5-NIGHTS 6-DAYS, A DISCOVERY OF SCOTLAND'S MAJESTIC HIGHLANDS AND HEBRIDEAN ISLANDS COMPLETE WITH PRIVATE EXCURSIONS AND EXCLUSIVE-USE PROPERTY, RETURN CHARTER JET FROM LONDON, RANGE ROVER VOGUE AND HELICOPTER SCENIC TRANSFERS. WHISKY AND HISTORY TOUR OF ISLAY, MARINE SAFARI WITH LOCAL EXPERT GUIDE, PRIVATE 67,000 ACRES OF SCOTTISH WILDERNESS AT YOUR DOORSTEP.
Day dreaming of escaping global lockdown as soon as travel restrictions are lifted? Planning your annual Scottish luxury holiday? Our comprehensive travel itineraries take VIPs from London direct to the very heart of the Scottish Highlands offering an array of unrivalled experiences. Let Scotland exceed all expectations with a carefully planned Sandgrouse Travel & Expeditions Luxury Scotland holiday of your dreams.
Leaving London Luton Airport, you will be taking your Sandgrouse private charter jet to Glasgow's Prestwick airport. On arrival you will be met airside before collecting your Range Rover Vogue. Following a carefully planned suggested routing today, you will head north through beautiful Loch Lomond National Park before working your way east to the Cairngorm National Park. Today will be a day of discovery on the road driving through some of Scotland's most beautiful landscapes including visits to famous castle ruins and sites of interest.
Arriving at your exclusive-use Highland lodge located down a remote private driveway on the shores of a 25km long loch - here you have 67,000 acres of playground to explore! Settle into your Highland lair and enjoy an evening by the fire, or on the lawns by the loch with a dram in hand.
The following days see you fly by private chopper to the West Coast where you will visit the world famous whisky making island of Islay, here you will discover not only incredible whiskies, meeting the owners of distilleries for private tours and tasting, but you will also explore the islands fascinating history with our local guide. Hear all about the Vikings who used the island as a stronghold as well as early Christian settlers and pre-historic sites.
Another day with the helicopter sees you head to the beautiful Mallaig area, fly directly over the world famous 'Hogwarts Express' viaduct before landing at a remote village by a beautiful sandy beach. From here you will be taken on a private Marine Safari with a 40ft motor yacht. Your guide will bring to life the area from the water, spotting rich marine wildlife and taking you out to one of Scotland's most incredible islands, home to thousands of Red deer, semi-wild native Highland Ponies, Sea Eagles and more - as well as an abandoned castle!
More locally, we have planned for you a magical Highland Pony Picnic. Explore routes across the estate on-foot and at a slower pace. Today you will connect with the magical landscape you are staying in. This is the traditional way in the highlands, with a Scottish tweed-clad Pony-Man full of local anecdotes and stories of old. The native Highland Ponies will carry classic 'grouse panniers' loaded with a delicious picnic to enjoy somewhere out on the heather covered mountains. Today will offer a glimpse of the old school romance so enjoyed by Queen Victoria.
Close by to your lodge is one of Scotland's most important historical castles. Home for generations to the Dukes of Atholl. Blair Castle is a must visit whilst staying at Dalwhinnie Lodge. We have arranged for you to visit the castle and grounds before taking lunch at The Old Manse of Blair and a VIP luxury shopping experience at the prestigious House of Bruar (Harrods of the North). Here you can pick up far more than tartans and tweeds, explore the incredible art gallery, sporting section or homeware department and pick up something Scottish to take home.
Your final day in Scotland sees you enjoy an incredible private falconry display and lesson with an expert handler in the grounds of one of Scotland's most important historic palaces.
Price Per Person: £18,960.00 - N.B. Based on x4 adults inclusive of return private jet flights, Sandgrouse helicopter and VAT. For more info, please see the What's Included section below.
