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    Sample Itinerary

    Wild Luxury

    Duration: 8 Days / 7 Nights

    Price: P.O.A. Make an Enquiry

    Trip created by Rachael Gavan
    View Rachael's Profile

    Region: Scottish Highlands
    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

    Embark on a trip within some of Scotland’s most iconic wilderness – through lonely mountains, forgotten glens and sunlit woodlands of ancient Caledonian pine. From towering peaks to the rugged west coast, this trip will take you to some of the most stunning areas of natural beauty.

    With your private guide, sail past whirlpools and hidden coves to camp on deserted islands. Learn the art of whisky-making or visit stone circles at sunset. When darkness falls, enjoy the comfort of an exclusive castle retreat. Dine, drink and relax knowing that every detail of your adventure has been carefully crafted for your ultimate pleasure.

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

    Trip Highlights

    • Travel through the ancient Scottish landscape by boat, helicopter and steam train
    • Stay in three secluded castles, all unique in both history and style
    • Kayak the coast spotting otters, seals and a variety of marine wildlife
    • Enjoy a whisky distillery tour, learning the history and craft of whisky-making

    Day by Day Itinerary

    Day 1 - Welcome to Scotland

    Arriving in Scotland, meet your private guide, and transfer to the luxurious Glenapp Castle Hotel. If you wish to make this transfer by car, there are plenty of things to see along the way. Accompany your guide on a ramble to stretch your legs, visit a historic house or explore a local village. You may also reach Glenapp by helicopter, landing directly on the castle’s grounds. On arrival, relax into your comfortable suite before cosy aperitifs around the fire and a delicious award-winning dinner.

    Day 2 - Lighthouse Keeping

    After a leisurely breakfast, join your guide on a stunning walk along the sea cliffs to Scotland’s most southerly point, Mull of Galloway Lighthouse. Perched on the edge of the headland, with waves crashing in from below, it was first lit in 1830 and remains a guiding light today. Explore the exhibition, perhaps enjoying tea and sticky gingerbread, before returning to Glenapp Castle. You may wish to spend the afternoon relaxing, or for those with energy to spare, join your guide to go mountain biking or canoeing.

    Day 3 - Island Hopping

    Head out into the waves on a privately-chartered zodiac for an exciting day of island hopping. Skirt the edge of Corryvreckan whirlpool, listening to the tale of Beira, Goddess of Winter and the story of the tempestuous currents. Look out for porpoises and otters, alongside many different species of bird. Journey ashore and visit the site of an ancient monastery, take a tour of a whisky distillery or delight in a castle’s hidden gardens. As the sea turns dark beneath the bow, arrive at your luxury camp for the night. Enjoy a hot shower and a dinner prepared by your private chef. Relax beside a crackling fire, under a star-studded sky.

    As a unique extra, you may be joined on your adventure by Ripley, a sea eagle, who will fly from the boat and pluck fish from the water.

    Day 4 - The Isle of Islay

    After campfire coffee and an alfresco breakfast, make the short journey to the Isle of Islay, Queen of the Hebrides. Choose to spend the morning hiking the remarkable sea cliffs or perhaps ambling along sweeping sandy beaches in and out of rocky coves. Visit a medieval island settlement, potter around the quirky hamlets or enjoy a round or two of golf. No trip is complete without a visit to one of Islay’s nine whisky distilleries. Depending on your interest, a varied range of behind the scenes experiences can be arranged. Bring your Hebridean adventure to the perfect conclusion with a scenic helicopter ride from the isle of Islay, directly to your next destination.

    Day 5 - A Steam Train to Mallaig

    Wake in Inverlochy Castle, a beautiful country hotel, nestled below Scotland’s highest mountain. After breakfast, board the famous Jacobite Express, a historic steam train for a journey noted to be one of the most scenic in the world. Travel along the famous Road of the Isles, passing through the misty mountains and over the impressive Glenfinnan Viaduct. Arrive in Mallaig and have a nosy around this bustling fishing port. After lunch, head out sea kayaking, enjoying the company of a colony of curious seals as you glide along through the turquoise water. If you don’t fancy a paddle, decide instead to hike the coastline and explore a secret cave where Prince Charlie spent the night. Later, travel back to Inverlochy and relax after a lovely, busy day.

