Scotland: City to Coast Specially designed by Dream Escape 2017 Page 1 of 8
This is an inspiring eight-day adventure specially designed to showcase the very best of Scotland. Venture off the beaten track from city to coast during this chauffeur-driven journey; discover the fascinating history of an iconic castle, hike in one of Scotland s most stunning glens and spend the day sailing aboard a classic 1930s yacht, once owned by HM, The Queen and Prince Philip, and reserved exclusively for your use. Luxurious accommodation, specialist guides and exclusive experiences feature throughout, ensuring this trip will create treasured memories to last a lifetime. Day One: Arrival in Edinburgh On arrival at Edinburgh International Airport, be met and welcomed by your experienced chauffeurguide who will provide a safe and comfortable journey into the city centre. Edinburgh, sometimes referred to as the Athens of the North, is one of the most beautiful cities in Europe. It has two distinct areas: the Old Town, dominated by a medieval fortress; and the neoclassical New Town, dating from the 18 th century. The harmonious connection of these two contrasting historic areas, each with many important buildings, is what gives the city its unique character and saw it awarded World Heritage Site status by UNESCO in 1995. Check into your first luxury accommodation. Situated in a stunning Victorian building with Scottish baronial influences, it is a luxury hotel in the true sense of the word. While many Edinburgh hotels claim to have city landmarks on their doorstep, few can say their own doorstep is a landmark. Spend the afternoon resting and refreshing following your international flight. Page 2 of 8
Day Two: Explore Edinburgh Spend the day exploring the city with your chauffeur and a local qualified guide. Take a stroll along the Royal Mile and through the heart of historic Edinburgh. Today, it is peppered with stores selling cashmere goods and hand crafted silver jewellery. However, in centuries gone by it was a different story: delving into the Old Town is like leafing through the pages of a dusty historical novel, as each era unfolds with its own legends and characters. At the top of the mile lies the city s iconic castle. Perched on top of the volcanic mound, Castle Rock dominates the skyline. Highlights start as soon as you find yourself on the Esplanade, with statues of Robert the Bruce and William Wallace flanking the Entrance Gateway. Step inside the ancient walls and learn of the royalty who lived and died here, the battles fought and the struggles for control of the nation. It is rumoured to be the most besieged place in Britain. In the afternoon, head to Holyrood Park; a dramatic open space encompassing 640 acres in the heart of the city. It forms an iconic part of the famous skyline and its history is interwoven with that of the city; it was known as a royal pleasure ground due to its connection to the baroque Palace of Holyroodhouse. Royal associations include David I, James IV, James V and Mary, Queen of Scots, as well as Queen Victoria and her husband Prince Albert. Some of the most magnificent panoramic views of Edinburgh can be viewed from the summit of Arthur s Seat, the park s highest point and site of a large and well-preserved fort. Perhaps visit the picturesque ruins of St Anthony s Chapel that sit amongst the rugged and sprawling park. Although the lines are hazy surrounding the story behind this historic chapel, it is thought to have been erected no later than the start of the 15 th century. Page 3 of 8
Day Three: Edinburgh at Leisure Discover the city on your own. Your guide from the previous day will ensure you set off in the right direction, with advice for visits that might interest you and helpful hints for off-the-beaten-track experiences. Page 4 of 8
Day Four: The Journey West Depart Edinburgh, traveling west. Pass the ruins of Linlithgow Palace where Mary, Queen of Scots was born and Stirling Castle; perhaps one of Scotland s most important castles as whoever ruled here, often ruled the nation. Travel through the Trossachs, an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty whose popularity is partly due to the Sir Walter Scott s romantic spin on history and the exploits of the notorious outlaw Rob Roy, who held sway over this area during the 18 th century. It is an area that straddles the border between the Highlands and Lowlands and is often referred to as Scotland in Miniature - within a few miles, you can find towering peaks and deep wooded glens, as well as babbling streams and rivers which run into magnificent lochs. Pause to explore a magnificent forest. Soak in the enchanting atmosphere and perhaps catch a glimpse of some of the native wildlife. With an abundance of trails to follow, whether on foot, by bike or on horseback it promises to be a wonderful adventure. Continue to the west coast of Scotland. Accessed via a bridge on its own private island, your second accommodation enjoys a truly special and idyllic location. Dating back to 1884, it is intimate in size with only 16 beautifully appointed bedrooms in the main house. It has been carefully restored to its former glory and is a careful blend of old and new, complete with spa and swimming pool. Eriska itself is a 300-acre paradise for those simply wishing to wander. Walk until you meet the sea, turn left or right and, when you reach the bridge or the Pier, simply head back to the main house. Page 5 of 8
