The Best of Scotland - FINAL INFORMATION

Myers Family

Friday 27th June – Wednesday 2nd July 2025

Number of Travellers:  4
Duration: 6 Days / 5 Nights

Overview

Final Information published – 10th June 2025 

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 note that on days with your main driver-guide(s), please ask your guide for assistance in the first instance. As they are best placed to answer any queries directly & in a timely manner. Please see below for ways to get in touch while on the trip;

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 5:00pm 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 | Friday 27th June | Welcome to Scotland | Overnight: Glencoe

Day 2 | Saturday 28th June | Exploring Glencoe and 007's ancestral home | Overnight: Glencoe

Day 3 | Sunday 29th June | Road to the Isle of Skye | Overnight: Portree

Day 4 | Monday 30th June | Exploring the Misty Isle | Overnight: Portree

Day 5 | Tuesday 1st July | Loch Ness and South to Edinburgh | Overnight: Edinburgh

Day 6 | Wednesday 2nd July | Depart

Day by Day

Day 1 - Friday 27th June - Welcome to Scotland

Upon arrival into Glasgow, you will meet your experienced guide, who will also acts as your driver for your time in Scotland. Together, you will transfer straight out of the city. Sit back and relax as you journey through some of Scotland’s finest scenery on your way to your accommodation in the valley of Glencoe. Upon arrival, take the chance to relax ahead of the adventures to come.

Overnight: Glencoe | Kingshouse Hotel
Room Type: 2x Feature King - one twinned
Meals Included: Breakfast

Day 1 - Train Details Read More +

Travel Date: June 27, 2025 | Rail Operator: East Midlands Railway & TransPennine Express
Departure Train Station: Chesterfield | Departure Time: 09:21
Arrival Train Station: Glasgow Central | Arrival Time: 14:39

Connecting through Manchester Piccadilly

Depart Chesterfield at 9:21am – Arrive Manchester Piccadilly at 10:35am (East Midlands Railway)

Depart Manchester Piccadilly at 11:21am – Arrive Glasgow Central at 2:39pm (Transpennine Express) – Coach C, Seats 41, 42, 45, 46

Day 1 - Guide Details - Petra Kmetikova Read More +

Name: Petra Kmetikova
Contact Number: +44(0)7544524462
Meeting Place: Glasgow Central | Meeting Time: 14:40

Your guide, Petra will meet you at Glasgow Central Train Station on the platform if possible, or the central concourse, by the big clock. They will be in touch prior to your arrival to confirm a meeting place.

Day 1 - Dinner Details Read More +

Restaurant: Kingshouse Restaurant | Location: Kingshouse Hotel
Reservation Time: 18:30
Phone: +44(0)1855 851 260

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

Day 2 - Saturday 28th June - Exploring Glencoe and 007's ancestral home

Today, meet your guide and head out for the day to explore Glencoe. A place often described as one of Scotland’s most beautiful landscapes, there is so much on offer for all to see. This area of Scotland is particularly well known for being the ancestral home of the fictional British spy, James Bond. Spend some time exploring the locations that featured in the film, especially the area used for Skyfall and understand the inspiration behind choosing this location of the iconic home of 007.

Spend some time chatting with your guide about the area and discuss any walks that may be of fancy to you. Your guide will be able to suggest some options that will suit what you wish to get out of the day.

Overnight: Glencoe | Kingshouse Hotel
Room Type: 2x Feature King - one twinned
Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch

Day 2 - Dinner Details Read More +

Restaurant: Kingshouse Restaurant | Location: Kingshouse Hotel
Reservation Time: 18:30
Phone: +44(0)1855 851 260

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

Day 3 - Sunday 29th June - Road to the Isle of Skye

Travel along one of the most beautiful roads in Scotland towards the Isle of Skye. Along the way you will get the chance to take in some of the sheer beauty on offer. First, stop off at the Glenfinnan monument, standing tall above Loch Shiel. Here you will get the chance to climb to the top of this stunning monument and be treated to panoramic views of the surrounding scenery. If you time it right, you might just see the famous steam train (known as the Hogwarts express from the Harry Potter franchise) crossing the viaduct behind you.

You will arrive into Mallaig and board a ferry bound for the famed Isle of Skye. As you cross, enjoy views of the beautiful south shoreline of the island before docking into Armadale and heading for Portree, the islands capital, and your destination for the next few days. Upon arrival, relax at the hotel, or head into Portree and explore the small harbour town.