ITINERARY HIGHLIGHTS:
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PRIVATE CHARTER JET FROM LONDON TO GLASGOW PRESTWICK (RETURN)
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LUXURY RANGE ROVER VOGUE - SELF DRIVE
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EXCLUSIVE-USE FAIRYTALE LODGE ON 67,000 ACRE ESTATE
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SCENIC HELICOPTER TRANSFER FLIGHTS
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GLENFINNAN VIADUCT, GLEN COE AND RANNOCH MOOR BY AIR
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PRIVATE WHISKY TASTING ON ISLAY WITH ISLAND HISTORY TOUR
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PRIVATE FULL-DAY MARINE SAFARI WITH EXPERT GUIDE
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ISLE OF RUM VISIT WITH KINLOCH CASTLE VISIT
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PRIVATE TRADITIONAL PONY-PICNIC WITH PONYMAN
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BLAIR CASTLE VISIT & VIP SHOPPING EXPERIENCE
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VISIT TO HISTORIC SCONE PALACE
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PRIVATE FALCONRY DISPLAY - FLY EAGLES AND HAWKS
DAY TO DAY OVERVIEW
Day 1: Arrival into Scotland - Jet to Lodge
Setting off from London Luton Airport via private charter jet you will be flying direct to Glasgow Prestwick airport. On arrival into Glasgow you will be met airside and directed to your self-drive Range Rover Vogue.
After a short show-round and briefing, you will follow a suggested routing north through the famous Loch Lomond National Park, past the shores of Loch Lomond and on east towards the small city of Stirling. At Stirling you may wish to visit Stirling Castle, Scotland's second largest castle with an incredible history the self-guided tour of the castle is great. Nearby to Stirling you will also find the Wallace Monument, built to honour the legacy of Sir William Wallace. Close to Stirling is the charming village of Doune where you will be able to walk around the ruins of Doune Castle, recently used in the shooting of both Game of Thrones and also Outlander. Doune Castle was also used in the 1970's Monty Python The Holy Grail show!
Driving north from the Stirlingshire area, you will head to the town of Perth, and from here onwards you enter true Highland terrain. A further one hour drive up the beautiful A9 will lead to right into the heart of the mighty Cairngorm National Park. On arrival at the village of Dalwhinnie, come off the A9, and follow your routing to your remote highland lodge nestled on the shores of one of Scotland's longest and most wild lochs.
You will be warmly welcomed by the team on arrival, before settling into the lodge where you can make yourselves at home. Dinner will be prepared for you by your chef before you are left alone for the evening to relax and marvel out the landscape surrounding you and the lodge.
Day 2: Blair Castle & Surrounds
Today you will wake up in one of the most incredible locations in the UK. Outside your front door is a private 67,000 acre estate, making up part of what is an incredible wilderness area. After a traditional Scottish breakfast prepared by your local chef, this morning you it will be time to jump in the Range Rover and drive the short distance south to the imposing Blair Castle.
Today you will embark on a self-guided tour of this most important of Scottish castles. Learn about the 400+ year history of the Dukes of Atholl who have held this as their Highland stronghold and discover more about how the Duke has the largest private army in Europe thanks to Queen Victoria!
After touring the castle, if the weather is sunny you may also wish to see the beautiful gardens and grounds before heading off to The Old Manse of Blair nearby for a delicious lunch.
This afternoon we have arranged for you to call in at The House of Bruar, where you will be treated to a VIP luxury shopping experience. Here you can pick up some traditional luxury tweed clothing, stock up the larder at the lodge with local artisanal foods and treats, explore the incredible art gallery and or homeware department. On arrival at the store, the store manager and team will be waiting with some champagne and nibbles before showing you where to shop based on your interests.
Heading back up the road you may wish to stop off at Dalwhinnie Distillery in the village before heading back to the lodge. A tour here can easily be arranged if you wish, and will last approximately 1-hour finishing with a quick tasting in the warehouse. Head back to your lodge for a wonderful evening of relaxing with views out across the loch. Your chef will prepare dinner for you at a time previously agreed to suit your preferences.
Day 3: Isle of Islay Distillery and History Tour
Today after breakfast at the lodge, your private helicopter will arrive nearby landing on the estate.