Day Five: Take to the Water Today an incredibly exclusive Royal experience awaits. Take control of a classic 1930s yacht, which was once owned by HM, The Queen and Prince Philip from 1962 to 1969. The fully restored, 63 foot Royal Racing Yacht Bloodhound is yours for the day. As you sail through the stunning scenery of Scotland's West Coast enjoy the hospitality of the Skipper and crew, some of whom are former HMY BRITANNIA Royal Yachtsmen, or 'Yotties' as they are affectionately known. Sit back and relax while on board, or perhaps help the Ocean Master qualified Skipper and crew 'man the ropes'. Explore the area and the islands of the Inner Hebrides, of which there are 35 inhabited and 44 uninhabited islands. Wildlife is plentiful and travelling companions may include Dolphins, Guillemots, Gannets, Terns and even the giant White Tailed Sea Eagles. Possible routes include The Sound of Mull, passing Duart and Torosay Castles; Ballachulish, passing the Isle of Lismore into Loch Linnhe and past Port Appin; Jura, through the Sound of Kerrera, past Easdale, the Isle of Seil, Isle of Luing and the Isle of Scarba. Page 6 of 8
Day Six: Glencoe Today, travel to Glencoe, Scotland s most famous glen. It lies in the heart of an ancient volcano; glaciers and fiery explosions carved out the rugged & forbidding mountain peaks. It is often considered one of the most spectacular and beautiful places in the country and certainly one of the most dramatic with thundering waterfalls tumble down the sides of mountains into sparkling lochs. American Broadcaster CNN said that it was so impressed with the scenery in Skyfall, some of which was filmed here, that it declared Scotland one of its top travel destinations. Reserved privately, a local expert will take you on a guided walk. Scenery and geology aside, the glen has its place firmly in the history books due to its dark history. It was the site of the infamous massacre of Clan Macdonald of Glencoe by government troops in 1692. For 10 days, some 100 plus soldiers captained by Robert Campbell, a minor member of Scottish nobility, were hospitably entertained by the unsuspecting Clan Macdonald. On a wintery dawn morning, in a terrible breach of trust, the soldiers fell on their hosts. The bloodbath saw thirty-eight members of the clan pursued and killed, and a further forty women and children died of exposure after their homes were burned. Perhaps take the time to visit the tiny village of Glencoe itself. The local folk museum, housed in 18 th century thatched cottages, although small is very personal and provides a rich and unrivalled insight into the area and its people. Some of the most fascinating treasures include weapons found in the thatched roofs of local houses, concealed after the massacre for more than 200 years. Page 7 of 8
Day Seven: The Castle Finale Travel south to the shores of Loch Lomond, one of the country s most famous stretches of water. Formed during the last Ice Age, the north is dominated by mountainous peaks including mighty Ben Lomond, and a scattering of islands can be found at the southern shores. It is steeped in legend, folklore and history and has inspired artists, poets and writers for centuries. It is an idyllic area in which to spend the day. Perhaps take a romantic stroll along the shores, hike a nearby munro for inspiring views, or take a leisurely boat trip on the water. For the adventurous, perhaps spend an afternoon on the water. The loch is perfectly suited for kayaking, canoeing and even windsurfing! Thereafter, head south to your final accommodation a restored 17 th century castle overlooking a flowing river. It is the perfect luxury retreat to end your time in Scotland. The castle has retained many of its unique period features which have been restored to their original beauty using traditional craftsmen and materials, and is furnished in a traditional style to provide guests with an authentic fairytale castle experience. This evening you may wish to dine in the property s exquisite fine-dining restaurant. Each dish showcases Scotland s natural larder with creative flair, promising a truly delicious dining experience. Day Eight: Homeward Bound Your chauffeur-guide will accompany you to Glasgow Airport, where you will board your flight for onward travel. End of Services Page 8 of 8