Day 1: To Kingussie
Make your way to Kingussie today, where your Tour Manager will be waiting for you in the reception of the 3* Duke of Gordon Hotel. Kingussie, which is set in a dramatic location in the foothills of the Cairngorm and Monadhliath mountain ranges, is surrounded by a majestic landscape and is a perfect base from which to start exploring the Highlands. (D)
Day 2: Strathspey Steam Railway
Our excursion sees us travelling by train through glorious Scottish scenery to Aviemore, where we board the delightful Strathspey Steam Railway for the picturesque journey to Broomhill. Relax in your seat for a journey through the rugged beauty of the Cairngorm Mountains as the train carries us to Boat of Garten, where native forests and heather moorland stretch away towards the horizon. The train then continues on to Broomhill, where we travel by coach to Grantown-on-Spey, surrounded by Caledonian forest and characterised by its Georgian architecture. After some free time we visit a local distillery, where we have the chance to see how malt whisky is made in time-honoured tradition, and enjoy a tasting of the golden spirit.We return to Kingussie by coach in the late afternoon. (B,D)
Day 3: Free day
Today is free for you to explore at your own pace. Why not take the opportunity to discover Pitlochry, a lovely Victorian town nestled at the foot of Ben Vrackie? Alternatively, you could explore the local mountain landscape further, and take the funicular railway, with its large panoramic windows, up to the viewing terrace at the summit of the Cairngorm Mountain for magnificent views of the surrounding peaks stretching way into the distance. (B,D)
Day 4: Loch Ness
Today we travel by coach from Kingussie through the beautiful Highlands countryside to Loch Ness, known as much for its most famous resident as for its haunting beauty. Admire the peaceful allure of the verdant forests and stone cottages set against the glittering waters as we enjoy a cruise down the lake, but remember to keep an eye out for any dark shadows concealed under the surface! We also have a chance to learn about the fascinating history of the region in the Loch Ness Exhibition Centre before continuing on to Urquhart Castle, which is beautifully set on a headland overlooking the depths of Loch Ness and was once one of the largest
fortresses in Scotland.We have time to explore the ruins and admire the spectacular views before returning to Kingussie in the late afternoon. (B,D)
Day 5: Homeward bound
Today you are free after breakfast to return home at your leisure. (B)
Your hotel
The 3* Duke of Gordon Hotel in Kingussie is set in the heart of the Cairngorm National Park with amazing views over the surrounding countryside. The hotel offers its guests all the comfort of a modern hotel combined with the traditional character and heritage of an old Scottish coaching inn.We enjoy four course meals here every night, with a piper in full Scottish dress playing us into the dining room, and guests can relax in the bar afterwards with a wee dram of local whisky. All rooms have direct dial telephone, television and tea/coffee making facilities.
*On the 31 July departure we do not visit the distillery on Day 2 but spend more time in Grantown-on-Spey.
B = Breakfast, L = Lunch, D = Dinner
These meals, where shown, are included in the price of your holiday.
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