Immerse Yourselves in The Highlights of The Scottish Highlands - V2 - Final Information Document

Patterson

Monday 30th September – Monday 7th October 2024

Number of Travellers: 2
Duration: 8 Days / 7 Nights

Overview

Discover the true flavours of Scotland with insights from your expert guide and create special memories together. Explore history in atmospheric glens and meet the local characters sharing their love of this unique location. Raise a glass to celebrate with a wee dram packed full of the flavours of Scotland. From the city streets to the wild Highlands, you are sure to fall in love with every inch of this character packed country. In between mini adventures, your luxurious hotel surroundings will ensure that you feel completely relaxed and pampered by the end of your trip.

 

On Trip;

While we hope things run smoothly for the duration of their stay, we know that unforeseen circumstances do happen and there are times when the clients may need to contact us for assistance. 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: Office number ++44 (0) 1479 420 020
Please note: Office hours are Mon- Fri 9:00 – 5:30

Out of Office Hours Number: +44 (0)7766 794 640 for use after 5:30pm and at the weekends.
Note: If you require immediate assistance for an issue, problem or emergency, please call or Whatsapp our Out of Office Hours Number

Itinerary at a Glance

Day 1 | Monday 30th September | Welcome To Scotland. Meet Your Guide & Head North | Overnight: Braemar

Day 2 | Tuesday 1st October | Insights Into Local Life | Overnight: Braemar

Day 3 | Wednesday 2nd October | Local Explorations & Relaxation | Overnight: Braemar

Day 4 | Thursday 3rd October | Transfer West via Distillery Tour | Overnight: Near Fort William

Day 5 | Friday 4th October | The 'Road To The Isles' | Overnight: Near Fort William

Day 6 | Saturday 5th October | Exploring Atmospheric Glencoe | Overnight: Auchterarder

Day 7 | Sunday 6th October | Free Day At Gleneagles | Overnight: Auchterarder

Day 8 | Monday 7th October | Depart

Day by Day

Day 1 - Monday 30th September - Welcome To Scotland. Meet Your Guide & Head North

This morning your Private Guide (who will also act as your driver) will meet you on arrival at Edinburgh Airport and together you will head north towards the Highlands. There are many options for gentle strolls taking in the beautiful scenery, which your guide will bring to life for you as you travel. So maybe explore the historic university town of St Andrews or visit the splendours of elegant Scone Palace before you continue North. You may want to take a leg stretch to discover a special beauty spot with your guide, or save some time to explore the charming village of Braemar before settling into your unique Highland hotel.

Note: Lunch and activities depend on arrival time. Drive Time is approx 2.5 hours without additional explorations.

Overnight: Braemar | The Fife Arms
Room Type: Royal Suite
Meals Included: Lunch

Day 1 - Flight Details Read More +

Airline: Private Jet Departure Airport: Oxford EGTK | Departure Time: 10:00
Arrival Airport: Edinburgh EGPH | Arrival Time: 11:12

Aircraft: Challenger 350

Day 1 - Guide Details - Jeremy Martin Read More +

Name: Jeremy Martin
Contact Number: +44 (0)7717 390 103
Meeting Place: Edinburgh Airport Private Arrivals | Meeting Time: 11:12

Day 1 - Dinner Details Read More +

Restaurant: The Clunie | Location: Your Hotel
Reservation Time: 19:15 | Booking Reference: Patterson

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

Day 2 - Tuesday 1st October - Insights Into Local Life

Explore the local area with your knowledgeable private guide today. Maybe visit a local farmer to meet her herd of shaggy Highland cows. Discover why this native breed are such iconic Scottish symbols and what characters they can be! Finish your private tour with a tasting (if you want!). Nearby, you can also enjoy a lovely exploration of Crathes Castle which is a beautiful turreted 16th Century Castle, with painted ceilings, antique furniture and beautiful grounds. Today is flexible and your guide will personalise it to your interests.

Overnight: Braemar | The Fife Arms
Room Type: Royal Suite
Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch

Day 2 - Dinner Details Read More +

Pub: The Flying Stag | Location: Your Hotel
Reservation Time: 19:45 | Booking Reference: Patterson

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

Day 3 - Wednesday 2nd October - Local Explorations & Relaxation

Head out with your guide for local explorations this morning, discovering one of Queen Victoria’s favourite beauty spots just a few minutes drive from the hotel. A traditional stone bridge takes you up above the turbulent waters to explore Caledonian Pine Forest, your guide will share the local tales and some of their favourite hidden gems with you. This afternoon is free for you to relax and enjoy the uniquely decorated spaces in your hotel. (Although your guide will be available if you do wish to continue exploring)

Overnight: Braemar | The Fife Arms
Room Type: Royal Suite
Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch

Day 4 - Thursday 3rd October - Transfer West via Distillery Tour

Today you head towards the rugged west coast with your guide. On route you will stop at the famous House of Bruar. You can also choose to take a gentle hike to admire the spectacular Black Linn Falls from the folly of Ossian’s Hall. Afterwards you will continue west, stopping at Dalwhinnie Distillery on the way to your accommodation. This is the highest distillery in Scotland which prides itself on producing gently warming spirits in the coldest and harshest of conditions. Take a tour of this picturesque distillery and raise a glass to toast your Scottish adventures before you continue to your welcoming hotel.

Note: Drive time today is approx 3 hrs.

