Sheila & Phil's Anniversary Adventure V4

Day 1 - Saturday 7^th September - Welcome to Scotland

On arrival at Edinburgh airport you will be met by a private transfer that will take you on the first of many awe-inspiring drives through the Highlands on your way to the Isle of Skye. Your private transfer will leave you at Eilean Donan Castle where you will be met by your private guide, who will also be your driver on your onward journey. Before continuing your journey to Skye, explore the famous Eilean Donan which is one of the most iconic and striking sights in all of Scotland. On arrival at your hotel, take some time to relax and settle in, enjoying the beautiful views. After a relaxing walk in the hotel grounds, enjoy a delicious dinner and a good night’s sleep.

Overnight: Isle of Skye | Kinloch Lodge
Room Type: Suite
Meals Included: None

Day 2 - Sunday 8^th September - Exploring the Misty Isle

This morning head out with your guide to explore the dramatic landscape of the Quiraing on the northern peninsula of Skye. As you walk, admire the stark rock formations that rise from the rugged ground like the great ruined battlements of a long-forgotten war. Chat with your guide about the geology and history of the area, enjoying the incredible sweeping views of the islands, mountains and sun-clipped shores that stretch in every direction. On the drive back to your hotel, why not pause in Portree for a home bake, a cup of tea and a wonder around the shops, all the while admiring the stunning views. Once back at your hotel, enjoy a guide led whisky tasting in the bar, sampling some of Scotland’s finest single malts.

Overnight: Isle of Skye | Kinloch Lodge
Room Type: Suite
Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch

Day 3 - Monday 9^th September - Boat Trip & Hiking to the Wild Loch Coruisk

This morning you head out to explore the secretive Loch Coruisk with your guide. From the tiny fishing village of Elgol you take a boat trip to the heart of the Black Cuillin mountains which tower above the blue waters of the loch. Along the way you can spot seals and perhaps dolphins in the coastal waters. The boat will drop you at the remote southern end of the loch and you can drink in the atmosphere of this stupendous place as you hike around the loch. Enjoy a beautifully prepared picnic on the shore before heading back to the boat for your return journey. Today is sure to be a highlight of the trip with memories to cherish.

Overnight: Isle of Skye | Kinloch Lodge
Room Type: Suite
Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch

Day 4 - Tuesday 10^th September - Isle of Skye to the Cairngorm National Park

After breakfast your guide will meet you at your hotel and you will begin your journey south east to the Cairngorm National Park. Along the way your guide will take you on a journey into the past with tales of the places and landscapes you pass through. Drop by Lochcarron Weavers to peruse knitwear, kilts, tweed and see samples of your own family tartan then for lunch in one of the quaint Scottish villages and to stretch your legs.

Or you could opt to arrive in style by helicopter, transferring you from the Isle of Skye via some of the Highlands most spectacular scenery. Soaring over the breathtaking Cuillin Ridge mountain range, see Eilean Donan castle from the sky and get a flyby of the Glenfinnan Viaduct made famous in the Harry Potter Films, you might even see the Hogwarts Express puffing its way across! Settle into your new hotel, Fife Arms, and relax before enjoying dinner in beautiful surroundings.

*Helicopter scenic transfer is an optional upgrade, price on request.

Overnight: Cairngorms | Fife Arms
Room Type: Scottish Culture
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Day 5 - Wednesday 11^th September - Salmon Fishing on the Spey

After breakfast, you will be picked up at your hotel by a private fishing guide who will whisk you away for a day of salmon fishing on the river Spey. Everything you need will be provided, the best tackle, waders, automatic life vests, and photography. Your guide will be on hand for casting tips, technique, safety and anything else you would need.  You will fish until lunch-time, then break for a delicious lunch with a view before continuing to cast in the afternoon. This is an immersive experience that connects anglers with nature and the rich Scottish fishing heritage. After a full day of adventure on the river, return to your hotel to rest.

Overnight: Cairngorms | Fife Arms
Room Type: Scottish Culture
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Day 6 - Thursday 12^th September - Woodwork, Walks and Private Dining

Today will be extra special as you celebrate 40 years of marriage. Adventure into the woods together and join expert woodcrafter to carve a traditional Scottish whisky quaich to commemorate this momentous anniversary. As this is a private session, you will be able to tailor your quaich to exactly how you like it, such as the type of wood you use and carving your initials into the handles. Returning home with a beautiful symbol of your time together. In the afternoon take a romantic walk through the woods and around one of the breathtaking lochs that are scattered across the national park. As the evening draws in, make your way to a private and secluded dinner for two with you own private chef and some live music from a local musician, making this celebration one to remember for years to come.

Overnight: Cairngorms | Fife Arms
Room Type: Scottish Culture
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Day 7 - Friday 13^th September - Journey to Edinburgh

After breakfast, you will bid farewell to your guide and the Cairngorms and a private driver will transfer you to Edinburgh. Enjoy the beautiful scenery as you drive south to the capital city. Depending on your arrival time you can choose to relax at the hotel or head out to start exploring this unique city.

Overnight: Edinburgh | Balmoral Hotel
Room Type: Junior Suite Castle View
Meals Included: Breakfast

Day 8 - Saturday 14^th September - Discover Historic 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. You then have a free afternoon to continue explorations at your own pace, pick up souvenirs or relax as you prefer.

Overnight: Edinburgh | Balmoral Hotel
Room Type: Junior Suite Castle View
Meals Included: Breakfast

Day 9 - Sunday 15^th September - Explore Edinburgh & Farewell Meal

Today, your city guide will be on hand to continue exploring the beautiful cobblestone streets of the city. Wander up the Royal Mile, stopping to visit the architecturally stunning St Giles Cathedral and The National Museum of Scotland, enjoying panoramic views from Edinburgh Castle as you go. Pick up a coffee and a pastry from one of the wee artisan shops, dipping into local galleries, cheesemongers and bookshops. If you fancy an afternoon with a twist, head to the Surgeons’ Hall Museums, which holds one of the largest collections of surgical pathology in the world. For your final evening, choose one of Edinburgh’s iconic restaurants to dine at, like the Witchery, situated in a collection of historic buildings at the gates to Edinburgh Castle. Raise a glass and celebrate your amazing adventures together.

Overnight: Edinburgh | Balmoral
Room Type: Junior Suite Castle View
Meals Included: Breakfast

Day 10 - Monday 16^th September - Depart

A private transfer will collect you from your accommodation and take you to the airport to make your onward connections. Waving farewell to Scotland for now but taking with you special memories, mementos and wonderful stories of your explorations.

Meals Included: Breakfast