The Scottish Collection: Highlands & Islands

Day 1

Upon arrival at Edinburgh Airport, you’ll be greeted by your private driver for the journey north to Inverness, capital of the Highlands.

Sit back, relax, and enjoy the scenic drive, as you pass the majestic mountains, windswept moorlands and glistening rivers that form the wild landscapes of the Cairngorms National Park. Keep your eyes peeled for some of the rare wildlife that lives here, including red deer and golden eagles.

If you have time, pause at the House of Bruar to treat yourself to luxurious Scottish clothing and gourmet Scottish produce at this prestigious independent store, before checking into your country house hotel in Inverness. Relax after your journey, then tuck into some traditional Scottish cuisine – are you tempted to try some haggis?

Day 2

Fuel up with a hearty Scottish breakfast – you’ve an active day ahead! Get to know the landscapes of the Highlands on a half-day e-biking adventure with a private guide. Admire the wild, rugged beauty of this region as you glide with ease past mountains, lochs, waterfalls and ancient woodland, and enjoy a well-earned rest at a picturesque picnic spot.

After all that activity, treat yourself to afternoon tea at your hotel, gazing out across the mountainous landscape (not included).

If you’re craving a little more action and adventure, why not try to ‘bag a munro’? This means conquering one of Scotland’s lofty peaks, a mountain of more than 3,000 feet. Ben Wyvis is a great option near to Inverness, a hike of around six hours. If you’re interested, we can quote for a private guide to accompany you.

Day 3

After a leisurely breakfast, it’s time to bid farewell to Inverness as your private driver transports you to the Isle of Eriska, a drive of around 2hr 50.

This scenic route take you along the shores of Loch Ness, so keep your eyes peeled for Nessie and perhaps stop at Urquhart Castle for one of the most dramatic views over this mysterious body of water.

You may wish to take a slight detour to see the impressive Glenfinnan viaduct, a feat of Victorian engineering. If you’re lucky you’ll witness the Jacobite steam train chugging over this impressive structure, the inspiration behind the Hogwarts Express.

Check into your secluded countryside hotel, set on an exclusive private island near Oban. Unwind after your journey with a treatment in the spa, a wander around the grounds, or even a soak in your private hot tub (depending on your room category).

Day 4

Today you’ll take to the water for a full-day cruise around the Inner Hebrides. The hotel will pack a gourmet picnic to keep you well fuelled during your journey.

First stop is the Isle of Iona known as the ‘Cradle of Christianity’.  Visit the ancient abbey and graveyard that’s the final resting place of 48 of Scotland’s early kings. Next to the uninhabited Isle of Staffa, known for its dramatic sea caves. If the sea is calm, sail into Fingal’s Cave to hear its incredible acoustics.

Nature calls, as you head for Lunga in the Treshnish Islands. See captivating puffins breeding during spring and summer, along with other sea birds including guillemots, razorbills and shags.

Finally to the picture-postcard port of Tobermory on the Isle of Mull for a little explore, before returning to Oban along the Sound of Mull, watching for dolphins, porpoise, seals and minke whales.

Day 5

The wild and rugged landscapes of Scotland are a natural playground for outdoors activities, and your exclusive island base offers many options for enjoying its magnificent surrounds. This morning, your private ghillie (attendant on hunting and fishing expeditions) will take you on a falconry experience and hawk walk. Learn how to handle these impressive birds and take a stroll around the grounds accompanied by a hawk, which will land periodically on your gloved hand.

Please note that we can swap this falconry experience for another activity like archery, axe throwing or bee keeping, should you prefer.

Enjoy some time at leisure this afternoon. You may wish to take a nature walk around the grounds, play a game of croquet on the lawn, get active with a range of indoor sports facilities, or treat yourself to afternoon tea at the hotel (please ask us about prices for the additional activities).

Day 6

Today you’ll swap your secluded island paradise for the Scottish capital. After a leisurely breakfast, your private driver will transport you to Edinburgh. This 3-hour scenic drive takes you through the dramatic landscapes of the Trossachs National Park to your stylish and flamboyant boutique hotel in the heart of the West End, in the shadow of Edinburgh Castle.

We’ve made dinner reservations at a historic restaurant set in a sixteenth-century building at the gates to the castle. Choose between two atmospheric dining rooms, while you savour the very best of Scotland’s larder.

Day 7

After breakfast, your private guide will collect you from your hotel for a comprehensive full-day tour of the highlights and hidden gems of Edinburgh.

Discover the history of the city from the 11^th century onwards, as you amble through the jumble of medieval structures along the Royal Mile and Old Town. And compare this to the neoclassical New Town, with its regal Georgian properties and neat urban planning.

You’ll visit Edinburgh Castle and the Palace of Holyroodhouse, and see attractions such as Holyrood Abbey, St Giles Cathedral, Lawnmarket, Grassmarket, and the Scottish Parliament. Admire the cityscape from Calton Hill, and delve into Scotland’s rich literary history as you see how Edinburgh inspired writers such as J. K. Rowling and Alexander McCall Smith. Throughout the day, your guide will entertain you with tales of legends, stories and folklore about this fascinating city.

End your trip in style, as we’ve made dinner reservations as a buzzy little restaurant where you’ll dine on innovative and bold cuisine, inspired by Scotland’s larder (dinner not included).

Day 8

Today your adventure around the Highlands and islands of Scotland draws to its conclusion. Your private driver will drop you off at the airport for your onward journey. Fancy extending your trip and exploring England? SmoothRed would be happy to help, please ask for more details.