Stewart Family Adventure Through Scotland - Final Information

Monday 2nd June – Thursday 12th June 2025

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

Overview

Final Information for V4 – Confirmed 20th Feb 2025

 

On Trip;

While we hope things run smoothly for the duration of their stay, we know that unforeseen circumstances do happen and there are times when the clients may need to contact us for assistance. Please see below for ways to get in touch while on the trip;

Please note that on days with your main driver-guide, please ask your guide for assistance in the first instance. As they are best placed to answer any queries directly & in a timely manner.

Email: If you have a general question please feel free to email your Sales Consultant or Agent.
Note – Emails are monitored during office hours only.

Call us directly: Office number +44 (0) 1479 420 120
Please note: Office hours are Mon- Fri 9:00 – 5:30

Out of Office Hours Number: +44 (0)7766 794 640 for use after 5:30pm and at the weekends.
Note: If you require immediate assistance for an issue, problem or emergency, please call, message or Whatsapp our Out of Office Hours Number

Day by Day

Day 1 - Monday 2nd June - Welcome To Scotland!

On arrival at the Airport this morning you will be met by your Private Guide (who will also act as your driver for your time together). With your arrival time there will be time for a relaxed lunch and some explorations or a scenic leg stretch on the way to your luxurious hotel.

Note that drive time will be approx 2.5 to 3 hours, not including any stops

Overnight: Braemar | The Fife Arms
Room Type: 1 x Majestic Family Suite set up as a double and a twin and 1 x Nature and Poetry for single occupancy
Meals Included: Lunch

Day 1 - Flight Details Read More +

Airline: Delta Airlines | Flight Number: DL 0254
Departure Airport: ATL | Departure Time: 19:00
Arrival Airport: EDI - Edinburgh Airport | Arrival Time: 08:00

Arriving 2nd June

Day 1 - Guide Details - Dan Parker Read More +

Name: Dan Parker
Contact Number: +44 (0)7837 957 584
Meeting Place: Edinburgh Airport Arrivals | Meeting Time: 08:00

Day 1 - Dinner Details Read More +

Restaurant: The Flying Stag | Location: Your Hotel
Reservation Time: 19:30

Please note that this is a table reservation only. Please pay directly.

Day 2 - Tuesday 3rd June - Morning Hiking & Afternoon Wild Swim & Sauna

Today you have a morning of hiking with your qualified hiking guide in the beautiful Cairngorms National Park which surrounds you. This mountain range boasts 5 out of 6 of the highest peaks in the UK, so you can choose if you want to head up onto the peaks or stay lower down in the romantic Caledonian pine forests and glens. Your guide will discuss the best options to suit your energy levels, the weather and your preferred level of challenge!

This afternoon a unique and wonderful experience awaits you as you head off with your guide into the woods to a secluded and scenic spot. The benefits of wild swimming are well known and your qualified swimming instructor will make sure you are well prepared before you dip your toes into the fresh, mountain water. Feel your body tingle as you submerge and allow yourselves to drift downstream a bit with just the sound of the lapping water and the wildlife in the trees for company.

Back on dry land you will pop into the stunning sauna for a warm up and then perhaps out again into the river for the ultimate refreshing dip! Once you are done, you can sit on the riverbank wrapped up with a wee dram to warm up.

Note: Your guide will agree a meeting time the day prior

Overnight: Braemar | The Fife Arms
Room Type: 1 x Majestic Family Suite set up as a double and a twin and 1 x Nature and Poetry for single occupancy
Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch

Day 2 - Dinner Details Read More +

Restaurant: The Flying Stag | Location: Your Hotel
Reservation Time: 20:00

Please note that this is a table reservation only. Please pay directly.

Day 3 - Wednesday 4th June - Transfer to Skye via Loch Ness

A private transfer will take you to Loch Ness this morning where you will be reunited with your guide on the shores of these deep secretive waters. Hear the tales of the monster and keep your eyes open for ‘Nessie’ herself.

