A Scottish Celebration - Highlights & Hidden Gems - Final Information

McArthur

Sunday 11th May – Thursday 22nd May 2025

Number of Travellers: 2
Duration: 12 Days / 11 Nights

Overview

Final Information Document for Confirmed V2

On Trip
While we hope things run smoothly for the duration of your stay, we know that unforeseen circumstances do happen and there are times when you may need to contact us for assistance. Please see below for ways to get in touch while on the trip;

Please note that on days with your main driver-guides, please ask your guide for assistance in the first instance. As they are best placed to answer any queries directly & in a timely manner.

Email: If you have a general question please feel free to email your Sales Consultant or Agent. Note – Emails are monitored during office hours only.

Call us directly on the appropriate country’s office number – see the useful phone numbers at the bottom of the document in the drop down section.

Please note: Office hours are Mon- Fri 9:00 – 5:00
Out of Office Numbers: for use after 5:30pm and at the weekends.
Note: If you require immediate assistance for an issue, problem or emergency, please call, message or Whatsapp the Out of Office Hours Number for the appropriate country

Itinerary at a Glance

Day 1 | Sunday 11th May | Welcome to Scotland | Overnight: Edinburgh

Day 2 | Monday 12th May | Exploring Edinburgh | Overnight: Edinburgh

Day 3 | Tuesday 13th May | Into the heart of Perthshire & A 4x4 Safari | Overnight: Pitlochry

Day 4 | Wednesday 14th May | Exploring Perthshire | Overnight: Pitlochry

Day 5 | Thursday 15th May | A journey to the Highlands | Overnight: by Fort William

Day 6 | Friday 16th May | Stunning Road to the Isles | Overnight: by Fort William

Day 7 | Saturday 17th May | Glencoe & The West Coast | Overnight: Benderloch

Day 8 | Sunday 18th May | Islands & Castles | Overnight: Benderloch

Day 9 | Monday 19th May | Transfer to Loch Lomond | Overnight: Loch Lomond

Day 10 | Tuesday 20th May | A day of Celebration! | Overnight: Loch Lomond

Day 11 | Wednesday 21st May | Your final night in Scotland! | Overnight: Edinburgh

Day 12 | Thursday 22nd May | Depart

Highlights

  • Uncover Edinburgh's hidden secrets
  • Embark on a private safari with your very own Kilted ranger!
  • Discover one of Scotland's most scenic journey's
  • Enjoy a Dram at a historic mountain distillery

Day by Day

Day 1 - Sunday 11th May - Welcome to Scotland

On arrival at the 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.

Late afternoon you will discover yet another side of Edinburgh as you adventure down underneath Edinburgh on an underground tour of a warren of tiny fascinating streets dating from the 17th century.

*Your hotel will be able to assist with a taxi to get you to the start of your tour if required*

Overnight: Edinburgh | The Bonham
Room Type: x1 Superior King
Meals Included: None

Day 1 - Flight Details Read More +

Travel Date: May 11, 2025 | Airline: Delta | Flight Number: DL 0208
Departure Airport: JFK Arrival Airport: Edinburgh Airport - EDI | Arrival Time: 09:20

Day 1 - Transfer Details Read More +

Supplier: Littles Chauffeur Services
Booking Reference: 2721126
Pick Up Location: Edinburgh Airport Arrivals | Pick Up Time: 09:20 | Approx Duration: 45 mins
Phone: +44 (0) 141 883 2111

Your private driver will meet you at arrivals and 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 0141 883 2111, which operates 24/7.

Day 1 - Underground Streets Tour - Mary King's Close Read More +

Activity: Underground Streets Tour - Mary King's Close
Start Location: On The Royal Mile, Opposite St Giles Cathedral | Start Time: 16:00 | Approx Duration: 1 hrs
Booking Reference: 41938155
Phone: +44 (0) 131 225 0672 | Website: https://www.realmarykingsclose.com/

MEETING LOCATION = On the Royal Mile, across from St. Giles’ Cathedral and the Mercat Cross.  Please ensure that you arrive at least 10 minutes before your tour begins.

On arrival, please provide your name and booking reference 41938155.

Day 2 - Monday 12th 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 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.

This afternoon, meet a local genealogist and embark on a fascinating journey through your family history, hopefully uncovering deep-rooted connections to Scotland.

