Lisa Hampton - A Scottish Adventure

Lisa Hampton & Co

September 2025

Number of Travellers: 2
Duration: 10 Days / 9 Nights

Highlights

  • Take a journey on the famous Jacobite Steam Train
  • Enjoy tranquil boat trips on Loch Lomond and Loch Ness, surrounded by dramatic scenery and legends
  • Explore Scotland's history with visits to Stirling Castle, Culloden Battlefield, Abbotsford and the haunting ruins of Melrose Abbey

Day by Day

Day 1 - Welcome to Scotland

Meet your friendly Wilderness Scotland guide this morning in Edinburgh before setting off towards the charming town of Galashiels. En route, visit the historic Traquair House, Scotland’s oldest inhabited house, where centuries of history come to life in its grand rooms and peaceful gardens. Later, explore the intricate and colourful Great Tapestry of Scotland, which beautifully depicts the country’s history through exquisite needlework. If time allows this afternoon, ahead out for a short hike to introduce you to the rolling hills and lush landscapes surrounding Galashiels, setting the tone for your adventure. A short transfer will have you arrive in the lovely village of Melrose, where you can get settled into your accommodation.

Overnight: Melrose | Burts Hotel
Meals Included: Lunch

Day 2 - Exploring Melrose and Galashiels

Following a relaxing breakfast, head out today to explore with your guide. The day will be filled with historical and cultural exploration. Begin with a visit to Abbotsford, the grand former home of Sir Walter Scott, where you’ll step into the world of Scotland’s literary giant and explore his collections of historical artefacts and stunning gardens. Following lunch, make your way to Melrose Abbey, a magnificent 12th-century ruin steeped in history and legend, where the stunning gothic architecture is framed by the serene Scottish Borders scenery. If time allows this afternoon you may wish to head out on a short hike in the surrounding area with your guide, or simply spend some time exploring the picturesque village of Melrose at your own pace.

Overnight: Melrose | Burts Hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch

Day 3 - Stirling Castle & Loch Lomond Cruise

Depart the Scottish Borders this morning and embark on a scenic journey to Fort William, stopping first at the formidable Stirling Castle, where tales of battles and Scottish royalty will captivate you. Continuing your journey, you’ll stop at the shores of Loch Lomond for a boat trip. As you glide across the loch, you’ll be surrounded by towering hills, shimmering water, and the striking Highland scenery. Finish up in Fort William, your base for the next 3 nights.

Overnight: Fort William | Myrtle Bank Guest House
Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch

Day 4 - Hiking in Glencoe

Enjoy breakfast before meeting your guide and heading out to explore Glencoe. The spectacular Glencoe, carved out centuries ago by glaciers and volcanic eruptions, offers some wild and scenic hiking. One great option is to hike along a narrow rowan-hung gorge until you reach the Lost Valley. This enclosed meadow – high, green, and hidden by precipitous tors, is said to be where the Macdonald clan used to conceal their rustled cattle. Surrounded by jagged peaks that shift in and out of mountain mist, visit the Glencoe Center to learn about the landscape’s haunting history.

Overnight: Fort William | Myrtle Bank Guest House
Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch

Day 5 - Steam Train & 'Road to the Isles'

Ready your wands this morning as you step aboard the Jacobite Steam Train for a magical journey to the coast in the train that featured in the Harry Potter films. Puff your way through glorious mountain scenes and over the famous Glenfinnan Viaduct, hopefully with no flying cars though. On arrival at Mallaig you will be met by your guide and can enjoy making your way back to Fort William being able to stop where you wish. Take a stroll on the white sand beaches of Arisaig and hear the tales of Jacobite rebellions in the area as you go.

Overnight: Fort William | Myrtle Bank Guest House
Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch

Day 6 - Loch Ness and Culloden Battlefield

Leave Fort William following breakfast and make your way towards the Cairngorms National Park, the largest National Park in the UK. Along the way, you’ll enjoy a tranquil boat trip on the mysterious Loch Ness, where you’ll take in the scenery and maybe even search for the legendary Nessie (there is also the option for a speed boat trip if that’s more your style). The day also includes a stop at the poignant Culloden Battlefield, where the last battle on British soil unfolded, offering deep insights into Scotland’s turbulent past. A short transfer south takes you to Aviemore, where you’ll settle into your accommodation.