Your pilot will be taking you on an incredible scenic flight across the mountains, Rannoch Moor, Glen Coe and out towards Oban and the Islands of Jura and Islay. Landing on Islay you will be met by a driver / guide whom we work extremely closely with. An absolute expert in their field.
Once on the famous island of Islay, an old Viking stronghold, now a whisky making paradise, you will be thrust into a world of fine tasting and pairing as we partner you up with the islands leading whisky guide and author of several whisky/food books.
We have arranged special tastings, visits and a unique lunch where you will learn more about the complexities of pairing whisky with foods. Today will include the likes of Laphroaig, Ardnahoe and the brilliant Kilchoman on the windswept north west Machair Bay. Of course, throughout the day your guide will regale stories of old and point out sites of historical importance. In truth, your day today can be tailored to your preference, with a little more whisky than history, or history than whisky.
On finishing your tour most-likely with a dram on the beach at Machair Bay, you will fly home to your lodge for a dinner and relaxing evening deep in the Highlands.
Day 4: Wilderness Scotland & Traditional Pony-Picnic
After breakfast in the main dining room prepared by the chef specifically to your preference, you will have a free morning to relax.
Around midday, today the clients will be met outside the main lodge by the estate stalking team clad in the estate tweeds in the authentic style of the Highlands, in-hand they will have two traditional Garron ponies (native Highland Ponies). These ponies were traditionally used to carry the stags that had been shot off the mountain, as well as basket panniers for the grouse that had been shot in the summer months. Today however these two kind-eyed and intelligent ponies will be carrying traditional “grouse panniers” loaded with a sumptuous picnic prepared to order by the private chef.
The pony-man will lead the clients through some of the most breathtaking scenery on a walk gauged perfectly for their fitness. The group will head through landscapes that are truly ancient and have a sacred feel to a secluded spot on the estate.
After the picnic luncheon, the group will make their way back to the main lodge for an afternoon tea served by the fire in the private sitting room. As an alternative should the guests prefer, a Land Rover safari with estate ranger can be arranged today together with the picnic.
This evening you will enjoy dinner at the lodge or if you wish, you could arrange to book a table in the village of Blair at The Atholl Arms Hotel - a traditional hotel serving good food and with a lively atmosphere.
Day 5: Private West Coast Adventure by Helicopter + Marine Safari
Today sees your helicopter pilot return with the beautiful AgustaWestland 109. After breakfast it will be time to head out to the chopper where you will embark on another incredible scenic flight to the West Coast. This morning you will pass by the world-famous Glenfinnan Viaduct (made famous by featuring in Harry Potter films) before arriving into the charming harbour town of Mallaig. Mallaig was once the captial of the UK's Herring fishing industry and used to have over 600 skiffs in the harbour. Today there are few fishing boats still, however tourism is the main economic provider here now.
Your private guide will take you on an incredible full-day Marine Safari in his privately owned 40-ft cruiser. Head out to the Isle of Rum, Scotland's 15th largest island this veritable Jurassic Park has only 18-people living on it and is a protected nature reserve. Here you should expect to meet herds of semi-wild native Highland Ponies, that roam in the mountains, see herds of Scotland's majestic wild Red deer and much more. Keep your eyes peeled today for our Sea eagles which use Rum as a hunting and nesting site. These huge birds are unmistakable in the skies. On the sea cliffs, look out for colourful puffins on the rocks, as well as seals loafing on the shore. If you are really lucky, dolphins and even whales can be seen in the waters (sometimes dolphins play in the wake of the boat!)!
On the Isle of Rum, you will be treated to a private 4x4 safari heading up into the mountains, where your guide will take you fishing on one of Scotland's most remote and spectacular trout lochans in the crater of an extinct volcano. If ever there is a place to learn the fundamentals of fly-fishing, it is here! Lunch will be served today using locally caught Scottish seafood, from langoustines, and lobster to scallops, salmon, all washed down with a few drams of local whiskies - your guide is notorious for breaking out the drams!
Today will be a day you will both never forget, Scotland holds many treasures and secrets, and not many people are able to tap into these on such a private and exclusive basis. Enjoy and we look forward to hearing the stories!
