Scotland Edinburgh, Inverness and The Highlands 8 Days / 7 Nights

Transcription

1 EUROPE Scotland Edinburgh, Inverness and The Highlands 8 Days / 7 Nights

2 Scotland 8 Days / 7 Nights Roam the rugged Highlands, boat across Loch Ness and explore ancient castles, all with Scotland's lush landscape providing a magical backdrop to your adventure.

3 FLIGHT INFORMATION: Arrive: Edinburgh Airport (EDI) Return: Inverness Airport (INV) AGES: Minimum Age: 4 Suggested Age: 6+ MEALS: 7 Breakfasts 5 Lunches 4 Dinners SCOTLAND FAMILY VACATION HIGHLIGHTS Loch Ness Canoeing Day at Rothiemurchus Estate Take to the dark and mysterious waters of Loch Ness on an exclusive canoe trip. Spend a day at this private estate participating in archery and traditional Highland games. Royal Yacht Britannia Enjoy a regal reception and private tour of the former royal yacht of Queen Elizabeth II. Glenturret Distillery Tour Learn the rich tradition of creating Scottish whisky on this tour of Scotland s oldest distillery. Palace of Holyroodhouse Tour See how royalty lives as you tour the official Scottish residence of the British monarch. Edinburgh Castle Tour Take in the lore and the views as you tour this iconic fortress that looms over Edinburgh s skyline. Caledonian Canal Bike Ride Pedal this scenic pathway to Dochgarroch Loch Gates on a relaxing family-friendly bike ride. Floors Castle & Gardens Tour Walk through the largest inhabited country house in Scotland and its marvelous gardens. Blair Castle Tour Explore 30 rooms and over 700 years of Scottish history located at the gateway to The Highlands. Shortbread-Making Roll up your sleeves at an exclusive lesson taught by the Private Chef of the Duke and Duchess. Hairy "Coo" Safari Ride around with a Rothiemurchus Ranger and feed these traditional long-horned, shaggy Highland cattle. Culloden Battlefield Site Walk the site of one of Britain s fiercest battles, then visit the center s interactive display. Urquhart Castle Tour Visit the ruins of this former fortress on the shore of Loch Ness a frequent spot for Nessie sightings. The Statue of Greyfriar's Bobby Walk the Royal Mile and stop for a photo with Scotland s famed Skye Terrier.

4 DAY 1: Edinburgh Meal(s) Included: Dinner ACCOMMODATIONS Waldorf Astoria Edinburgh The Caledonian Arrive in Edinburgh After clearing customs, you are met by an Adventures by Disney representative who welcomes you with a warm Fàilte to Scotland! and then helps with your luggage. Relax as a driver whisks you away to the historic Waldorf Astoria Edinburgh The Caledonian. Check Into Your Hotel Get ready for more Scottish welcomes when your Adventure Guides greet you. Unwind from your trip and marvel at the stately décor of the Waldorf Astoria Edinburgh The Caledonian while your Guides check you in. Welcome Reception and Dinner Say halò to your fellow Adventurers at an exclusive feast in the hotel's elegant dining room. Raise a glass and toast the beginning of an unforgettable trip with a resounding Slainte!

5 DAY 2: Edinburgh Meal(s) Included: Breakfast ACCOMMODATIONS Waldorf Astoria Edinburgh The Caledonian Royal Yacht Britannia After breakfast at the hotel, get ready for a Red Carpet Welcome and private tour of the former royal yacht of the British monarch, Queen Ellizabeth II. Enjoy a fresh scones and coffee reception on the Royal Deck Tea Room and discover what life was like on board Her Majesty s floating Royal residence. The Palace of Holyroodhouse* A Blue Badge Guide leads you on a tour of the royal palace, which is the Queen of England's official residence in Edinburgh. Over the centuries, great events at Holyroodhouse have shaped the fates of England, Scotland and France. Royal Mile Walking Tour and The Statue of Greyfriar s Bobby While taking a walking tour of the Royal Mile en route to Edinburgh Castle, make a stop at the Statue of Greyfriars Bobby, the renowned Skye Terrier. According to legend, this adorable pooch spent 14 years until his death guarding the grave of his owner. The story of Greyfriars Bobby was so remarkable that Walt Disney Productions turned it into a movie in 1961! Lunch On Your Own Take a break from your walking tour and dine with your friends and family at one of the many restaurant options nearby. Ask your Blue Badge Guide and Adventure Guides for recommendations. Tour of Edinburgh Castle Continue with your Blue Badge Guide to Edinburgh Castle. There, take in the resplendent views of the city and explore the castle s massive fortifications. Revel in the remarkable takes of royal intrigue surrounding the wars for Scottish independence told by your local expert. Evening in Edinburgh and Dinner On Your Own Edinburgh is rich in history and eye-catching architecture. Stroll the Royal Mile, the commercial center of Old Town, and hear the lilting melody of the Scottish brogue in passing conversations. You're sure to fall in love with this charming city as you explore the shops, restaurants and historic buildings of Lawnmarket and High Street. Ask your Adventure Guides to recommend the perfect place to have a family dinner.