*Genealogist requires basic information in order to proceed with the appointment*

Overnight: Edinburgh | The Bonham
Room Type: x1 Superior King
Meals Included: Breakfast

Day 2 - Private Walking Tour Read More +

Activity: Private Walking Tour
Expert City Guide: Mary Birch
Start Location: Your Hotel Reception | Start Time: 09:00 | Approx Duration: 4 hrs
Phone: +44 (0) 7711 517 508

Your expert local guide will meet you in the reception are of your hotel.  Includes entry to Edinburgh Castle.

Day 2 - Genealogy Meeting Read More +

Activity: Genealogy Meeting
Genealogist: Shirley Obrzud
Start Location: Scottish Genealogy Society, 15 Victoria Terrace, Edinburgh, EH1 2JL | Start Time: 15:00 | Approx Duration: 2 hrs
Phone: +44 (0) 7806 513 998

Your hotel will be able to assist with a taxi should you require.

The Society is located on Victoria Terrace, which overlooks Victoria Street.  Access is possible through several routes:

  • From George IV Bridge, walk along the terrace past the restaurants, then turn right.
  • From Upper Bowl/Lawnmarket, descend and turn right, continue to the end of the terrace, then turn right again.
  • From Victoria Street, ascend the steps from Victoria Street, turn back on yourself at the top of the stairs, then turn right, and proceed to the end of the terrace before turning right once more.
  • From Johnston Terrace, descend the steps and turn left at the bottom.

Day 2 - Dinner Details Read More +

Restaurant: The Witchery | Location: Castlehill, The Royal Mile, Edinburgh, EH1 2NF
Reservation Time: 19:00 | Booking Reference: BLVTLLHZ
Phone: +44(0)131 225 0974 | Website: http://www.thewitchery.com/

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

Please see notes from the restaurant below;

Dear John McArthur

This email is to confirm your reservation at The Witchery on Monday, 12 May 2025 at 7:00 PM.

Your reservation details are below:

Ref: BLVTLLHZ
Date: Monday, 12 May 2025
Time: 7:00 PM
Guests: 2
Area: The Original dining room
Leave Time: We respectfully require your table back by 9:50 PM

Thank you for choosing The Witchery, we look forward to welcoming you soon.

We ask for 4 hours’ notice of a cancellation or reduction in numbers and reservations that fail to give this notice will automatically incur a £50pp fee.

We respectfully require all guests to order a minimum of one main course, for any lunch or dinner reservations.

Please advise us in advance if you have any special dietary requirements. We take the utmost care to ensure that all reasonable dietary requests are accommodated when dining at The Witchery; however, due to the nature of our offering we are unable to guarantee that any item will be 100% allergen free.

Thank you for your reservation. We look forward to welcoming you to the Witchery by the Castle.

With kindest regards
The Witchery

If you need to CANCEL the reservation please use this link to do so

Day 3 - Tuesday 13th May - Into the heart of Perthshire & A 4x4 Safari

Today, you will meet your main guide, who will also be your driver, as you journey north into the heart of Perthshire.  Along the way, enjoy a fun private Landrover safari with a kilted Ranger. Exploring private estate tracks to see what traditional gillies and estate managers drive every day. Keep your eyes open for the local wildlife, Red Deer, Mountain Hares and Eagles that are all to be found here.

On arrival at your unique castle accommodation, you are free to settle in, relax or explore the surrounding grounds.

Overnight: Pitlochry | Fonab Castle Hotel
Room Type: x1 Castle Superior
Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch

Day 3 - Guide Details - Andrew McMurtrie Read More +

Name: Andrew McMurtrie
Contact Number: +44 (0) 7741 314 872
Meeting Place: The Bonham Hotel Reception | Meeting Time: 09:00

Your Guide Andrew, will meet you at the reception of your hotel.

Day 3 - Dinner Details Read More +

Restaurant: 1892 | Location: Your Hotel
Reservation Time: 19:00 | Booking Reference: BA36TX6X

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

Your reservation is booked under John McArthur.

Please see notes from the restaurant below;

If you need to EDIT or CANCEL your reservation please use the relevant link to do so.

Day 4 - Wednesday 14th May - Exploring Perthshire

Experience the breathtaking beauty of Perthshire’s rolling hills, where wildlife thrives, scenic trails beckon, and historic castles await. Venture off the beaten path with your expert guide to uncover hidden gems known only to locals. Hike through enchanting forests to dramatic waterfalls framed by towering Scots pines.

If you have time, a visit to the magnificent Blair Castle offers a glimpse into the legacy of the Atholl family, who have called it home for over seven centuries. Wander through its opulent 18th-century interiors and immerse yourself in stories of Scotland’s past. Whether you’re seeking adventure or a deeper connection to this remarkable landscape, your guide will ensure an unforgettable journey.

