will meet you at the reception of your hotel.

Day 2 - Dinner Details Read More +

Restaurant: The Ivy on the Square | Location: St Andrew Square, Edinburgh EH2 2BD, UK
Reservation Time: 19:00 | Booking Reference: 2110219936
Website: https://ivycollection.com/restaurants/the-ivy-on-the-square/?utm_source=LocalGoogle&utm_medium=Organic

This dinner has been reserved for Tina and Frank and is paid for to the sum of £150. Any additional spend would be paid directly.

Day 3 - Saturday 5th October - Hidden Streets of Edinburgh & Hibs vs Motherwell Soccer Match

Today you will explore more of Edinburgh at your pace, stopping for a fascinating tour of Mary King’s Close, revealing the hidden history and tales from beneath Edinburgh’s streets.

In the afternoon, you will meet your experienced private guide, who will also be your driver for your onward adventures through Scotland. After a quick chat about your trip over lunch, they will take you to a thrilling soccer game where Hibernian FC will take on Motherwell. Feel the excitement of a live match and immerse yourselves in the local sporting culture.

After the game your guide will take you back to your hotel and enjoy your final evening in this magical city.

Overnight: Edinburgh | The Bonham
Room Type: 2 x Deluxe Kings
Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch

Day 3 - Mary Kings Close Read More +

Activity: Mary Kings Close

Start Location: The Real Mary King’s Close 2 Warriston’s Close High Street Edinburgh EH1 1PG | Start Time: 10:00
Booking Reference: 41863448 / 41862175
Phone: +44 (0) 131 225 0672

Your tickets will be at your hotel reception for collection.

Meeting Location – On the Royal Mile, across from St. Giles’ Cathedral and the Mercat Cross.

Day 3 - Guide Details - Martin Tull Read More +

Name: Martin Tull
Contact Number: +44 (0)7807 576 955
Meeting Place: Bonham Hotel | Meeting Time: 12:30

Meet Martin at the Bonham Hotel reception at 12:30

Day 3 - Soccer Match Read More +

Activity: Soccer Match

Start Location: 15:00

Your guide will arrange transportation from the Bonham Hotel to the Stadium.

Day 3 - Dinner Details Read More +

Restaurant: The Boham Hotel
Reservation Time: 18:00
Website: https://thebonham.com/dining/no-35-restaurant/

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

Day 4 - Sunday 6th October - Journey North to Glengarry

This morning, your private guide collect you from your hotel and together you will travel north to Glengarry, the home of your ancestors. Stop for lunch and a leg stretch along the way. Your guide will make the journey informative and full of story as you pass some historic and beautiful landmarks.

Checking into your quaint and charming hotel, Rokeby Manor. Spend the afternoon relaxing and taking in the beautiful countryside views. Dinner will be at the hotel’s restaurant, featuring locally sourced ingredients.

*Drive time is 3 – 4 hours between Edinburgh and Glengarry.

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

Overnight: Invergarry | Rokeby Manor
Room Type: 1 x Rhododendron Suite & 1 x Deluxe Manor Double
Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch

Day 4 - Dinner Details Read More +

Restaurant: Rokeby Manor | Location: Invergarry PH35 4HG
Reservation Time: 18:30
Phone: +44(0)1397 704250

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

Day 5 - Monday 7th October - Discover the MacDonnell Lineage & Fishing

Today will be dedicated to exploring your family history in the Glengarry area. Visit historical sites and landmarks significant to the MacDonnell lineage, guided by your expert guide.

Whilst Tina and Frank enjoy an afternoon continuing the explorations with the guide. John, Hayes and Connor will join an expert Ghillie to experience loch fishing for a few hours.

Enjoy a relaxed dinner back at Rokeby Manor, sharing stories of the day’s discoveries.

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

*Please note that Sea Kayaking is weather dependent activity, your guide will confirm if this activity can go ahead a few days prior.

