Scotland: The Highlands

Section of the West Highland Way and Loch Lomond; 4.5 miles, easy to moderate; 3.5 miles, easy

Breakfast is included at your hotel. Your guide(s) will meet you at the Blythswood Square Hotel at 9:00 a.m. in the lobby. Your guide(s) will be wearing a Country Walkers shirt. Please be dressed for walking.

Once your group has gathered in Glasgow, drive to the picturesque village of Drymen. Your walk follows a section of the West Highland Way, Scotland’s premier long distance footpath covering 96 miles from Milngavie, just north of Glasgow, to Fort William. Today’s route passes through open countryside and wooded areas, with rewarding views over Loch Lomond. Meet the coach in Milton of Buchanan and drive a short distance to Balmaha, located on the banks of Loch Lomond.

Gather for lunch at the Oak Tree Inn, a family-run inn constructed of local slate on the shores of Loch Lomond. Throughout your journey, you find that Scottish cuisine has left its reputation for bland food in the past. Today, chefs infuse the typical fresh meats and produce from farming communities and the fresh fish from the North Sea and Atlantic Ocean with creative flair and color, making for memorable meals that are sure to be a rewarding part of your experience. You also enjoy a wide range of ales, malts, and whiskies.

Balmaha is home of the Loch Lomond and the Trossachs National Park, a spellbinding canvas of hills, lochs and glens where Scotland’s renowned Highlands converge with the heather-covered Lowlands. After lunch, you set out on your pleasant and easy walk along the shores of Loch Lomond, enjoying magnificent views over the lake and its nearby islands. This is Rob Roy country, where the outlaw “Red Robert” MacGregor gained status as a local folk hero.

Afterwards transfer just less than one hour, through the National Park and lovely countryside to your hotel, located on the banks of Loch Ard. There will be time to relax before dinner tonight in the hotel.

Accommodation: Macdonald Forest Hills Hotel & Spa

6 miles, easy

After breakfast, set off on your days walk directly from the hotel. This wide trail skirts the banks of Loch Ard, one of the most picturesque in Scotland, through the peaceful Loch Ard Forest, all set within the Queen Elizabeth Forest Park. Beautiful views keep emerging across the loch and towards the surrounding mountains. The Scottish outlaw Rob Roy MacGregor knew this area well, having been born at Glengyle, at the head of Loch Katrine. He used a small cave on banks of this loch as a hiding place during the Jacobite risings.

Meet the coach at the end of the walk and drive a short distance along the valley to The Pier Cafe, Stronachlachar. With breathtaking views across Loch Katrine enjoy lunch in this isolated cafe.

For over 150 years Loch Katrine has offered a serene and tranquil spot for visitors from all over the world and is recognized as the favored and much-loved setting of some of Sir Walter Scott’s most famous poetic works. After lunch board the Lady of the Lake, named after Sir Walter Scott’s classic poem. Sit back, relax and admire the magnificent scenery unfold whilst listening to the tales and legends of the loch during this one-hour cruise. Meet the coach at the far end of the loch and transfer back to your hotel. There is time to unwind and relax before dinner.

Accommodation: Macdonald Forest Hills Hotel & Spa

Morning; 1.5 miles, easy or 3.5 miles, easy to moderate

After a 40-minute shuttle through the beautiful scenery of the Trossachs National Park, arrive at the Glen Finglas Visitors Centre. After time to see the exhibits you have the choice of walks, both finishing at your lunch spot. The longer option starts with a steady 400-foot climb, over about half a mile, up through the mixed woodland. Stop at the top to admire the views across the valley and surrounding hills. The trail then is almost flat as it traverses the hillside. Gently descend to see Glen Finglas Reservoir before joining a paved road down into Brig O’Turks. The shorter option remains at a much lower level, circling back behind the village of Brig O’Turks. Join your fellow walkers for lunch at The Byre Inn.

After a 15-minute drive arrive into the bustling tourist town of Callander. Situated on the River Teith, it is often described as the gateway to the Highlands. Stroll along the river bank, browse the souvenir shops, or maybe talk a longer walk with your guides.

