Highlights and Hidden Gems of Scotland

Sunday 9th February – Thursday 27th February 2025

Duration: 19 Days / 18 Nights

Itinerary at a Glance

Day by Day

Day 1 - Sunday 9th February - 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 Balmoral Hotel
Room Type: Deluxe Castle View
Meals Included: None

Day 2 - Monday 10th February - 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. 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 | The Balmoral Hotel
Room Type: Deluxe Castle View
Meals Included: Breakfast

Day 3 - Tuesday 11th February - Iconic Gleneagles & An Introduction to Falconry

After a relaxed breakfast this morning, a private transfer will meet you and take you to the iconic Gleneagles.  Once you arrive, you will have some time to settle in and enjoy your luxurious hotel.

This afternoon learn the gentille art of falconry with an expert falconer.  This ‘sport of kings’ dates back thousands of years and will astound you with the beauty and accuracy displayed.  Your evening is free to relax and enjoy the fabulous facilities on offer.

Overnight: Auchterarder | Gleneagles Hotel
Room Type: Braid or Main House Estate Double Room
Meals Included: Breakfast

Day 4 - Wednesday 12th February - A day of Activities at Gleneagles

Discover the wonderful Perthshire countryside as you take to your e-bike this morning.  Explore the rolling hills, serene lochs and wind through ancient forest enjoying the best of the breathtaking Highland scenery.  Slow the pace this afternoon as you enjoy the world class facilities that this hotel has to offer.  Perhaps enjoy the luxurious spa, taking some time to pamper yourself after an energetic morning.

*Bike hire is included*

*Spa experiences have not been included*

Overnight: Auchterarder | Gleneagles Hotel
Room Type: Braid or Main House Estate Double Room
Meals Included: Breakfast

Day 5 - Thursday 13th February - The Heart of the Highlands

Your private guide (who will also be your driver) will meet you at your hotel and together you will make your way into the heart of the Highlands.  On the way you will visit the elegant Scone palace, once the crowing place of Scottish Kings and Queens.  Stroll the beautiful gardens and explore the unique Murray Star Maze.

As you continue North, you will stop in the picturesque village of Dunkeld.  Perched on the edge of the river Tay, and surrounded by ancient pine forest, there are plenty of areas to explore.  From the many artisanal shops to the cosy cafes that line the main streets, you will be spoiled for choice.  Your evening is free to relax and enjoy your lovely castle accommodation.

Overnight: Pitlochry | Fonab Castle Hotel
Room Type: Castle Superior
Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch

Day 6 - Friday 14th February - A Highland Safari

Immerse yourself in the Highlands today as you head out on a fun private Landrover safari with a kilted Ranger. Explore the private estate tracks to see what traditional gillies and estate managers drive every day. Keep your eyes open for the local wildlife, Red Deer, Mountain Hares and Eagles that are all to be found here.

After your wonderful safari, head to the Highland Chocolatier and delight in an artisanal tasting experience with a master chocolatier.  Learn about the process of making chocolate and try some of the world famous truffles.  Before heading back to your hotel, make a stop at Blair Castle; home to the Atholl family for over seven centuries, where you can see the family history brought to life against a backdrop of fine 18th century interiors.

Enjoy a warming dram back at your hotel after an incredible day in the outdoors.

Overnight: Pitlochry | Fonab Castle Hotel
Room Type: Castle Superior
Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch

Day 7 - Saturday 15th February - The Scenic Snow Road & A Birthday Afternoon Tea

Today you head deep into the Cairngorms National Park following the ‘Snow Road’, a high pass over the mountains that provides some spectacular views over the surrounding countryside. There are several intriguing art installations along the way, all inviting you to focus on certain views in this wild landscape. Your destination is the Fife Arms Hotel, a fabulously unique and opulent experience created by acclaimed artist Hauser & Wirth.

Once you have settled in, indulge in a special birthday afternoon tea celebration.  Carefully curated with the finest local ingredients, delight in the savoury and sweet treats of this quintessentially British experience.  A wonderful way to celebrate your special day.

