The Best of Scotland - Highlights & Hidden Gems

Tan

Friday 24th January – Thursday 6th February 2025

Number of Travellers: 2
Duration: 14 Days / 13 Nights

Overview

Version 2

Highlights

  • Explore the hidden gems of Edinburgh with a local expert Guide
  • Sample some of Scotland's best Single Malts
  • Discover the spectacular scenery on the Isle of Skye
  • Learn the incredible stories of Historic Glencoe

Day by Day

Day 1 - Friday 24th January - Welcome to Scotland - Into the Heart of Perthshire

Welcome to Scotland!  On arrival, pick up your hire car and head out of the bustling city into the rolling hills of Perthshire.  Stop en route at Stirling Castle, one of Scotland’s grandest castles, where you’ll wander through the royal apartments and learn of pivotal battles that shaped Scotland’s history.

As the busy city fades into the distance you will make your way into ancient pine forests and hills shrouded in mysterious mists, this area truly encapsulates traditional Scottish countryside.  Arriving at your luxurious Castle hotel you are free to rest and relax for the evening or perhaps head out and explore the quaint villages that are dotted around the area.

*Drive time from Edinburgh Airport to Fonab Castle is around 1 hr 30 mins depending on traffic and without stops*

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

Day 2 - Saturday 25th January - History and Whisky

Immerse yourself in the enchanting beauty of Perthshire today with a visit to the historic Blair Castle, a stately home that has proudly served as the ancestral seat of the Atholl Family for over seven centuries. Wander through its grand halls, uncovering the rich history woven into its impressive turrets, and take time to explore the beautifully manicured gardens and surrounding estate, where every corner tells a story of its storied past.

This afternoon, treat yourself to a sensory journey with the mellow and smooth flavours of a classic Scottish single malt whisky. Enjoy an exclusive, behind-the-scenes tour of a renowned distillery, nestled amidst the breathtaking landscapes of one of Scotland’s most picturesque regions. Here, you’ll follow the fascinating process from grain to glass, gaining insight into the craftsmanship and tradition that make each sip a true masterpiece.

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

Day 3 - Sunday 26th January - A journey into the Highlands

Begin your journey into the heart of the majestic Scottish Highlands today, where a wealth of captivating stops and breathtaking scenery await you at every turn. En route, you’ll be treated to incredible views, with rugged mountain landscapes, sparkling lochs, and rolling hills creating a picture-perfect backdrop. Your first stop is at one of Scotland’s most charming and picturesque distilleries, nestled in a quaint and remote village between two towering mountain ranges. Despite being located in one of the coldest regions of the UK, this distillery has earned a reputation for crafting some of Scotland’s smoothest and most refined whiskies—a true testament to Highland craftsmanship.

If you are still eager to explore, a visit to the bustling Highland village of Aviemore is a wonderful option. Here, you’ll find an abundance of hidden trails and scenic walks that invite you to immerse yourself in the natural beauty of the region. As your day draws to a close, arrive at your luxurious hotel in Inverness, the capital of the Highlands, where you can settle in, unwind, and savour a peaceful evening in comfort and style.

*Drive time from Fonab Castle to Ness Walk is around 2 hrs depending on traffic and without stops*

Overnight: Inverness | Ness Walk
Room Type: Laurel King
Meals Included: Breakfast

Day 4 - Monday 27th January - Historic Culloden

Historic Culloden is your destination today, the site of the last battle of the Jacobite rising in 1746. Here you will take a private tour of the battlefield and the visitor centre before heading to the site of three Bronze Age burial chambers and standing stones known as Clava Cairns. This site is exceptionally well preserved and a great example of prehistoric history in Scotland dating back over 4,000 years.

Your afternoon is free to explore the area or just relax at your hotel with a warming drink.

Overnight: Inverness | Ness Walk
Room Type: Laurel King
Meals Included: Breakfast

Day 5 - Tuesday 28th January - The Fabled Isle of Skye

Meet your guide this morning and together 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.  If time allows, enjoy a scenic cruise on these fabled waters.  As you continue onwards stop to explore the elegant Eilean Donan castle, set out on the water on a private island and surrounded by majestic scenery. Pass over the graceful arc of the Skye Bridge onto ‘the misty isle’ itself and carrying on to your lovely hotel on the banks of a beautiful Sea Loch.

*Drive time from Ness Walk to Kinloch Lodge is around 2 hrs 15 mins depending on traffic and without stops*

Overnight: Sleat | Kinloch Lodge
Room Type: Luxury Double Room
Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch

Day 6 - Wednesday 29th January - 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: Sleat | Kinloch Lodge
Room Type: Luxury Double Room
Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch

Day 7 - Thursday 30th January - 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: Sleat | Kinloch Lodge
Room Type: Luxury Double Room
Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch

Day 8 - Friday 31st January - Road to the Isles

After taking the short ferry back to the mainland you’ll travel 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. This takes you past the Glenfinnan Viaduct, which you may well recognise from the Harry Potter films. Stop to hear the tales of the Glenfinnan Monument and see if you can spot the Jacobite Steam Train puffing its way along the tracks. Depending on your inclination you can stop for a short hike on the beautiful silver sands of Arisaig and admire the views back to Skye and out to the small isles. Then pass through Fort William and head further down the coast to your unique hotel which enjoys striking views of Glencoe.

