Scotland Adventures - Final Information

Philip Weeden, Susan Ly, Pamela Goldstone and Alan Goldstone

Friday 21st June – Sunday 7th July 2024

Number of Travellers: 4
Duration: 17 Days / 16 Nights

Overview

Immerse yourself in the beauty Scotland has to offer. Experience the magic and wonder of the beautiful isles, visiting local people and hearing tales of days gone by, as well as enjoying some coastal walks with incredible vistas and local wildlife. Hear the stories of the landscape as you soak in the wild freedom of these natural treasures with your private guide. In between your explorations, your luxurious hotel surroundings will ensure that you feel completely relaxed and pampered by the end of your trip.

Highlights

  • Slow down and unwind as you embrace the laid back way of life on the islands
  • Sample Scotland’s ‘Water of Life’ on a private tour and tasting of a local distillery
  • Benefit from the knowledge of your expert private guide as you explore the stunning Scottish landscape with them to hear the tales that shaped it

Day by Day

Day 1 - Friday 21st June - (Pre-Trip)Welcome to Edinburgh

Your private transfer will meet you in the arrivals hall at Edinburgh Airport, before making your way to your splendid city center hotel. Settle in and simply relax, or you may wish to stroll outside and explore the local area.

 

Overnight: Edinburgh | Gleneagles Townhouse
Room Type: 2 x Town Double Rooms
Meals Included: None

Day 1 - Flight Details Read More +

Airline: Lufthansa | Flight Number: LH962
Arrival Airport: Edinburgh Airport (EDI) | Arrival Time: 11:50

Pam & Susan’s arrival.

Day 1 - Transfer Details Read More +

Supplier: Littles Chauffeur Hire
Booking Reference: 2705262
Pick Up Location: Edinburgh Airport | Pick Up Time: 12:05
Phone: +44 (0) 141 883 2111

Your private driver will meet you at Arrivals and have a sign showing your name.

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 +44 (0)141 883 2111, which operates 24/7.

Day 2 - Saturday 22nd June - (Pre-Trip) Edinburgh Explorations

This morning meet an expert city guide to provide you insight into the tales and history of this charming city. Perhaps discover the true character of the Old Town and some of the lesser known sites and tour the labyrinth of cobbled alleyways contrasted with Georgian townhouses, with the more modern architecture of this captivating city. Have the option to travel out of the city to the enigma that is Rosslyn Chapel, made famous by The Da Vinci Code. Originally founded in 1446, the chapel features intricate carvings and decorations which have prompted many different theories connected with the Knights Templar and the Freemasons amongst others.

Overnight: Edinburgh | Gleneagles Townhouse
Room Type: 2 x Town Double Rooms
Meals Included: Breakfast

Day 2 - Full Day Guided Explorations Read More +

Activity: Full Day Guided Explorations
Local Expert Guide: Shauna Ansell
Start Location: Gleneagles Townhouse | Start Time: 09:00 | Approx Duration: 8 hrs
Phone: +44 (0)7989 664 023

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

Your guide will have all of your entry tickets and information needed for the day.

Day 3 - Sunday 23rd June - (Pre-Trip) Ladies at Leisure

Have a morning at leisure, perhaps make use of the hotel facilities or indulge in a little light shopping at the nearby stores. This afternoon a transfer will collect you from your hotel to travel to Fingal’s Yacht to delight in a splendid Afternoon Tea. Take the short walk along the harbor to the Royal Yacht Britannia, to explore the late Queen’s former floating palace. This yacht has served many purposes, including being a hospital ship in times of War and alternatively a honeymoon venue for royal family members. Decommissioned in 1997 the Royal Yacht is now berthed in the waters of Leith. Experience an audio tour of the ship to discover at your own pace before a transfer collects you, transferring you back to your hotel for your husband’s arrival.

Overnight: Edinburgh | Gleneagles Townhouse
Room Type: 2 x Town Double Rooms
Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch

Day 3 - Transfer Details Read More +

Supplier: East of Scotland Chauffeur
Booking Reference: 122816
Pick Up Location: Gleneagles Townhouse | Pick Up Time: 12:30
Phone: +44 (0) 131 370 1555

Your private transfer driver will meet you at the reception of your hotel to take you to your afternoon tea and Royal Yacht visit before returning you to the hotel afterward. Please discuss with your driver the preferred meeting point after the Yacht visit.

Day 3 - Afternoon Tea Read More +

Activity: Afternoon Tea
Fingal Hotel, Water of Leith: Final Hotel
Start Location: Fingal Hotel, Water of Leith | Start Time: 13:00
Booking Reference: BLAT7R9W
Phone: +44 (0)131 357 5000

The name on your reservation is Pamela Goldstone.