6 *Holyroodhouse Palace may be closed on some dates in June due to Elizabeth, Queen of England, being in residence. In the event the Palace is closed, a tour of St. Giles Cathedral and the Thistle Chapel will be featured.

7 DAY 3: Kelso, Scottish Borders Meal(s) Included: Breakfast and Lunch ACCOMMODATIONS Waldorf Astoria Edinburgh The Caledonian Day Trip to the Scottish Borders Fuel up on breakfast at the hotel before embarking on your day trip to the Scottish Borders to spend the day at the stunning Floors Castle. Coffee and Tea Reception at Floors Castle Start your day with a delightful reception where you'll enjoy the exclusive experience of being served tea and cookies by the Private Butler of the Duke and Duchess of Roxburghe, who call Floors Castle their home. Floors Castle and Gardens Tour Experience a day surrounded by all things royal as Adventurers embark on a privately guided tour of Floors Castle the largest inhabited castle in Scotland and its stunning gardens. View the Duke and Duchess' amazing art collection as you walk through the grand rooms and hallways that fill the castle. Then, walk the spectacular Walled Garden, site of the formal Millennium Garden and visit Queens' House, a charming summerhouse named after Queen Victoria, who stayed there in Junior Adventurers can enjoy the outdoor play area with their Adventure Guides. Private Lunch and Exclusive Shortbread-making Lesson Join your fellow Adventurers at the Castle's Courtyard Café for a private lunch and an exclusive shortbreadmaking lesson taught by the Private Chef of the Duke and Duchess, where you can try your hand at creating one of these buttery treats! Falconry Experience at Floors Castle Take part in this centuries-old sport that is truly an art form. Expert falconers will show you the finesse, subtlety and skill that is required, as well as give insight into these graceful and elegant birds of prey. Edinburgh and Evening On Your Own Enjoy an evening of exploration around Scotland's capital, from its medieval Old Town to the elegant Georgian New Town. You can also dine in one of the fantastic restaurants that abound in the city. Ask your Adventure Guide for a dinner recommendation that will satisfy your entire clan.

8 DAY 4: Inverness Meal(s) Included: Breakfast and Lunch and Dinner ACCOMMODATIONS Kingsmills Hotel, Inverness Depart Edinburgh for The Highlands Have a hearty breakfast at the hotel before heading out on your journey to Inverness and The Highlands. Relax and enjoy the motor coach ride through the glorious Scottish scenery that surrounds you. Glenturret Distillery Tour Steep yourself in the rich history of Scotch Whisky on this tour of Scotland s oldest distillery which dates back to You ll get a behind-the-scenes look at the Glenturret hand mashing process for creating one of the premiere Scotch malt whisky produced today. Lunch at Wild Thyme at Glenturret Enjoy an authentic taste of Scotland created with the very best local produce. The exceptional food and relaxed atmosphere makes this a dining experience to be savoured. For interested adults, a optional Glenturret Whisky Tasing will be included. Blair Castle Privately-Guided Visit Step into 700 years of history as you walk the hallowed halls of this Scottish highland castle located at the gateway to Cairngorms National Park and The Highlands. Adventurers have access to over 30 rooms which house centuries of Scottish cultural history in architectural design, period furnishings, family portraits, landscape paintings and a colorful military history. Arrive at Kingsmills Hotel, Inverness Relax and unwind as your Adventure Guides check you into your comfortable accommodations for the next 4 nights. Adults Dinner, Whisky Tasting and Entertainment Adults enjoy a group meal together in a private setting at the Kingsmills Hotel. The evening continues with a Whisky Tasting from a local Scottish distillery, as well as some delightful entertainment provided by a local Scottish storyteller who will regale the group with tales of Scottish lore and traditions. Junior Adventurer Dinner and Movie While the adults enjoy their dinner, Junior Adventurers join the Adventure Guides for a dinner of their own, followed by a private screening of a Disney movie. After the movie, Junior Adventurers will join their parents for 15 minutes of family-friendly storytelling.

