A Highland Adventure

Sam and Trap

Sunday 29th September – Saturday 5th October 2024

Number of Travellers: 2
Duration: 7 Days / 6 Nights

Overview

Embark on a bespoke trip into the heart of the Highlands. From the leafy region of Perthshire, wind your way into the awe-inspiring mountains of the Cairngorms National Park. try your hand at archary and enjoy a unique cookery workshop inspired by Scotland’s most precious spirit. Make a stop at Culloden Battlefield, where the echos of history whisper across the grounds. Move on to immerse yourself in the ethereal beauty of the Isle of Skye, where you’ll meander along the island’s coastline, breathing in the invigorating sea breeze before delving into a visit to Talisker Distillery. Ribbon your way into the brooding, dramatic melancholy of Glencoe where stunning hiking trails await. Spot wildlife such as red deer, golden eagles and coastal birds amongst the luscious greenery. As the sun sinks below the horizon and the sky grows thick with stars, settle into hand-picked accommodations, carefully chosen for their relaxed luxury and traditional charm. On a trip designed just for you, enjoy discovering the bewitching beauty of Scotland.

Highlights

  • Meet a local guide to enjoy an unforgettable hike in Scotland's most iconic glen.
  • Discover the elemental, wild beauty of the west coast as you explore the Isle of Skye.
  • Under the guidance of a renowned chef, cook up a storm as you create a delicious meal inspired by whisky.

Day by Day

Day 1 - Sunday 29th September - Loch Tay and a Highland Safari

Kickstart your adventure with a relaxed breakfast at Fonab Castle before enjoying a picturesque drive through the stunning scenery of Perthshire. Head to Killiecrankie Visitor Centre from where you can head for a walk through the gorges flanked by trees starting to show their autumn colours. Next head to Queens View for a quick stop. This was Queen Victoria’s favourite view and she would stop here on her way to Balmoral Castle. Take the small Loch Tummel road which offers wonderful views (some of this is single track with passing places so leave yourselves plenty of time for the drive.) Arriving in Aberfeldy there should be time to wander around this pretty town before heading to Highland Safaris for an archery session. Later, continue into the slate blue mountains of the Cairngorms National Park, making your way to the pretty village of Braemar which will take about an hour an a half. Check into the Fife Arms, a wonderfully restored coaching inn now filled with art, opulence and an outstanding whisky collection.

 

Overnight: Braemar | The Fife Arms
Meals Included: None

Day 1 - Car Rental Pick Up Details Read More +

Car Rental Company: Arnold Clark
Booking Reference: 9742963
Pick Up Location: Fonab Castle | Pick Up Time: 11:00
Phone: +44(0)141 332 2626

Your vehicle will be delivered by Arnold Clark for your trip on Saturday the 28th of September at 11am, it will be an automatic car with a GPS. Please have your driving license and passport with you for pickup.

Driving directions from Fonab

Day 1 - Dinner Details Read More +

Hotel: The Fife Arms, Flying Stag | Location: Braemar
Reservation Time: 18:30
Phone: +44 (0) 1339 720200 | Website: https://www.thefifearms.com/

Please pay locally

Day 2 - Monday 30th September - Unique Foodie & Whisky Workshop

Meet your guide at your hotel this morning and head out into the whisky hills of Glenlivet Estate. A hike through the heather and over the hill (make sure to have sturdy boots) will take you to head to the home of Ghillie Basan, an esteemed chef and author of many books, including ‘A Taste of the Highlands.’ In the warmth of her beautiful stone cottage, with views that stretch large and long across the wild valley, enjoy cooking up a storm as you create a delicious meal inspired by the diverse whiskies of the region. Return to your accommodation and cosy into a comfy sofa with a book, or perhaps get an early night’s rest ahead of tomorrow’s adventure.

 

Overnight: Braemar | The Fife Arms
Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch

Day 2 - Guide Details - Mungo Ross Read More +

Name: Mungo Ross
Contact Number: +44(0)7887 617 572
Meeting Place: The Fife Arms | Meeting Time: 09:00

Mungo will meet you at the reception of your hotel at 9am.

Day 2 - Dinner Details Read More +

Hotel: The Fife Arms, Clunie Dining Rooms | Location: Braemar
Reservation Time: 19:00
Phone: +44 (0) 1339 720200 | Website: https://www.thefifearms.com/

Please pay locally.

Dinner has been booked tonight at the Fife Arms dining room but if you are too full from lunch then please do let them know as soon as possible you want to cancel. There is a nice fish and chip take away in Braemar if you fancy a lighter meal.