Day 3 - Royal Yacht Visit Read More +

Activity: Royal Yacht Visit
Royal Yacht Britannia:
Start Location: Royal Yacht Britannia | Start Time: 14:30
Booking Reference: D5MMH6KH3
Phone: +44 (0)131 555 8800

Your tickets for your Royal Yacht visit are attached, in the ‘Important Additional Information’ section, please make sure to take them with you on the day.

Day 4 - Monday 24th June - Discover the Capital

Have the day at leisure as you all meet in Edinburgh.

This evening, immerse yourself in the rich history and hidden secrets of Edinburgh with a private tour of Mary King’s Close. This captivating experience takes you beneath the Royal Mile to explore the city’s mysterious underground streets, revealing stories of its past residents and their lives. After your journey through history, take a picturesque stroll to the renowned Scotch Whisky Experience, to embark on an enchanting tour that unveils the artistry of whisky-making.

Elevate your experience with a sumptuous tasting menu at the elegant Amber Restaurant, where each course is meticulously paired with exquisite whiskies, creating a symphony of flavors that celebrate Scotland’s culinary heritage. This evening promises a seamless blend of historical intrigue and gourmet delight, making it an unforgettable highlight of your visit to Edinburgh.

Overnight: Edinburgh | Gleneagles Townhouse
Room Type: 2 x Town Double Rooms
Meals Included: Breakfast and Dinner

Day 4 - Flight Details Read More +

Airline: EI | Flight Number: 3550
Departure Airport: DUB Arrival Airport: EDI | Arrival Time: 09:05

Philip & Alan arrival.

Day 4 - Transfer Details Read More +

Supplier: Littles Chauffeur Hire
Booking Reference: 2705264
Pick Up Location: Edinburgh Airport | Pick Up Time: 09:05
Phone: +44 (0) 141 883 2111

Your private transfer driver will meet you at Arrivals and will have a sign showing your name (Phillip Weeden).  Your private transfer will whisk you to your city centre hotel to meet the rest of your group.

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 +44 (0)141 883 2111, which operates 24/7.

 

Day 4 - The Real Mary King's Close Read More +

Activity: The Real Mary King's Close
Mary King's Close: Mary King's Close
Start Location: The Real Mary King's Close, 2 Warriston's Close, High Street, Edinburgh, EH1 1PG | Start Time: 17:00 | Approx Duration: 1 hrs
Booking Reference: Weeden
Phone: +44 (0) 131 225 0672

Make your own way to the start location (above) to meet your private guide. We would advised to be there 15 minutes before your start time. This is a private tour so your guide will be there to await your arrival.

Day 4 - Taste of Scotland Tour & Tasting Menu Dinner Read More +

Activity: Taste of Scotland Tour & Tasting Menu Dinner
Scotch Whisky Experience:
Start Location: Scotch Whisky Experience, 354, Castlehill The Royal Mile Edinburgh EH1 2NE | Start Time: 18:20 | Approx Duration: 3 hrs
Booking Reference: 128760
Phone: +44(0)131 220 0441

Meet at the reception of the Scotch Whisky Experience. Your tickets are attached in the ‘Important Additional Information’ section, please ensure you have these with you.

Day 5 - Tuesday 25th June - Travel North

Your driver guide will meet you at your hotel this morning to travel north to the countryside of Angus. Delve into the area’s historic past. Visit the beautiful Glamis Castle and Gardens, for a private tour of the corridors and discover the haunted tales of the past. Stroll around the impressive Castle Gardens, taking in the array of scents, sights and sounds of the nature that surrounds you. Continue traveling north to the highland village of Braemar and your stylish retreat.

Overnight: Braemar | The Fife Arms
Room Type: 2 x Double Nature & Poetry
Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch

Day 5 - Guide Details - Alistair Jeffs Read More +

Name: Alistair Jeffs
Contact Number: +44 (0)7858 121 521
Meeting Place: Gleneagles Townhouse | Meeting Time: 09:00

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

Day 5 - Dinner Details Read More +

Restaurant: The Fife Arms | Location: The Flying Stag
Reservation Time: 19:00 | Booking Reference: 3RZ5PU4U9
Phone: +44(0)1339 720200

Day 6 - Wednesday 26th June - Morning Hike and a Royal Lochnagar Distillery Tour

This morning, head out with your guide for a stunning hike on one of the beautiful nearby trails. Walk through the ancient Caledonian pine forests, listening for the white-water rush of a river and the bright sing-song call of a blackbird. Whether you fancy a mellow circular walk or a more demanding hike, your guide will be able to suggest the perfect option for you. After lunch, enjoy a private tour and tasting at the Royal Lochnagar Distillery, which was issued with a royal warrant by Queen Victoria in 1848. Learn about the history of Scotland’s most famous tipple while also having the chance to indulge in a tasting.

