Your Itinerary In Detail
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This itinerary has been tailor-made for you. No two itineraries are the same and we are always able to make changes if something isn't quite right.
Monday 1st July 2024
Welcome to Inverness
Welcome to Inverness
Inverness is a beautiful city located in the Scottish Highlands. It is known for its stunning natural landscapes, including the famous Loch Ness, which is said to be home to the mythical Loch Ness Monster. The city itself is situated on the banks of the River Ness, with a charming old town area filled with historic buildings and quaint shops.
Inverness is a popular tourist destination, offering a range of outdoor activities such as hiking, fishing, and boating. The surrounding countryside is dotted with ancient castles, including the iconic Urquhart Castle, which overlooks Loch Ness.
The city also has a rich history, with its roots dating back to the 6th century. Inverness Castle, a prominent landmark, is said to have been built in the 11th century and has played a significant role in Scottish history. Today, it houses a courthouse and is not open to the public, but the grounds offer stunning views of the city.
Inverness is also a cultural hub, with a thriving arts scene and a number of festivals throughout the year. The city is home to the Inverness Museum and Art Gallery, which showcases the history and culture of the Highlands, as well as contemporary art exhibitions.
Visitors to Inverness can enjoy a range of dining options, from traditional Scottish cuisine to international fare. The city is also known for its lively pub scene, with a number of traditional pubs offering live music and a warm, friendly atmosphere.
Car Rental from Inverness Airport to Edinburgh | Downtown Office
Car Rental from Inverness Airport to Edinburgh | Downtown Office
On arrival into Inverness, head to the car hire desk where you'll collect your car. You'll have this until you get to Edinburgh where you'll drop it at the downtown office on the 05th July.
MG HS (Or Similar)
INTERMEDIATE SUV CLASS
- On Airport
- Unlimited Miles
- Value Added Tax (VAT) Included
**One way fee $125.00 payable locally
Castle View Guest House for 3 nights
Castle View Guest House for 3 nights
Welcome to Castle View, perfectly located in the heart of Inverness with breathtaking views of the Castle across the river. Welcoming you to the highlands and providing you with a comfortable and relaxing break. Castle View guest house is located in a vibrant, central location directly opposite the Inverness Castle on the banks of the River Ness.
Castle View Guest House is located in a vibrant, cosmopolitan, yet quiet location directly opposite Inverness Castle on the banks of the River Ness.
In an ideal central location the recently upgraded 19th Century Victorian Guest House is a perfect base for exploring the stunning Scottish Highland scenery, whisky trails and distilleries.
Your room: Urquhart. King bed
Your Urquhart room is a lovely bright room with panoramic views directly overlooking the stunning Inverness Castle and River Ness. Sleep well in your King-size bed and enjoy all the amenities you need for a wonderful stay as well as a bath with shower above.
Inverness | Highlights
Inverness | Highlights
Take a cruise on Loch Ness
Loch Ness is famous for its mythical monster, but it is also a beautiful and serene place to visit. Take a cruise on the loch and enjoy the stunning scenery.
Explore Culloden Battlefield
This historic site is where the Battle of Culloden took place in 1746. You can visit the battlefield and learn about the history of the Jacobite uprising
Visit Urquhart Castle
Located on the banks of Loch Ness, Urquhart Castle is a picturesque ruin that dates back to the 13th century. Explore the castle and learn about its history.
Take a walk along the River Ness
The River Ness runs through the heart of Inverness and offers beautiful views and peaceful walks. Take a stroll along the river and enjoy the scenery.
Visit the Inverness Museum and Art Gallery
This museum showcases the history and culture of the Highlands. Explore the exhibits and learn about the area's rich heritage.
Explore the Black Isle
Just a short drive from Inverness, the Black Isle is a peninsula known for its beautiful scenery and wildlife. Take a drive or hike around the area and enjoy the stunning views.
Tuesday 2nd July 2024
Recommended Day Trip | Isle Of Skye
Recommended Day Trip | Isle Of Skye
A self-guided day trip from Inverness to the Isle of Skye is an ambitious but rewarding adventure, given the distance but I know it was on your bucket list to enjoy. Here's a suggested itinerary for you to enjoy:
Early Morning: Depart Inverness
Start your journey early in the morning to make the most of your day on Skye. The drive itself is a scenic experience, so take your time and enjoy the journey.
Late Morning: Eilean Donan Castle
Before reaching Skye, consider a stop at Eilean Donan Castle. It's one of Scotland's most iconic castles and is situated near the village of Dornie. Take a tour or simply explore the castle and its surroundings.
Lunch: Kyle of Lochalsh
Just before crossing the bridge to Skye, stop in the town of Kyle of Lochalsh for lunch. There are various cafes and restaurants offering a variety of cuisines.