Enjoy time to relax back at the hotel before dinner this evening.

Accommodation: Macdonald Forest Hills Hotel & Spa

Walk to Balquhidder; 4 miles, easy

Check out of the hotel and embark on a scenic drive of around one hour to the start of today’s walk. The trail goes through mixed woodland, then into more open countryside to give beautiful views of the surrounding hills, before arriving at the foot of Loch Voil and the village of Balquhidder. Balquhidder glen evokes emotions that are heightened in the knowledge that druids, Jacobite rebels, ancient clans, ancient Royals, famous authors, and Rob Roy McGregor have tread before us. A visit to the church yard will reveal the gravestones of Rob Roy, his wife, and two sons who are buried here.

Rejoin the coach and arrive at Castle Menzies in time for a picnic lunch within the castle. Dating back to the 16th century it has been the ancestral seat of the Clan Menzies for over 400 years. Restored during the 20th century by the Menzies Clan Society it still gives the feel of a rugged Highland fortresses. A guided tour will bring the castle and its history to life.

Later this afternoon visit the Dewar’s Whisky Distillery in Aberfeldy, the spiritual home of one of America’s top-selling Scotch whiskies. During a tour of the distillery see how the distinctive honeyed richness of the spirit is created. And no tour is complete without a tasting too!

Arrive into Ballathie House Hotel in time for dinner.

Accommodation: Ballathie Country House Hotel, Kinclaven

Morning stroll around Glamis Castle gardens; 1.5 miles, easy; Afternoon Perth city walk; 4 miles, easy

You awaken to magnificent scenery and an ample breakfast then embark on a short drive through the very different flat Angus agricultural lands to Glamis Castle. Home to the Lyon family since the 14th century, and currently the home to the Earl and Countess of Strathmore and Kinghorne. Glamis was the childhood home of Queen Elizabeth The Queen Mother, wife of King George VI. Their second daughter, Princess Margaret, Countess of Snowdon, was born there. It’s also the legendary setting for Shakespeare’s Macbeth. Steeped in history, it’s impossible not to be impressed by the Castle’s turrets and towers at the end of the mile-long entrance drive. A guided tour will reveal its legendary tales and secrets and highlight it’s not a museum but an incredible family home.

Lunch will be taken in café followed by a walk through the castle’s gardens, including the formal Italian Gardens, mixed woodland, and pinetum.

Afterwards, drive to the “Fair City” of Perth, Scotland’s ancient capital for five centuries and now the country’s newest city. Situated on the banks of the River Tay, this afternoon’s walk will highlight its elegant Georgian townhouses, cobbled streets, and medieval spires. Enjoy an evening at leisure to sample dinner in one of the many restaurants before returning to the hotel.

Accommodation: Ballathie Country House Hotel, Kinclaven

5 miles, easy to moderate

You awaken to magnificent scenery and another hearty breakfast then embark on a short drive to the Hermitage car park. Here, your walk begins through the beautiful wooded glen of the Hermitage, originally designed as a pleasure ground in the 18th century for the Dukes of Atholl, complete with picturesque folly Ossian’s Hall and attractive Black Linn waterfalls. The giant Douglas firs here are among the tallest trees in Britain. The route then continues to visit the dramatic Rumbling Bridge before a return through more open countryside with attractive views of the surrounding Perthshire countryside. The walk finishes in the small historic town of Dunkeld where you have free time to explore the independent shops and galleries, visit the imposing Dunkeld Cathedral and view the brightly colored “little houses” of Dunkeld which were built in the early 1700s.

Afterwards return to your hotel and relax overlooking the river or maybe stroll through the grounds. Later enjoy a final evening’s celebratory dinner at the excellent restaurant.

Accommodation: Ballathie Country House Hotel, Kinclaven

After enjoying breakfast, travel with your group in a private coach to the Blythswood Square, Glasgow, for your post-tour night. Please note your room may not be ready but the hotel will store your luggage to enable you to explore the city. (Dinner is on your own.)

