V2 - Velocity Black - Sargeant Family Scottish Adventure

Sargeant Family - 2 adults and 3 kids (14,12,9)

Thursday 1st August – Sunday 11th August 2024

Number of Travellers: 5
Duration: 11 Days / 10 Nights

Overview

Take an enthralling family adventure as you travel through the Scottish Highlands, experiencing the highlights and picking your favourite activities to make this a truly personalised experience. Get up close and personal with local wildlife, relive history as you explore ancient castles, and set-jet as you visit locations used in Harry Potter and Outlander! Along the way you’ll seek out Eagles and other wildlife, visit the mystical Isle Of Skye, and take on a range of outdoor activities led by expert guides.

Highlights

  • Create special family memories as you adventure through the Scottish Highlands together, sampling some of the best fun on offer
  • Find the best adventures in The Outer Hebrides, Fort William, and Cairngorms National Park - with a selection of fun outdoor activities to choose from
  • Enjoy comfortable, family-friendly 4* hotels and guest houses, adding an extra dimension to your trip to Scotland
  • Relax as your private trip guide takes care of all the driving and logistics, as well as sharing their favourite hidden gems with you along the way

Day by Day

Day 1 - Thursday 1st August - Welcome To Scotland!

On arrival at Inverness Airport you will be met by your private trip guide and head right out to start your explorations (depending on your arrival time of course). If there is time then you can take a boat trip out on to the deep waters of Loch Ness to hunt for the monster. Or visit an ancient castle full of stories and history. The choice is yours!

Overnight: Inverness | Inverness Palace Hotel
Room Type: 1 x Standard Family & 1 x Standard Double
Meals Included: None

Day 2 - Friday 2nd August - Ferry To The Outer Hebrides, Traditional Blackhouse & Calanais Standing Stones

This morning you transfer to Ullapool to catch the ferry out to the Isle of Lewis. The ferry journey out to the Outer Hebrides is one to savour and enjoy, as fabulous coastal views are often accompanied by wildlife sightings. After lunch in Stornoway take a step back in time as you visit a traditional Blackhouse, named so because they are stained by the dark smoke from their central fireplace. Try to imagine living in one of these tiny houses year round. Then you will visit the atmospheric Calanais Standing Stones and take your time to soak in this unique location. This cross formation around a central circle is over 5000 years old and is set on a hilltop with views that stretch for miles. Your guide will then take you to your welcoming small hotel on Harris.

Overnight: Outer Hebrides - Harris | Harris Hotel
Room Type: 1 x Twin Room & 1 x Double with Pop-Up in connecting private sitting room
Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch

Day 3 - Saturday 3rd August - Islander Life & Inspiring Beaches

Small communities cling to life with vibrant fervour here on some of the wildest and most beautiful islands in Europe. Life can be hard here, but the sense of community is like nothing else and the friendships shine bright. Most islanders will turn their hand to many different things during different season, such as weaving in the winter months. Meet a local artisan who will share how traditional Harris Tweed is made using traditional methods and often woven at home in the homes of talented islanders. This is the only fabric in the world to be protected by its own Act Of Parliament. From these humble beginnings comes a very individual fabric that is sought after by designers around the world.

This afternoon discover incredible turquoise waters and white sand beaches flanked by glorious Machir plains as you explore with your guide. These views have inspired artists from all around the world, and the beautiful bottles of the local gin distillery!

Overnight: Outer Hebrides - Harris | Harris Hotel
Room Type: 1 x Twin Room & 1 x Double with Pop-Up in connecting private sitting room
Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch

Day 4 - Sunday 4th August - Hiking & Searching for Eagles

Harris has one of the highest populations of Golden Eagles in Scotland, with over 20 pairs nesting in the hills. Take a walk into the hills to the north of Tarbert with your guide seeking out these magnificent birds of prey, visit a small hide where they are frequently spotted. The glen itself is one of the most beautiful on Harris, and is home to red deer, mountain hare and lots of birdlife. After visiting the hide, you can choose to continue our hike, either exploring the glen further or perhaps hiking up to one of the summits, which offer stunning views of the mountains and coastline.