This afternoon sees you heading to the fabled Isle of Skye by way of the graceful Skye bridge, but first you will see one of the prettiest castles in Scotland. Eilean Donan occupies an island at the confluence of three sea lochs and stands in defiance of the towering peaks surrounding it. Stop to drink in the view and take some photographs before continuing onto the island and north to your boutique accommodation with impressive views out across the sea.

Note: Your guide will agree a meeting time the day prior

Overnight: Flodigarry | Flodigarry Hotel
Room Type: 1 x Superior Garden TWIN, 2 x Premier Rooms - 1 as a double & 1 as a double for single occupancy
Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch

Day 3 - Transfer Details Read More +

Supplier: Highland Chauffeur Drive
Booking Reference: Stewart
Pick Up Location: Your Hotel Reception | Pick Up Time: 09:00 | Approx Duration: 2 hrs 30 mins
Phone: +44 (0) 7876 443 916

Finish Location = Dochgarroch, Loch Ness

Your main Guide will meet you on arrival here.

Drive Time may vary with traffic etc…

Day 3 - Guide Details - Dan Parker Read More +

Name: Dan Parker
Contact Number: +44 (0)7837 957 584
Meeting Place: Dochgarroch, Loch Ness | Meeting Time: 11:30

Day 3 - Dinner Details Read More +

Restaurant: Your Hotel
Reservation Time: 19:30

Please note that this is a table reservation only. Please pay directly.

Day 4 - Thursday 5th June - Exploring Skye - Hiking & History

Today you have a full day to explore some of the special corners of this magical island with your guide. You will be spoilt for choice with fascinating history and dramatic landscape on offer, with unique hiking routes through stark and unusual rock formations and sweeping coast and mountain views to enjoy in almost every direction. This ‘misty isle’ is also home to so many curious stories and legends of fairies and islander culture, your guide will share some of the best hidden gems and personalise the day to your interests.

Note: Your guide will agree a meeting time the day prior

Overnight: Flodigarry | Flodigarry Hotel
Room Type: 1 x Superior Garden TWIN, 2 x Premier Rooms - 1 as a double & 1 as a double for single occupancy
Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch

Day 4 - Dinner Details Read More +

Restaurant: Caberfeidh Bar & Pizza Restaurant | Location: Portree

Please note that this restaurant is not currently accepting table reservations, and is operating on a ‘first-come-first-served’ basis. So this is NOT reserved. Your guide will assist you with securing a table here, or elsewhere if this location is not possible.

Please pay directly.

Day 5 - Friday 6th June - Return to the Mainland and Sea Kayaking

This morning your guide will take you south to the port of Armadale to leave the Misty Isle by boat to return to the mainland.

On arrival in Arisaig you will take to the waters for a fabulous guided sea kayaking experience. This location is a worldwide destination for paddlers due to the beautiful crystal clear waters, white sandy beaches and fun tiny rocky islands to explore, complete with a wide variety of local wildlife.

At the end of a wonderful day you can enjoy superb views as you make your way along the stunning Road to the Isles, this is frequently listed as one of the most beautiful drives in the world and it is easy to see why. You may wish to stop at the historic Glenfinnan viaduct, whose graceful arches featured in several of the Harry Potter films before continuing down the coast to your luxury hotel based on it’s very own island.

Note: Your guide will agree a meeting time the day prior

Overnight: Benderloch | Isle of Eriska
Room Type: Arnott's House (3 Bedrooms - Note that this is 10 mins walk from main hotel)
Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch

Day 5 - Dinner Details Read More +

Outdoor Dining: BBQ Package from Your Hotel
Reservation Time: 19:30 | Booking Reference: C-06062025-01

Please note that this is a reservation only. Please pay directly.

From Your Accommodation;

Sizzle up a memorable evening under the stars with our fantastic BBQ station. Arnott’s House provides everything you need for a delicious and hassle-free grilling experience:

Prepped to Perfection: Choose from a selection of succulent steaks and marinated kababs, all ready to cook.

All the Fixings: We’ll provide a variety of fresh salads, creamy coleslaw, and a bottle of wine to complement your BBQ feast.

£200 BBQ Package: This complete package includes all the above, perfect for a self-catered BBQ experience.