Overnight: Portree | Marmalade Hotel
Room Type: 1x Superior King, 1x Superior Twin
Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch

Day 3 - Ferry Details Read More +

Operator: Caledonian MacBrayne
Booking Reference: S2500401250
Contact Number: +44 (0) 1475 650 110

Departure Port: Mallaig | Departure Time: 15:00
Arrival Port: Armadale | Arrival Time: 15:45

Please note, check-in for this sailing closes at 14:40.

Day 3 - Dinner Details Read More +

Restaurant: Chargrill | Location: Marmalade Hotel
Reservation Time: 18:30
Phone: +44(0)1478 611711

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

Day 4 - Monday 30th June - Exploring the Misty Isle

This morning head out with your guide to explore the dramatic landscape of the Quiraing on the northern peninsula of Skye. As you walk, admire the stark rock formations that rise from the rugged ground like the great ruined battlements of a long-forgotten war. Chat with your guide about the geology and history of the area, enjoying the incredible sweeping views of the island, its mountains and sun-clipped shores that stretch in every direction.

Continue north around the top of the island and spend some time exploring a local island museum. Learn how people lived 100 years ago, working the land and living on their crofts. You may even get the chance to encounter a highland Coo in the field nearby!

Overnight: Portree | Marmalade Hotel
Room Type: 1x Superior King, 1x Superior Twin
Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch

Day 4 - Lunch Details Read More +

Restaurant: Uig Hotel | Location: Uig, Isle of Skye
Reservation Time: 13:30

Day 4 - Dinner Details Read More +

Restaurant: Dulse & Brose Restaurant | Location: Bosville Hotel, Portree
Reservation Time: 18:30 | Booking Reference: B7NYVJHV
Phone: +44(0)1478 612846 | Website: https://perlehotels.com/the-bosville/restaurant/

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

Please see the below from the Restaurant:

Leave Time: We respectfully require your table back by 7:55 PM

Day 5 - Tuesday 1st July - Loch Ness and South to Edinburgh

This morning you bid farewell to the Isle of Skye as you head back for the mainland. You will cross the famous Skye bridge, providing a vital link to mainland for the residents that call the island home. Along the way there are lots of stop off locations for you to take in the beauty of the surrounding mountains and lochs, including a 007 filming location along the way.

Next you will come to the ruins of Urquhart Castle, perched on the shores of Loch Ness. Famous for its role in the Jacobite uprisings, spend some time with your guide having a look around this old fortress. As your guide about its links to Outlander!

From here, travel along the shore of the Loch towards Inverness. Your guide will take you to the train station for your onwards connection to Edinburgh. Here your guide will bid their farewells, leaving you with unforgettable memories of the Scottish highlands.

Upon arrival into Edinburgh, a private transfer will collect you from the train station and take you to your city centre accommodation.

Overnight: Edinburgh | Hilton Edinburgh Carlton
Room Type: 1x King Deluxe, 1x 2 Double Deluxe
Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch

Day 5 - Dinner Details Read More +

Clients to discuss with guide due to train time.

Day 5 - Train Details Read More +

Travel Date: July 1, 2025 | Rail Operator: ScotRail
Departure Train Station: Inverness | Departure Time: 18:52
Arrival Train Station: Edinburgh | Arrival Time: 22:15

Carriage B

Seats – 23B, 23F, 24B, & 24F

Day 5 - Transfer Details Read More +

Supplier: Littles
Booking Reference: 2722801
Pick Up Location: Edinburgh Waverly | Pick Up Time: 22:15 | Approx Duration: 15 mins
Phone: 0141 883 2111

Please Note

Your driver will meet you in the concourse at Edinburgh Waverly for your transfer to the hotel.

Littles will send contact details for the chauffeur 30 minutes prior to the reservation taking place, to your number as an SMS. 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. If the client does not do this and leaves the pick-up point without giving the team at Little’s the chance to get the chauffeur and the client together, cancellation charges may apply.

“Please note that to walk from Edinburgh Waverly Train Station to Hilton Edinburgh Carlton is only a 3 minute walk – should you wish to take this option, we can remove the private transfer.

