Final Information - Jacada Travel - Scottish Adventure

Rio Family

Tuesday 4th June – Thursday 13th June 2024

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

Overview

An unforgettable adventure exploring Scotlands Castles, Lochs and misty Mountains.  From wondering the cobbled streets of historic cities, to hiking and fishing in pristine wilderness, you are sure to enjoy the unique blend of rich heritage, breathtaking natural beauty and the warm and welcoming culture that this unique country has to offer.

Highlights

  • Experience a private 4x4 adventure into the rugged wilderness with an experienced guide
  • Take a unique journey through the Highlands aboard the Jacobite Steam Train
  • Seek an iconic Scottish legend during an exhilarating boat ride on an iconic Scottish Loch

Day by Day

Day 1 - Tuesday 4th June - Welcome to Edinburgh

Arrive in the stunning city of Edinburgh, you will be met at the airport by your private driver who will take you to your luxurious accommodation. Depending on your arrival time, you may wish to head out and explore the winding alleys or just rest and relax in your hotel.

 

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

Day 1 - Flight Details Read More +

Airline: DL | Flight Number: 0034
Departure Airport: Atlanta Airport (ATL) | Departure Time: 09:55
Arrival Airport: Edinburgh Airport (EDI) | Arrival Time: 11:05

Day 1 - Transfer Details Read More +

Supplier: Littles Chauffeur Hire
Booking Reference: 2700244
Pick Up Location: Edinburgh Airport (EDI) | Pick Up Time: 11:05
Phone: +44 (0) 141 883 2111

1 people carrier – meet and greet for 4 pax

Your private driver will meet you in 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 1 - Transfer Details Read More +

Supplier: Littles Chauffeur Hire
Booking Reference: 2700245
Pick Up Location: Edinburgh Airport (EDI) | Pick Up Time: 11:05
Phone: +44 (0) 141 883 2111

1 people carrier – meet and greet 4 pax.

Your private driver will meet you in 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 1 - Dinner Details Read More +

Restaurant: The Scran & Scallie | Location: Edinburgh
Reservation Time: 17:00 | Booking Reference: BCA9PJ4M
Phone: +44 (0) 131 332 6281 | Website: https://scranandscallie.com/

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

The name on your reservation is Gary Rio.

Day 2 - Wednesday 5th June - Exploring Historic Edinburgh

After a hearty breakfast, meet your local expert guide in the foyer of your hotel and head out for a morning spent exploring the beautiful cobblestone streets of the city. Full of history and vibrant culture that reflects its rich heritage, the City will not disappoint. Wander up the Royal Mile, stopping to visit the architecturally stunning St Giles Cathedral.  Your guide will leave you at lunchtime to enjoy some time exploring at your own pace. Maybe pick up a coffee and a pastry from one of the wee artisan shops, or dip into local galleries, cheesemongers and bookshops. Late afternoon head to the top of the Royal Mile to visit the iconic Edinburgh Castle, where you can enjoy panoramic views over the City and discover the stories of this mighty castle.

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
Expert Local Guide: Hannah Tait
Start Location: Intercontinental - The George, Edinburgh | Start Time: 09:00
Phone: +44 (0)7920 408 507

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

Day 2 - Tickets to Edinburgh Castle Read More +

Activity: Tickets to Edinburgh Castle
Start Location: Edinburgh Castle, Castle Hill, EH9 1SH | Start Time: 16:00
Booking Reference: 20240201-196408066

Your local city guide Hannah will have your tickets and will give them to you before she leaves you after your morning walking tour.

Day 2 - Dinner Details Read More +

Restaurant: The Lookout | Location: Edinburgh
Reservation Time: 18:00 | Booking Reference: BJ22TV6D
Phone: +44 (0)131 3221246 | Website: https://www.thelookoutedinburgh.co/

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

The name on your reservation is Gary Rio.

Day 3 - Thursday 6th June - St Andrews Golf and History & Transfer West

Today you head to explore the Kingdom of Fife with your private guide acting as your driver. Some of the group will enjoy a walking tour of St Andrews, a historic university town where the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge famously met during their studies there.

St Andrews is famed for being the home of golf, and the other half of your group will enjoy a game on one of Scotland’s premier links courses on the same coastline where it all began.  With stunning costal views and meticulously designed fairways, you will enjoy every minute of your a challenging and unforgettable game.  