Overnight: Invergarry | Rokeby Manor
Room Type: 1 x Rhododendron Suite & 1 x Deluxe Manor Double
Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch

Day 5 - Dinner Details Read More +

Restaurant: Rokeby Manor | Location: Invergarry PH35 4HG
Reservation Time: 18:30
Phone: +44(0)1397 704250

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

Day 6 - Tuesday 8th October - The Road to the Isles & Sea Kayaking

Embark on the scenic “Road to the Isles,” experiencing the stunning landscapes and coastal views. Passing the famous Glenfinnan Viaduct made famous in the Harry Potter movies.

Stop at the beautiful white sands of Arasaig for a guided sea kayaking adventure.

After your sea kayaking explorations, board the ferry from Mallaig to the Isle of Skye, this amazing journey to the island is a trip highlight.

Settle into your island hotel in the coastal town of Portree, your base for the next 3 nights.

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

Overnight: Portree | The Bosville
Room Type: 1 x Family Room 1 x Superior Double
Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch

Day 7 - Wednesday 9th October - Explore the Misty Isle

Today will is all about exploring this amazing island and its coastline. Experience the beauty of sea cliffs and wildlife on a boat trip this morning. See Skye’s most stunning spots, where you can see marine wildlife and take in the dramatic coastal scenery.

After lunch, your guide will take you on a sightseeing tour, visiting hidden gems and famous landmarks that showcase the island’s unique charm.

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

Overnight: Portree | The Bosville
Room Type: 1 x Family Room 1 x Superior Double
Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch

Day 8 - Thursday 10th October - Fairy Pools & Jurassic Dinosaur Footprints

Today discover the historic Dunvegan Castle and its beautiful gardens in the morning.

After lunch, explore the mystical Fairy Pools, where crystal-clear waters cascade in a series of waterfalls and finally, visit An Corran to see the fascinating Jurassic dinosaur footprints, a treat for all ages as you walk in the steps of ancient creatures.

Heading back to Portree, enjoy your final evening on this beautiful island with a delicious meal.

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

Overnight: Portree | The Bosville
Room Type: 1 x Family Room 1 x Superior Double
Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch

Day 8 - Dinner Details Read More +

Restaurant: Portree Hotel | Location: Antlers Bar & Grill
Reservation Time: 18:00 | Booking Reference: BDMWC2XM
Website: https://theportreehotel.com/food-and-drink

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

Day 9 - Friday 11th October - Head South to the Cairngorm National Park

This morning you will leave Skye and travel south to the Cairngorms National Park. Stopping along the way at the iconic Eilean Donan Castle for a dose of history and picturesque views. Visit Lochcarron Weavers to see your family tartan, a unique opportunity to connect with your Scottish roots and pick up souvenirs.

Arriving in the Cairngorms and settle into your accommodation in the heart of Aviemore.

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

Overnight: Aviemore | Cairngorm Guesthouse
Room Type: 1 x Family Room 1 x Superior King
Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch

Day 10 - Saturday 12th October - Watersports & Reindeer

Enjoy a day of adventure and nature in the Cairngorms with your guide. Choose between kayaking or paddle boarding on the serene waters of Loch an Eilein or Loch Morlich or a walk through the ancient forests and lochs of the area.

Visit the Cairngorm Reindeer Centre to see the magnificent reindeer in their natural habitat, a magical experience for the entire family.

Wrap up your trip with unforgettable memories of Scotland’s natural beauty and rich heritage.

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

*Water based activities are weather dependent and your guide will give you options a few days prior.

Overnight: Aviemore | Cairngorm Guesthouse
Room Type: 1 x Family Room 1 x Superior King
Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch

Day 10 - Dinner Details Read More +

Restaurant: The Old Bridge Inn | Location: Dalfaber Road Aviemore PH22 1PU
Reservation Time: 18:00 | Booking Reference: BRJMNVJ7
Website: https://www.oldbridgeinn.co.uk/

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

Day 11 - Sunday 13th October - Farewell to Scotland

This morning a private transfer will collect you from your accommodation and transfer you to Edinburgh airport for your onward connections. Bidding farewell to Scotland but taking with you all the special memories of your time together.