Overnight: Outer Hebrides - Harris | Harris Hotel
Room Type: 1 x Twin Room & 1 x Double with Pop-Up in connecting private sitting room
Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch

Day 5 - Monday 5th August - Over The Sea To Skye

Connecting two of Scotland’s most captivating Islands, this morning you take the ferry from Harris to the iconic Isle of Skye.  As the vessel departs, keep a watchful eye for marine life such as seals and seabirds.  As you near Skye, if the weather is in your favour, you will begin to see the distinctive sharp Black Cuillin Mountains gradually come into view on the horizon. Skye is known for its landscape of ethereal beauty, where majestic mountains, cascading waterfalls, and serene lochs offer a glimpse into the islands unique allure.

It is easy to see why so many legends of magical creatures about here as you take a short hike into the magical landscape of the Fairy Glen – your guide will share the fascinating legends and history as you hike before you head to your hotel in Portree. The rest of the day is free to explore this bustling harbour town or rest at your hotel.

Overnight: Isle Of Skye | Cuillin Hills
Room Type: 1 x Standard Family Room (Double & Single) and 1 x Premier Twin
Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch

Day 6 - Tuesday 6th August - Skye By Land & Sea

A short stroll from your hotel takes you down to Portree harbour this morning, where you board a boat to explore the picturesque Sound of Raasay. Admire the mountain vistas, sea cliffs and caves, which are home to a wide variety of seabirds and other wildlife. Look out for sea eagles, dolphins, seals and even whales, as well as the lively seabird communities.

Later, explore northern Skye with its stunning scenery and fascinating cultural sites. Discuss the options with your guide to decide which suits your preferred level of challenge and your curiosity today. Returning to Portree, choose from the many restaurants and inns, perhaps taking advice from your guide to find the one that’s perfect for you.

Overnight: Isle Of Skye | Cuillin Hills
Room Type: 1 x Standard Family Room (Double & Single) and 1 x Premier Twin
Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch

Day 7 - Wednesday 7th August - Harry Potter's Steam Train

Leaving Portree, head south to the imposing ruin of Armadale Castle. This once-grand structure used to be home to the powerful Clan Donald, who ruled the western coastline of Scotland for hundreds of years. Learn about their history as you explore the vibrant gardens with your guide or take a short hike further into the rolling moorland hills surrounding them.

Afterwards, a short ferry ride takes you back to the mainland, ready for the next stage of your adventure. Step about the famous Harry Potter steam train for a memorable journey through beautiful scenery and over that viaduct. Wizard costumes optional but encouraged! Arriving into Fort William, your guide meets you off the train and transfers you to your unique hotel in Glencoe.

Overnight: Glencoe | Glencoe House
Room Type: Two Bedroom Suite with pop-up bed & private living/dining area
Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch

Day 8 - Thursday 8th August - Scotland's Adventure Capital

Fort William is known as Scotland’s Adventure capital, and today you can find out why! Taste some of the best local adventures, all which can all be tailored to your preferred level of challenge and personal interests.

  • Spend half the day enjoying guided hiking with your private trip guide, exploring the surrounding mountains & glens. For an easier hike with great views, we can even take a gondola to give us a boost up the mountain!
  • Watersports – Try sea kayaking on a nearby bay to enjoy a new perspective of the landscape, and may enjoy close encounters with the local wildlife. Half or full day
  • Immerse yourselves in atmospheric Glencoe. Enjoy an easy hike and then settle in to hear tales and legends of the glen from a storyteller with traditional music.

Overnight: Glencoe | Glencoe House
Room Type: Two Bedroom Suite with pop-up bed & private living/dining area
Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch

Day 9 - Friday 9th August - Across The Highlands

We head east to the heart of the Highlands, the Cairngorms National Park. We’ll stop at the Highland Folk Museum, a fascinating outdoor site which was used in the filming of Outlander and other historic dramas. As well as the old crofts, this is a wonderful place to spy red squirrels in the pine forest.

