SAMPLE - Luxury Scotland Adventure

Mr Barry White

June 2024

Number of Travellers: 8
Duration: 10 Days / 9 Nights

Overview

Join us to explore the wild and arresting beauty of Scotland. From the cobbled streets of Edinburgh to the slate-blue mountains of the Highlands, this trip sews together some of the country’s crowning jewels on an unforgettable adventure. With an expert Wilderness guide, visit captivating castles and ancient archaeological sites, immersing yourself in a variety of landscapes rich in history, culture and folklore. Spend time on the salt-soaked shores of the West Coast, amongst the rugged mountains of Glencoe and in the enchanting beauty of Caledonian pine forests in the heart of the Cairngorms National Park. Relax each evening in hand-picked, welcoming accommodation, enjoying delicious food made with fresh, seasonal ingredients. On this meticulously designed, bespoke trip, experience the very best of Scotland’s irresistible and bewitching beauty.

Highlights

  • Enjoy the thrill of a 4x4 adventure into the rugged wilderness with a kilted guide.
  • Take a unique journey through the Highlands aboard the Jacobite Steam Train.
  • Seek an iconic Scottish legend during an exhilarating boat ride on the dark waters of Loch Ness.

Day by Day

Day 1 - Welcome to Edinburgh

Arrive in the architecturally stunning city of Edinburgh today and settle into your luxury city centre hotel. Depending on your arrival time, you may wish to head out and explore the winding alleys and cobblestone streets. Full of history, the capital is very accessible by foot. Wander up the Royal Mile, and visit St Giles’ Cathedral, which has been a working church for over 900 years. Visit the Scottish National Portrait Gallery or step inside the National Museum on Chambers Street. This evening, enjoy a delicious dinner and a good night’s sleep.

Overnight: Edinburgh | InterContinental Edinburgh - The George
Room Type: 4 x Premium City View
Meals Included: None

Day 1 - Flight Details Read More +

Airline: SAMPLE | Flight Number: SAMPLE
Departure Airport: SAMPLE | Departure Time: 09:00
Arrival Airport: Edinburgh Airport (EDI) | Arrival Time: 11:00

Day 1 - Transfer Details Read More +

Supplier: Littles Chauffeur Hire
Pick Up Location: Edinburgh Airport (EDI) | Pick Up Time: 11:05
Phone: 00000000000

1 people carrier – meet and greet

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 00000000000, which operates 24/7.

Day 1 - Transfer Details Read More +

Supplier: Littles Chauffeur Hire
Pick Up Location: Edinburgh Airport (EDI) | Pick Up Time: 11:05
Phone: 00000000000

1 people carrier – meet and greet

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 00000000000, which operates 24/7.

Day 1 - Dinner Details Read More +

Restaurant: The Scran & Scallie | Location: Edinburgh
Reservation Time: 17:00
Website: https://scranandscallie.com/

Please note that this is a Table Reservation only. Please pay directly.

Day 2 - Exploring Historic Edinburgh

After breakfast, meet an expert guide in the foyer of your hotel and head out to explore the beautiful, historic streets of the city. Visit the iconic sites as well as the secret spots off the tourist trail. Your guide will leave you at lunchtime so that you may enjoy some time exploring at your own pace. Maybe pick up a coffee and a pastry from one of the wee artisanal bakeries and dip into local galleries, cheesemongers and bookshops. Later this afternoon, head to the top of the Royal Mile to visit Edinburgh Castle, where you can enjoy panoramic views over the city.

Overnight: Edinburgh | InterContinental Edinburgh - The George
Room Type: 4 x Premium City View
Meals Included: Breakfast

Day 2 - Half Day Edinburgh City Tour Read More +

Activity: Half Day Edinburgh City Tour
Blue Badge Guide: SAMPLE
Start Location: Intercontinental - The George, Edinburgh | Start Time: 09:00

Your Local Expert Guide will meet you at the reception of your hotel.