*Afternoon or evening flight as journey is 3.5 hours.

Meals Included: Breakfast

Day 11 - Transfer Details Read More +

Supplier: Littles Chauffeur Hire
Booking Reference: 2711351
Pick Up Location: Cairngorm Guest House | Pick Up Time: 08:00 | Approx Duration: 2 hrs 30 mins
Phone: +44 (0) 141 883 2111

*Journey time is 2.5 approx

Your private transfer driver will meet you at the reception area of your guesthouse.

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 11 - Flight Details Read More +

Travel Date: October 13, 2024 | Airline: Delta | Flight Number: 209
Departure Airport: Edinburgh Airport (EDI) | Departure Time: 13:35
Arrival Airport: JFK New York | Arrival Time: 16:35

Trip Details

Inclusions Read More
  • 10 nights accommodation, as stated in the itinerary above
  • Most meals, as stated in the itinerary above
  • The services of a qualified and experienced guide from lunch on Day 3 to the end of Day 10
  • All transfers in a private vehicle driven by your guide on guided days
  • Private Airport Transfer on Arrival Day, includes Meet & Greet
  • Private Airport Transfer on Departure Day (Aviemore to Edinburgh Airport)
  • All guided hikes mentioned in the itinerary
  • All ferry journeys as stated in the itinerary
  • MacDonnell Family History Research Prior to Your Arrival
  • Entrance fees and activities mentioned in the itinerary, specifically:
    • Private Morning Walking Tour with Expert City Guide
      • Includes Edinburgh Castle Entry
    • Mary Kings Close Tour
    • Picnic Experience
    • Private Sea Kayaking Experience for 3 pax with a Qualified Kayaking Guide
      • Includes all equipment hire
    • Private Fishing Experience for 3 pax with Ghillie
      • Includes all equipment hire
    • Wildlife Boat Trip from Isle of Skye
    • Dunvegan Castle Entry
    • Eilean Donan Castle Entry
    • Cairngorm Reindeer Hill Trip Experience
    • Cairngorms Watersports Experience (Padleboard or Canoe on mountain loch)
  • 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 specifically stated

 

Notes On Weather & Flexibility

Weather – September 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).