9 DAY 5: Inverness Meal(s) Included: Breakfast and Lunch ACCOMMODATIONS Kingsmills Hotel, Inverness Breakfast at the Hotel Start your day with a delicious breakfast before you head off for adventures ahead. Loch Ness Exhibition Centre Arrive by motor coach at Loch Ness and spend time on your own exploring the center, with its artful presentation of both facts and lore about the loch. Make up your own mind whether the famous monster, Nessie, really exists! Visit the art gallery or shop for a special souvenir of this legendary lake. Private Lunch at the Loch Ness Café Take a break from your Nessie-hunt and enjoy lunch with your fellow Adventurers at this cozy café. Urquhart Castle Explore the ruins of this once-mighty fortress that commands breathtaking views of Loch Ness. Built upon the remains of an ancient burial cairn, Urquhart Castle was captured numerous times over the centuries by warring forces contending for the throne of Scotland. It's also one of the most frequent locations of Nessie sightings! Perhaps you will be the one to snap the next famous picture Dinner and Evening On Your Own in Inverness Set off for dinner On Your Own in the town of Inverness. Scottish traditional cuisine and much more is on the menu at various local restaurants. Don t hesitate to ask your Adventure Guides for dining recommendations. Canoe on Loch Ness, at the Shores of Urquhart Castle Canoe across the dark and legendary waters of Loch Ness from the shores of Urquhart Castle an experience exclusive to Adventures by Disney. Guest also have the option to take a private traditional motor launch boat, where you'll hear the skipper's tales of searching for the elusive creature lurking below.

10 DAY 6: Inverness Meal(s) Included: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner ACCOMMODATIONS Kingsmills Hotel, Inverness Culloden Battlefield Site After breakfast at the hotel, a local guide will lead you to the site of one of the most harrowing battles in British history the 1745 Jacobite Rising. You'll stand on the windswept moor where the Jacobites made their final stand, admire artifacts from the battle and experience the Battle of Culloden in the visitor center's interactive display. Lunch at Mustard Seed Restaurant Exclusive Dinner at Fortrose & Rosemarkie Golf Club Dine with fellow Adventurers in a private dining room at the 15th oldest recorded golf club in the world, officially established in Located on a peninsula, you ll soak up the history as well as the spectacular views. As an added bonus, Adventures by Disney Guests are invited to take a pre-dinner walk down to Chanonry Point where you may see the resident dolphins who like to show off for visitors. Enjoy a hearty lunch at this well-known spot that is a favorite amongst the locals and located on the banks of the River Ness. Bike Ride Along the Caledonian Canal Following lunch, join your fellow Adventurers for a family-friendly, 4-mile bike ride along the Caledonian Canal. This scenic ride avoids busy roads as you head along the canal towpath to Dochgarroch Loch Gates, where you can relax and watch the boats move up through the gates before they head out to Loch Ness.