Once back at Mallaig harbour you will take the short drive to the chopper before returning home for the evening. In the distance you will see the far off Hebridean islands as the sun starts to set.
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Day 6: Final Day - Falconry & Exploration
Today is your final morning in the beautiful surroundings of your exclusive-use lodge. Enjoy a heart Scottish breakfast overlooking the wild loch and imposing mountains before driving to Perth where you will be able to visit Scone Palace. Scone Palace is one of the most important places in Scotland history, being where all the Scottish Kings were crowned. Here you can marvel at the beautiful grounds, visit the palace itself and in the grounds, we have set up for you a private falconry display with one of Scotland's most experienced falconers.
Our falconry has bred birds for the Saudi Royal family, and is one of only a handful of people in Scotland who still hunts with his falcons, from horseback! Watch the birds fly, before each having a go at flying them youselves. Expert Hawks, Eagles and Owls of all breeds on this unique experience to savour.
For lunch today, we have booked you a table at Gleneagles Hotel & Golf Course, you will be able to pop into this world famous resort to savour lunch in it's imposing surroundings. If you wish to book at table at the Michelin starred Andrew Fairlie restaurant, please let your travel planner know in advance.
After lunch it will be time to head back to Glasgow Prestwick where we have arranged for you to be met at the airport by our team on the ground. Once here, you will be shown to the airport lounge area, hand in your Range Rover and board your return charter flight back to London Luton. We thank you for choosing to visit Scotland and hope that you've had your expectations exceeded on this magical itinerary.
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PRIVATE JET & HELICOPTER
Private Jet Flights (Return):
Our Embraer Phenom 300 will depart London Luton for Glasgow Prestwick and is offered on a return basis. This is a super light jet which will offer passengers generous cabin space, and a larger baggage hold accommodating approximately 8-medium soft sided bags.
This particular jet has seating for 8-passengers with a two seat divan opposite the door, a club four in the middle and two forward facing seats in the rear.
The Phenom 300 offers a light and airy cabin with contemporary fixtures and trim.
This is a brand new aircraft having only come into service last year and as such it is in immaculate condition and would be a particularly comfortable aircraft for the flights.
This aircraft is subject to the owners approval.
Private Helicopter Transfers:
High speed - with a cruise speed of 170mph (150+kts) there’s no faster way to get to your destination. Pair the speed of the AW109 with the ability to soar over the top of traffic jams or other delays, and the time you spend traveling will be truly minimal.
Plenty of room - these helicopters have room for six passengers, so we can easily transport a small party of you to your chosen destination.
All weather helicopters - the AgustaWestland AW 109 helicopters are able to fly in adverse weather conditions. Each of our pilots is also instrument rated, allowing them to fly at night as well as in poor weather. So, whatever the weather or time of day when you land, nothing will stand in the way of you getting to your destination.
Luxury - Sandgrouse Travel make it a priority to give you a truly personal charter service. On the flight to your special occasion, you and your party will feel very well taken care of. All of our helicopters are fitted with luxury seating, so you can be sure getting to your destination will be in the utmost comfort.
Safety - your safety is our main concern. All of our pilots have tens of thousands of hours of accident-free flight time between them so, you can feel safe in their hands. All crew members also go through a comprehensive training programme including annual tests on a full motion AgustaWestland AW 109SP simulator. Our helicopter charters meet or exceed all EASA regulatory requirements.
LAND ROVER HIRE SCOTLAND
Hire a Land Rover of your choice:
With Sandgrouse Travel & Expeditions your exclusive-use property comes with a complimentary Range Rover Vogue. However, much like the route of your Scottish trip can be tailored to fit your own requirements, so can the model of Land Rover.
In a Land Rover the act of journeying itself is as much a part of your adventure as the places you visit.
We are able to provide you with the choice of your very own Land Rover. Choose from a luxury Range Rover, Discovery, Discovery Sport or even a rugged Defender. Speak to your travel consultant today and discuss which of these luxurious vehicles would suit you most on your adventure around Scotland. Read our article from the Sandgrouse Traveller here: Luxury Scotland with a Land Rover.
