MONDAY We journey to Scotland, making suitable stops en route, and arrive at our hotel with time to settle in before dinner.
TUESDAY To Inverness this morning for free time, before making our way to the Clansman Marina where we board a loch cruise, the only way to truly appreciate the beauty of Loch Ness, Scotland’s most mystical and legendary loch. Enjoy spectacular views, including the ruins of the iconic Urquhart Castle, before re-joining the coach and returning to the hotel. (N.B. there are 19 steps down to the boat)
WEDNESDAY Today we hit the whisky trail, as we first visit Speyside Cooperage, to discover the ancient art of coopering. See the highly skilled Coopers at work, creating and repairing oak casks for whisky distilleries, and learn about the life cycle of a cask. A light lunch will be provided on our route today, and then we continue north to Strathisla, the oldest working distillery in the Scottish Highlands, located in a beautiful riverside setting, to gain insight into the ancient craft of distilling spirits, and the rare skills needed for blending them. After some time in expert, yet informal company, you will then have the opportunity to taste 2-3 drams, including their famous market-leading Chivas Regal.
THURSDAY Today we make our way to Aviemore and enjoy a return ride on the nostalgic Strathspey Railway. This afternoon we explore the Highland Folk Museum, Britain’s first open air museum, set amidst some of the most beautiful scenery in the world, and displaying over 30 historical buildings, furnished appropriately to their time period.
FRIDAY We depart after breakfast to commence our homeward journey.
Since going to print Tuesday & Thursday have been swapped around due to the railway being closed on the Tuesday. The above itinerary is correct!