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

Overnight: Pitlochry | Fonab Castle Hotel
Room Type: x1 Castle Superior
Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch

Day 4 - Dinner Details Read More +

Restaurant: Outdoor Dining Pod | Location: Your Hotel - Fonab Castle Dining Pod
Reservation Time: 19:00

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

Your reservation is under the name John McArthur.

Day 5 - Thursday 15th May - A journey to the Highlands

As you journey deep into the Highlands today, make a unique stop at one of Scotland’s most picturesque Distilleries.  Renowned as the UK’s highest Distillery and set against a breathtaking mountain backdrop, this historic gem has been crafting exceptional Highland single malts since 1897.  Savour the rich flavours of one of Scotland’s finest whiskies, inspired by its rugged and majestic surroundings.

Continue your journey to your next destination, nestled on the tranquil shores of Loch Shiel, where you can unwind and soak in the serene beauty.

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

Overnight: by Fort William | Glenfinnan House Hotel
Room Type: x1 Superior Room
Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch

Day 5 - Dinner Details Read More +

Restaurant: Dining Room | Location: Your Hotel - Glenfinnan House Hotel
Reservation Time: 19:00 | Booking Reference: JM-15052025-01

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

Your reservation is under the name John McArthur.

 

Day 6 - Friday 16th May - Stunning Road to the Isles

Embark on an unforgettable journey along the stunning Road to the Isles, often hailed as one of the world’s most breathtaking drives – and for good reason.  Marvel at the iconic Glenfinnan Viaduct, famously featured in the Harry Potter films, and delve into the region’s rich Jacobite history with insights from your guide.  Your adventure culminates in the picturesque coastline of Arisaig, where you will have some time to explore its pristine white sandy beaches and rugged coastline-an unspoiled gem waiting to be discovered.

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

Overnight: by Fort William | Glenfinnan House Hotel
Room Type: x1 Superior Room
Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch

Day 7 - Saturday 17th May - Glencoe & The West Coast

Heading West today you will pass the iconic area of Glencoe.  The dramatic mountains and ridges of this area have featured as the backdrop in many films and once you are looking up at these summits it is easy to see why! Stop and explore this famous valley with your guide, there are plenty of options to suit every level of energy and challenge.

Continuing on to your luxury hotel, set on its own private island, you are free to spend the evening just relaxing or exploring this incredibly peaceful setting.

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

Overnight: Benderloch | Isle of Eriska
Room Type: x1 Deluxe Double
Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch

Day 7 - Dinner Details Read More +

Restaurant: Main House Restaurant | Location: Your Hotel - Isle of Eriska
Reservation Time: 19:00 | Booking Reference: JM-17052025-03

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

Your reservation has been made under the name John McArthur.

Please see notes from the restaurant below;

Your reservation now holds a forty-eight-hour cancellation policy, should you cancel or change your table within this time frame, you will automatically be charged £40 per person.

Day 8 - Sunday 18th May - Islands & Castles

Uncover a hidden gem just off the coast with a visit to the enchanting Isle of Kerrera. Hop aboard a tiny ferry for one of Scotland’s shortest crossings, whisking you to this tranquil island haven. Take your time exploring Kerrera’s breathtaking landscapes, where rugged beauty meets serene charm. Discover a hidden castle steeped in history and soak in stunning views across the sea to the Inner Hebrides. When it’s time for a break, savour a comforting coffee at a unique and welcoming tea room, offering incredible views that perfectly complement the island’s quiet magic.

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

Overnight: Benderloch | Isle of Eriska
Room Type: x1 Deluxe Double
Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch

Day 8 - Dinner Details Read More +

Restaurant: The Deck Restaurant | Location: Your Hotel - Isle of Eriska
Reservation Time: 19:00 | Booking Reference: JM-18052025-02

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

Your reservation has been made under the name John McArthur.

Please see notes from the restaurant below;

Your reservation now holds a forty-eight-hour cancellation policy, should you cancel or change your table within this time frame, you will automatically be charged £40 per person.

Day 9 - Monday 19th May - Transfer to Loch Lomond

Bidding farewell to the mysterious peaks of the Highlands, you will make your way to your luxurious hotel on the banks of Loch Lomond for your final couple of nights in Scotland.  On the way, you will have some time to explore some of the many walking trails in the Loch Lomond and Trossachs National Park.  Your guide will be on hand to discuss options with you depending on how you are feeling and the weather conditions.

This evening, your guide will bid you farewell.