Afternoon: Isle of Skye
Once you're on Skye, prioritize the following sights:
Old Man of Storr
A striking rock formation that's one of Skye's most famous landmarks. The hike to the viewpoint is about 45 minutes to an hour but offers incredible views.
Portree
The island's main town, Portree, is charming with its colorful buildings and harbor. Take a stroll, enjoy some local shops, and perhaps have a cup of coffee.
Fairy Pools
Located in Glen Brittle, the Fairy Pools are a series of crystal-clear pools and waterfalls. It's a scenic spot for a short walk and some great photo opportunities.
Dunvegan Castle
If time allows, visit Dunvegan Castle, the oldest continuously inhabited castle in Scotland. It's the seat of the MacLeod clan and has beautiful gardens.
Evening: Sunset at Neist Point
Neist Point Lighthouse is located on the westernmost tip of Skye and is known for its dramatic cliffs and stunning sunsets. It's a bit of a drive, but the views are well worth it.
Late Evening: Return to Inverness
Begin your journey back to Inverness, keeping in mind the driving time and potential stops for dinner on the way.
Tips:
– Plan your route in advance and check the weather forecast.
– Consider downloading offline maps or using a GPS device.
– Keep an eye on the time to ensure you have enough for each stop.
– Remember, this itinerary is quite packed for a day trip, so be flexible and prioritize based on your interests and available time.
Wednesday 3rd July 2024
Cawdor Castle
Cawdor Castle
Cawdor Castle dates from the late 14th century, built as a private fortress by the Thanes of Cawdor.
Cawdor Castle with its iron yet gate, moat & drawbridge, turrets, turnpike stairs and vaulted 16th century kitchen is steeped in intrigue and history.
This ancient medieval tower house built for the 3rd Thane of Cawdor has been home to over 23 generations of the Cawdor family.
Explore 12 principal rooms of this unique home containing collections of Rare Tapestries, Fine Art, Furniture, Ceramics and Sculpture spanning 3,500 years.
Thursday 4th July 2024
Drive from Inverness to Edinburgh
Drive from Inverness to Edinburgh
It is time to say goodbye to Inverness and head South to Edinburgh for some time in the city.
The fastest route follows A9 north past Perth and Cairngorms National Park, and takes 3-hours one way. I have included some recommended stops for you below.
Aviemore
Nestled in the Cairngorms National Park, Aviemore is a popular resort town with stunning mountain scenery. It's a great place to stretch your legs, explore the village, or even take the Cairngorm Mountain Funicular Railway for panoramic views. You'll also find the beautiful Loch an Eilein here, the one we mentioned on the phone.
Ruthven Barracks
Located near Kingussie, these 18th-century barracks offer a glimpse into Scotland's military history. The site provides a scenic backdrop of the surrounding landscape.
Dalwhinnie Distillery
Another whisky distillery along the A9, Dalwhinnie offers tours and tastings. It's known for its high-altitude location, making it one of the coldest distilleries in Scotland.
Loch Insh
A beautiful loch located near Kincraig, Loch Insh is a tranquil spot to enjoy the scenery. You might consider a short walk along the shores or simply take in the views.
Blair Castle
A detour to Blair Atholl will lead you to Blair Castle, a historic castle with extensive grounds. The castle is rich in history and surrounded by beautiful gardens.
Pitlochry
This charming Victorian town is known for its picturesque setting, boutique shops, and the famous Pitlochry Festival Theatre. The nearby Queen's View offers stunning panoramic views of Loch Tummel.
Killiecrankie
Just north of Pitlochry, Killiecrankie is a wooded gorge with walking trails and the iconic Soldier's Leap, a spot where a Redcoat soldier is said to have leaped 18 feet across the River Garry to escape Jacobite pursuers.
Dunkeld
This historic town on the banks of the River Tay is known for its cathedral, charming streets, and the nearby Hermitage, a beautiful forested area with walking trails leading to the impressive Black Linn Falls.
Remember to check for any travel restrictions or changes in opening hours before planning your pitstops. Enjoy your scenic drive from Inverness to Edinburgh!
Welcome to Edinburgh
Welcome to Edinburgh
Dominated by a lofty castle and renowned for its mixture of high culture and cosmopolitan cool, Edinburgh is Scotland's historic capital. It's graced with fine architecture both in its medieval Old Town and Georgian New Town, a collection of great museums and a host of lively restaurants and bars, yet compact enough for you to explore on foot.
With historic buildings lining the handsome streets, strong connections to a host of literary giants and an internationally renowned festival, it's a cultural heavyweight protected as both a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a City of Literature. Despite its august credentials, the city has a vibrant, youthful character with a reputation for great nightlife and a sophisticated but down-to-earth air.
Kimpton Charlotte Square for 2 nights
Kimpton Charlotte Square for 2 nights
Perched on the edge of a picturesque private garden in the New Town, Kimpton Charlotte Square Hotel blends traditional glamour with the Scotland of today.
