A Highland Adventure

Day 1 - Welcome to Edinburgh

Having arrived at the architecturally stunning city of Edinburgh, you will be taken by private transfer to your hotel. The Balmoral is an elegant blend of comforting tradition and contemporary excellence, ideally located in the centre of this vibrant city. After relaxing, you may wish to stretch your legs on a local stroll. Walk up the Royal Mile and visit St Giles’ Cathedral which has been a working church for over 900 years, before winding your way back through the cobblestone streets and hidden closes for a delicious dinner, a nip of whisky, and a good night’s sleep.

Overnight: Edinburgh | The Balmoral
Meals Included: None

Day 2 - North to Aldourie Castle

After breakfast, leave the lights of the capital behind and begin your journey into the wild, quiet landscapes of the Highlands. Your route today takes you through the western flanks of the Cairngorms National Park to arrive at Aldourie Castle – an exclusive destination on the southern shores of Loch Ness. Along the way, you may like to stop for a walk through the beautiful wooded glen of the Hermitage before wandering into the charming village of Dunkeld to enjoy a coffee and a cake by the banks of the River Tay. Later this afternoon, settle into the relaxed luxury of your fairytale castle.

Overnight: Loch Ness | Aldourie Castle
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Day 3 - Private Boat Trip, Archery & Falconry

As the mist recedes across the peaceful grounds, embark on a boat trip on the deep, dark waters of Loch Ness. Learn about the history and folklore of one of Scotland’s most iconic landmarks as you chat with the experienced skipper and appreciate the views across the water to the rolling hills beyond. On your return to Aldourie’s boathouse, enjoy a delicious lunch overlooking the loch. This afternoon, perhaps try your hand at archery on the castle lawns and, afterwards, witness the spectacle of a falconry display. As the warm July sunshine glows gold above the trees, look forward to champagne and canapés on the lawn before settling down to an alfresco BBQ.

Overnight: Loch Ness | Aldourie Castle
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Day 4 - Golf and the Cairngorms National Park

After breakfast, some of the party may wish to tee off on Royal Dornoch Golf Course or take a helicopter to play in St Andrews. For others, the poignant Culloden Battlefield and centre, the Bronze Age burial cairn and the standing stones of Clava Cairns are well worth a visit. Later, Johnstons of Elgin will welcome you private tour of the mill and a 5* luxury shopping experience.  After a fantastic day, return to Aldourie and take some time to relax. Festooned with fairy lights and tucked within the bounds of a beautiful walled garden, enjoy making botanical cocktails in the ornate greenhouse before sitting down to a lovely dinner in a magical setting. After dinner this evening, indulge in a guided whisky tasting, learning more about the golden tipple’s profound sense of place.

Overnight: Loch Ness | Aldourie Castle
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Day 5 - Jacobite Steam Train and the West Coast

Join your guide today and travel down the shores of Loch Lochy to arrive in Fort William. From here, board the famous Jacobite Steam Train, made famous by Harry Potter. Travel along the famous route, passing through the misty mountains and over the impressive Glenfinnan viaduct. Arrive in the fishing port of Mallaig for lunch before  sea kayaking with your guide. As you paddle through the crystal clear water and around tiny, rocky islands, look out for the whiskered faces of curious seals and keep an eye skyward for golden eagles. Transfer back to Aldourie this evening, arriving for a delicious, seasonal dinner.

Overnight: Loch Ness | Aldourie Castle
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Day 6 - Aldourie and Highland Games

Spend the day exploring the grounds of Aldourie, perhaps enjoy a morning of bushcraft – foraging, shelter building and fire starting. An expert guide will also be on hand to accompany anyone who wishes to venture further afield to hike, cycle or paddle. If you’re feeling adventurous brave the cold waters of Loch Ness for some wild water swimming – warming up afterwards in the castle’s floating sauna. Or relax with a private yoga session and massage treatment. Later this afternoon, the whole family will gather together to experience a tradition that has been part of Scotland’s history for hundreds of years: the Highland Games. Listen to the skirl of the bagpipes while competing in events such as haggis hurling, shot put and tug o’war. This evening, a celebratory gala dinner, ceilidh dancing and fireworks, will bring your time in the Highlands to a perfect end.

Overnight: Loch Ness | Aldourie Castle
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Day 7 - South to Edinburgh and Depart

After a leisurely breakfast, depart Aldourie and return to Edinburgh. As you drive, look out for red deer and the distinctive silhouette of red kites. Stop at House of Bruar, an impeccably organised Aladdin’s cave of Scottish produce, which includes a beautiful collection of traditional Tweeds and cashmere. Then, visit a Highland Estate for a gourmet farm-to-table lunch. Arrive in Edinburgh this afternoon with time to relax or explore more of the city.

Overnight: Edinburgh | The Balmoral
Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch

Day 8 - Depart

After breakfast, transfer to the airport for your journey home.