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

Overnight: Loch Lomond | Cameron House
Room Type: x1 Loch View Double
Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch

Day 9 - Dinner Details Read More +

Restaurant: The Grill | Location: Your Hotel - Cameron House Hotel
Reservation Time: 19:00 | Booking Reference: B3CFTX92

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

Please see notes from the restaurant below;

Thank you for making a reservation at Cameron Grill on Monday, 19 May 2025 at 7:00 PM.

Your booking details are below:

Ref: B3CFTX92
Date: Monday, 19 May 2025
Time: 7:00 PM
Guests: 2

If you are more than 15 minutes late for your table reservation we reserve the right to cancel your booking.

Our cancellation policy is 48 hours. If you are running late, please let us know and we will do our best to move your booking. Thank you for booking.

Kind regards
Cameron Grill

If you need to EDIT or CANCEL your reservation please use the relevant link to do so.

Day 10 - Tuesday 20th May - A day of Celebration!

Today is a day of pure celebration! Start your morning with a scenic boat cruise on the legendary Loch Lomond, where you’ll glide across its serene waters, surrounded by breathtaking Highland landscapes. Take in the fresh air and stunning vistas before unwinding with some well-deserved relaxation.

After your cruise, enjoy time to refresh before indulging in a soothing massage designed to melt away stress and leave you feeling completely rejuvenated. Let the tranquility of this stunning setting enhance your experience, making it the perfect way to reflect, recharge, and celebrate your special birthdays in true luxury!

Overnight: Loch Lomond | Cameron House
Room Type: x1 Loch View Double
Meals Included: Breakfast

Day 10 - Champagne Cruise on Loch Lomond Read More +

Activity: Champagne Cruise on Loch Lomond
| Start Time: 10:00 | Approx Duration: 1 hrs

The hotel staff will be in touch to let you know where to meet.

Day 10 - Massages Read More +

Activity: Massages
Start Location: Cameron House Hotel Spa | Start Time: 14:00 | Approx Duration: 1 hrs

Swedish Massage x 2

Please make your way to the Spa at least 15 minutes before your spa appointment time. Your reservation is under the name John McArthur.

Day 10 - Dinner Details Read More +

Restaurant: The Tavern | Location: Your Hotel - Cameron House Hotel
Reservation Time: 19:00 | Booking Reference: BXGHAZ7J

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

Please see notes from the restaurant below;

Thank you for booking.
Kind Regards
The Tavern

If you need to EDIT or CANCEL your reservation please use the relevant link to do so.

Day 11 - Wednesday 21st May - Your final night in Scotland!

A private transfer will meet you at your hotel this morning and take you back into the historic City of Edinburgh, for your final night in Scotland.  Your afternoon is free to explore another part of this unique city, revisit your favourite spot, or just relax with a warming coffee and watch the world go by.

Overnight: Edinburgh | The Bonham
Room Type: x1 Superior King
Meals Included: Breakfast

Day 11 - Transfer Details Read More +

Supplier: Littles Chauffeur Services
Booking Reference: 2721127
Pick Up Location: Cameron House Reception | Pick Up Time: 10:00 | Approx Duration: 1 hrs 30 mins
Phone: +44 (0) 141 883 2111

Your private transfer driver 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 0141 883 2111, which operates 24/7.

Day 11 - Dinner Details Read More +

Restaurant: Purslane Restaurant | Location: 33a St Stephen Street, Stockbridge, Edinburgh, EH3 5AH
Reservation Time: 19:00 | Booking Reference: BX9WARZR
Phone: 0131 226 3500 | Website: http://www.purslanerestaurant.co.uk/

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

Please see notes from the restaurant below;

Please note that there is a £30 per person charge for a no-show or cancellation within 48 hours.

Thank you for booking.
Kind Regards
Purslane

If you need to EDIT or CANCEL your reservation please use the relevant link to do so.

Day 12 - Thursday 22nd 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

Day 12 - Transfer Details Read More +

Supplier: Littles Chauffeur Services
Booking Reference: 2721128
Pick Up Location: The Bonham Hotel Reception | Pick Up Time: 11:00 | Approx Duration: 45 mins
Phone: +44 (0) 141 883 2111

Your private transfer driver 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 0141 883 2111, which operates 24/7.