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

Overnight: Braemar | The Fife Arms
Room Type: 2 x Double Nature & Poetry
Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch

Day 6 - Dinner Details Read More +

Restaurant: The Fife Arms | Location: The Clunie Dining Room
Reservation Time: 19:15 | Booking Reference: Weeden
Phone: +44(0)1339 720200

Day 7 - Thursday 27th June - Royal Residences

Visit the beautiful Balmoral Estate. A Highland residence of the Royal Family since it was bought for Queen Victoria in 1852. Experience a private tour of the Castle and the bountiful grounds. Have time to relax at your hotel this afternoon or perhaps enjoy a round of golf at one of the local courses.

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

Overnight: Braemar | The Fife Arms
Room Type: 2 x Double Nature & Poetry
Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch

Day 7 - Dinner Details Read More +

Restaurant: The Fish Shop | Location: Ballater
Reservation Time: 18:30 | Booking Reference: 4445664E - Weeden
Phone: +44(0)1339 720250

Day 8 - Friday 28th June - Spirit and Spice

Today, head to the hills near the Glenlivet Estate to join esteemed chef and food writer Ghillie Basan. Ghillie will welcome you to her remote stone cottage, nestled into the hillside with views across the valley. Here spend the afternoon enjoying a relaxed ‘Spirit and Spice’ sensory food experience where Ghillie combines her Middle Eastern influences with the flavours and fresh produce of the Scottish Highlands, all paired with local malt whiskies. After this treat for the tastebuds, travel onwards to your luxury accommodation in the Capital of the Highlands.

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

Overnight: Inverness | Rocpool Reserve Hotel
Room Type: 2 x Decadant Rooms
Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch

Day 8 - Dinner Details Read More +

Restaurant: The River House Restaurant | Location: Inverness
Reservation Time: 19:00 | Booking Reference: Weeden
Phone: +44(0)1463 222 033

Day 9 - Saturday 29th June - Myths and Legends

After a relaxed breakfast, you will make your way to Loch Ness, the largest freshwater loch in the UK and also home to the legend that is, the Loch Ness Monster. Hop on board your private charter to tour this scenic loch, keeping a close look out for any signs of the monster. This afternoon visit Culloden Battlefield, the site of the final bloody defeat of the Jacobite Army, to meet a local expert and perhaps the nearby Clava Cairns, stone structures that are thought to be burial chambers date back to Neolithic times.

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

Overnight: Inverness | Rocpool Reserve Hotel
Room Type: 2 x Decadant Rooms
Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch

Day 10 - Sunday 30th June - Travel to Lewis

Transfer with your guide to Ullapool to board the ferry to one of the wildest and most beautiful islands in Europe. Arriving on Lewis enjoy some lunch and perhaps a wander around the town before traveling south to the Isle of Harris and check into your hotel. Should you wish, you could take a stroll to breathe in the fresh sea air as you pass by the fishing boats in the harbour before settling into your beautiful suite for the evening.

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

Overnight: Isle of Harris | Kirklea Suites
Room Type: 2 x Suites
Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch

Day 10 - Dinner Details Read More +

Restaurant: Hotel Hebrides | Location: Tarbet
Reservation Time: 19:00 | Booking Reference: Weeden
Phone: +44(0)1859 502 364

Day 11 - Monday 1st July - Natural Beauty

This morning travel to the west, where long sandy beaches dominate the coastline as the Atlantic sweeps in around wild offshore islands. Here you will find some of the most amazing beaches in the whole of the Outer Hebrides. Take a walk along the beach and feel your soul being cleansed by the sea breeze. Returning towards Tarbert on the Golden Road – so named as it was the most expensive road ever to be built on the islands – experience the true essence of Harris, meeting local experts of the island produce. Firstly, spend time with a local weaver, and discover how the famous Harris Tweed is made. Learn the stories behind the creation of this Scottish textile and how life on the island used to revolve around it. Back in the village you will end the day with a private tour of the local distillery who’s gin that they made while they were waiting for their whisky to mature has become a worldwide phenomenon!