Overnight: Near Fort William | Inverlochy Castle Hotel
Room Type: Walled Garden Attic Suite (NOT in main castle, in the grounds)
Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch

Day 5 - Friday 4th October - The 'Road To The Isles'

Today you will enjoy superb views as your guide takes you along the stunning Road to the Isles, this is frequently listed as one of the most beautiful drives in the world and it is easy to see why. Your guide will share the tales of the local area as you go, making the landscape come alive with characters and history.

You may wish to stop at the historic Glenfinnan Monument, and see if you can spot the famous ‘Harry Potter Train’ puffing its way over the graceful arches of the viaduct. Take a stroll on the white sand beaches of Arisaig and soak in the views of the Small Isles and Skye before heading back to your hotel.

Note: Drive time today is approx 1 hr each way. The day is completely flexible and the clients could choose to stay relaxing in the hotel if they wish.

Overnight: Near Fort William | Inverlochy Castle Hotel
Room Type: Walled Garden Attic Suite (NOT in main castle, in the grounds)
Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch

Day 6 - Saturday 5th October - Exploring Atmospheric Glencoe

The dramatic mountains and ridges of Glencoe have featured as the backdrop in many films and once you are looking up at these summits it is easy to see why! Today you will explore this famous valley with your guide, there are plenty of options to suit every level of energy and challenge. After your stroll settle down with a celebratory beverage in a traditional climbers pub and listen to local legends and fascinating tales of the dark past of Glencoe told by a local storyteller. Your guide will then take you onwards to the luxurious resort of Gleneagles where they will depart, leaving you to enjoy your stay and the varied facilities.

Overnight: Auchterarder | Gleneagles Hotel
Room Type: Estate Suite
Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch

Day 7 - Sunday 6th October - Free Day At Gleneagles

Today you have a full free day at Gleneagles to relax. Maybe choose to explore some of the beautiful grounds, or take full advantage of the varied facilities on offer. The choice is yours.

Overnight: Auchterarder | Gleneagles Hotel
Room Type: Estate Suite
Meals Included: Breakfast

Day 8 - Monday 7th October - 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 8 - Transfer Details Read More +

Supplier: Little's Chauffeur Hire
Booking Reference: 2711536
Pick Up Location: Gleneagles Hotel Reception | Pick Up Time: 07:30 | Approx Duration: 1 hrs
Phone: +44 (0) 141 883 2111

Your private driver will 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 8 - Flight Details Read More +

Airline: British Airways | Flight Number: BA 1441
Departure Airport: Edinburgh EDI | Departure Time: 10:25
Arrival Airport: London Heathrow LHR | Arrival Time: 12:00

Trip Details

Inclusions Read More
  • 7 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 6 inclusive
  • All transfers in a private vehicle driven by your guide on guided days
  • Private Airport Transfer on Departure Day – Gleneagles to Edinburgh Airport
  • All guided hikes mentioned in the itinerary
  • Entrance fees and activities mentioned in the itinerary, specifically:
    • 2 x Entrance Fees on D1 as per interest (Eg. Scone Palace or Falkland Palace in Fife)
    • Private Highland Cow Farm Tour
    • 2 x Entry Fee in the Cairngorms as per interest (Eg. Crathes Castle)
    • Distillery Tour & Tasting
    • 2 x Entrance Fees on D5 as per interest if required (Eg. Glenfinnan Monument)
    • Private Storyteller Experience in Glencoe
  • 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
  • Activities at Gleneagles
Notes Read More

Activities are only private if so stared in the inclusions

 

Notes On Weather & Flexibility

Weather in Scotland can be 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 for Hiking

  • 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.

 

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).

 

Useful Contacts

24 hour in-country support (Wilderness Scotland):  +44 (0)1479 420 020,or outwith regular office hours +44 (0)7766 794 640 (urgent calls only, but can also be used for less urgent text messages or WhatApp messages)

Emergency services:  999 or 112NHS 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.

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

Optional Upgrades Read More
  • Room Upgrades are available in some locations, subject to availability. Pricing on request.
  • Private Foraging Workshop in Cairngorms (approx 2 hrs) = £750 Total Cost
Pricing Read More

The NET price for this itinerary, based on 2 clients on a twin-share basis, and including a £12 per person conservation contribution is:

  • £13,365 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.

Terms & Conditions Read More

Please see our booking terms here.

Accommodation

The Fife Arms

Mar Rd | Braemar | Royal Deeside |
AB35 5YL | Scotland
Phone: +44 (0)1339 720 200
Web: thefifearms.com

Inverlochy Castle Hotel

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

Gleneagles Hotel

Auchterarder, Perthshire | Auchterarder |
PH3 1NF | Scotland
Phone: +44 (0)1764 290 020
Web: gleneagles.com

Meet Your Guide

Jeremy Martin

Contact Number: +44 (0) 7717 390 103

Me In Three = Rather | Be | Outside

My mum and dad were founding members of the “Rangiora Tramping Club” in New Zealand, so I grew up spending most of my weekends in the hills and valleys of Arthur’s Pass and other wild parts of New Zealand. At high school my mates and I taught ourselves to kayak by putting our boats in the school pool at lunch time and figuring it out.

Since then I’ve been working as a guide and instructor in New Zealand, Scotland, Turkey and other beautiful places.

Favourite Place to Play

Paddling in Torridon and Applecross; it’s an ancient yet dynamic place, wild yet familiar, windswept yet comforting.

Not a lot of People Know This

My mum was a brownie leader, and I think I was Aberdeen’s first boy brownie. Also… when Robert the Bruce defeated the English at Bannockburn in 1314 the population of New Zealand was probably zero.

Virtuoso

Immerse Yourselves in The Highlights of The Scottish Highlands – V2 – Final Information Document

Monday 30th September – Monday 7th October 2024