Sandgrouse Travel

COMING SOON: ULTION PRIVÉ

Jonny Stage — Thu, 04 Jul 2024 14:44:00 +0000

It is with great excitement and pride that we are able to announce the forthcoming introduction of our ULTION PRIVÉ experience. Unrivalled Scottish stalking journeys, including unique, off-market offerings accessible only to Sandgrouse Travel & Expeditions.

Via ULTION PRIVÉ, you and our VIP members from around the globe are granted priviledged access to the ultimate in Scottish adventure and landscape, combined with the very finest in luxury and attention to detail.

Absolutely unique, entirely bespoke and reassuringly exclusive.

To register your interest and to talk to a member of the team, please email: jonny@sandgrousetravel.com

Londolozi: A short Interview with ranger, Nick Tennick whilst at the Jewel of the Sabi Sands, South Africa

Sandgrouse Team — Sun, 03 Dec 2023 18:02:00 +0000

LONDOLOZI; A ZULU WORD MEANING, 'PROTECTOR OF ALL LIVING THINGS'

This is a genuine family-run safari business that has truly earned its high ranking stars and stripes over the years. This is a business that to this day is run with an enduring passion. A passion that is shared by all its staff members from top to bottom including wizard-like guides and rangers, who bring to life every aspect of your time in the bush, right down to the hard-working and personable service and front of house staff.

(Cover photo above left to right: Joy, our exceptional Shangaan tracker, Solveig from Sandgrouse Travel & Expeditions and Nick from Londolozi).

(Nick, working his magic, pointing out yet another exotic birding sighting for Sandgrouse Travel's Jonny, an avid amateur ornathologist - we always recommend our guests enjoy a safari by private game vehicle, this allows for them to not only enjoy game sightings uninterupted, and to go after exactly what they wish to focus on but also get the most out of their time with the guides and trackers).

Theirs is a shared passion, collectively in all things tackled, and this passion has set Londolozi aside from the plethora of competitors within the area, allowing the property to earn one of the most respected names in the industry.

(Londolozi; known to be the best place in the Sabi Sands area to see leopard, and the Sabi Sands is known to be the best place in Africa - put simply, there is no better place on earth to view leopards in the wild.)

(Savouring sunrise in the tranquility of the bush at Boyd Varty's sensational Londolozi in the Sabi Sands Private Game Reserve, South Africa).

AN ENDURING FAMILY LOVE AFFAIR WITH THE BEGUILING AFRICAN BUSH, THE MAJESTIC WILDLIFE THAT LIVES HERE AND BENEFITS TO BE SHARED WITH ALL

Being family run and remaining very much under the custodianship of those who are truly behind the original vision for the project as a whole, the revenues generated today, as clients from across the globe enjoying a luxury safari holiday, truly go back into the wider conservation project and ambitions. These include not only managing, maintaining and protecting a healthy ecosystem and wild habitat for the animals, but equally important perhaps, providing a real and thriving local community for staff members. Surplus revenue beyond that, clearly go into continually keeping the impeccable lodges up to date, allowing Londolozi to remain at the forefront of the industry.

YOUR SAFARI HAS THE POWER TO IMPROVE THE LIVES OF BOTH PEOPLE AND WILDLIFE OF THIS REGION

(The main lodge at Londolozi Founder's camp - during a Sandgrouse Travel & Expeditions stay).

We believe that the shared and collective passion here is something guests inadvertently pick-up whilst staying at Londolozi. If they so wish, they can in fact learn much more about the positive impact their own visit has by touring the back-of-house community on-site at Londolozi, this impressive back of house set-up includes a vast staff village, health clinic, educational facilities, school, mechanics garage for the fleet of Londolozi Landys, and of course and industrial kitchen producing sublime foods for the various lodges etc.

(The Londolozi consession is vast and is an area that remains teeming with truly magnificent African wildlife and game. Sandgrouse safari goers heading to Londolozi are in for a real treat.)

Besides the positive work being done both front and back of house at Londolozi, this particular high-end lodge has a unique history within the South African safari industry - in part due to the fact that Londolozi traces its roots back to 1926! A lineage like that is hard to replicate anywhere in the safari industry, across all of Africa.

(Sunset vibes at Londolozi in the Sabi Sands, South Africa - few things beat golden hour in the bush).

The lodge has always been a pioneer, so it's fitting there's a camp called Pioneers within the portfolio, and early on, the lodge was frequently visited by Nelson Mandela, during what were formative new beginnings of a post apartheid era nation. Here 'Madiba' as he was affectionately known, saw first hand how South Africa could collectively work together for a better outcome.

LONDOLOZI, REMAINS THE BEATING HEART OF THE SABI SANDS PRIVATE GAME RESERVE

Londolozi is situated in the very beating heart of the world famous Sabi Sands Private Game Reserve, on the south western corner of the Kruger National Park. The Sabi Sands has long had the reputation of being the best place in Africa to encounter leopards, this is true and each time we have visited we have never not seen leopards. That being said, the rangers, guides and trackers work hard to deliver. Londolozi, being at the very heart of the Sabi Sands, and having one of the largest concessions within the area, has a very high density of leopards. In part, due to the fact that the property has a long river frontage, it is here where the habitat is perfect for leopards, as well as various other key species which come to drink and benefit from the lush riverbank vegetation.