After lunch, take your pick from these activities – you can choose one or two activities to enjoy this afternoon:

  • Guided afternoon hike with your guide. This could be anything from a hike up a wee summit to an easy valley or lochside stroll.
  • Hand feed the local red deer with a knowledgeable ranger
  • Archery session against the backdrop of the Cairngorm Mountains
  • Take on a thrilling zip line course which sees you zooming high above waterfalls and trees.

In the late afternoon head to your welcoming accommodation to settle in and enjoy a delicious dinner cooked by the chef.

Overnight: Cairngorms National Park - West | Killiehuntly Farmhouse
Room Type: Exclusive Use
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Day 10 - Saturday 10th August - Exploring The Cairngorms National Park

The Cairngorms National Park is a perfect outdoor playground for so many different activities. We recommend choosing 2 or 3 of the activities below, depending on your interests, to create the perfect day:

  • Explore the mountains, glens or forests on a hike led by your private guide. This can be a half or full day experience.
  • Off-road biking. Choose from easy rides on traffic-free gravel trails (suitable for all the family) or take on some of the local singletrack by mountain bike, led by a qualified guide. This can be a half or full day experience depending on your preferred level of adventure.
  • Meet the local reindeer herd and enjoy a scenic walk to their mountainside home. These cheeky characters will make you laugh as they nudge their way in for food. This is a half day experience.
  • Discover Loch Morlich’s beautiful freshwater beach. Venture onto the water by canoe or SUP at this local’s favourite spot, or enjoy a walk through the beautiful forests which surround it. This is a half day experience.
  • Landrover Safari with a local ranger. See behind the scenes on a working Highland estate and hear its history as you discover fabulous views and meet red deer. This is a half day experience.

The choice is yours!

Finish the day with one last delicious Highlands dinner at your accommodation.

Overnight: Cairngorms National Park - West | Killiehuntly Farmhouse
Room Type: Exclusive Use
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Day 11 - Sunday 11th August - Depart

After a leisurely breakfast, enjoy some free time in Aviemore before your guide transfers you back to Inverness for the end of the trip.

Meals Included: Breakfast

Trip Details

Inclusions Read More
  • 10 nights accommodation as per the itinerary
  • The services of a qualified and experienced guide throughout
  • All transfers in a private vehicle driven by our guide
  • All Ferry Travel mentioned in the Itinerary
  • All guided hikes mentioned in itinerary
  • Loch Ness Cruise OR Castle Visit on Arrival day
  • Blackhouse Visit
  • Entry to Calanais Visitor Centre
  • Harris Tweed Weaver Visit
  • Morning boat trip from Portree Harbour
  • Armadale Castle visit
  • Steam train ride – Mallaig to Fort William – First Class Tickets
  • Adventure Capital day – One of the excursions as described in the itinerary
  • Private Storyteller Session in Glencoe
  • Donation Entry To Highland Folk Museum
  • Afternoon activity of their choice on Day 9
  • Day 10 – Two of the activities / excursions as described in the itinerary
  • 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 your main driver-guide
Notes Read More
  • All suggested accommodations and services are subject to availability at the time of booking
  • A 20% deposit is required before any accommodation and services will be confirmed
  • This quote is valid for 14 days from the date quoted, after this time pricing may be subject to revision
Optional Upgrades Read More

 

  • Some activities are available as exclusive experiences with private instructor or guide, pricing on request
  • Add an Extension in Edinburgh to take in the vibrant Festival atmosphere, catch a show and maybe the magnificent Royal Military Tattoo Performance. Pricing on request.
Pricing Read More

Pricing:

Pricing for this itinerary is based on 5 clients rooming as per the itinerary & including a £12 per person conservation contribution:

  • Total Pricing is £52,410 GBP

 

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.