Overnight: Braemar | The Fife Arms
Room Type: Scottish Culture
Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch

Day 8 - Sunday 16th February - Spirit and Spice and all things nice!

Head over the hills of Glenlivet to the private home and kitchen of a charismatic and well-travelled ‘food anthropologist’ who delights in sharing her findings and skills with others. Set in an idyllic and remote location you will discover a colourful and well-stocked kitchen with inspiring views over the hills. This house actually used to be a whisky smuggler’s den, so you are in the perfect place to enjoy a cookery workshop specifically designed to pair whisky and food on a unique flavour journey using local and wild produce.

If you still have a taste for the famous ‘water of life’ head to one of Scotland’s best distilleries, where they are blending new innovative technologies with old traditions to create their unique and popular whisky.

Make your way North to Inverness, your Highland home for the next couple of nights.

Overnight: Inverness | Ness Walk
Room Type: Cedar King
Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch

Day 9 - Monday 17th February - Discover the Mysteries of Loch Ness

Take to the mysterious waters of Loch Ness today and enjoy a private boat cruise as you look out for wildlife such as golden eagles, feral goats and of course the elusive monster!  The ruins of Urqhuart Castle, best admired from the water, come into view as you travel further up the loch.  This large castle has a rich and bloody past that dates back centuries.  It was eventually destroyed by government troops so it could no longer be used as. stronghold by local clans.

Your afternoon is free to explore Inverness.  Perhaps stroll alongside the River Ness, enjoying the serenity and calm of this riverside walk.  Or perhaps find one of the cosy cafes and enjoy a coffee while you watch the world go by.  There are plenty of options to choose from in this city and your guide will be available should you wish to explore further.

Overnight: Inverness | Ness Walk
Room Type: Cedar King
Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch

Day 10 - Tuesday 18th February - Iconic Isle of Skye

Enjoy some fabulous scenery as you make your way to Skye today, passing the deep waters of Loch Ness and through steep sided mountain glens on the way. Stop to explore the elegant Eilean Donan castle, set out on the water on a private island and surrounded by majestic scenery. You will then continue onwards, passing over the graceful arc of the Skye Bridge onto ‘the misty isle’ itself and carrying on to your lovely hotel, a hidden gem which enjoys views over the mountains of Knoydart.

Overnight: Isle of Skye | Duisdale House Hotel
Room Type: Seaview Deluxe
Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch

Day 11 - Wednesday 19th February - Exploring Northern Skye landscapes & Portree

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.

Overnight: Isle of Skye | Duisdale House Hotel
Room Type: Seaview Deluxe
Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch

Day 12 - Thursday 20th February - Exploring Western Skye & Dunvegan Castle

Spend the day exploring the Western side of the island, from jagged peaks to glittering pools and waterfalls to towering sea cliffs there is so much to explore and your guide will be with you to help tailor the day to your preferences.

After a wonderful morning exploring the island, you will end the day at the ancestral home of the Macleods, who have owned this castle for over 700 years. Spend some time exploring the beautiful gardens of Dunvegan Castle hearing stories of the myths and legends, the history and battles that all made their mark on this small part of Skye before returning to your hotel in the early evening.

Overnight: Isle of Skye | Duisdale House Hotel
Room Type: Seaview Deluxe
Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch

Day 13 - Friday 21st February - Return to the Mainland & The Jacobite Train

After taking the short ferry back to the mainland you’ll board the Jacobite Steam Train and travel along the stunning Road to the Isles, this is frequently listed as one of the most beautiful journeys in the world and it is easy to see why. This takes you over the Glenfinnan Viaduct, which you may well recognise from the Harry Potter films. Your guide will meet you in Fort William and take you to your luxury 19th century Scottish Castle hotel.