(Elephants come to cool off in the Sand River which flows right infront of the Londolozi logdes. Solveig watches as they pass right infront of her following the matriarch's lead).

Our most recent visit to Londolozi was, as we expected, exceptional. Our game viewing here was unparalleled, with the check-list being obliterated over the course of our 4-night stay. Not only where the big game and plains game sightings overwhelming, but the birding here along the Sands river was truly exceptional during mid-November. At this time of year, migratory species are returning to the area for the warm summer and our stay was marked by the call of the 'Woodlands Kingfisher' among many others.

(Reaching for the bird book - for Jonny from Sandgrouse, there's almost a constantly need to check the dazzling sightings seen, particularly in springtime and early summer when migratory birds return to Londolozi and the Sabi Sands.)

"The Varty's who own Londolozi, are huge enduring Land Rover fans - their love affair with this rugged vehicle goes back to the beginnings of their inception, much like our own. Any fans of this iconic British bushwhacker, are clearly kindred spirits of our own! The Londolozi Land Rover fleet is vast, and some of the vehicles are especially adpted to for photography - please speak to our team to discuss your requirements on booking. The management team at Londolozi are in the early stages of looking at having their fleet converted to hydrogen power, in the constant search for a carbon neutral footprint"

(Nick and Joy in their Land Rover, heading into the bush early one morning with the Sandgrouse Travel team. This particular morning, we were heading to one of the most special areas on the Londolozi concession, a dry riverbed where some of the areas oldest trees stand like ancient sentinels providing overwatch on the bush).

An short interview with Nick, our personal ranger and guide from Londolozi:

Nick Tennick works as one of the extraordinary wildlife rangers or guides at Londolozi, in partnership with Joy, his tracker. Together, the pair provide guests with an unforgettable safari viewing experience, both from the vehicles and on-foot with bush walks, should guests wish. Below, Solveig from the Sandgrouse Travel & Expeditions team, catches up with Nick asking him a few questions about what makes his job at Londolozi so special.

Solveig from Sandgrouse: Nick, we can't thank you and Joy enough for taking such good care of us in the bush on our recent 4-night visit to the incredible Londozlozi.

It was a huge pleasure for us to discover even a little of what has made Londolozi so very special since its inception in 1926. Your expertise and the time you and Joy both took to showcase the very best of the reserve, in the few days we had with you, was so illuminating and so appreciated, so thank you!

How long have you been working in the bush, Nick and what was it that hooked you on the bush!? Did you always know you wanted to be a ranger working outdoors with some of the most incredible animals on the planet?

Nick from Londolozi: It was an absolute pleasure having you guys stay with us at Londolozi and Joy and I really enjoyed showing you around beautiful Londolozi! From a young age I have always been very interested in wildlife and the protection of these special creatures, both big and small. It was a gap year in 2013 in Zimbabwe, where my passion to become a Game ranger was really fuelled.

(Sundowner drinks in the bush, a ritual not to be missed but savoured! Gin and Tonic seemed to be the order of this particularly hot evening in the early summer heat).

Solveig from Sandgrouse: It is amazing how experiences when we are young stay with us, and leave such lasting impressions and impacts - those days in the bush in Zim must have been incredible.

It sounds like the average length of time people work for Londolozi is really long - this surely is a reflection of how special it is to work at Londolozi. What makes living and working at Londolozi so special for you and your colleagues, Nick?

Nick from Londolozi: I have been working here for two years now. And its the special community and the sense of belonging that makes working at Londolozi so special. Regardless of your background, beliefs system and culture, people live in harmony out here and there truly is nowhere else like it. I am lucky to call Londolozi my home and I hope to do so for the foreseeable future.

(Londolozi takes African inspired interiors seriously - infusing modern and traditional seamlessly with an elegance that is hard convey in photos).

(Time spent alone with Elephants in the bush reminds us that we as humanbeings, belong to the earth, and that the earth is not ours to simply do as we wish with - we owe it to our spirit brothers and sisters in the animal kingdom to protect these incredible habitats and eco-systems).

Solveig from Sandgrouse: That's really nice to hear. I have been struck by how content all the team seem here - it really is as if one big famliy.

I know the wildlife is also off the charts good! It's one of the best places on the planet to have encounters with leopards, so I have to ask, do you have a favourite memory of an encounter with one of these majestic big cats?

Nick from Londolozi: Leopard encounters at Londolozi can be spectacular. I have many favourite leopards that roam the reserve and They have let Joy and I into their world on many different and unique occasions. One particular sighting that stands out is watching the Nhlanguleni female lead us back to her den about a year ago, where she had been keeping two Leopard cubs that were about 6 weeks old at the time. They were still suckling and could barely walk a few steps before stumbling around their mother. It was the first leopard cub I had seen and a sighting that will stick with me for a very long time.

Solveig from Sandgrouse: Encounters with leopards are so special - they are definitely one of my favourite animals in the bush to.