11 DAY 7: Inverness Meal(s) Included: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner ACCOMMODATIONS Kingsmills Hotel, Inverness A Day at Rothiemurchus Estate Embark on a journey to Rothiemurchus Estate a magnificent, privately owned 25,000 acre Highland estate situated at the heart of the Cairngorms National Park and one of the greatest tracts of natural forest in Britain. This ancient, wild woodland forest is home to an extraordinary variety of wildlife and is the site of pretty Loch an Eilein, with its 13th-century castle sitting on the lake's little island. The glorious scenery will steal your heart if the mopheaded Highland cattle don't steal it first! Archery Join an expert on the estate grounds for a private lesson in archery. Don't have a bow and arrow handy? No problem! All equipment is provided. Highland Games Loch an Eilein Hike Take a step back in time as you and your fellow Adventurers enjoy learning about the culture, history and natural environment of the Rothiemurchus Forest. You ll hear entertaining stories about the area from a local ranger, as well as get a great view of the dramatic and mysterious Highland 13th-century castle and see exceptional wildlife. Junior Adventurers can partake in a scavenger hunt along the trail. Hairy Coo Safari and Red Deer Feeding Experience Delight in a motor coach tour around the property, designed for both Adult and Junior Adventurers and led by two senior Rothiemurchus Rangers. Stop and feed the traditional Highland cattle, also known as hairy coo, with their huge horns and hairy coats. And discover the extraordinary Scottish red deer feed these delightful animals while enjoying some magical views up the River Spey to Badenoch and across the glen to the Monadhliath Mountains. Partake in a wee bit o friendly competition for all ages as you celebrate Scottish culture with traditional Highland games that may include the Hammer throw and Caber toss. Lunch at Rothiemurchus Estate Take a lunch break with your fellow Adventurers featuring locally sourced Scottish foods served in the vintage marquee on the Inverdruie House lawn.

12 Farewell to the Highlands Dinner at the Hotel Bid Soraidh to the Highlands with this evening at the Kingsmills Hotel, including Highland dancers and the classic "Address to a Haggis" a famous poem performed by a local bagpiper.

13 DAY 8: Inverness Meal(s) Included: Breakfast ACCOMMODATIONS None Breakfast at the Hotel Say guid cheerio the nou to all your fellow Adventurers at this last breakfast in Inverness! Transfers to the Inverness Airport (INV) Relax and enjoy your final moments in Scotland as we handle your luggage and arrange for transportation to the airport.

14 SCOTLAND FAMILY VACATION TIPS PREPARING FOR YOUR ADVENTURE Required Travel Documentation If you are a U. S. citizen, you will need a valid passport to enter Scotland and return to the United States. It must be valid 6 months beyond your intended stay and have 1 to 2 blank pages remaining. Allow yourself sufficient time to have your application processed if you are applying for a new passport or renewing an expired passport. In addition, Guests 17 years of age or younger may be required to show additional documentation when traveling with a single parent. Refer to the U.S. Department of State for further details. You do not need a visa to travel to Scotland for stays up to 6 months. If you are not a U.S. citizen, please check with the British Embassy for information on documentation requirements. Passport/Visa Services You can apply for a passport and/or visa through CIBT, Inc., a third party travel document company servicing the travel industry (not affiliated with the Walt Disney Company). Learn More for more information or call CIBT at (800) Be sure to mention Adventures by Disney, account #55134, for special pricing options. PLEASE NOTE: Additional charges will apply for telephone calls made to access CIBT specialists. What to Pack Please limit your baggage to one piece of luggage per person plus one carry-on. With frequent security changes, we recommend that you check with your air carrier as well as the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) website for current restrictions. Clothing T-shirts (short and long-sleeved) Collared shirts Jeans or long pants Casual dress/skirt (optional) Shorts Lightweight rain jacket Hat Swimsuits Closed-toed shoes Sturdy-soled walking shoes Hiking shoes Smart, casual attire for private golf course dinnermiscellaneous Passport Medication Camera/video camera Sunglasses Sunscreen Small travel umbrella Toiletries Insect repellant Weather Since a majority of your adventure will take place outdoors, attire for your adventure should be casual and comfortable. However, you may wish to don business casual attire for dinner. The following is a list of clothing and other items you may want to bring: In the spring, temperatures in Scotland range from F (4-18 C) during the day to 32 F (0 C) at night. In the summer, temperatures typically range from F (18-22 C) during the day to 50 F (10 C) in the evening.in autumn, temperatures range from F (5-13 C) during the day to F (7-18 C) in the evening. Overall, the climate is sunny and crisp with an occasional brief rain shower.