Day 2 - Dinner Details Read More +

Restaurant: The Lookout | Location: Edinburgh
Reservation Time: 18:00
Website: https://www.thelookoutedinburgh.co/

Please note that this is a Table Reservation only. Please pay directly

Day 3 - St Andrews Golf & Loch Lomond

Leave Edinburgh behind today and head to the beautiful coastal town of St Andrews, known for its historic university, medieval streets and exceptional golf courses. Some of the group can enjoy a walking tour, learning more about the place where the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge famously met during their studies. The golfers in the group will be eager to tee off on one of Scotland’s premier links courses – with stunning coastal views and meticulously designed fairways, you’ll be sure to enjoy every minute of your game. Afterwards, gather back together before heading to your lovely hotel tucked in Loch Lomond and the Trossachs National Park. 

Overnight: Loch Lomond | Cameron House
Room Type: 4 x Loch View Double
Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch

Day 3 - Guide Details - Scott McNeish Read More +

Name: Scott McNeish
Contact Number: 000000000
Meeting Place: Intercontinental - The George | Meeting Time: 09:00

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

Day 3 - Guide Details - Helen Ord Read More +

Name: Helen Ord
Contact Number: 000000000
Meeting Place: Intercontinental - The George | Meeting Time: 09:00

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

Day 3 - Dinner Details Read More +

Restaurant: La Vista | Location: Cameron House
Reservation Time: 19:00
Website: https://www.cameronhouse.co.uk/dining-bars/restaurants/la-vista/

Please note that this is a Table Reservation only. Please pay directly

Day 4 - Hiking, Whisky and Chocolate

Enjoy exploring Loch Lomond & Trossachs National Park today, a beautiful landscape of soaring mountains, rushing waterfalls and deep blue lakes. With plenty of options to choose from, chat with your guide about whether the group fancies hiking, biking, horse-riding or, of course, something more relaxed. Enjoy looking out for wildlife and spending time surrounded by the peace of the countryside. This afternoon, visit a classic distillery for a fascinating tour and tasting. Savour the rich flavours of some of Scotland’s finest whisky, complemented by delectable award-winning chocolate.

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

Overnight: Loch Lomond | Cameron House
Room Type: 4 x Loch View Double
Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch

Day 4 - Dinner Details Read More +

Restaurant: The Cameron Grill | Location: Cameron House
Reservation Time: 19:00
Website: https://www.cameronhouse.co.uk/dining-bars/restaurants/cameron-grill/

Please note that this is a Table Reservation only. Please pay directly.

Day 5 - Off-Road Experience & Transfer North

After breakfast, head out for an adrenaline-filled adventure as you embark on a 4×4 off-roading trip in a British Land Rover Defender. Learn or improve your off-road driving skills as your knowledgable and kilted guide supports you through the challenging terrain. Enjoy the incredible hilltop views as you trundle along exclusive access tracks. As you drive, keep an eye out for the local wildlife, including red deer and golden eagles. Afterwards, transfer to Fort William, weaving your way through the iconic Glencoe Glen to arrive beneath the shadow of Ben Nevis – Scotland’s highest peak.

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

Overnight: Near Fort William | Inverlochy Castle Hotel
Room Type: 3 x Large Double Rooms and 1 x Junior Suite
Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch

Day 5 - Dinner Details Read More +

Restaurant: Black Isle Bar | Location: Fort William
Reservation Time: 19:00

Day 6 - Jacobite Steam Train & Seafood

This morning, catch the Jacobite Steam Train – considered to be one of the greatest train journeys in the world. Cross the impressive Glenfinnan Viaduct, made famous by the Harry Potter films and disembark in the pretty working fishing port of Mallaig. Disembark and meet your guide, enjoying a fresh seafood lunch and a wander along the pretty harbour. The drive back to Fort William is equally captivating, as the road ribbons through a landscape that transitions from a rugged coastline to the untamed grandeur of the Highlands.

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

 

Overnight: Near Fort William | Inverlochy Castle Hotel
Room Type: 3 x Large Double Rooms and 1 x Junior Suite
Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch

Day 6 - Dinner Details Read More +

Restaurant: Crannog Restaurant | Location: Fort William
Reservation Time: 18:00
Website: https://www.crannog.net/

Please note that this is a Table Reservation only. Please pay directly

Day 7 - Loch Ness Boat Trip & Arrive in Inverness

Today, travel north to Inverness – the capital of the Highlands. Embark on a private boat trip across the dark waters of Loch Ness, learning more about this iconic loch’s history and the fabled monster that lives in its depths. Enjoy the enchanting views that unfurl beyond the bow, looking out at heather-cloaked hills and old, deciduous woodland. Along the way, stop at the stunning Urquhart Castle, before coming ashore and making the final short drive to your lovely hotel.

