Cultural Cities & The Highlands of Scotland

Day 1 - Thursday 17^th October - 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 Bonham
Room Type: Deluxe King

Day 2 - Friday 18^th October - 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.

This afternoon enjoy an incredible cultural experience with a local kilt maker.  As you embark on a journey through the rich history of the Highland dress and tartan in Scotland, you will get a real feel for the complex and intricate process of crafting a high-quality handmade kilt.   Your local guide will be with you to assist getting to the kilt maker and back to your hotel.

Head back to your hotel this evening to rest and relax before the next phase of your adventure.

*Kilt maker is subject to availability*

Overnight: Edinburgh | The Bonham
Room Type: Deluxe King
Meals Included: Breakfast

Day 3 - Saturday 19^th October - Journey North to the Cairngorm National Park

Today you will meet your main guide, who is also your driver and head north towards the Cairngorm National Park.  There are a few options as you make your way North, perhaps stop at the iconic V&A museum in Dundee.  Scotland’s first design museum which showcases the very best of design from around the world, within the breath-taking surroundings of renowned architect Kengo Kuma’s first British building.  If there is time, perhaps explore the RRS Discovery (a beautiful tall ship which took Captain Scott to the Antarctic).

Or, if you would prefer, you can visit Glamis Castle; A place that transports you to a world of royal heritage and enchanting beauty.  As you explore its grand rooms you will learn about the it’s rich history and famous visitors.

Overnight: Ballater | The Balmoral Arms
Room Type: Feature Room
Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch

Day 4 - Sunday 20^th October - Unique Foodie & Whisky Workshop

Set out into the whisky hills to a private remote kitchen this morning and spend a fascinating day in the home and kitchen of the charismatic writer, broadcaster and ‘food anthropologist’ Ghillie Basan. Set in an idyllic location you will discover a colourful and well stocked kitchen with inspiring views over the local hills. Ghillie will guide you in cooking a delicious feast (including local ingredients foraged from the surrounding hills) while you share stories and learn about the dishes you are creating.

This evening make your way back to you hotel taking with you memories of a wonderful day.

Overnight: Ballater | The Balmoral Arms
Room Type: Feature Room
Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch

Day 5 - Monday 21^st October - Whisky, Castles & Culture

Today you journey to the bustling city of Glasgow with your guide. As you make your way South, stop at one of Scotland’s best distilleries for a rich and immersive experience.  Savour the deep and complex flavours of expertly crafted single malts while learning about the time-honoured distillation process in a charming Highland setting.

As your journey continues, you will stop at the historic Stirling Castle, one of the grandest castles in Scotland with an imposing location above the city of Stirling.  Childhood home of Mary Queen of Scots, the grand halls and beautifully restored rooms bring to life the stories of kings and queens, making every corner feel alive with history.

Arriving at your luxury hotel this evening, you will bid farewell to your guide and are free to relax and settle in or head out and start exploring this unique city.

Overnight: Glasgow | Kimpton Blythswood Square
Room Type: Premium King
Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch

Day 6 - Tuesday 22^nd October - Glasgow Private Walking Tour & Free Afternoon

Explore the highlights of the city on a private walking tour with an expert local guide this morning.  Discover the stories tied in with the varied architecture of streets that have been home to all kinds of creatives over the years. See the influences of Charles Rennie MackIntosh and admire the popular contemporary graffiti murals tucked into unexpected corners all over the city. Your guide will depart at lunchtime, leaving you to continue with further city explorations at your own pace.

Why not raise a glass on your final night in Scotland, reminiscing of a wonderful adventure.

Overnight: Glasgow | Kimpton Blythswood Square
Room Type: Premium King
Meals Included: Breakfast

Day 7 - Wednesday 23^rd October - Depart

A private transfer will collect you from your accommodation 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.