Day 6 - Saturday 7th June - Coasteering & Hike Glencoe

It’s all about thrilling splashes and fun scrambling as you get to know the rugged coastline intricately ‘coasteering’ with an experienced local guide this morning. You don’t have to jump in but you will get wet, so the wetsuits are definitely needed as you laugh your way in and out of the rockpools and waves.

In the afternoon there will be time for more exploring, but on dry land this time! Perhaps a short hike in Glencoe to discover this iconic location with insights from your guide.

Note: Your guide will agree a meeting time the day prior

Alternative option for today would be a full day of hiking to allow you to take on a bigger challenge such as Ben Nevis.

NOTE – Please note that Ben Nevis can only be attempted if the weather and client experience/fitness allow. Suitable hiking attire and equipment is essential. The guide’s decision is final, and suitable alternatives will be suggested if Ben Nevis is not a suitable option for the day.

Overnight: Benderloch | Isle of Eriska
Room Type: Arnot's House (3 Bedrooms - Note that this is 10 mins walk from main hotel)
Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch

Day 6 - Dinner Details Read More +

Restaurant: Main House Restaurant | Location: Your Hotel
Reservation Time: 19:30 | Booking Reference: C-07062025-01

Please note that this is a table reservation only. Please pay directly.

The following is from the restaurant;

Please note that the time you book is your arrival time for drinks and you will be taken to your table half an hour after this.

Day 7 - Sunday 8th June - Canoeing & Local Explorations

This morning you head south, stopping on route to take to the sparkling waters of a beautiful loch in open canoes. Have fun exploring with your local paddling guide as you make your way to a lovely picnic spot to enjoy a well-earned lunch.

This afternoon you will raise a glass at a unique winery in Scotland, as you take a tour and discover just why they do things a bit differently (and why they request all the apples that locals can give them every Autumn!). Your guide will then take you onwards and see you safely settled at Gleneagles before they depart, leaving you to enjoy the rest of your trip.

Note: Your guide will agree a meeting time the day prior

Overnight: Auchterarder | Gleneagles Hotel
Room Type: 1 x Estate Suite, 1 x Estate Double for single occupancy and 1 x Estate Twin
Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch

Day 7 - Dinner Details Read More +

Restaurant: The Birnam | Location: Your Hotel
Reservation Time: 19:30 | Booking Reference: Morgan Stewart

Please note that this is a table reservation only. Please pay directly.

Day 8 - Monday 9th June - Free Day at Gleneagles

Today is a totally free day to enjoy the amazing activities at Scotland’s Glorious Playground. Choose from off roading, falconry, clay shooting, round of golf or some rejuvenating spa treatments. Tonight you can dine in one of the many restaurants and reflect on your time in Scotland as a family.

Overnight: Auchterarder | Gleneagles Hotel
Room Type: 1 x Estate Suite, 1 x Estate Double for single occupancy and 1 x Estate Twin
Meals Included: Breakfast

Day 8 - Dinner Details Read More +

Restaurant: The Dormy | Location: Your Hotel
Reservation Time: 19:15 | Booking Reference: Morgan Stewart

Please note that this is a table reservation only. Please pay directly.

Day 9 - Tuesday 10th June - Transfer To Edinburgh & Evening Ghost Tour

A private transfer will collect you from Gleneagles in the late morning and transfer you to Edinburgh and your final hotel of this amazing trip. Drop your bags and then head out to start exploring.

After 3pm you can check in and get settled, discovering the views from your balconies. Then, just before 5pm, meet a local guide for a spooky experience as you head underground for a private Ghost Tour (approx 2 hrs).

Note: Check out time at Gleneagles is 12 noon, Check In time at Cheval Old Town Chambers is 3pm.

Overnight: Edinburgh | Cheval Edinburgh Old Town Chambers
Room Type: 3 Bedroom Penthouse
Meals Included: Breakfast

Day 9 - Private Ghost Tour Read More +

Activity: Private Ghost Tour
Start Location: The Mercat Cross Monument, an octagonal stone monument on the Royal Mile, opposite the City Chambers. EH1 1RF | Start Time: 16:45 | Approx Duration: 2 hrs
Booking Reference: MT50-5563780
Phone: 0131 225 5445

Your Tour will start at 5pm.

