Treasures of Scotland 2023

After a leisurely breakfast, we’ll board the mini-coach and make our way to Doune – where a visit to the imposing Doune Castle awaits. After spending some time admiring the castle interior and views from the battlements, we’ll roll through the spellbinding Sma’ Glen en route to Perthshire – a region known for its picturesque lochs, looming mountain ranges and lush forests. Here we’ll indulge in delicious smoked salmon tasting at Dunkeld Smokehouse, before having the evening free to explore our surrounds or relax at the hotel. (B)

Accommodation: The Royal George Hotel (or similar)

Today is one for the nature-lovers amongst us! After breakfast, we’ll set off to explore the vastness of the highlands with a kilted safari ranger – going off-road through wild terrain to take in the area’s spectacular mountain views. We may even be lucky enough to glimpse a golden eagle, mountain hare or grouse as we go. After an adventurous ride, we’ll move on to the Red Deer Centre – where we’ll have the opportunity to see Britain’s largest native land mammal up close. Then: we’ll return to the hotel for an afternoon of leisure time. (B)

Accommodation: The Royal George Hotel (or similar)

Today we’ve an appointment to keep at the Scottish Crannog Centre. Walking in the footsteps of the original Crannog dwellers, we’ll immerse ourselves in a variety of craft, textile and cooking demonstrations – gaining a unique insight into Scotland’s extensive and fascinating history. Following our visit, we have a whisky tasting session to look forward to at the postcard-perfect Glengoyne Distillery. Continuing our journey, we’ll end the day along the western shore of Loch Lomond in the picturesque village of Luss – where a sumptuous group dinner awaits. (B,D)

Accommodation: Lodge on Loch Lomond (or similar)

More breathtaking scenery is on the cards today as we take a day trip through the magnificent Glencoe valley. Sit back and enjoy the leisurely pace as we admire the towering mountain ranges formed by volcanic eruptions and glacial movement thousands of years ago. While we’re here, we’ll visit Glencoe Visitor Centre and learn the haunting story of the Glencoe Massacre of 1692. Afterwards, we’ll savour an afternoon of leisure time when we return to Luss. (B)

Accommodation: Lodge on Loch Lomond (or similar)

This morning, we’ll round off our visit to Loch Lomond with a scenic loch cruise. After losing ourselves amidst the views of islands, mountains and trees, we’ll head back to dry land for the journey to the Scottish Borders. Along the way, we’ll make a pit stop in New Lanark – home of the award-winning New Lanark Visitor Centre (one of Scotland’s six UNESCO World Heritage Sites of ‘outstanding universal value’). A region steeped in history and ancient traditions, we’ll savour a final group meal surrounded by the natural beauty of the Scottish Borders tonight. (B,D)

Accommodation: The Tontine Hotel (or similar)

Before our tour comes to a close, we’ve a couple of historical stops to make. First: we’ll pay a visit to Traquair House, the oldest inhabited house in Scotland before continuing on to Melrose Abbey – the final resting place of the heart of Robert the Bruce. Then: back to beautiful Edinburgh, where we’ll say goodbye.(B)