Tastes and Tales of Scotland - Final Information

Day 1 - Sunday 18^th May - Welcome to Scotland

On arrival at the airport you will be met by your experienced guide, who will act as your driver for your time in Scotland. Once you have got acquainted with your driver you will transfer straight out of the city. Enjoy stunning Scottish views as you make your way north, stopping off at the magnificent Scone Palace. Enjoy a private tour as you get the chance to look around and learn about the palace and gardens, and the people that called it home.

Now continue on towards the Cairngorms National Park for the first leg of your trip. Upon arrival at your hotel, settle in and relax after a long travel day, ready for your adventures to truly begin tomorrow.

Overnight: Braemar | The Fife Arms
Room Type: Scottish Culture
Meals Included: Lunch

Day 2 - Monday 19^th May - Morning Private 4x4 Safari & Afternoon Explorations

This morning, embark on an exciting private Land Rover safari led by a kilted ranger, exploring the rugged estate tracks traditionally used by gillies and estate managers. As you traverse the dramatic Highland landscape, keep an eye out for wildlife such as red deer, mountain hares, and soaring golden eagles. Your knowledgeable guide will share captivating stories about the estate’s history, its vibrant ecosystem, and the traditions of Highland life, making this a thrilling and immersive journey into Scotland’s wild beauty.

In the afternoon, take some time to explore Braemar. Head out and visit the quaint shops, delightful cafe, or visit the gallery. This is a great opportunity to get some souvenirs to remember your time in Scotland.

Your guide will arrange a meeting time with you for today the day prior.

Overnight: Braemar | The Fife Arms
Room Type: Scottish Culture
Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch

Day 3 - Tuesday 20^th May - Exploring the Area and it's Royal Connections

Today, meet an experienced local guide who will take you on an extensive tour of the area. Learn about the cool history associated with this location and the connection to the British Royal Family. You will visit a variety of sites that play a crucial role in the history of the area, and it will give you a chance to truly get out and experience the Cairngorms. This tour will include a nice mix of both on and off road driving, as well as some opportunities to get out and walk in the beautiful surroundings.

Your guide will arrange a meeting time with you for today the day prior.

Overnight: Braemar | The Fife Arms
Room Type: Scottish Culture
Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch

Day 4 - Wednesday 21^st May - Scottish Whisky and The Valley of Glencoe

Today you depart Scotland’s largest National Park. Enjoy stunning Scottish views as you make your way towards a local distillery. Here, enjoy a private behind the scenes tour of the distillery, learning how Whisky, Scotland’s famous drink, is carefully crafted. At the end of the tour enjoy the chance to taste some different whisky’s under the guidance of an knowledgable expert.

Now continue on towards Glencoe and your accommodation for the next few days. Upon arrival at your hotel, settle in and relax after a long travel day, ready for your adventures to truly begin tomorrow.

Your guide will arrange a meeting time with you for today the day prior.

Overnight: Glencoe | Glencoe House
Room Type: 2 Bed Suite
Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch

Day 5 - Thursday 22^nd May - Highland Adventures: Exploring Glencoe's History

Today, enjoy some time out and about, exploring the stunning Glencoe area. Take a trip to the nearby visitor centre where you can dive into some of the history of the area. Following this, there are a plethora of lovely low level walks in the area. You could take a gentle stroll to Signal Rock, or visit Glencoe Lochan’s and enjoy stunning scenery at every turn. Both walks are considered gentle terrain and you will have your experienced guide with you the whole time. Alternatively, you could also take some time to visit some of the famous movie filming locations in the area. Famous UK film franchises such as Harry Potter and James Bond chose Glencoe as the stunning back drop for some of the scenes in their movies.

You’ll be able to discuss your preferences with your guide to ensure that you get the most out of your time in Glencoe.

As the day winds down, settle in for an enchanting evening with a local storyteller. Through captivating tales, they’ll bring to life the myths, legends, and history of the iconic Glencoe, leaving you with a deeper connection to this magical part of Scotland.

Your guide will arrange a meeting time with you for today the day prior.

Overnight: Glencoe | Glencoe House
Room Type: 2 Bed Suite
Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch

Day 6 - Friday 23^rd May - Drive the 'Road to the Isles'

Drive Scotland’s breathtaking Road to the Isles, a journey from Fort William to Mallaig packed with stunning stops. Watch the Jacobite Steam Train soar over the iconic Glenfinnan Viaduct, then admire the mirror-like waters of Loch Eilt, a Harry Potter filming location. Feel the Caribbean vibes at the Silver Sands of Morar, with white beaches and turquoise seas, before exploring the charming coastal village of Arisaig. End in Mallaig, where fresh seafood and ferry trips to Skye await. Mountains, lochs, and legendary landscapes—this is Scotland at its most magical!

Return by the same road, enjoying new perspectives of the stunning views and locations you saw along the way.

Your guide will arrange a meeting time with you for today the day prior.