Please see the following important notes from Mercat Tours;

Please be at the meeting point 15 minutes in advance to check in with our team and receive your Tour Talk devices and headphones.
If you are running late before the tour or have trouble finding the meeting point, please call our office (0131 225 5445), so the team can help and assess the situation accordingly. 
As per our terms & conditions, we allow for late arrival up to 15 minutes after the tour’s start time.  If no one has arrived for the tour by then, unfortunately, the tour will need to be cancelled.

Day 9 - Dinner Details Read More +

Restaurant: Ivy On The Square | Location: St Andrew's Square, Edinburgh, EH2 2BD
Reservation Time: 19:30 | Booking Reference: Sara Stewart
Phone: 01315 264 777 | Website: https://ivycollection.com/restaurants/the-ivy-on-the-square/

Please note that this is a table reservation only. Please pay directly.

Please see notes from the restaurant below;

Dear Sara Stewart,

Thank you for making your reservation at The Ivy On The Square.

Details
Reservation name – Sara Stewart
Date – 10th June 2025
Time – 07:30 PM
Seating type – Standard
Party size – 5

We have a 15 minute grace period. Please call us if you are running later than 15 minutes after your booked time.

Please note that all bookings are subject to a time restriction: Tables for 5 guests and above have a seating time of 2 hours 30 mins.

Our dress code is smart-casual and quite relaxed.
We just ask that the general look does not appear too sporty i.e. tracksuits/football shirts/baseball caps. Smart trainers are allowed.

If you need to amend or cancel your reservation, please contact the restaurant as soon as possible.

We look forward to welcoming you and your guests to The Ivy On The Square, if we can be of any further assistance please do not hesitate to contact us.

Had a change of plans?
Please use the appropriate link to AMEND or CANCEL your booking if required

Day 10 - Wednesday 11th June - Exploring Edinburgh & Free Afternoon

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 as you wander 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 your explorations at your own pace, pick up souvenirs or relax as you prefer.

Overnight: Edinburgh | Cheval Edinburgh Old Town Chambers
Room Type: 3 Bedroom Penthouse
Meals Included: Breakfast

Day 10 - Private Morning Walking Tour Read More +

Activity: Private Morning Walking Tour
Expert City Guide: Hugh Salvesen
Start Location: Your Hotel Reception | Start Time: 09:00 | Approx Duration: 4 hrs
Phone: +44 (0) 7528 013 864

Includes entry to Edinburgh Castle

Day 11 - Thursday 12th June - Depart

A private transfer will collect you from your accommodation and take you to Edinburgh Airport to make your onward connections. Waving farewell for now but taking with you special memories and wonderful stories of your Scottish  family adventure.

Meals Included: Breakfast

Day 11 - Transfer Details Read More +

Supplier: Little's Chauffeur Services
Booking Reference: 2719663
Pick Up Location: Cheval Edinburgh Old Town Chambers Reception | Pick Up Time: 06:00 | Approx Duration: 45 mins
Phone: +44 (0) 141 883 2111

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 0141 883 2111, which operates 24/7.

Day 11 - Flight Details Read More +

Travel Date: June 12, 2025 | Airline: Delta Airlines | Flight Number: DL 0035
Departure Airport: Edinburgh Airport - EDI | Departure Time: 09:00
Arrival Airport: Atlanta Airport - ATL