Outside, a classical Georgian exterior stands as an ode to the past while inside, past the lobby, a glass-topped central courtyard is abuzz with activity as travellers unwind over gin & tonics, local professionals do business, and friends toast special occasions. The energy is so fresh and effervescent that you’ll want to bottle it and bring it home—but then again, it feels too distinctly Edinburgh to make sense anywhere else.
Your room: Essential Room
Sumptuous but not stuffy, refined but not overtly regal, your Essential Room at the Kimpton Charlotte Square Hotel has a slightly different design sensibility.
You will notice the hand-picked art and decor, luxurious furniture and fabrics, and marble baths. Toiletries made from high-end ingredients and rainfall showers round out the creature comforts. It’s the ultimate place to recharge and rest up before meeting friends for cocktails down in the garden.
Edinburgh to Dunbar
Edinburgh to Dunbar
I know while in Edinburgh you would like to visit your oldest friend Geoge and there are two options for getting there.
You can drive, the journey will take around 45 minutes via the A1.
Alternatively, you can take the train which will take you around 25 minutes from Edinburgh Waverley directly to Dunbar.
Let me know if you would like me to arrange your train tickets for you.
Friday 5th July 2024
Edinburgh | Gay Tour & Pink Triangle's Secrets
Edinburgh | Gay Tour & Pink Triangle's Secrets
Live a special LGBT walking Tour in Edinburgh with our Gay & Lesbian Friendly Tour Guides. Admire the Scottish Parliament, Holyrood Palace, the Museum of Scotland, the Royal Mile, and Princes Street. Edinburgh has a vibrant gay scene "the Pink Triangle," centered around the top of Leith walk, just off Princes Street, Edinburgh's main thoroughfare.
All the bars and clubs are in easy walking distance. Each one offers something different; so whether you want music, real ale or good food, you will find a bar to suit. The city has more in common with European cities than other cities in the UK so around the city is a cafe culture. Here you will find a gay-friendly relaxed atmosphere. Afterwards continue to Edinburgh Castle, Scotland's most famous fortress which has towered above Edinburgh since the 13th century and is the country's most popular tourist attraction. Here free time to enter the castle on your own.
Included:
* Gay or Lesbian Friendly Tour Guide for City Tour (3 hours)
* Pink Triangle Tour
* Edinburgh Castle View
Edinburgh Castle Entry Tickets
Edinburgh Castle Entry Tickets
Once you have finished with your wonderful guide, I have arranged for you to enter the castle and enjoy the interior at your own pace.
Pick up your guidebook on entry and enjoy!
Saturday 6th July 2024
Hiking Arthur's Seat
Hiking Arthur's Seat
Arthur's Seat is a prominent hill located in Holyrood Park, at the heart of Edinburgh. Here are some details about hiking Arthur's Seat:
Location
Arthur's Seat is situated just to the east of the city center of Edinburgh.
The address for Holyrood Park is Queen's Drive, Edinburgh EH8 8HG, United Kingdom.
Description
Arthur's Seat is the main peak in the group of hills in Holyrood Park, and it rises to an elevation of approximately 251 meters (823 feet).
The hill is an extinct volcano, offering panoramic views of Edinburgh and the surrounding areas, including the Firth of Forth.
Hiking Trails
Holyrood Park has several well-marked trails leading to the summit of Arthur's Seat.
The most popular route is a circular path that starts from Holyrood Palace and takes you to the top of Arthur's Seat and back down. The hike is of moderate difficulty.
Duration
The time it takes to hike Arthur's Seat can vary depending on the chosen route and individual pace. On average, it takes about 1 to 1.5 hours to complete the hike to the summit and back.
Views
The summit provides breathtaking panoramic views of Edinburgh, including the historic Old Town, New Town, Holyrood Palace, and the surrounding landscapes.
Depart for Liverpool
Depart for Liverpool
After an amazing trip through Scotland, it's time to head to Liverpool.
The journey by train will take you 3 hours and 30 minutes with a change in Preston.
Let me know if you would like me to arrange the tickets for you.
What's Included
Your itinerary includes
Important Information
Travel Advice
It is important to seek independent and up-to-date advice when travelling to any foreign country. Many of our customers ask us to keep them up-to-date on the existing legal position regarding LGBT rights in the country to which they are travelling. You can find up-to-date details on our website under the country which you are travelling to. They are provided as a guide only and laws can change frequently. You should seek advice from the relevant authorities and embassies before travel (if applicable).
Travel Insurance and Terms and Conditions
It is a condition of booking with Out Of Office that you have adequate insurance cover for your trip at the time of booking. Please also ensure you have referred to our terms and conditions which can be found at www.outofoffice.com/terms-and-conditions. Please note that as each booking is tailor-made for you we only confirm the itinerary once we have received a deposit. There is a small chance that availability on some items quoted may change. If this is the case we will book similar accommodation and let you know.