Critical “4” Items to Pack
Please double check your packing lists for any last minute items you may have forgotten. Mostly make sure you have your Government issued identification or passports, credit/ATM cards, medications and, most importantly, phones. In my experience, you can purchase anything else you may have left at home, but I consider these the “Critical 4” items to make sure you have.
Double check the expiration date of your identification (driver’s license or passport) to ensure that it is valid for travel. Passports must generally be valid for 6 months beyond your travel date. Click HERE to learn more about requirements for your destination.
Know Before You Go – International
  • VALID PASSPORT MANDATORY: Most countries require at least 6 months’ validity from the end of your trip and you must have at least two blank passport pages (some countries require four pages). The State Department website has all the current entry requirements.
  • Scan or take a picture of passports and email to yourself for easy access in the event of loss.
  • Download the Custom’s and Boarder Protection’s Mobile Passport app, even if you have Global Entry. It’s often the fastest way to get through immigration when arriving back to the United States.
  • Please register your passport and trip with the U.S. Department of State’s STEP program before traveling. This will ensure that you receive updates from the Department of State in the event of an emergency.
  • For information about health and vaccine requirements, check the CDC Yellow Book.
  • Reconfirm flights with the airline in case schedules or flight numbers have changed. Check-in 24 hours before departure.
  • Checked baggage fees may apply. Check with your airline. Some fees are reduced if paid in advance instead of at the counter.
  • An international driver’s license is required in many countries, and is strongly advised whenever renting a car in another country. You can obtain one from a local AAA office even if you are not a member.
  • Take a picture of your checked bag before you leave home. If your bag goes astray, a photo will help the airline agent write up a description.
  • Call your credit card and phone companies and let them know when & where you will be traveling.
  • Turn off roaming on your cell phone if you do not have a data plan. Your cell phone provider may provide a short-term international calling plan at a low cost. Free and low-cost calls can be made over wifi using Skype and WhatsApp.
  • Carry all important items, including medication, in your carry-on bag (NOT your checked bag), along with a change of clothes in case your bags are delayed.
IMPORTANT FLIGHT INFORMATION
PLEASE RECONFIRM FLIGHTS & CHECK-IN 24 HOURS PRIOR TO DEPARTURE
Delta Airlines
Customer Information: 800.221.1212
Delta Confirmation: HIWGLK
Know your rights: Visit the US. Department of Transportation’s Aviation Consumer Protection Dashboard
Currency Converter
Any credit cards that bear the Visa or MasterCard symbol will be widely accepted abroad. American Express is often not accepted in small shops and restaurants. ATM’s are usually linked to international money systems such as Cirrus, Maestro or Plus. Please note that many transactions incur a currency conversion fee and credit cards can also incur substantial interest charges if you use them for cash advances. Please check with your bank and/or credit card company about their policies.
The best exchange rate is generally obtained by paying with a credit card, or obtaining cash through an ATM. Check if your bank has partners in your destination that do not charge out of country ATM fees.
Brownell Air Desk Emergency Contact Information
If there are any complications, delays or problems with your Brownell confirmed flights while traveling and during normal business hours (8:30 AM – 7:00 PM CST), please contact Brownell Air Desk at [email protected] or call 205-423-0212.
If outside normal business hours (8:30 AM – 7:00 PM CST) please contact the after hours service:
EMERGENCY AFTER HOURS SERVICE FOR AIR ONLY – (Brownell booked flights only)
682-232-2941
682-232-2940
Please reference CODE: HIWGLK
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

Optional Upgrades Read More
  • Room Upgrades are available in some locations, subject to availability. Pricing on request.
Terms & Conditions Read More

Please see our booking terms here.

Accommodation

The Bonham

35 Drumsheugh Gardens | Edinburgh | Midlothian |
EH3 7RN | Scotland
Phone: 0131 226 6050
Web: thebonham.com

Rokeby Manor

Invergarry |
PH35 4HG | Scotland
Phone: +44 1397 704250,
Web: blacksheephotels.com/rokeby-manor

The Bosville

Portree | Isle of Skye |
IV51 9DG | Scotland
Phone: +44 (0)1478 612846
Web: perlehotels.com/the-bosville

Cairngorm Guesthouse

139 Grampian Road, | Aviemore |
PH22 1RP | Scotland
Phone: +44 (0)1479 810 630
Web: cairngormguesthouse.com

Meet Your Guide

Martin Tull

Contact Number: +44 (0)7807 576 955

Originally from Salisbury, Wiltshire I settled in the north of Scotland after completing a long and varied career in the Royal Air Force, the latter half spent in Scotland. As Aircrew, I was very fortunate to have been able to travel and explore a great deal across the globe particularly early on in my career. Now I prefer to do it by foot.

A keen Rugby player in my younger years I was a comparatively late starter to the outdoors. That moment came when I spent a weekend scrambling in Snowdonia in my late 20s. I was immediately hooked and since then I haven’t looked back. When I was later posted to Scotland I started to climb, walk and mountaineer in earnest, often organising and leading trips here and later overseas. I have also led many multi-week development expeditions for young people around the world and completed the Munros (Scottish mountains over 3000ft) in 2004. I hold a great passion for the Highlands and Islands of Scotland and love sharing it with people.

Virtuoso

Final Information – MacDonell’s Family Adventure to Scotland

Thursday 3rd October – Sunday 13th October 2024