Trip Details

Inclusions Read More
  • 10 nights accommodation, as stated in the itinerary above
  • Most meals, as stated in the itinerary above
  • The services of a qualified and experienced guide from Day 1 to Day 7 inclusive
  • All transfers in a private vehicle driven by our guide on guided days
  • Private transfer from the Fife Arms to Loch Ness on Day 3
  • Private transfer from Gleneagles to Edinburgh on Day 8
  • Private Airport Transfer on Departure Day
  • All Ferry Travel Included in the Itinerary
  • All guided hikes mentioned in the itinerary
  • Entrance fees and activities mentioned in the itinerary, specifically:
    • Private Wild River Swimming & Sauna Experience
      • Includes Qualified Wild Swimming Instructor
    • Entry to Eilean Donan Castle
    • Entry Fee on Skye as per interest (eg. Dunvegan Castle or Talisker Distillery)
    • Private Sea Kayaking Experience
      • Includes Qualified Instructor & All Equipment Hire
    • Private Coasteering Experience
      • Includes Qualified Instructor & All Equipment Hire
    • Private Canoeing Experience
      • Includes Qualified Instructor & All Equipment Hire
    • Private Winery Tour & Tasting
    • Private Underground Ghost Tour in Edinburgh (approx 2 hrs)
    • Private Walking Tour in Edinburgh with Expert City Guide
      • Includes Entry to Edinburgh Castle
  • 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 the main driver guide
  • Activities at Gleneagles
Notes Read More

Activities are only private if so stared in the inclusions

 

Notes On Weather & Flexibility

Weather in Scotland can be 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 

  • For Hiking
    • 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
  • For Wild Swimming & Sauna
    • Swimming Costume/trunks
    • Useful to have Flipflops or footwear you don’t mind getting wet
  • For Sea Kayaking
    • Swimming costume/trunks
    • Wetsuit socks, waterproof socks or warm wool socks
    • Footwear that you don’t mind getting wet
    • Non-cotton moisture-wicking base layer top
    • Non-cotton quick-dry leggings or trousers
  • For canoeing
    • Swimming costume/trunks
    • Wetsuit socks, waterproof socks or warm wool socks
    • Footwear that you don’t mind getting wet

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.

 

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).

 

Useful Contacts

24 hour in-country support (Wilderness Scotland):  +44 (0)1479 420 020, or outwith regular office hours +44 (0)7766 794 640 (urgent calls only, but can also be used for less urgent text messages or WhatApp messages)

Emergency services:  999 or 112NHS 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.

 

Important Contact Numbers Read More
Wilderness Scotland Office | 9:00am – 5:30pm

UK: +44 (0)1479 420 020
US: 888 351 5707


Out of Office Hours | 5:30pm – 9:00am

+44 (0)7766 794 640


Emergency Services

999

Pricing Read More

The price for this itinerary, based on 5 clients rooming as per the itinerary, and including a £12 per person conservation contribution is as follows:

  • £13,550 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.

Terms & Conditions Read More

Please see our booking terms here.


Accommodation

The Fife Arms

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

Flodigarry Hotel

Flodigarry | Isle of Skye |
IV51 9HZ | Scotland
Phone: +44 (0)1470 552203
Web: flodigarry-hotel-skye.co.uk

Isle of Eriska

Benderloch | Near Oban |
PA37 1SD | Scotland
Phone: +44 (0)1631 720 371
Web: eriska-hotel.co.uk

Gleneagles Hotel

Auchterarder, Perthshire | Auchterarder |
PH3 1NF | Scotland
Phone: +44 (0)1764 290 020
Web: gleneagles.com

Cheval Edinburgh Old Town Chambers

Royal Mile, 329 High Street | Edinburgh |
EH1 1PN | Scotland
Phone: +44 (0) 131 510 5499
Web: chevalcollection.com/cheval-old-town-chambers


Meet Your Guide

Dan Parker

Contact Number: +44 (0)7837 957 584

Me In Three – Enthusiastic Passionate Bikeaholic

Mini Bio

Originally from mid-Wales, I spent most of my teenage years exploring the local crags, trails and rivers in search of new adventures. I have lived in the highlands for over a decade now and I love exploring new remote regions of this beautiful country.

I am lucky enough to call Aviemore home with my young family where I enjoy spending long days on the bike looking for singletrack gold.

Favourite Place to Play
Torridon was one of the first places I visited before moving up to Scotland, and the scenery just blew me away. I think for this reason it has a special place in my heart.

Not a lot of People Know This
I used to be fluent in Welsh, sadly I don’t get to use it much in Scotland so my vocabulary is rapidly decreasing.