A Birthday Trip to the Misty Isle

John and Christie Otto

Friday 7th February – Saturday 15th February 2025

Number of Travellers: 2
Duration: 9 Days / 8 Nights

Overview

Celebrate your birthday in style as you step into the world of Outlander taking a journey through Scotland’s rich history and breathtaking landscapes. This thoughtfully curated itinerary takes you to iconic filming locations whilst immersing yourself in the culture as you explore Edinburgh’s Royal Mile, dine on traditional fare, and visit ancient battlefields like Culloden Moor, where history shaped the Highlands. From atmospheric ruins to bustling towns steeped in heritage, this trip offers a perfect blend of cinematic magic, historical insight, and the warm embrace of Scottish hospitality. Accompanied by an experienced guide, their passion and knowledge for this iconic nation will shine through every step of the way. 

Highlights

  • Step back in time at sites of pivotal historical importance
  • Explore the bustling colourful harbour at Portree
  • Visit iconic filming locations for the popular Outlander series
  • Discover the history behind the family name of Carmichael

Day by Day

Day 1 - Friday 7th February - Culloden Battlefield

On arrival at Inverness airport, you’ll be met by your private guide who will be with you for the duration of your trip. After a refreshing coffee break, head to Culloden Battlefield and its visitor centre. Featured in the Outlander series, learn about one of the most harrowing battles in Scottish history and walk across the rough moor where the Jacobites and the Government fought in 1746. From here, hit the road to the Isle of Skye and your accommodation for the night. Time depending, you have two routes ahead of you. Maybe you would prefer to journey along the smaller roads, pass mirror-like lochs and the quaint village of Plockton, with its whitewashed cottages and palm-lined shores. Or perhaps you would prefer to skim the shores of Loch Ness, keeping your eyes peeled for the famous monster lurking deep in the murky waters. This evening, take a moment to rest and relax at your hotel or wander into town to listen to some live music at one of the local pubs.

Overnight: Isle of Skye | Cuillin Hills Hotel
Room Type: 1x Premier Seaview
Meals Included: Lunch

Day 2 - Saturday 8th February - Exploring the Misty Isle

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 landscapes, with unusual rock formations and sweeping coast and mountain views to enjoy in almost every direction. Take a visit to Dunvegan Castle the ancestral home of the Macleods, who have owned this castle for over 700 years. Spend some time exploring the beautiful gardens before stepping inside for a look at the castle. Hear stories of the myths and legends, the history and battles that all made their mark on this small part of Skye. On your way back to Portree, stop by a local pub that holds weekly folk music jam sessions. Get your feet tapping as you’re swept up in the beats and sounds that have resonated throughout this area for centuries. 

Overnight: Isle of Skye | Cuillin Hills Hotel
Room Type: 1x Premier Seaview
Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch

Day 3 - Sunday 9th February - A Day of Leisure

With an independent free day in Portree, let the island’s charm unfold at your own pace. Wander the colourful harbourfront, where fishing boats bob on the water, and savour the salty tang of sea air or lose yourself in the town’s artisan shops and cosy cafés. Your guide will be on hand to assist you should you wish to venture further afield. However you choose to spend your day, Portree’s tranquil beauty and warm Highland welcome will leave you enchanted.

Overnight: Isle of Skye | Cuillin Hills Hotel
Room Type: 1x Premier Seaview
Meals Included: Breakfast

Day 4 - Monday 10th February - A Scenic Journey

This morning, you’ll return to the mainland and journey onwards to the picturesque town of Pitlochry, nestled amidst the breathtaking Perthshire hills. Along the way, take time to pause and soak in the ever-changing landscapes, with opportunities to stretch your legs and savour the beauty of the journey.

Drive Time: 4 Hours

Overnight: Pitlochry | Knockendarrach
Room Type: 1x Premier Room
Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch

Day 5 - Tuesday 11th February - A Taste of Liquid Gold

After a leisurely breakfast, set off with your guide to explore the surrounding area. A hidden gem nearby is Kinloch Rannoch, a stunning filming location from the Outlander series. It’s here that Claire first steps through the stones, embarking on her tumultuous adventures with Jamie Fraser. After a delicious lunch, head to a local whisky distillery where you’ll take a tour to uncover the secrets of how this iconic drink is crafted, followed by a tasting of the precious golden liquid.

Overnight: Pitlochry | Knockendarrach
Room Type: 1x Premier Room
Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch

Day 6 - Wednesday 12th February - Exploring Perthshire

Today take time to explore Pitlochry, losing yourself in it’s shops and cafés or stretch your legs on a scenic walk enjoying the Autumnal colours through Faskally Woods, the filming location of many of the Native American scenes in Outlander. This afternoon, take a trip to Blair Castle;  the home of the Atholl family for over seven centuries. Home to politicians, soldiers, agriculturalists and entrepreneurs, the family history is brought to life against a backdrop of fine 18th century interiors and Scottish baronial architecture, in 30 rooms.

Overnight: Pitlochry | Knockendarrach
Room Type: 1x Premier Room
Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch

Day 7 - Thursday 13th February - Stepping Back in Time in Culross

This morning, set off with your guide towards St Andrews, a historic town celebrated as the home of golf and one of Scotland’s oldest universities. Stroll through its cobbled streets, visit the striking ruins of St Andrews Cathedral, and take in views of the famous Old Course. Perhaps indulge in some freshly prepared fish and chips from a local spot as you soak in the town’s coastal charm. After taking time to enjoy all that St Andrews has to offer, continue your journey to Edinburgh later in the day. On arrival, your guide will escort you to your hotel, where you can bid farewell and reflect on the unforgettable experiences of your time together.

Overnight: Edinburgh | The Bonham
Room Type: 1x Deluxe King
Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch

Day 8 - Friday 14th February - 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 beneath the shadows of the mighty ancient fortress which is Edinburgh Castle. This afternoon, take a journey back into your family history with a private meeting with a genealogist, discovering some of the links to locations which have been important to your ancestors over the years. This evening is yours to enjoy at your own pace—whether you choose to continue exploring or simply relax and reflect on the wonderful memories you’ve made during your final night in Scotland.

Overnight: Edinburgh | The Bonham
Room Type: 1x Deluxe King
Meals Included: Breakfast

Day 9 - Saturday 15th February - A Fond Farewell

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.

Meals Included: Breakfast

Trip Details

Inclusions Read More
  • 8 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
  • Airport Transfer on Arrival Day, includes Meet & Greet
  • Airport Transfer on Departure Day
  • All guided hikes mentioned in the itinerary
  • Entrance fees and activities mentioned in the itinerary, specifically:
    • Entry fee to Culloden Battlefield and Visitor Centre
    • Entry fee to Dunvegan Castle
    • Distillery Tour and Whisky Tasting Experience
    • Entry Fee to Blair Castle
    • Private meeting with Geneologist
  • 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
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.
  • Activities are only private if so specified
Optional Upgrades Read More

With the proposal amended to a stay at Fonab, Castle Superior Room, the NET price of this itinerary would be £7393pp.

With the proposal amended to a stay at Fonab, Castle Suite, the NET price of this itinerary would be, £7,758pp. Please note, there is only one remaining suite available on these dates.

  • Room Upgrades are available in some locations, subject to availability. Pricing on request.
Pricing Read More

Pricing:

The NET price for this itinerary, based on X clients on a twin-share basis, and including a £12 per person conservation contribution is:

  • £7,243 GBP per person

Conservation ContributionThis 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.