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Scotch Wilds, Whiskies & Railways

Scotch Wilds, Whiskies & Railways

Grantown on Spey is situated in the centre of the Scottish Highlands and is a traditional Highland town on the River Spey. Surrounded by ancient woodlands, much of which is community owned, the area offers a unique habitat for a wide variety of wildlife. A charming town, dating from 1760s, which offers the opportunity to experience Highland hospitality at its best. This tour offers unparalleled scenery aboard the antique Strathspey Railway, a wee dram at the world renowned Glenfiddich Distillery and royally classic Balmoral Castle, all enjoyed from the comfort of the 4-star rated Grant Arms Hotel.

Your Itinerary

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.

Grant Arms Hotel, Grantown-on-Spey ****

A warm Highland welcome awaits you at the magnificent 4 star Grant Arms Hotel where former famous visitors include both Queen Victoria and Queen Elizabeth II. Refurbished to a high standard of comfort and service, all rooms are ensuite with complimentary WiFi, tea and coffee making facilities, TV, hairdryer, toiletries. The Restaurant is a delightful setting to enjoy the delicious meals cooked using the very best of local produce, after your evening meal you can enjoy our extensive array of Speyside Malt Whiskies in the Capercaillie Bar.

 

Sun 19th.

En-route to the Highlands we make an overnight stop at the comfortable Westerwood Hotel and Golf Resort on the outskirts of Glasgow. Overlooked by the beautiful Campsie Hills, this contemporary, purpose-built hotel provides guests with a comfortable night’s sleep in the spacious and well appointed bedrooms.

Your Tour Includes

  • All Travel by Executive Coach
  • 5 Nights Dinner, Bed and Breakfast
  • Excursions as Detailed
  • Free Flow Visit of Balmoral Castle
  • Single Journey on the Strathspey Railway
  • Entry into Glenfiddich Distillery
  • Porterage
Departure DateHotelDaysAvailablePrice (Adult)Pick Up Points