Depending on play time, you may all have a chance to do some exploring together once the golfers finish their round. The day is flexible and your guide will advise how best to follow your curiosity.

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

Day 3 - Guide Details - Dan Morgan Read More +

Name: Dan Morgan
Contact Number: +44 (0)7799 860312
Meeting Place: Intercontinental - The George | Meeting Time: 08:30

Your guide will meet you at the reception of your hotel

This is a slightly early start due to the tee times at St Andrews

Day 3 - Guide Details - Alistair Jeffs Read More +

Name: Alistair Jeffs
Contact Number: +44 (0)7858 121 521
Meeting Place: Intercontinental - The George | Meeting Time: 08:30

Your guide will meet you at the reception of your hotel

This is a slightly early start due to the tee times at St Andrews

Day 3 - Round of Golf Read More +

Activity: Round of Golf
Start Location: Strathtyrum Course | Start Time: 11:04

Your clubs, trollies and shoes will be waiting for you on arrival and your guides will be on hand to ensure everything goes smoothly

Day 3 - Dinner Details Read More +

Restaurant: La Vista | Location: Cameron House
Reservation Time: 19:00 | Booking Reference: BXF46YLD
Phone: +44 (0)1389 312 210

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

The name on your reservation is Gary Rio.

Day 4 - Friday 7th June - Hiking, Whisky and Chocolate

Picturesque Loch Lomond & Trossachs National Park is your playground today and your guide will help you choose the best option from all the tempting routes available.  The hiking trails offer captivating views of tranquil lochs, wonderful hills and the opportunity to spot local wildlife in the quiet woodlands.

This afternoon, visit a classic Distillery for a fascinating tour and indulgent 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 | Booking Reference: BJK7CMZF
Phone: +44 (0)1389 312 210 | 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 - Saturday 8th June - 4x4 Off-Road Driving Experience & Transfer North

An extraordinary adventure awaits this morning as you step into an iconic British Land Rover Defender.  You will be greeted by your knowledgable Kilted guide who will help you tackle challenging terrain, while learning the skills of off-road driving.  You will be taken to hilltops with incredible views, as you enjoy exclusive access to fantastic tracks all over the hills to the West of Loch Lomond.  As you drive, keep an eye out for the local wildlife including red deer and golden eagles.

Travelling to Fort William, your home for the next few nights, you will journey through the majestic Mountains of Glencoe, perhaps stopping to enjoy the views.  Maybe top off the day with a warming dram as you settle into your luxurious accommodation, celebrating a day you will never forget!

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
Phone: +44 (0)1397 700 876 | Website: https://www.blackislebrewery.com/visit-us/fort-william-bar

Please note that this restaurant does not take table reservations so tables are allocated on a first come first served basis.  Please pay locally.

Day 6 - Sunday 9th June - Jacobite Steam Train & Explorations

Taking a step back in time, you board the iconic Jacobite train to Mallaig.  As you traverse the West Highland line on the “Hogwarts Express” you are offered unparalleled views of rugged mountains, sparkling lochs and historic viaducts.  Arriving in the quaint fishing village of Mallaig you will be met by your guide and can enjoy fresh seafood or explore its scenic harbour.  The drive back to Fort William with your guide is equally captivating, as the road meanders through a landscape that transitions from costal allure to the untamed grandeur of the Highlands. Admire the landscapes showcased in the Harry Potter films and discover the history of this coastal and mountainous area on the way back to your castle hotel.

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 | Booking Reference: BHTCTQ4Y
Phone: +44 (0)1397 705589 | Website: https://www.crannog.net/

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

Day 7 - Monday 10th June - Loch Ness Boat Trip & Onwards To Inverness

Today you journey to the Highland Capital of Inverness via Loch Ness. Embark on a private Rib Boat trip, a perfect way to explore and maybe discover the Loch’s enigmatic secrets.  As the wind rushes through your hair, you will venture out onto the dark waters of the Loch, absorbing the mysterious ambiance that surrounds this legendary waterway.  Perhaps stopping at the iconic Urquhart Castle, steeped in history and intrigue before you head back to land and onwards to Inverness this evening.

