Sunday 19th: We make our way into Scotland via Bowness-on-Windermere and check-in
at our overnight hotel.
Monday 20th: We leave after breakfast and travel via Perth, once Scotland’s capital city.
You will find that Perth enjoys an air of elegant prosperity and retains the genuine
atmosphere of a true country town with a rich history and tradition.
Tuesday 21st: Today we visit Balmoral Castle which has been the Scottish home of the
Royal Family since it was purchased for Queen Victoria by Prince Albert in 1852. In the
Autumn of 1842, two and a half years after her marriage to Prince Albert, Queen Victoria
paid her first visit to Scotland. They were so struck with the Highlands that they resolved to
return. The foundation stone for Balmoral Castle was laid by Queen Victoria on 28th
September 1853 and can be found at the foot of the wall adjacent to the West face of the
entrance. After the visit, enjoy tea or coffee with traditional Scottish shortbread. We return
to our hotel via Ballater is the attractive village that puts the "Royal" into Royal Deeside.
Wednesday 22nd: Strathspey Railway will transport you back in time to a ten mile long
1950s branchline where, little has changed since 1863 when the Victorians first built the
railway. The first stretch of the line departing from Broomhill to Boat of Garten will be
known to many fans of the TV series Monarch of the Glen as Glenbogle Station. At Boat of
Garten Station wander around the station to grasp the full sense of British Rail as it was in
the 1950s and 1960s, before disembarking at Aviemore station. We spend our afternoon
in Inverness, capital of the Highlands. Legend has it the city was probably founded by King
David in the 12th century, but thanks to its famously violent history few buildings of real age
or historical significance have survived. Explore the unique Victorian Market in the heart of
the Old Town or stroll along the River Ness, famed for its salmon fishing, located right in
the heart of the city.
Thursday 23rd: We spend the morning in Elgin, nestled in the world famous whisky
region. The town is perhaps best known for the ruin of Elgin Cathedral: Once considered
Scotland's most beautiful cathedral, rivalling St. Andrews in importance. This afternoon we
visit one of the last independent distilleries in Scotland, Glenfiddich Distillery is one of the
few single malt distilleries to remain entirely family owned and is now the World's Most
Awarded Single Malt* Scotch Whisky. Your visit begins with a short film followed by a
guided tour of the distillery's various process houses and included a brief tasting session.
Friday 24th: We leave Royal Deeside after breakfast and return home.