Day 3 - Tuesday 1st October - Culloden Battlefield & Over the sea to Skye

Today is your longer travel day so it is worth heading off after breakfast. Embark on a journey north to visit Culloden Battlefield, where you can immerse yourselves in the heavy history of the area. The visitor centre is interactive and offers fascinating insight into this important part of Scottish history. You might also want to visit Clava Cairns; these are well-preserved Iron Age burial cairns and standing stones. Later, drive the shores of Loch Ness and on to the beautiful Isle of Skye. Cross the Skye Bridge and drive across the island, perhaps stopping at the Isle of Skye Candle Company centre before making your way to Dunvegan to check in to the Three Chimneys, your foodie accommodation.

Overnight: Dunvegan | Three Chimneys & House-Over-BY
Meals Included: Breakfast and Dinner

Day 3 - Culloden Battlefield Read More +

Activity: Culloden Battlefield
Start Location: Culloden Battlefield Visitor Centre | Start Time: 11:00
Phone: +44 (0) 1463 796090 | Website: http://www.nts.org.uk/Culloden/Home/

Driving directions from The Fife Arms to Culloden Battlefield. Please present your voucher (in the important info below) at the front desk in exchange for your tickets.

Day 3 - Dinner Details Read More +

Hotel: Three Chimneys & House-Over-By | Location: Dunvegan
Reservation Time: 19:00
Phone: +44 (0) 1470 511258 | Website: https://www.threechimneys.co.uk/

Driving directions from Culloden to the Three Chimneys

Dinner is included in your stay.

Day 4 - Wednesday 2nd October - Talisker Distillery & Dunvegan Castle

After breakfast, enjoy a beautiful drive down the island’s west coast and an amazing walk along the black sands of Talisker Beach. Look out across the vast expanse of sea and sky, listening to the cry of the circling gulls and enjoying the fresh, salt-stained air. After you walk, visit Talisker Distillery for a tour, tasting and lunch. Later this afternoon, visit Dunvegan Castle – the oldest continuously inhabited castle in Scotland – before returning to your lovely hotel to relax.

 

Overnight: Dunvegan | Three Chimneys & House-Over-BY
Meals Included: Breakfast and Dinner

Day 4 - Talisker Distillery Read More +

Activity: Talisker Distillery
Start Location: Talisker Distillery | Start Time: 11:30
Booking Reference: 6550161
Phone: +44 (0) 1478 614308 | Website: https://www.malts.com/en-gb/brands/talisker

Driving directions from your accommodation to the Talisker Distillery

The booking as been made under Samantha Thiel, please arrive 15 minutes prior to the allotted timeslot.

Day 4 - Dunvegan Castle Read More +

Activity: Dunvegan Castle
| Start Time: 15:00
Booking Reference: DUN-CBK-7DULRZ-G
Phone: +44 (0) 1470 521206 | Website: https://www.dunvegancastle.com/

Driving directions from Talisker Distillery to Dunvegan Castle.

Please note that backpacks and rucksacks cannot be carried inside the castle. If they’re small, they can be carried by hand but never on the back. Selfie sticks or other sticks aren’t allowed, only essential walking sticks. Umbrellas and ponchos should be left outside the castle in the designated area for them.

There is a guide in each room inside the castle and they’ll be more than happy to answer any questions about the castle’s history.

Your ticket is attached in relevant information.

Day 4 - Dinner Details Read More +

Hotel: Three Chimneys & House-Over-By | Location: Isle of Skye
Reservation Time: 19:00
Phone: +44 (0) 1470 511258 | Website: https://www.threechimneys.co.uk/

Driving directions from Dunvegan Castle to The Three Chimneys & House-Over-By

Dinner is included in your stay.

Day 5 - Thursday 3rd October - Road from the Isles

Rise to the serene charm of the Isle of Skye and enjoy a relaxed last breakfast before heading out for the day’s adventure. This morning you might want to walk to the Fairy Glen or visit some of the galleries on the Skye Art trail, or head to Portree to explore the quirky capital.  The head to the Dusidale Hotel for a traditional afternoon tea (instead of lunch) and enjoy the view of the water. Head to Armadale and catch the small white ferry back to the mainland, where you’ll make the drive into the luscious greenery of Glencoe.

 

Overnight: Glencoe | Glencoe House
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Day 5 - Afternoon Tea Details Read More +

Hotel: Duisdale House Hotel | Location: Isle of Skye
Reservation Time: 14:00
Phone: +44 (0) 1471 833202 | Website: https://sonascollection.com/our-hotels/duisdale/?gad_source=1&gclid=CjwKCAjwqMO0BhA8EiwAFTLgILBSukLdfJFcoAlp0J1rJZ_eexl_Bw5VAgvBq496lhyM6_oRIrnLIhoCBocQAvD_BwE

Driving directions from the Three Chimneys to Duisdale House Hotel.