Accommodation: Blythswood Square, Glasgow

Section of the West Highland Way and Loch Lomond; 4.5 miles, easy to moderate; 3.5 miles, easy

Your guide(s) will meet you at the Blythswood Square Hotel at 9:00 a.m. in the lobby. Your guide(s) will be wearing a Country Walkers shirt. Please be dressed for walking.

Once your group has gathered in Glasgow, drive to the picturesque village of Drymen. Your walk follows a section of the West Highland Way, Scotland’s premier long distance footpath covering 96 miles from Milngavie, just north of Glasgow, to Fort William. Today’s route passes through open countryside and wooded areas, with rewarding views over Loch Lomond. Meet the coach in Milton of Buchanan and drive a short distance to Balmaha, located on the banks of Loch Lomond.

Gather for lunch at the Oak Tree Inn, a family-run inn constructed of local slate on the shores of Loch Lomond. Throughout your journey, you find that Scottish cuisine has left its reputation for bland food in the past. Today, chefs infuse the typical fresh meats and produce from farming communities and the fresh fish from the North Sea and Atlantic Ocean with creative flair and color, making for memorable meals that are sure to be a rewarding part of your experience. You also enjoy a wide range of ales, malts, and whiskies.

Balmaha is home of the Loch Lomond and the Trossachs National Park, a spellbinding canvas of hills, lochs and glens where Scotland’s renowned Highlands converge with the heather-covered Lowlands. After lunch, you set out on your pleasant and easy walk along the shores of Loch Lomond, enjoying magnificent views over the lake and its nearby islands. This is Rob Roy country, where the outlaw “Red Robert” MacGregor gained status as a local folk hero.

Afterwards transfer just less than one hour, through the National Park and lovely countryside to your hotel, located on the banks of Loch Ard. There will be time to relax before dinner tonight in the hotel.

Accommodation: Macdonald Forest Hills Hotel & Spa

6 miles, easy

After breakfast, set off on your days walk directly from the hotel. This wide trail skirts the banks of Loch Ard, one of the most picturesque in Scotland, through the peaceful Loch Ard Forest, all set within the Queen Elizabeth Forest Park. Beautiful views keep emerging across the loch and towards the surrounding mountains. The Scottish outlaw Rob Roy MacGregor knew this area well, having been born at Glengyle, at the head of Loch Katrine. He used a small cave on banks of this loch as a hiding place during the Jacobite risings.

Meet the coach at the end of the walk and drive a short distance along the valley to The Pier Cafe, Stronachlachar. With breathtaking views across Loch Katrine enjoy lunch in this isolated cafe.

For over 150 years Loch Katrine has offered a serene and tranquil spot for visitors from all over the world and is recognized as the favored and much-loved setting of some of Sir Walter Scott’s most famous poetic works. After lunch board the Lady of the Lake, named after Sir Walter Scott’s classic poem. Sit back, relax and admire the magnificent scenery unfold whilst listening to the tales and legends of the loch during this one-hour cruise. Meet the coach at the far end of the loch and transfer back to your hotel. There is time to unwind and relax before dinner.

Accommodation: Macdonald Forest Hills Hotel & Spa

Morning; 1.5 miles, easy or 3.5 miles, easy to moderate

After a 40-minute shuttle through the beautiful scenery of the Trossachs National Park, arrive at the Glen Finglas Visitors Centre. After time to see the exhibits you have the choice of walks, both finishing at your lunch spot. The longer option starts with a steady 400-foot climb, over about half a mile, up through the mixed woodland. Stop at the top to admire the views across the valley and surrounding hills. The trail then is almost flat as it traverses the hillside. Gently descend to see Glen Finglas Reservoir before joining a paved road down into Brig O’Turks. The shorter option remains at a much lower level, circling back behind the village of Brig O’Turks. Join your fellow walkers for lunch at The Byre Inn.

After a 15-minute drive arrive into the bustling tourist town of Callander. Situated on the River Teith, it is often described as the gateway to the Highlands. Stroll along the river bank, browse the souvenir shops, or maybe talk a longer walk with your guides.