    Day 6 - Time to Relax

    A morning’s drive northeast will transport you to a beautiful, exclusive-use castle on the southern shores of Loch Ness. After settling in, take some time to simply relax in the seclusion of your own private paradise. Explore the 500-acre Highland estate, taking a walk in the dappled sunlight of the woodland garden or relax on the terrace with stunning views over the water and mountains beyond. After lunch, perhaps take part in a bushcraft workshop or delight in Scotland’s quirkiest gin distillery. As ice cubes crackle with gin and the hot smoky smell of a BBQ floats across the lawn, sit back and relax in the heart of the Highlands.

     

    Day 7 - Exploring Loch Ness

    As it is widely known, the dark depths of Loch Ness are said to be home to a monster, referred to more colloquially (and affectionately) as Nessie. Following breakfast, you may wish to meet a wonderful character who is recognised as an authority on the fascinating history and unique ecosystem of Loch Ness. Spend your final afternoon on a 100-mile helicopter flight to the far-flung and windswept Dunnet Head. During your journey watch purple moors unfurl, mountain peaks drop into ribboned glens, and lochs appear like jewels. Upon landing, wander the clifftops, looking north for beautiful views of the Orkney Isles. On returning, enjoy a final evening of celebration, culminating with a gala dinner, live folk music and highland dancing.

    If you would prefer to spend the afternoon exploring more locally, a trip to nearby Glen Affric will not disappoint. Considered by many to be the most beautiful valley in Scotland, it offers an outstanding network of trails, excellent canoeing and the largest area of ancient Caledonian pine forest in the country. For those with a fondness for history, choose to visit local battlefields and ancient monuments in the surrounding region.

    Day 8 - Homeward Bound

    Depending on when you choose to depart, have a relaxed breakfast and take a stroll around the castle’s 500-acre estate. Join your guide who will transfer you to your chosen destination to begin your journey home.

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    Sample Itinerary
    Wild Luxury

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    Trip Details

    Accommodation Read More

    The itinerary is based on three different locations. In each luxury accommodation, you will experience the finest hospitality and comfort, while also having unrivalled access to some of the most beautiful and untamed wilderness Scotland has to offer.

    Glenapp Castle

    With a touch of the gothic, this striking castle’s exterior gives way to sumptuous comfort within. Secluded, luxurious and offering breathtaking views, Glenapp Castle offers the perfect retreat after an adventurous day.

    Inverlochy Castle

    Beneath the craggy tors, from the windows of Inverlochy, you can look out over forest, loch and moor. Perfectly situated, this castle hotel offers exceptional service in which every tiny detail has been considered for your comfort.

    Aldourie Castle

    Perched on the shores of Loch Ness, Aldourie might be your quintessential fairytale castle. Complete with walled gardens, a beautiful woodland, and a private marina, Aldourie offers a tranquil and private escape.

    Travel – Arrival and Departure Read More

    The starting point for this trip is flexible, although we do recommend that you start from Glasgow or Edinburgh. Please let us know where you are arriving in Scotland and if you would like to include a city extension at the start or end of your trip. Although Inverness is the closest point, the end of your trip is flexible. Please let us know your travel plans and if you would like an extended stay in the Highlands.

    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 to your liking. Intrigued? Have a read of a handful of our favourite suggestions below.

    Extend your Stay

    Sometimes simplicity is the best option u2013 so perhaps choose to extend your stay in your final, exclusive use castle destination, gifting yourself the luxury of time spent in a private and stunning location.

    Photography Class

    Head out with a professional photographer in search of the perfect shot. With excellent instruction in a beautiful location, be sure to gain both knowledge and skill while also having a thoroughly good time.

    A Round or Two of Golf

    Enjoy a round or two of golf on one of the many exceptional courses Scotland has to offer. Perhaps indulge in a luxury tour, hopping on a helicopter to take you to your chosen destination.

    Photo Gallery

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