Overnight: Near Fort William | Inverlochy Castle Hotel
Room Type: Superior Double
Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch

Day 14 - Saturday 22nd February - Exploring Glen Nevis & Glencoe

Enjoy a breathtaking ascent up the north face of Aonach Mor as the Nevis gondola glides you smoothly above ancient forests and rugged landscapes.  As you reach the summit, you will enjoy panoramic views of Ben Nevis and down towards the Great Glen.

Glencoe – a valley of myths and legends, where you can feel the true essence of Scotland seeping from the well trodden trails and drifting down the towering peaks. Your guide will discuss all the options for hikes this afternoon – from hidden valleys to secret glens, there are many choices where you can get off the beaten track and hear stories about the tragic past of this beautiful area. To end the day, you will arrive at a traditional hikers tavern where you can enjoy a warming dram as you soak in the atmosphere in the incredible place.

Overnight: Near Fort William | Inverlochy Castle Hotel
Room Type: Superior Double
Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch

Day 15 - Sunday 23rd February - Historic Stirling Castle

Leaving the Highlands behind, you will make your way South to Stirlingshire.  There will be the chance to stop en-route to stretch your legs and enjoy a short hike.  Arriving at your luxurious hotel, made famous by the tennis legend Andy Murray, you are free to relax, refresh and explore the hotel grounds.  If you would prefer to continue exploring why not visit Stirling Castle, one of the grandest castles in Scotland with an incredible history and imposing view overlooking the City of Stirling.

Your evening is free to enjoy the elegant surroundings and warm Scottish hospitality.

Overnight: By Dunblane | Cromlix Hotel
Room Type: Deluxe Suite
Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch

Day 16 - Monday 24th February - Exploring Loch Lomond

Explore the heart of Scotland’s first national park with your guide today.  From shimmering lochs, dense forests to rolling hills there are plenty of options available for you to choose from. Perhaps a loch side stroll, looking out for the local red deer or a wander through the oak forest.  If you are feeling more energetic there are options to explore the hills and take in views over the rolling countryside.  Whatever you decide, you are sure to enjoy your day in the Trossach’s National Park.

You will bid farewell to your guide this evening.

Overnight: By Dunblane | Cromlix Hotel
Room Type: Deluxe Suite
Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch

Day 17 - Tuesday 25th February - Glasgow Private Walking Tour & Free Afternoon

Your private transfer driver will meet you at your hotel and transfer you to your luxury hotel in the centre of Glasgow where you can refresh before your afternoon explorations.

Explore the highlights of the city on a private walking tour with an expert local guide this afternoon.  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, leaving you to continue with further city explorations at your own pace.

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

Day 18 - Wednesday 26th February - Glasgow - Self Guided Explorations

Today you have a full free day to continue explorations at your own pace and there is plenty to keep you discovering more. Maybe spend a relaxed few hours exploring the magnificent halls and collections of Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum, visit the Modern Art Gallery or find a local pub with live music sessions. Whatever you choose, you are sure to be inspired.

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

Day 19 - Thursday 27th February - 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.

Trip Details

Inclusions Read More
  • 18 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 5 to Day 16 inclusive
  • All transfers in a private vehicle driven by your guide on guided days
  • Private Airport Transfer on Arrival Day, includes Meet & Greet
  • Private transfer from Edinburgh to Gleneagles D3
  • 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:
    • Half day expert local guided walk – Edinburgh
    • Half day E-bike hire at Gleneagles
    • Introduction to falconry experience
    • Entry Fee – Scone Palace
    • 4×4 Highland Safari (private)
    • Chocolatier workshop & tasting (private)
    • Entry Fee – Blair Castle
    • Afternoon Tea
    • Private whisky & foodie workshop
    • Distillery Tour (not private)
    • Boat trip on Loch Ness (private)
    • Entry Fee – Eilean Donan Castle
    • Train Tickets (First Class) – Jacobite Steam Train
    • Nevis gondola tickets
    • Entry Fee – Stirling Castle
    • Half day expert local guided walk – Glasgow
  • 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
  • Room Upgrades are available in some locations, subject to availability. Pricing on request.
Terms & Conditions Read More

Please see our booking terms here.