Possible options –
Fairy Glen
Skye Art Map

Day 5 - Ferry Details Read More +

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

Departure Port: Armadale | Departure Time: 16:10
Arrival Port: Mallaig | Arrival Time: 16:40

Check in closes at 15:50. They will not let you board the ferry if you arrive later than this so please give yourselves plenty of time to arrive.

Driving directions from Duisdale House Hotel to Armadale Ferry Terminal

Day 5 - Dinner Details Read More +


There will be several pre-made options for dinner that are in the freezer at Strathcona Lodge. The cost of these (plus all food in the lodge is included in your stay) you can choose to cook any of these or head out to a local pub if you prefer where you would pay locally.

Driving directions from Mallaig ferry port to Glencoe House.

Day 6 - Friday 4th October - Hiking in Glencoe

After a self-serve breakfast in your lodge this morning meet your guide to explore Scotland’s most iconic glen. Carved out centuries ago by glaciers and volcanic eruptions, Glencoe is a spectacular place to hike. Discuss the options with your guide today and choose a route depending on how you are feeling. The area is full of history and you may want to end your day with a visit to the Glencoe centre. Relax back in your lodge for your final evening in the Highlands.

Overnight: Glencoe | Glencoe House
Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch

Day 6 - Guide Details - Rhona Steel Read More +

Name: Rhona Steel
Contact Number: +44 (0) 7719 706926
Meeting Place: Glencoe House | Meeting Time: 10:00

Rhona will meet you at the Glencoe House carpark at 10:00am.

Day 6 - Dinner Details Read More +


There will be several pre-made options for dinner that are in the freezer at Strathcona Lodge. The cost of these (plus all food in the lodge is included in your stay) you can choose to cook any of these or head out to a local pub – The Clachaig Inn is a good option – if you would prefer to eat out. Please pay locally if you choose to do this.

 

Day 7 - Saturday 5th October - Back to Edinburgh

After a relaxed morning start the journey back to Edinburgh. On the way, you may want to stop at Doune Castle, a mediaeval stronghold which has since been used as a location of film and TV. Stretch your legs as you explore the impressive castle and grounds. Arrive in Edinburgh later this afternoon, drop off your hire car and catch public transport back into the city, where your trip will conclude. Spend your final evening in Scotland in the capital, enjoying a relaxed dinner and watching the world go by.

 

Meals Included: Breakfast

Day 7 - Car Rental Drop Off Details Read More +

Car Rental Company: Arnold Clark
Booking Reference: 9742963
Drop Off Location: Edinburgh Airport | Drop Off Time: 17:00

Please drop your hire car off at Edinburgh airport by 5pm. You can choose to get a taxi or tram into Edinburgh city centre.

Driving directions from Glencoe House to Doune Castle and Edinburgh Airport.

Trip Details

Inclusions Read More
  • All accommodation from Day 1 to Day 7
  • Ferry tickets
  • Meals as indicated above
  • Services of an experienced and qualified guide
  • All entrance fees and guided activities mentioned in the itinerary including
    • A cooking workshop with a private chef
    • Entry to Culloden Battlefiled
    • Afternoon tea on Skye
    • Tour and tasting in Talisker Distillery
    • Entry into Dunvegan Castle and Gardens
  • Personalised trip design and delivery
  • 24 hour in-country support from the Wilderness Team
Exclusions Read More
  • Flights
  • Travel insurance including enhanced vehicle insurance
  • Parking fees
  • Meals not mentioned in the inclusions
  • Activities and entrance fees not mentioned in the inclusions
  • Gratuities
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

Important Additional Information Read More
Terms & Conditions Read More

Please see our booking terms here.

Get in Touch


Accommodation

The Fife Arms

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

Three Chimneys & House-Over-BY

Colbost | Dunvegan | Isle of Skye |
IV55 8ZT | Scotland
Phone: +44 (0) 1470 511258
Web: threechimneys.co.uk

Glencoe House

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


Meet Your Guides

Mungo Ross

Contact Number: +44(0)7887 617 572

Having had the most extraordinary good fortune and privilege to travel on adventures and lead expeditions to all seven continents, allowing me to become more familiar with the Khumbu Valley in Nepal than the Lairig Ghru in the Cairngorms, I am still as passionate as ever to share my enthusiasm for my home country, Scotland.

Whether travelling on skis or snowboard; by kayak, canoe, raft, boat or windsurfer; shod in rock-shoes or snow-shoes or equipped with ice axe and crampons – whether out on my own, with friends, or leading and teaching others, I am still often not able to tell the difference between days of work or play.

Full Web Bio

Rhona Steel

Contact Number: +44 (0) 7719 706926

Variety and people are big motivators for me, so I have worked in health care, education and most recently agriculture. In the 90s, I went to work in Europe but missed the diverse landscape and proximity to the sea. One of my best decisions was to return to live in the Highlands.

Full Web Bio