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

Overnight: Inverness | Ness Walk
Room Type: 2 x Cedar King and 2 x Laurel King
Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch

Day 7 - Dinner Details Read More +

Restaurant: The Mustard Seed | Location: Inverness
Reservation Time: 18:00
Website: https://www.mustardseedrestaurant.co.uk/

Please note that this is a Table Reservation only. Please pay directly

Day 8 - Culloden Battlefield & Cawdor Castle

Today, visit the evocative Culloden Battlefield and engaging visitor centre, learning more about the famous battle that took place here in 1746 and the impact it had on Scottish history. Afterwards, visit Clava Cairns, a fascinating Bronze Age burial cairn surrounded by standing stones. Built over 4000 years ago, the opening of the chamber aligns with the midwinter sun but was also a place of celebration at midsummer. Enjoy exploring Cawdor Castle this afternoon, which dates back to the 14th Century. This impressive fortress is steeped in the lore of Shakespeare’s ‘Macbeth’ and offers a unique glimpse into Scotland’s past.

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

Overnight: Inverness | Ness Walk
Room Type: 2 x Cedar King and 2 x Laurel King
Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch

Day 8 - Dinner Details Read More +

Restaurant: Fig & Thistle | Location: Inverness
Reservation Time: 18:15
Website: https://www.figandthistle.co.uk/

Please note that this is a Table Reservation only. Please pay directly

Day 9 - Wildlife Adventures in the Cairngorms

After breakfast, some of the group will head out to enjoy a morning spent fly-fishing. An addictive, peaceful sport, discover the appeal of this traditional pastime with an experienced local instructor surrounded by beautiful countryside. Meanwhile, others in the group can join their guide for a wonderful hike in the Cairngorms National Park. With many trails to choose from, enjoy the tang of Caledonian pine and look out for red squirrels and buzzards. This afternoon, head up into the mountains for a very special experience: meeting the cheeky local reindeer herd. Or, if some of the group prefer, visit a local distillery to enjoy an exclusive tour and tasting. 

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

Overnight: Inverness | Ness Walk
Room Type: 2 x Cedar King and 2 x Laurel King
Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch

Day 10 - Depart

This morning a private transfer will take you to Inverness Airport to catch your onward travel. Waving farewell for now but taking with you special memories of your Scottish adventure. 

Meals Included: Breakfast

Day 10 - Transfer Details Read More +

Supplier: Ness Walk
Pick Up Location: Ness Walk | Pick Up Time: 08:30

Day 10 - Flight Details Read More +

Airline: SAMPLE | Flight Number: SAMPLE
Departure Airport: Inverness (INV) | Departure Time: 12:00
Arrival Airport: SAMPLE

Trip Details

Inclusions Read More
  • All accommodation from Day 1 to Day 10 as per the itinerary
  • Most meals as indicated above
  • Services of two experienced and knowledgeable UK qualified guides from Day 3 to Day 9 inclusive
  • Ground transportation in private vehicles driven by your guides on Guided Days
  • Private airport pick up and drop off
  • All guided hikes mentioned in the itinerary
  • Activities included in the itinerary, specifically:
  • D2 – Half Day Private city tour with an Expert Qualified Guide
  • D2 – Entrance fee, Edinburgh Castle
  • D3 – Golf for 4 Pax, including Green Fee and club hire
  • D4 – Private Distillery tour and tasting
  • D5 – Private half Day 4×4 Land Rover Off Road & Driving Experience
  • D6 – Steam Train Experience – Jacobite Service, One Way, First Class Tickets
  • D7 – Private Rib Boat Experience on Loch Ness (approx 90 mins)
  • D7 – Entrance fee, Urquhart Castle
  • D8 – Entrance fee, Culloden Battlefield
  • D8 – Entrance fee, Cawdor Castle
  • D9 – Hiking with Your Qualified Guide
  • D9 – Cairngorm Reindeer Herd Hill Walk (or paddock visit)
  • D9 – 1 Hour Fly Fishing
  • 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
  • Activities and entrance fees not mentioned in the inclusions
  • Gratuities for main Driver-Guide
Notes Read More
  • Activities are only private if specifically stated

 

Notes On Weather & Flexibility

Weather – June 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.