Overnight: Aviemore | Ravenscraig Guest House
Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch

Day 7 - Wildlife and History

Today is dedicated to wildlife, culture and history. You’ll visit the RSPB Insh Marshes reserve, where you can spot some of Scotland’s rarest birds, set against the stunning Highland landscape. Then, you’ll step back in time at the Highland Folk Museum, which brings to life centuries of Highland history through recreated buildings and traditional crafts. Enjoy a short hike nearby in the Glenfeshie Forest before returning to your accommodation for a relaxing evening.

Overnight: Aviemore | Ravenscraig Guest House
Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch

Day 8 - Private Photography Session

Immerse yourself in Scotland’s breathtaking natural beauty with a half-day photography session. A local expert photography guide will help you perfect your technique as you capture the stunning mountain vistas, serene lochs, and wild landscapes. In the afternoon, another rewarding hike will take you deeper into the heart of the Highlands, allowing you to appreciate the raw and unspoiled beauty of this region.

Overnight: Aviemore | Ravenscraig Guest House
Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch

Day 9 - Edinburgh Bound

Following breakfast, your guide will drop you at Aviemore train station, where you can catch the train south to the Scottish Capital of Edinburgh. Join an expert Blue Badge guide this afternoon for a walking tour of the city, learning more about the deep history and culture it holds, including a tour of the majestic Edinburgh Castle. Enjoy your evening in the bustling city.

Overnight: Edinburgh
Meals Included: Breakfast

Day 10 - Depart Edinburgh

After breakfast, head to the airport and depart for home.

Meals Included: Breakfast

Trip Details

Inclusions Read More
  • All accommodation from Day 1 to Day 10
  • Most meals as indicated above
  • Services of an experienced and knowledgeable qualified guide from Day 1 to Day 9
  • Ground transportation from Day 1 to Day 9
  • All guided hikes and activities mentioned in the itinerary
  • Entry to Traquair House
  • Entry to The Great Tapestry of Scotland
  • Entry to Abbotsford
  • Entry to Melrose Abbey
  • Entry to Stirling Castle
  • 90 minute Loch Lomond Boat Trip
  • Entry to Glencoe Visitor Centre
  • First Class tickets on the Jacobite Steam Train
  • Loch Ness boat trip (scenic or speed cruise)
  • Entry to Culloden Battlefield
  • Entry to RSPB Reserve and Highland Folk Museum
  • Half day privately guided photography session
  • Half day tour with Blue Badge guide including entry to Edinburgh Castle
  • 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
  • Train tickets from Aviemore to Edinburgh
  • Activities and entrance fees not mentioned in the inclusions
  • Gratuities for the main driver guide
Notes Read More
  • All suggested accommodations and services are subject to availability at the time of booking. Accommodations mentioned are only indicative at this stage.
  • A 25% deposit is required before any accommodation and services will be confirmed
  • This quote is valid for 14 days from the date quoted, after this time pricing may be subject to revision
Pricing Read More

The price of this trip is £6,995 per person and is based on availability at the time of booking.

Terms & Conditions Read More

Please see our booking terms here.

Get in Touch


Accommodation

Burts Hotel

Market Square | Melrose | Scottish Borders |
TD6 9PN | Phone: +44 (0)1896 822285
Web: burtshotel.co.uk

Myrtle Bank Guest House

Achintore Road | Fort William |
PH33 6RQ | Scotland
Phone: +44 (0)1397 702 034
Web: myrtlebankguesthouse.co.uk

Ravenscraig Guest House

141 Grampian Road | Aviemore |
PH22 1RP | Scotland
Phone: +44 (0)1479 810278
Web: ravenscraighouse.co.uk