15 Recommended Reading Longitude Books offers great books and maps to help you get the most of out of your travel. They provide a selection of reading recommendations prepared especially to enhance your Adventures by Disney vacation. The Adventures by Disney Vacation Protection Plan Protect your vacation investment with coverage for trip cancellation and interruption, reimbursement for trip delays, medical protection, baggage protection and 24-hour assistance. This inclusive Travel Insurance offered by Adventures by Disney is underwritten by Arch Insurance Company and is as easy as a phone call to learn more about and then purchase. Get details about the Adventures by Disney Vacation Protection Plan. EN ROUTE Arrival/Departure Information Upon arrival at Edinburgh International Airport (EDI), you may pass through Immigration and Passport Control. This is dependent on your departure city and where your flight connections were. Follow airport signage to Baggage Claim. Retrieve your luggage and exit the Baggage Claim area by passing through Customs and then into the main terminal. As soon as you arrive in the Arrivals Hall of the terminal, look for a representative holding an orange Adventures by Disney sign. This representative is available to assist with your luggage and will escort you to your pre-arranged ground transportation to your hotel. At the conclusion of your adventure, you will be escorted to the Edinburgh Airport for your return flight home. Day Airport Code Arrival/Departure Time Arrival 1 EDI No later than 4:00 PM Departure 8 INV Anytime Currency The unit of currency in Scotland is the British Pound (GBP). U.S. dollars are not accepted at hotels, shops or restaurants, but ATM machines are available in most places along your adventure to obtain cash in the local currency. Most hotels and restaurants accept major credit cards or single-use debit cards. Gratuities Adventure Guide Gratuities Gratuities for your Adventure Guides are not included. Based on the quality of service you have received, we suggest the following gratuity guidelines. Please note that this is for each member of your traveling party, per Adventure Guide, per day. Per Adult/Child/Per Adventure Guide/Per Day $8 - $11 USD Example: For an 8-day adventure, the Adventure Guide gratuity per Guest, per Adventure Guide: $64 - $88 USD. A family of 4 for an 8-day adventure: $256 - $352 USD per Adventure Guide. For 2 Adventure Guides, this is a total of $512 - $704 USD. The Adventure Guides gratuity can be paid in U.S dollars, local currency, travelers' checks or PayPal. Please check with your Adventure Guide if they accept PayPal.All Other Gratuities Gratuities have been taken care of on your behalf for all services included in the itinerary. There is no need for you to worry about tipping the bellmen, housekeepers, waiters, drivers and local experts. Transportation When spending time on your own in Scotland, you may choose to visit a site that requires transportation. If this is the case, a convenient travel option is to request taxi service through the hotel. Edinburgh is best explored DURING YOUR ADVENTURE on foot.

16 FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS How do I book my Adventures by Disney vacation? If you are in the United States, please call (800) to speak to a Vacationista, or contact your professional travel agent. If you are outside the United States, please call (866) to speak to a Vacationista, or contact your professional travel agent. destinations. The coach ride from Edinburgh to Inverness is approximately 5 hours, plus stops along the way. What is the climate like? In the spring, temperatures in Scotland range from F (4-18 C) during the day to 32 F (0 C) at night. In the summer, temperatures typically range from F (18-22 C) during the day to 50 F (10 C) in the Do I need vaccinations to travel to this country? If you are a U.S. citizen, you do not need vaccinations to travel to Scotland. If you are not a U.S. citizen, please check your local requirements on vaccinations for travel to Scotland. What airport do I fly into and out of? ARRIVAL: We will pick you up at Edinburgh Airport (EDI). DEPARTURE: At the end of the adventure, we will transfer you to Inverness Airport (INV) for your return flight home. Are transfers included if I arrive or depart from different locations or at different times from the itinerary? No. Transfers are only included from the specified arrival/departure airports and hotels. Transfers are included from Edinburgh Airport (EDI) to the Waldorf Astoria Edinburgh The Caledonian on your arrival day. On your evening. In autumn, temperatures range from F (5-13 C) during the day to F (7-18 C) in the evening. Overall, the climate is sunny and crisp with an occasional brief rain shower. How strenuous are the activities? While this adventure is not considered physically strenuous, most days will include 2-3 hours or more of walking. Some of the walking is in cities and often on uneven cobblestone streets. The other walks feature a combination of country dirt trails, hiking trails and castle ruins. For the Rothiemurchus Estate, the itinerary includes archery, highland games and hiking/walking for all ages. The optional canoeing at Loch Ness can be fairly strenuous. While many of the trip's featured activities are gentle if examined separately, the full range of activities requires a moderate amount of stamina in order to get the most of your vacation. Please note that there is one day in particular on the itinerary that involves a coach ride that is 5 hours long, plus stops along the way. If you are prone to motion sickness, please talk to your Adventure Guides and Coach Driver in advance. departure day, transfers are included from the Kingsmills Hotel to Inverness Airport (INV). Can I extend my vacation beyond the Adventures by Disney itinerary? Yes, you may stay in Scotland before or after our itinerary. Extended stays are available at special rates if What ages are appropriate for this adventure? While we welcome children ages 4 and up at the time of travel to discover the stories of the world with us, we recommend that children be at least 6 years old at the time of travel on the Scotland trip. booked through Adventures by Disney Travel Services, Inc. in conjunction with a land package and cannot be combined with any other offer. Please contact a Vacationista for further information. How will our group travel between destinations? On this adventure your group will travel by motor coach between