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

Overnight: Isle of Harris | Kirklea Suites
Room Type: 2 x Suites
Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch

Day 12 - Tuesday 2nd July - History and Heritage

For your last day on the islands, visit the most famous attraction in the Outer Hebrides, the 5,000 year-old standing stones at Callanish, which are even older than Stonehenge. This cross formation around a central circle is set on a hilltop with views that stretch for miles. This is an incredibly atmospheric and photogenic site, and a moving experience for many people. After this you can experience the heritage of crofting life on the islands within a restored village of traditional ‘blackhouses’, so called because they were stained black by the smoke of their central fireplaces. Have time to visit Carloway to find its well preserved and imposing Iron Age fortress, or “broch”, steeped in history, before returning to your hotel for one final night on these incredible islands.

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

Overnight: Isle of Harris | Kirklea Suites
Room Type: 2 x Suites
Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch

Day 13 - Wednesday 3rd July - Over the Sea to Skye

Today, have time to further explore the island before you board the late afternoon ferry over the waters to the magical Isle of Skye. Watch out for basking sharks, dolphins and maybe even Orca’s on the journey as you glide along towards the ‘Misty Isle’

Journey to the harbour town of Portree to enjoy dinner at your charming hotel with incredible views across the pretty harbour.

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

Overnight: Isle of Skye | Cuillin Hills Hotel
Room Type: 2 x Premium Rooms, with Sea View
Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch

Day 13 - Dinner Details Read More +

Restaurant: Cuillin hills | Location: Portree
Reservation Time: 19:30 | Booking Reference: Weeden
Phone: +44(0)1478 612003

Day 14 - Thursday 4th July - The Fabled Isle

Your guide will be on hand to take you to visit the many wonders of Skye, and there is much here to choose from. Your guide will be able to discuss options to suit you, whether you would prefer to hike the dramatic and geologically varied landscapes, or perhaps explore Skye’s cultural heritage, discovering hidden traces that remain from its rich and turbulent past. Whatever you chose, your guide will make sure you get away from the hustle and bustle and off the beaten path so you can experience Skye at it’s best.

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

Overnight: Isle of Skye | Cuillin Hills Hotel
Room Type: 2 x Premium Rooms, with Sea View
Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch

Day 15 - Friday 5th July - The West Highlands

Board the morning ferry to Mallaig, then step on board the Jacobite Steam Train to take you on a scenic adventure through the valleys and over the impressive Glenfinnan Viaduct. Travel onwards to the highland village of Fort William, where your guide will be awaiting your arrival to take you to  your luxury accommodation in the heart of Glencoe.

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

Overnight: Glencoe | Glencoe House
Room Type: 2 x Suites
Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch

Day 15 - Dinner Details Read More +

Restaurant: Glencoe House
Reservation Time: 19:00 | Booking Reference: Weeden
Phone: +44(0)1478 612003

Day 16 - Saturday 6th July - Ride the Local Trails

Hop on two wheels today to discover the local area. Journey with your specialist guide on a trail to suit your group. The trails range from the mountainous climbs to the more leisurely rides along the Caledonian Canal. Along with your guide you can discuss the perfect route for the day. For those who perhaps do not wish to ride you can take the Gondola up Anoch Mor that offers far stretching views across the west coast – perhaps even spotting a glimpse of the summit of The Ben if she peaks her head out from behind the clouds.

After the day’s activities unwind with a wee dram as a local storyteller shares the tales of the valley and its rich and turbulent past. A fantastic way to spend your final night in Scotland.

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

Overnight: Glencoe | Glencoe House
Room Type: 2 x Suites
Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch

Day 16 - Guide Details - Scott McCabe Read More +

Name: Scott McCabe
Contact Number: +44 (0)7840 588166
Meeting Place: Glencoe House

For those who are cycling your bike guide will meet you at the reception of your hotel.  For those who are not cycling, your main guide will arrange a time to meet you the night before.

Day 17 - Sunday 7th July - Depart

Your Guide will transfer you to the airport and then the train station in time for your departing journeys. Taking with you a part of Scotland in your heart and a longing to return.

Meals Included: Breakfast

Day 17 - Flight Details Read More +

Travel Date: July 7, 2024 | Airline: BA | Flight Number: 1483
Departure Airport: GLA | Departure Time: 12:10
Arrival Airport: LHR | Arrival Time: 13:35

Day 17 - Train Details Read More +

Travel Date: July 7, 2024 | Rail Operator: Avanti West Coast
Departure Train Station: Glasgow Central | Departure Time: 11:35
Arrival Train Station: London Euston | Arrival Time: 16:18

x2 1st Class tickets, with seats reserved.

