fbpx
Close
Articles by Year

<<     >>

Articles by Category
Close
866 740 3890

Activities

Selected Trips

    Locations

    Selected Trips

      Themed Travel

      FAQs

      Sample Itinerary

      Short Luxury Break

      Duration: 5 Days / 4 Nights

      Price: P.O.A. Make an Enquiry

      Trip created by Rachael Gavan
      View Rachael's Profile

      Region: Scotland
      Accommodation: Luxury

      Grading: Your Own Pace

      Carbon Footprint: 144kg ? What does this mean?
      Click here to find out about our carbon labelling project and what we're doing to be more sustainable.

      All you need to know about your trip, this essential document is a must for all adventures.

      Download Itinerary

      Deep within deciduous woodland where you can still smell the salty air, a luxurious castle retreat gives you the chance to unwind in peaceful luxury. Nestled in Ayrshire, whose landscape rises from the seashores of the southwest, both the castles and the county brim with Scottish history. 

      Whether it’s adventuring into the stunning scenery or learning about the rich past of this ancient landscape, this short break will be tailored perfectly to you. By day, discover secret spots with your private guide. By night, enjoy a moonlit walk under a sky awash with stars. Peaceful, secluded and surrounded by stunning scenery, escape to a castle and the captivating beauty of Ayrshire. 

      The following is an example itinerary but activities can be changed, added and upgraded. All aspects of the trip will be tailored to you.

      Trip Highlights

      • Take to the water and visit the distinct island of Ailsa Craig
      • Discover the history of the region, visiting battlefields and ancient monuments
      • Recharge, relax and enjoy the splendour of your castle hotel
      • Stargaze with a local astronomer, enjoying one of the darkest skies in Europe

      Day by Day Itinerary

      Day 1 - Welcome to Scotland

      Arrive in Scotland, meet your guide, and transfer to your castle hotel. Depending on your arrival time, you may choose to explore the birthplace of national poet Robert Burns and meet a local storyteller. In the evening, enjoy authentic Scottish cuisine, perhaps taking an after-dinner stroll around the castle’s extensive gardens and enjoy a game of giant chess, boules or croquet.

      Day 2 - Exploring Historic Ayrshire

      After breakfast, head out with your guide into the enchanting wilds of Ayrshire. Spend time exploring on foot, discovering battlefields, ancient monuments and misty lochs. You may choose to spend your whole day out walking, or if preferred, return to the castle to simply relax. Perhaps head into the beautiful grounds to play tennis or enjoy (and participate in) a falconry display. This evening, head out to spot constellations with a local astronomer,  enjoying being in the midst of the first Dark Sky conservation area in Europe, awarded gold-tier status for the very darkest of skies.

      Day 3 - The Island of Ailsa Craig

      On a privately chartered boat explore the uninhabited island of Alisa Craig. Now a seabird sanctuary, the island has an intriguing past. Sail below the imposing granite cliffs and then head ashore for a picnic admiring the sweeping, panoramic views. Return to the mainland for a spot of salmon fishing or a tour of a local distillery. In the evening, curl up in armchairs around a cracking fire and hear tales of Scottish folklore from a local storyteller.

      Day 4 - Exploring the Trails

      Join your guide this morning and set off on your bicycles. There are many routes to choose from, including forest trails, coastal paths or heathery moors. Keep an eye out for kestrels, foxes and hare. Stop for coffee and cake along the way or choose to venture further into the wilderness and eat lunch by a thundering waterfall. Later, relax your muscles in the calm of a local spa, enjoying the swimming pool and sauna or perhaps indulging in a hot stone massage. After a final evening of dining in the castle, enjoy a dram or two before falling asleep within the solid stone walls.

      Day 5 - Homeward Bound

      Depending on when you choose to depart, enjoy a leisurely breakfast and then visit a local beekeeper to learn about the art of beekeeping. If you don’t fancy beekeeping, stroll around the gardens and investigate the Victorian glasshouse. Your guide will transfer you to the airport for your journey home.

      Download Itinerary

      X
      Sample Itinerary
      Short Luxury Break

      To download a PDF copy of our Trip Itinerary, containing full details about this holiday, please complete the form below:

      Fields marked with * are mandatory

      The phone number field is not required but if you would like us to give you a call to help find the trip for you, then enter your telephone number including the country code.

      Trip Details

      Expand All
      Accommodation Read More

      The itinerary is based in an award-winning, castle hotel. Baronial, with a touch of the gothic, this striking castle’s exterior gives way to sumptuous comfort within. Secluded, luxurious and offering breathtaking views, this hotel is the perfect base for your Scottish adventure.

      Upgrade and Customise Your Trip Read More

      If you wish, you are welcome to extend your trip. We are always delighted to discuss further options to ensure your experience is exactly what you want. Intrigued? Have a read of a handful of our favourite suggestions below.

      Explore Glasgow

      Discover the fascinating mix of historical and contemporary culture in the lively city of Glasgow. Take a private walking tour, exploring the architecture, monuments and street art of this eclectic surprising city.

      Island Glamping

      Head off into the waves on an exclusive adventure to explore the wild west coast. Discover the barren beauty of remote islands, lonely lighthouses and far flung, sea heavy shores.

      While the onboard chef prepares lunch, look out for sea otters, golden eagles and the telltale dorsal fins of orca. After a hot shower, spend an unforgettable night under the stars in a beautiful bell tent, before returning to the mainland in the morning.

      An Irish Lunch

      Fly the short distance across the sea to Ireland. Your helicopter will land on the beautiful Emerald Isle and you’ll have some time to explore before enjoying an indulgent lunch made with seasonal, locally sourced ingredients.

      Photo Gallery

      Make an Enquiry

      Want more Wilderness in your life?

      Sign up for our newsletter and be the first to hear about trip news, blogs and offers.