 

Useful Contacts

24 hour in-country support (Wilderness Scotland):  +44 (0)1479 420 020, or out with regular office hours +44 (0)7766 794 640 (urgent calls only)

Emergency services:  999 or 112

NHS 24 (24 hour free medical advice):  111

 

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).

Optional Upgrades Read More

Room Upgrades are available in some locations, subject to availability. Pricing on request.

Pricing Read More

Pricing:

The NET price for this itinerary is based on 8 clients on a twin-share basis, and includes a £12 per person conservation contribution :

  • £8,007 GBP per person

Conservation Contribution

This voluntary donation of £12 per person goes towards conservation projects in the locations we operate.  If you would like to opt out just let your trip designer know.

Click here for more information.

Important Additional Information Read More
  • Scotland General Info - PDF: View Now
  • Eat | See | Stay - Edinburgh - PDF: View Now
  • Eat | See | Stay - Fort William - PDF: View Now
  • Eat | See | Stay - Inverness - PDF: View Now
Terms & Conditions Read More

Please see our booking terms here.


Accommodation

InterContinental Edinburgh - The George

19-21 George Street | Edinburgh |
EH2 2PB | Scotland
Phone: +44 (0)131 225 1251
Web: edinburgh.intercontinental.com

Cameron House

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

Inverlochy Castle Hotel

Torlundy | Near Fort William |
PH33 6SN | Scotland
Phone: +44 (0)1397 702 177
Web: inverlochycastlehotel.com

Ness Walk

12 Ness Walk | Inverness |
IV3 5SQ | Scotland
Phone: +44 (0)1463 215 215
Web: nesswalk.com


Meet Your Guides

Scott McNeish

Contact Number: 0000000000

I work within the operations team at Wilderness Scotland and am incredibly lucky to be able to be part of the guiding team too.  After a nomadic childhood growing up in Austria, Hong Kong, Norway, and Canada I caught the bug for adventure travel and have spent a lifetime skiing, climbing and canoeing and have been lucky enough to join trips all over the world.

Following a career in the Royal Air Force I settled in the Highlands and love the wildness of a winter’s day out in the Cairngorms. To me, Scotland is the world ‘distilled’ into one great mini adventure playground and offers so much I just need to keep exploring it.

Helen Ord

Contact Number: 0000000000

Born and bred in Scotland, I nonetheless spent 20 years living in exile (strangely self-enforced) both “down south” (ie. England!) and overseas. Having spent so much time living and working away from home, including in some countries you wouldn’t normally find on a bucket list (Afghanistan for one), I realised that, regardless of location, I would always be the person enthusiastically regaling colleagues and friends with tales and descriptions of the most exciting and beautiful country in the world… Their trips, real or imagined, would be entirely organised by me and of course, I would be the one showing them around.

From an early age, I was brought up in some of the most beautiful and iconic locations we have to offer. The Cairngorm mountains and Western Highlands hold a particularly special place in my heart, but having called Edinburgh, St Andrews, fairy-tale Glamis and beautiful Royal Deeside “home” at various points in my life, my love of our amazing landscape, history and culture runs deep.

So although I didn’t realise it 20 years ago, of course, it was inevitable that I would end up returning to my beloved Scotland and making guiding my profession. And I love it! I get to explore my own extraordinary country and watch the delight on others’ faces as I help them discover it for themselves too. You could say that I truly am living the dream.

Dan Parker

Contact Number: +44 (0)7837 957 584

Originally from mid-Wales, I spent most of my teenage years exploring the local crags, trails and rivers in search of new adventures. I have lived in the highlands for 6 years now and I love exploring new remote regions of this beautiful country.

I am lucky enough to call Aviemore home with my young family where I enjoy spending long days on the bike looking for singletrack gold.