ACCOMMODATION
GATE HOUSE WITH FAIRYTALE TOWER
Dalwhinnie Lodge provides up to eight guests with exclusive-use luxurious accommodation complete with stunning views.
Set in the heart of the Grampian Mountains and part of a private 67,000 acre estate, the lodge was built recently to a very high specification, combining the extravagance of the 19th century with the comforts of the 21st. Using local stone, the property looks as if it has been there since Queen Victoria visited the area.
Dalwhinnie Lodge combines the remoteness of the Scottish Highlands on the edge of the Cairngorms National park, with easy access to the rest of Scotland. The lodge is eight miles from the A9 (the main route through the Scottish Highlands - north to south).
With helicopter landing site nearby, the property is extremely well placed from which to explore the whole of Scotland with a Sandgrouse chopper. Visit the West Coast, Hebridean Islands and much more! Or simply strike out locally with your Land Rover (choose from any model, speak to your travel planner for more details on our complimentary Land Rovers).
N.B. Sleeps up to eight people across 2x King size bedroom with en suite bathrooms, as well as 2x Twin bedroom with en suite bathroom.
WHAT'S INCLUDED
What's Included:
London Luton Airport return private jet charter flights to Glasgow Prestwick Airport, VIP Meet & Greet on arrival airside, Sandgrouse Land Rover self-drive: Range Rover Vogue delivery to Glasgow Prestwick Airport inc in-built GPS, two named drivers on insurance and an 800-mile mile allowance, carefully planned suggested routing and supporting documents including stopping points, sites of interest, recommendations and more, luxury exclusive-use Highland lodge on private 67,000 acre Scottish Estate inclusive of catering (breakfasts and dinners - to your requirements - menus to be agreed prior to arrival), Towels and bed linen are provided (this may be duvets or blankets and sheets). The property is furnished and equipped to cater for the stated permitted occupancy and also includes pots and pans, crockery, cutlery, iron and ironing board. Guests staying in Dalwhinnie Lodge are welcome to fish on the 25-km long loch by the property, as well as Loch Rannoch from the bank (both lochs have a good wild stock of Brown trout - fishing rods can be hired at a small extra cost on site). Private charter AgustaWestland 109 helicopter scenic transfer flights (return) to the Island of Islay, and West Coast town of Mallaig, Private Islay Whisky Tour with Local Whisky expert and author of several whisky and food pairing books, visits to distilleries for private tasting sessions including Kilchoman Distillery with a private meet and tasting session with the founder of the distillery, Anthony Wills. Luxury luncheon provided on Islay with careful consideration to whisky pairing with your host, island history tour visiting sites of interest with guide including Viking and early Christian sites. Private Marine Safari with local expert skipper and ex-fisherman including visit to Isle of Rum with nature safari and Kinloch Castle visit. Luxury seafood-based luncheon included either aboard in motor yacht's galley or on a remote sandy beach in the sunshine with house white wine - local whisky samples available and included. Private traditional Pony-Picnic walk, using native Scottish Highland Ponies and local Pony-Man. Visit to Blair Castle and Gardens, Luxury lunch at The Old Manse of Blair restaurant, VIP Shopping Experience at The House of Bruar. Private Falconry Display with expert Scottish Falcon breeder and handler (or alternative option to visit Land Rover Experience Scotland for a three quarter day 4x4 adventure off road putting the latest Land Rover's through their paces). 24-hour on the ground assistance from your local Sandgrouse Travel & Expeditions representative and team via dedicated Whatsapp channel.
Price Per Person: £18,960 based on x4 adults sharing.
Call now on 01764 664 236 or alternatively email enquiries@sandgrousetravel.com.
Sandgrouse Travel & Expeditions is a luxury travel company based in Edinburgh, Scotland. We specalise in tailormade holidays to Scotland, Scandinavia and Africa and bring a wealth of first-hand experience to each of the bespoke trips we carefully create for our clients.
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