Overnight: Glencoe | Glencoe House
Room Type: 2 Bed Suite
Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch

Day 7 - Saturday 24^th May - Scotland's First National Park

This morning you depart Glencoe and work your way south to Scotland’s first designated National Park, Loch Lomond and The Trossachs. Enjoy a relaxing journey as you savour the rugged out crops of Glencoe before entering the rolling hills of the park.

From here, continue on towards Cameron House, perched on the edge of Loch Lomond, this will be your accommodation for the next few days, allowing you to explore the area and try some of the amazing experiences on offer.

Your guide will arrange a meeting time with you for today the day prior.

Overnight: Loch Lomond | Cameron House
Room Type: Loch View Studio Suite
Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch

Day 8 - Sunday 25^th May - Exploring the Islands and Afternoon Tea

Today, step aboard your private boat and head out onto the deep waters of Loch Lomond. You’ll head out to explore some of the lochs islands and hidden coves that are only accessible by boat. This tranquil experience is a chance to truly relax and embrace your surroundings, elevated even further through a glass of champagne to cheers the experience.

Once back on dry land it’s time to try one of Britain’s famous dining experiences, Afternoon Tea. Settle in and wait to be served delicious delicacies in the form of flavour packed sandwiches, sweat treats and pastries, washed down with your choice of tea and a glass of champagne. This is a truly British experience of the highest standard.

Your guide will arrange a meeting time with you for today the day prior.

Overnight: Loch Lomond | Cameron House
Room Type: Loch View Studio Suite
Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch

Day 9 - Monday 26^th May - A Domestic Masterpiece

After breakfast today, your guide will take you out to explore some of the history in the region. Visit Hill House, a domestic masterpiece created by the well known Charles Rennie Mackintosh. Enjoy the specially designed interiors and spend some time finding out about the Blackie family, who once called this house their home. Be sure to head up to the roof top terrace, offering you some amazing views of the surrounding area.

In the afternoon, why not enjoy a spa treatment at your hotel and spend a relaxing evening before travelling on to your final leg of the trip.

*Speak to your hotel concierge to arrange any spa treatments – not included in the cost of the trip

Your guide will arrange a meeting time with you for today the day prior.

Overnight: Loch Lomond | Cameron House
Room Type: Loch View Studio Suite
Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch

Day 10 - Tuesday 27^th May - History and The Capital of Scotland

Today you leave behind the Scottish countryside and head for the city. On route you will stop off at one of Scotland’s most historical sites, Stirling Castle. The Castle that sits upon a volcano outcrop, overlooking an area of Scotland rich in historically significant events, is a symbol of Scotland’s independence throughout the years and is steeped in history and legend.

Once you’ve had your fill of history for the day, it is time to head for the capital of Scotland, Edinburgh. Upon arrival at your accommodation in the city centre your guide will say their goodbyes, leaving you full of amazing memories that will last a life time. From here you can choose to relax at your hotel or head out to explore the city.

Your guide will arrange a meeting time with you for today the day prior.

Overnight: Edinburgh | The Balmoral Hotel
Room Type: Executive Old Town View
Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch

Day 11 - Wednesday 28^th May - The Royal Palace and Edinburgh's Dark Underbelly

This morning meet your expert guide in the foyer and head out for your days adventure. First, you will get the chance to learn more about the Royal Family’s ties to Scotland. You’ll head for a private tour of the stunning Palace of Holyrood House, the official residence for the Royals in Scotland. Located on the famous Royal Mile, this tour will allow you to explore the house and take in the true grandeur of the location.

In the afternoon, it’s time to learn about the darker side of the countries capital. A private tour of the hidden streets located below the Royal Mile will give you an insight into how some people lived as far back as the 17th century. You’ll learn about the people and the way of life in this immersive, not to be missed experience.

Overnight: Edinburgh | The Balmoral Hotel
Room Type: Executive Old Town View
Meals Included: Breakfast

Day 12 - Thursday 29^th May - A Food Tour of Edinburgh

After a leisurely and relaxed morning, meet your expert Edinburgh guide in the foyer of your hotel and head out for a private walking tour of the city. Very accessible on foot, the capital brims with locally sourced culinary delights. As you stroll down cobblestone streets, chat with your guide about the intriguing history of the city, delving deep into the Scottish larder. This delightful experience will allow you to try a host of Scottish delights under the guidance of an expert local to ensure you get the most out of this private experience.

You’ll then have a free afternoon to explore the city further and stop off at some shops in search of souvenirs to remember your trip by.

Overnight: Edinburgh | The Balmoral Hotel
Room Type: Executive Old Town View
Meals Included: Breakfast

Day 13 - Friday 30^th May - 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 traveling 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.

This evening it’s time to round off your trip in style. You’ll head out for a private dinning experience where you’ll be treated to a whisky tour, followed by cocktails at a roof top bar overlooking the city. You will then be served a 5 course meal, including dessert, paired with an expertly chosen dram of whisky. This a truly spectacular way to round of your time in Scotland and allow you the chance to share a toast to an amazing holiday.

Overnight: Edinburgh | The Balmoral Hotel
Room Type: Executive Old Town View
Meals Included: Breakfast and Dinner

Day 14 - Saturday 31^st May - Depart

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