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 | Booking Reference: 130730413
Phone: +44 (0)1463 220220

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

The name on your reservation is Gary Rio.

Day 8 - Tuesday 11th June - Highland History at Culloden Battlefield & Cawdor Castle

Culloden Battlefield, the site of the last battle of the Jacobite rising in 1746. Discover the tales of the battlefield that marks the site of the decisive battle that forever altered the course of Highland culture. You can then head to the site of three Bronze Age burial chambers and standing stones known as Clava Cairns. This site is exceptionally well preserved and a great example of prehistoric history in Scotland dating back over 4,000 years.  Next you will visit Cawdor Castle, dating back to the late 14th Century, this picturesque 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 | Booking Reference: 18756
Phone: +44 (0)1463 712422

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

The name on your reservation is Gary Rio.

Day 9 - Wednesday 12th June - Wildlife And Adventures In The Cairngorms

This morning Gary, Brian, Kalani, Sheldon and Joe will try their hand at fly fishing. Discover the appeal of this traditional sport as you enjoy a 1 hour lesson with an experienced local instructor, and then have time to practice casting your lines in the tranquil setting.

Meanwhile Kim, Lori and Grace will set off on a wonderful hike with your guide to explore the Cairngorms National Park.  Whichever route you choose, the trails take you through a stunning variety of ecosystems, revealing the rich biodiversity of the park.

In the afternoon, Gary, Lori, Grace and Kim will head up into the mountains for a very special experience, meeting the cheeky local reindeer herd, while Sheldon, Brian, Joe and Kalani will visit a local distillery to taste the famous ‘uisage beatha’ or ‘water of life’ after an exclusive private tour.

Your guides will discuss all of the logistics of this day with you the day before including departure times from the hotel to get to your chosen activities on time.

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

Day 9 - Dinner Details Read More +

Restaurant: Torrish | Location: Ness Walk Hotel
Reservation Time: 18:00

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

The name on your reservation is Gary Rio.

Day 10 - Thursday 13th June - Depart

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

Meals Included: None

Day 10 - Transfer Details Read More +

Supplier: Ness Walk
Pick Up Location: Reception of Ness Walk | Pick Up Time: 04:30
Phone: +44 (0)1463 215215

Joseph, Sheldon, Kimberly, Gary (4 pax)

Day 10 - Flight Details Read More +

Travel Date: June 13, 2024 | Airline: DL/KL | Flight Number: 9548/900
Departure Airport: Inverness (INV) | Departure Time: 06:25
Arrival Airport: Amsterdam (AMS) | Arrival Time: 09:00

Joseph, Sheldon, Kimberly, Gary (4 pax)

Day 10 - Transfer Details Read More +

Supplier: Ness Walk
Pick Up Location: Reception of Ness Walk | Pick Up Time: 11:00
Phone: +44 (0)1463 215215

Brian, Lori, Kalani, Grace (4 pax).

Day 10 - Flight Details Read More +

Travel Date: June 13, 2024 | Airline: DL | Flight Number: 9549
Departure Airport: Inverness (INV) | Departure Time: 13:25
Arrival Airport: Amsterdam (AMS) | Arrival Time: 16:00

Brian, Lori, Kalani, Grace (4 pax).

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
  • D3 – 2 x Entrance Fees (as per interest) for 4 pax in Kingdom of Fife
  • 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 – Morning Options include – Fly Fishing Experience with Experienced Instructor, Hiking with Your Qualified Guide OR Forest Trail Mountain Biking Experience (including all equipment hire & Qualified Bike Guide)
  • D9 – Afternoon Options Include – Cairngorm Reindeer Herd Hill Walk (or paddock visit) OR Private Distillery tour & tasting
  • 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 :

  • £7,375 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
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

Dan Morgan

Contact Number: +44 (0)7799 860312

Retired academic, rejuvenated climber/mountaineer/paddler/biker. Spent over 40 years caressing rock faces all over the world, never tire of it. Loves sharing moments in the outdoors with others, learning about different people’s lives and admiring human nature (most) alongside nature itself. Now lives in the Lake District close to his roots.

Place to play

West coast of Scotland for rock and sea (when the weather is good).

Not a lot of people know this

I used to climb telegraph poles for a living.

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.