V2 - A Scottish Family Adventure

Day 1 - Wednesday 13^th August - 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.

Overnight: Edinburgh | The Balmoral Hotel
Room Type: 1 x Deluxe Castle View, 1 x interconnecting Deluxe Castle View
Meals Included: None

Day 2 - Thursday 14^th August - 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.

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

Overnight: Edinburgh | The Balmoral Hotel
Room Type: 1 x Deluxe Castle View, 1 x interconnecting Deluxe Castle View
Meals Included: Breakfast

Day 3 - Friday 15^th August - Historic Stirling Castle & Spectacular Loch Lomond

Today you will meet your main guide/driver and make your way to the dramatic mountains and ridges of Glencoe, that have featured as the backdrop in many films and once you are looking up at these summits it is easy to see why!

Your first stop en route is the historic Stirling Castle, one of the grandest castles in Scotland with an imposing location overlooking the city of Stirling.  As you head North, you will venture through Loch Lomond and the Trossachs National Park, where you can stop and stretch your legs. Whether you choose to wander along the woodlands next to the shimmering shores of the loch or head into the surrounding majestic mountains you are sure to enjoy the stunning scenery that this area has to offer.

Your evening is free to relax and settle in to your luxurious accommodation.

Overnight: Glencoe | Glencoe House
Room Type: 2 bedroom suite with Loch View
Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch

Day 4 - Saturday 16^th August - The Mystery of Glencoe

Glencoe – a valley of myths and legends, where you can feel the true essence of Scotland seeping from the well trodden trails and drifting down the towering peaks. Your guide will discuss all the options for hikes today – from hidden valleys to secret glens, there are many choices where you can get off the beaten track and hear stories about the tragic past of this beautiful area. To end the day, you will arrive at a traditional hikers tavern where you will meet a local storyteller. Sit back with a wee dram and let the stories of the area wash over you as you immerse yourself in the history and culture of the magical part of Scotland.

Overnight: Glencoe | Glencoe House
Room Type: 2 bedroom suite with Loch View
Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch

Day 5 - Sunday 17^th August - The Jacobite train to Skye

Today you board the Jacobite Steam train to experience what is truly one of the world’s classic train journeys (made even more famous by the Harry Potter movies). In the comfort of the first class carriage you can soak in the lush scenery of the West Highlands from Fort William to the coast.  Your guide will meet you on arrival in the small fishing town of Mallaig, where you board the afternoon ferry for the short trip over the sea to Skye. As you make your way to your shoreside hotel, you will pass through some spectacular scenery and the charming harbour town of Portree, with its colourful buildings that line the waterfront.

*Jacobite train is subject to availability*

Overnight: Isle of Skye | Cuillin Hills Hotel
Room Type: 1 x Premier Room with Sea View, 1 x Premier Twin with Sea View
Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch

Day 6 - Monday 18^th August - Guided Explorations on the Isle of Skye

Today you have a full day to explore some of the special corners of this magical island with your guide. You will be spoilt for choice with fascinating history and dramatic landscape on offer, with unique hiking routes through stark and unusual rock formations and sweeping coast and mountain views to enjoy in almost every direction. This ‘misty isle’ is also home to so many curious stories and legends of fairies and islander culture, your guide will share some of the best hidden gems and personalise the day to your interests.

Overnight: Isle of Skye | Cuillin Hills Hotel
Room Type: 1 x Premier Room with Sea View, 1 x Premier Twin with Sea View
Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch

Day 7 - Tuesday 19^th August - Dunvegan Castle & the hidden gems of Skye

You will set out to continue your explorations of Skye today, visiting some of the most iconic sites as well as some that are less well known. Coral beach is made from crushed white coral like seaweed which will make you think that you have been transported to the Carribean! Enjoy a gentle walk along the beach here, looking out for the local wildlife such as sea eagles, otters or perhaps a friendly seal will pop their head up to say hello!

After a wonderful day exploring the island, you will end the day at the ancestral home of the Macleods, who have owned this castle for over 700 years.  Spend some time exploring the beautiful gardens before stepping inside for a private after hours tour of the castle.  Hear stories of the myths and legends, the history and battles that all made their mark on this small part of Skye before returning to your hotel in the early evening.

Overnight: Isle of Skye | Cuillin Hills Hotel
Room Type: 1 x Premier Room with Sea View, 1 x Premier Twin with Sea View
Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch

Day 8 - Wednesday 20^th August - Transfer to Inverness, Eilean Donan & Loch Ness

Returning to the mainland this morning, by way of the graceful Skye bridge, it is not long before you see one of the prettiest castles in Scotland.  Eilean Donan castle occupies an island at the confluence of three sea lochs and stands in defiance of the towering peaks surrounding it.  You will soon see why this castle is revered by so many.

As you continue on your journey through some spectacular scenery you will make your way to the secretive waters of Loch Ness.  Enjoy a cruise down the loch searching for Nessie and enjoy views of the magnificent ruins of Urquhart Castle.  These walls played a key role during the Wars of Independence as this was once one of Scotland’s largest castles.

Arriving at your next stop in Inverness, you are free to settle in and relax or if you feel like you still have some energy perhaps take a walk along the flowing waters of the river Ness.

Overnight: Inverness | Ness Walk
Room Type: 1 x Laurel King, 1 x Laurel Twin
Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch

Day 9 - Thursday 21^st August - Transfer to Gleneagles & A Highland Safari

Making your way to the iconic Gleneagles today you will first stop in the Highlands of Perthshire on 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.

Arriving at Gleneagles later, you will bid farewell to your guide and the evening is free for you to choose to relax and unwind, perhaps enjoy a warming dram in one of the luxurious bars.  Or if you prefer, head out and explore the incredible grounds that surround the hotel.

Overnight: Auchterarder | Gleneagles Hotel
Room Type: 1 x Main House Estate Double, 1 x Main House Estate Twin
Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch

Day 10 - Friday 22^nd August - Gleneagles Experiences

Today is free for you to enjoy the world class facilities at Gleneagles.  Along with the hotels excellent spa facilities, there are options to enjoy a horse riding experience, enjoy a falconry or gun dog experience or perhaps enjoy a delectable Afternoon Tea, the choice is yours.

For the golfers, there is a choice of three incredible championship golf courses to choose from, whichever you choose you are sure to enjoy your day surrounded by the stunning Perthshire countryside.

*Green fees and activities are not included, however, we are happy to arrange activities if required*

Overnight: Auchterarder | Gleneagles Hotel
Room Type: 1 x Main House Estate Double, 1 x Main House Estate Twin
Meals Included: Breakfast

Day 11 - Saturday 23^rd August - Depart

A private transfer will collect you from your hotel 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