Day 6 - Wednesday 2nd July - 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 6 - Transfer Details Read More +

Supplier: Littles
Booking Reference: 2722802
Pick Up Location: Hilton Hotel, Carlton | Pick Up Time: 07:30 | Approx Duration: 1 hrs
Phone: 0141 883 2111

Please Note

Your driver will meet you in the foyer of the hotel at 07:30am for your transfer Edinburgh Airport.

Littles will send contact details for the chauffeur 30 minutes prior to the reservation taking place, to your number as an SMS. 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. If the client does not do this and leaves the pick-up point without giving the team at Little’s the chance to get the chauffeur and the client together, cancellation charges may apply.

Day 6 - Flight Details Read More +

Travel Date: July 2, 2025 | Airline: American Airlines | Flight Number: AA279
Departure Airport: Edinburgh | Departure Time: 11:35
Arrival Airport: Philadelphia | Arrival Time: 13:45

Connecting with flight AA5843 in Philadelphia:

Departs Philadelphia (PHL) – 15:57PM

Arrives Knoxville (TYS) – 17:55PM

Trip Details

Inclusions Read More

This Itinerary includes:

  • 5 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 1 to Day 5 inclusive
  • All transfers in a private vehicle driven by our guide on guided days
  • Transfer on arrival into Scotland with your experience guide
  • Private Airport Transfer on Departure Day
  • Standard class train tickets from Inverness to Edinburgh
  • Private Transfer from Train Station to your City Centre Hotel
  • All Ferry Travel Included in the Itinerary
  • All guided hikes mentioned in the itinerary
  • Entrance fees and activities mentioned in the itinerary, specifically:
    • Day 3 – Entry into Glenfinnan Monument
    • Day 4 – Entry to a local Island museum
    • Day 5 – Entry to Urquhart Castle
  • 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

Activities are only private if specifically stated in the inclusions.

Notes On Weather & Flexibility

Weather – June & July in Scotland can have a very wide range of weather, and is 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).

Transfer Notes

Please note that the transfer company reserves the right to amend the pick up times and / or locations due to local traffic incidents such as road closures, diversions and volume of traffic.  They will communicate any changes with the clients directly on the day or the day prior.

Important Contact Numbers Read More
Wilderness Scotland Office | 9:00am – 5:00pm

UK: +44 (0)1479 420 020
US: 888 351 5707

Out of Office Hours | 5:00pm – 9:00am

+44 (0)7766 794 640

Emergency Services

999

Important Additional Information Read More

Accommodation

Kingshouse Hotel

Glencoe | Ballachulish |
PH49 4HY | Scotland
Phone: +44 (0)1855 851 260
Web: kingshousehotel.co.uk

Marmalade Hotel

Home Farm Road | Portree | Isle of Skye |
IV51 9LX | Scotland
Phone: +44 (0)1478 611711
Web: perlehotels.com/marmalade

Hilton Edinburgh Carlton

Edinburgh |
EH11SD | Scotland
Phone: +44 (0)131 472 3000
Web: hilton.com/en/hotels/edicahi-hilton-edinburgh-carlton/hotel-info

Meet Your Guide

Petra Kmetikova

Contact Number: +44(0)7544524462

I am a climber, mountaineer and hillwalker. I guide mostly walking trips and enjoy the blend of a good chat, great landscapes and the occasional navigational detour (intentional, of course).

I moved to Scotland in 2019, but I am originally from Slovakia, with a few years in the Netherlands and France in between. My background is in Learning and Development, which I used to do in big organisations—now I just apply it in slightly windier conditions, teaching different mountain and climbing skills.

I got into the outdoors the same way I tend to approach most things: full of questions. Everything was so interesting when I moved to Scotland: place names, languages, old stories, lichens I couldn’t name. I was curious about it all, and I wanted to share all I learned, making others fall in love with Scotland the same way I did.

I divide my time between the Highlands, Lake District, Wales and the Alps, for personal trips and guiding work. I love to explore the similarities and subtle differences of the mountain areas.

Favourite Place to Play

Ben Nevis North Face is a place like no other for climbing in winter. When it’s good, it’s great, but more often than not, it’s a cold, cold suffering.

Not a lot of People Know This

I used to own a landscaping company, and I still love building with wood. If we run out of things to see on our trips (highly unlikely), we can pop off for a bit of DIY.

Virtuoso

The Best of Scotland – FINAL INFORMATION

Friday 27th June – Wednesday 2nd July 2025