17 This recommendation is based on several factors, such as flight time and jet lag, time zone differences in the destination, duration of the vacation, extended hours of daily activity programming and amount of physical activity (such as walking and biking) involved. Because each child is different, call a Vacationista at (800) to discuss whether this is the right trip for your little ones. Please contact a Vacationista at (800) in advance of your departure to advise us of your needs. Is this itinerary appropriate for travelers with special needs? Please note that this vacation includes activities that present certain challenges to Guests with special needs. It is strongly recommended that persons requiring assistance be accompanied by a companion who is capable of What types of meals are served on this Adventures by Disney Trip? Typically, breakfast is served each morning in buffet style and offers a variety of dishes. Dinners and lunches usually include fish, meat, and pasta or rice entrées; vegetables and salad; and desserts and fruit. Some included meals on this trip are served buffet style while others offer a limited-choice menu. Given the nature of group travel, we regret that á la carte menu choices may not always be available. Child-friendly choices are available at all meals. Menu items are subject to change due to the availability and seasonality of foods. In order to allow you and your family time to enjoy meals by yourselves, there are a few meals that are not included in the itinerary. These meals have been planned in locations where you have many dining options available. If you have any questions or concerns about dining at any time during your vacation, your Adventure Guides will be happy to assist you. and totally responsible for providing assistance. Neither Adventures by Disney nor its suppliers may physically lift or assist Guests onto transportation vehicles. Contact a Vacationista at (800) to discuss your needs. Peru has very limited accessibility. What if Adventures by Disney cancels the adventure prior to departure? We will make every reasonable effort to operate the vacations as advertised; however, we reserve the right to curtail or modify the itinerary, or to substitute activities, hotels, meals or transportation as we deem necessary. We further reserve the right to reduce the number of Adventure Guides to one, and to modify other services to accommodate a smaller group, if a minimum number of Guests is not reached. Similarly, we may marginally exceed the stated group maximum size if necessary to accommodate a family. Please also note that during certain holidays and peak periods, some activities may be disrupted or unavailable. None of these Is alcohol included with meals? Alcoholic beverages are typically not included with your scheduled meals. However, you may purchase them at your own expense. Can you accommodate special dietary needs? modifications or changes shall affect the land package price. We reserve the right to cancel a trip at any time prior to its commencement for any reason, such as if there are too few Guests, or if the quality of the trip or the safety of the Guests would, in our opinion, be compromised, such as may result from unforeseen circumstances (acts of God) or other circumstances beyond our reasonable control. If we cancel your trip prior to its commencement because there are too few Guests: (i) we Adventures by Disney will make a reasonable effort to accommodate some special dietary needs at no additional charge. Unfortunately, we may not be able to accommodate all special dietary needs requested.

18 will attempt to re-book you on another departure of the same itinerary, subject to availability, and we will bear any reasonable airline re-booking charges; however, if we are unable to rebook you, we will issue a full refund of your land package price and Plan (unless you have filed a claim); and (ii) if you booked airfare through us, we will issue a full refund of your airfare; and (iii) if you did not book airfare through us, we will reimburse you for your reasonable out-of-pocket (subject to proof) airline cancellation charges or, in the case of bookings using frequent flier miles, a reasonable cancellation service fee, provided you have exercised best efforts to mitigate such charges/fees; and (iv) the aforesaid payments and/or rebooking by us shall constitute a full settlement.