Trip Details

Inclusions Read More

Pre- Trip Inclusions: 

    • 3 nights accommodation, as stated in the itinerary
    • Most meals, as stated in the itinerary above
    • Arrival transfer
    • All transfers in a private vehicle as stated in the itinerary
    • Entrance fees and activities mentioned in the itinerary, specifically:
      • Full Day Private Edinburgh City Tour
      • Admission to Edinburgh Castle
      • Admission to Rosslyn Chapel
      • Afternoon Tea with a glass of Champagne
      • Admission to the Royal Yacht Britannia
    • Personalised trip design and delivery
    • 24/7 In-Country Support form the Wilderness Team

 

Main Trip Inclusions: 

  • 13 nights accommodation, as stated in the itinerary
  • Most meals, as stated in the itinerary
  • The services of a qualified and experienced guide from Day 2 to Day 14
  • All transfers in a private vehicle driven by our guide from Day 2 to Day 14
  • All guided hikes mentioned in the itinerary
  • Entrance fees and activities mentioned in the itinerary, specifically:
    • Private Tour of Mary Kings Close
    • Scotch Whisky Experience – Taste of Scotland Tour & Tasting Menu Dinner
    • Private Tour of Glamis Castle
    • Private Distillery Tour
    • Private Tour of Balmoral Castle
    • Private Foodie Experience
    • Private Loch Ness Boat Trip
    • Private Tour of Culloden Battlefield
    • Private Harris Distillery Tour
    • Private Harris Weaver Expereince
    • Callanish Stones Admission
    • First Class tickets for the Jacobite Steam Train
    • Full Day Bike Experience
    • All Ferries mentioned in the itinerary
  • Personalised trip design and delivery
  • 24/7 In-Country Support form 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

 

Weather & Flexibility

Weather – June/July 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. We note there will also be x2 sets of golf clubs for this trip.

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 Additional Information Read More
  • Eat | See | Stay - Edinburgh - PDF: View Now
  • Eat | See | Stay - Braemar & Ballater - PDF: View Now
  • Eat | See | Stay - Inverness - PDF: View Now
  • Eat | See | Stay - Isle of Harris - PDF: View Now
  • Eat | See | Stay - Isle of Skye - PDF: View Now
  • Eat | See | Stay - Glencoe - PDF: View Now
  • Royal Yacht Britannia - Tickets - PDF: View Now
  • Scotch Whisky Experience - Tickets - PDF: View Now
Terms & Conditions Read More

Please see our booking terms here.


Accommodation

Gleneagles Townhouse

39 St Andrews Square | Edinburgh | Mid-Lothian |
EH2 2AD | Scotland
Phone: +44 (0) 131 322 3780
Web: gleneagles.com/townhouse

The Fife Arms

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

Rocpool Reserve Hotel

Culduthel Road | Inverness |
IV2 4AG | Scotland
Phone: +44 (0)1463 240089
Web: rocpool.com

Kirklea Suites

Manse Road | Isle of Harris |
HS3 3DF | Scotland
Phone: +44 (0)185 950 2364
Web: hotel-hebrides.com/kirklea-island-suites

Cuillin Hills Hotel

Portree | Isle of Skye |
IV51 9QU | Scotland
Phone: +44 (0)147 861 2003
Web: cuillinhills-hotel-skye.co.uk

Glencoe House

Glencoe | West Highlands |
PH49 4HT | Scotland
Phone: +44 (0)1855 811 179
Web: glencoe-house.com


Meet Your Guide

Alistair Jeffs

Contact Number: +44 (0)7858 121 521

Life began as a skinny lad with a curious nature. Time was well spent roaming the countryside, ‘playing’ on the cliffs, roaming the fields and being taken to historic houses and castles by my Mum.

After 23 years in Her Majesty’s Armed Forces, travelling the world for better or worse (think climbing in Colorado, walking in Scotland, skiing in Norway, kayaking in Cyprus and digging holes in other places), my lovely Scottish wife and I moved to Scotland, renovated a historic building and opened a B&B.

Currently, I’m the President of the Moray Mountaineering Club and am a Munro Compleator (having reached the summit of all Scottish 3000′ summits). With a slight change of tack, I’m now halfway through bagging Scottish malt whisky distilleries and have hosted a whisky tasting on national TV.

Place to play

Majestic mountain landscapes such as Glencoe or the Cuillins in Skye; quiet beaches and the serenity of the Outer Hebrides; the historical sites of Orkney; and, of course, Cocoa Mountain.

Not a lot of people know this

We once got on a train to Timbuktu; we shouldn’t have…I’m trained in Escape, Evasion, Survival and Resistance to Interrogation.