Day 12 - Flight Details Read More +

Travel Date: May 22, 2025 | Airline: Delta | Flight Number: DL 0209
Departure Airport: Edinburgh Airport - EDI | Departure Time: 14:05
Arrival Airport: JFK

Trip Details

Inclusions Read More
  • 11 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 Day 3 to Day 9 inclusive
  • All transfers in a private vehicle driven by our guide on guided days
  • Private Airport Transfer on Arrival Day, includes Meet & Greet
  • Private Airport Transfer on Departure Day
  • All Ferry Travel Included in the Itinerary
  • All guided hikes mentioned in the itinerary
  • Entrance fees and activities mentioned in the itinerary, specifically:
    • Mary Kings Close – 1 hr tour (not private)
    • Half Day Edinburgh guided explorations  (private), including;
      • Entry to Edinburgh Castle
    • A private appointment with a genealogist
    • Entry to Blair Castle
    • A Highland Safari with a Kilted Ranger (private)
    • Tour & Tasting at a local Distillery (not private)
    • Cruise on Loch Lomond (not private)
    • 60 minute massage for 2 (Swedish or inner calm)
  • 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 in the inclusions.

 

Notes On Weather & Flexibility

Weather – May 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
We don’t generally recommend a set amount. We would encourage you to ask yourself what you were expecting from your guide and then think about how they have exceeded those expectations. Choose what you think reflects this and 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

Important Additional Information Read More
  • Eat | See | Stay - Edinburgh - PDF: View Now
  • Eat | See | Stay - Fort William - PDF: View Now
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

Fonab Castle Hotel

Foss Road | Pitlochry | Perthshire |
PH16 5ND | Scotland
Phone: +44 (0)1796 470140
Web: fonabcastlehotel.com

Glenfinnan House Hotel

Glenfinnan | by Fort William | Highland |
PH37 4LT | Scotland
Phone: +44 (0) 1397 601 113
Web: glenfinnanhouse.com

Isle of Eriska

Benderloch | Near Oban |
PA37 1SD | Scotland
Phone: +44 (0)1631 720 371
Web: eriska-hotel.co.uk

Cameron House

Loch Lomond | West Dunbartonshire |
G83 8QZ | Scotland
Phone: +44 (0)1389 312 210
Web: cameronhouse.co.uk

The Bonham

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

Meet Your Guide

Andrew McMurtrie

Contact Number: +44 (0) 7741 314 872

Me In Three : Reliable | Interested | Calm

Growing up in Glasgow, the Scouts took me on many adventures, close and far, mainly by foot. I studied Topographic Science (the making of maps), thinking I’d get paid to walk up hills, but ended up working offshore on boats and rigs making sure all the infrastructure was put in the right place, then surveying it once it was there. Having spent over 30 years in the offshore survey sector serving the energy industries, with nearly half of that time offshore, my career has taken me all over the world from Australia to Brazil, and Angola to Vietnam – always looking for a hill to walk or run up – although living in Aberdeenshire at all times. I gained a few outdoor qualifications along the way in my adult Scouting roles, and I’m now able to ‘work’ in the outdoors, which truly is my passion.

I regularly orienteer competitively, including winter night-time events, so my navigation skills are well-honed! I have twice competed in Finland at Jukola an 11-person relay and the world’s largest orienteering event where approximately 1700 teams compete through the night. I have also completed 17 mountain marathons in various regions of the UK. These involve 2 days running over mountainous terrain while navigating a route and carrying all the kit you need.

Hiking and biking are my two main passions nowadays, but I’ve been known to sail and ski too, mostly in Scotland. My wife says I have an addiction to bikes – buying them!

Place to Play

Living on the edge of the Southern Cairngorms, much of my ‘play time’ is spent here and it is a great place to bike and hike. The journey over to the west coast is one I enjoy and there is always a sense of excitement when I’m in the campervan heading west. It is hard to leave Scotland for adventure though I have managed the occasional trip – climbing Mt Toubkal in Morocco, cycling and sailing holidays in Mallorca and skiing trips to the Alps.

Not a lot of people know this

I spent five summers in a row as a teenager on some form of Scout camp/expedition: Switzerland, Massachusetts, Austria, Bavaria and Norway. Scouts played a large part of my teenage life and the reason for my love of the outdoors, camping and adventuring. My first Munro was Ben Nevis, aged 12, at my first summer camp on the banks of Loch Sunart – 38-years later I compleated (yes, correct spelling) my Munros on Beinn Sgritheall, overlooking the dramatic Loch Hourn, Knoydart and with stunning views to the Skye Cullins and beyond. I’ve also managed 50 Corbetts so far but still climb Munros too.

Virtuoso

A Scottish Celebration – Highlights & Hidden Gems – Final Information

Sunday 11th May – Thursday 22nd May 2025