Enjoy time to relax back at the hotel before dinner this evening.

Accommodation: Macdonald Forest Hills Hotel & Spa

Walk to Balquhidder; 4 miles, easy

Check out of the hotel and embark on a scenic drive of around one hour to the start of today’s walk. The trail goes through mixed woodland, then into more open countryside to give beautiful views of the surrounding hills, before arriving at the foot of Loch Voil and the village of Balquhidder. Balquhidder glen evokes emotions that are heightened in the knowledge that druids, Jacobite rebels, ancient clans, ancient Royals, famous authors, and Rob Roy McGregor have tread before us. A visit to the church yard will reveal the gravestones of Rob Roy, his wife, and two sons who are buried here.

Rejoin the coach and arrive at Castle Menzies in time for a picnic lunch within the castle. Dating back to the 16th century it has been the ancestral seat of the Clan Menzies for over 400 years. Restored during the 20th century by the Menzies Clan Society it still gives the feel of a rugged Highland fortresses. A guided tour will bring the castle and its history to life.

Later this afternoon visit the Dewar’s Whisky Distillery in Aberfeldy, the spiritual home of one of America’s top-selling Scotch whiskies. During a tour of the distillery see how the distinctive honeyed richness of the spirit is created. And no tour is complete without a tasting too!

Arrive into Ballathie House Hotel in time for dinner.

Accommodation: Ballathie Country House Hotel, Kinclaven

Morning stroll around Glamis Castle gardens; 1.5 miles, easy; Afternoon Perth city walk; 4 miles, easy

You awaken to magnificent scenery and an ample breakfast then embark on a short drive through the very different flat Angus agricultural lands to Glamis Castle. Home to the Lyon family since the 14th century, and currently the home to the Earl and Countess of Strathmore and Kinghorne. Glamis was the childhood home of Queen Elizabeth The Queen Mother, wife of King George VI. Their second daughter, Princess Margaret, Countess of Snowdon, was born there. It’s also the legendary setting for Shakespeare’s Macbeth. Steeped in history, it’s impossible not to be impressed by the Castle’s turrets and towers at the end of the mile-long entrance drive. A guided tour will reveal its legendary tales and secrets and highlight it’s not a museum but an incredible family home.

Lunch will be taken in café followed by a walk through the castle’s gardens, including the formal Italian Gardens, mixed woodland, and pinetum.

Afterwards, drive to the “Fair City” of Perth, Scotland’s ancient capital for five centuries and now the country’s newest city. Situated on the banks of the River Tay, this afternoon’s walk will highlight its elegant Georgian townhouses, cobbled streets, and medieval spires. Enjoy an evening at leisure to sample dinner in one of the many restaurants before returning to the hotel.

Accommodation: Ballathie Country House Hotel, Kinclaven

5 miles, easy to moderate

You awaken to magnificent scenery and another hearty breakfast then embark on a short drive to the Hermitage car park. Here, your walk begins through the beautiful wooded glen of the Hermitage, originally designed as a pleasure ground in the 18th century for the Dukes of Atholl, complete with picturesque folly Ossian’s Hall and attractive Black Linn waterfalls. The giant Douglas firs here are among the tallest trees in Britain. The route then continues to visit the dramatic Rumbling Bridge before a return through more open countryside with attractive views of the surrounding Perthshire countryside. The walk finishes in the small historic town of Dunkeld where you have free time to explore the independent shops and galleries, visit the imposing Dunkeld Cathedral and view the brightly colored “little houses” of Dunkeld which were built in the early 1700s.

Afterwards return to your hotel and relax overlooking the river or maybe stroll through the grounds. Later enjoy a final evening’s celebratory dinner at the excellent restaurant.

Accommodation: Ballathie Country House Hotel, Kinclaven

After a sumptuous breakfast, you have time to relax before departing for your one-hour forty- five-minute transfer to Glasgow. You arrive around 11:00 a.m. at Glasgow’s Blythswood Square hotel, where you tour concludes.