*Drive time from Kinloch Lodge to Glencoe House is around 2 hrs 45 mins depending on traffic and without stops*

Overnight: Glencoe | Glencoe House
Room Type: One Bedroom Suite
Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch

Day 9 - Saturday 1st February - Explore Glencoe

Your guide will meet you at your hotel this morning and will take you through the stunning scenery of Glencoe. These dramatic mountains and ridges have featured as the backdrop in many films and once you are looking up at these summits it is easy to see why! Today you will explore this famous valley with your guide, there are plenty of options to suit every level of energy and challenge. After your hike settle down with a celebratory beverage in a traditional climbers pub and listen to local legends and fascinating tales of the dark past of Glencoe told by a local storyteller.

Your guide will bid you farewell this evening, leaving you to continue your journey.

Overnight: Glencoe | Glencoe House
Room Type: One Bedroom Suite
Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch

Day 10 - Sunday 2nd February - Transfer to Loch Lomond

Today, your journey takes you to the breathtaking beauty of Loch Lomond, one of Scotland’s most iconic destinations. Along the way, you’ll have the opportunity to pause and soak in the charm of several delightful stops. Perhaps visit one of the quaint, picturesque villages that dot the shores of tranquil Loch Tay, where you can savour a coffee in one of the cosy cafés, watching the world pass by while admiring the stunning vistas.

Upon arrival at your elegant and luxurious hotel nestled along the peaceful banks of Loch Lomond, you’ll find yourself surrounded by comfort and beauty. The choice is yours to make the most of your time—whether it’s setting off to explore the area’s captivating landscapes and charming attractions or simply unwinding in the tranquility of your hotel, ensuring an evening of relaxation and indulgence.

*Drive time from Glencoe House to Cameron House is around 1 hrs 45 mins depending on traffic and without stops*

Overnight: Loch Lomond | Cameron House
Room Type: Loch View Double
Meals Included: Breakfast

Day 11 - Monday 3rd February - A day to relax and unwind, or explore iconic Loch Lomond

Take a moment to decide how you’d like to spend your day, with endless possibilities to suit your mood. Perhaps you’ll choose to relax and unwind at your luxurious hotel, making the most of its world-class amenities designed to provide ultimate comfort and rejuvenation. From soaking in a serene hot plunge pool with incredible views of the surrounding landscapes, to indulging in an array of bespoke spa treatments that will leave you feeling utterly refreshed, you’re guaranteed to discover something truly special.

If you’re feeling more adventurous, venture into the heart of the Trossachs National Park, where Loch Lomond offers an abundance of scenic walking trails just waiting to be explored. As you meander through these enchanting paths, you’ll find yourself immersed in nature’s tranquility, with the chance to spot local wildlife such as graceful red deer, playful squirrels, and a variety of bird species that call this stunning region home. Whether you choose relaxation, exploration, or a blend of both, this day promises to be as unforgettable as the surroundings themselves.

Overnight: Loch Lomond | Cameron House
Room Type: Loch View Double
Meals Included: Breakfast

Day 12 - Tuesday 4th February - Transfer to Edinburgh

Make your way back into the cultural city of Edinburgh today.  Perhaps make a stop at the Kelpies, giant metal sculptures of horse heads which represent water spirits of Scottish folklore, and the impressive Falkirk Wheel. This massive structure is the world’s first and only rotating boat lift used to move boats up and down from one section of the canal to another.

Drop your hire car off as you return to the city and take a local taxi into your luxury city centre hotel.  The rest of the day is free for you to head out and explore the city, perhaps do some Scottish souvenir shopping on the iconic Royal Mile or Princess Street.

*Drive time from Cameron House to Edinburgh Airport is around 1 hr 30 mins depending on traffic and without stops*

Overnight: Edinburgh | InterContinental Edinburgh - The George
Room Type: King Premium
Meals Included: Breakfast

Day 13 - Wednesday 5th 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.

Late afternoon you will discover yet another side of Edinburgh as you adventure down underneath Edinburgh on a private underground tour of a warren of tiny fascinating streets dating from the 17th century.

Overnight: Edinburgh | InterContinental Edinburgh - The George
Room Type: King Premium
Meals Included: Breakfast

Day 14 - Thursday 6th February - Depart - Farewell Scotland!

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
  • 13 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 7 to Day 11 inclusive
  • 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 guided explorations in Edinburgh with expert local guide, including;
      • Entry to Edinburgh Castle
    • A private tour of Mary Kings Close
    • Entry to Stirling Castle
    • Entry to Blair Castle & Gardens
    • A private tour at Blair Athol Distillery
    • Whisky & chocolate tasting at Dalwhinnie Distillery (not private)
    • A private tour of Culloden Battlefield
    • 1 hr boat cruise on Loch Ness
    • Entry fee – Eilean Donan Castle
    • Entry fee – Dunvegan Castle & Gardens
    • Private story teller – Glencoe
  • Personalised trip design and delivery
  • 24/7 In-Country Support from the Wilderness Team
Exclusions Read More
  • Flights
  • Car Hire
  • 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.