Reading between the lines, it sounds like you have an incredible year round sightings of all animals, but in your opinion, what is the best time of year to be in the Sabi Sands?

Nick from Londolozi: It largely depends on what your biggest interests are. I would say the winter months (May - August) are best for predator activity as the weather is a lot cooler. Birding is best in the summer time with all the migratory birds retuning to the southern hemisphere from September onwards. There are a lot of babies born at the beginning of December (Think of warthogs, Impala and Wildebeest) which is also a very exciting time of the year as predation increases over these few weeks towards Christmas and New Years.

Solveig from Sandgrouse: So there's something for everyone, at anytime of year really! So great to know, particularly with guests who might be limited to seasonal or school holidays.

You may remember, I love dung beetles, I find them utterly fascinating. This is I feel quite a niche interest! Is there a specialist interest of yours in the bush that really excites you? Some of your colleagues will be into creepy crawlies, colourful birds, wild grasses or trees, big cats, elephants etc... Have you a particular interest in the bush that tops it all for you, Nick?

Nick from Londolozi: Wild Dogs and Birding are my top interests!

Solveig from Sandgrouse: Wild Dogs are so cool, we were lucky enough to track a smaller pack last year at dusk, they move like ghosts but at such a constant rate! It is an experience I cheerish.

What is it do you think, about the bush that makes it such an intoxicating place to visit, and keep visiting for safari goers? And is that the same thing that led you to live and work in the bush?

Nick from Londolozi: The natural beauty of the bush and the unique opportunity to witness diverse ecosystems and wild animals in their natural habitat is breath taking. It truly is a once in a life time opportunity because every single day is different in the bush. No two game drives are the same, even for me doing this day in day out, and that what I think makes it special. The excitement, the anticipation as well as the beauty.

Solveig from Sandgrouse: It's so great to hear that, and that even doing this day in day out as guide and ranger, the magic and allure of the African bush remains, growing if anything rather than dimming.

Nick, thank you for taking the time to answer a few of our questions, it really was a privilage for us to be welcomed into your 'office' with you and Joy on the game vehicle. Its very kind of you to take the time to follow up with us with this short interview. We look forward to following the Londolozi Blog (linked), and particularly reading your entries documenting the most interesting sightings and encounters.

Sandgrouse Namesake; three species of Sandgrouse in a Birding Paradise

Sandgrouse Team — Wed, 29 Nov 2023 10:51:00 +0000

(Above: Jonny from Sandgrouse Travel together with Opie, the Bushman tracker, guide and field ranger from Derek & Beverly Joubert's 'Great Plains Conservation' in the Okavango Delta, Botswana.)

On a Sandgrouse mission across Southern Africa

The premise of this particular operation was to find, photograph and study Sandgrouse in their native heartlands across southern Africa. However, this was in fact only a silver-lining to the true call of this trip to Africa.

Solveig and Jonny from Sandgrouse Travel & Expeditions recently spent one month journeying around Southern Africa, on a epic mission continuing to reconnoiter the very best lodges and camps for our retained Sandgrouse clients and VIPs. In fact during this time, Sandgrouse Travel & Expeditions had retained U.S. VIP clients simultaneously out in Africa, enjoying the magic of the African bush on what was their very first high-end African safari. Of course these guests were blown away by the unparalleled levels of excellence and local hospitality that one experiences at Africa's most revered names in the industry. Camps and lodges that we know personally, and recommend with confidence when we plan our tailormade luxury safaris. Africa at the top end is hard to match! Naturally the U.S. guests are already planning their return - East Africa next.

Whilst Jonny and Solveig were on their travels, encounters with wild animals in the bush reigned supreme, as an on-going almost daily theme, safaris by all means and modes of transport were savoured. One particular (too close for comfort) encounter with a highly aggressive male leopard in his prime stands out in Jonny's mind, but that story will be for another day.

Taking things a little further (as one inevitably finds oneself doing as a serial safari goer), and in-line with Jonny's personal interest in birding or ornithology, Jonny made sure he had the opportunity of a lifetime. An opportunity afforded by the luxury of private guides, rangers and trackers dediating their time to Jonny's viewing desires.

One morning in the Okavango Delta, Botswana, together with his personal Bushman guide, Jonny headed out to locate, photograph and document the habits of Sandgrouse, the company's namesake. This is a bird that is truly special, a bird that means so much in the successful story of Sandgrouse Travel & Expeditions and one that captivates those who fall under its evocative spell, be it bird-hunter, ornithologist or general nature lover.

"Sandgrouse have developed to transport water in body feathers from a water source back to the nest to water their chicks"

(Double-Banded Sandgrouse near the Selinda Spillway, Selinda and Jarafa Camps, Great Plains Conservation. Photographed by Jonny, Sandgrouse Travel & Expeditions).

The double-banded sandgrouse is found in Angola, Botswana, Malawi, Mozambique, Namibia, South Africa, Zambia and Zimbabwe. It is less common than Burchell's sandgrouse (Pterocles burchelli) and Namaqua sandgrouse

Go Private for flexiblity and ulitmate freedom

How was Jonny able to specifically go after targeting one species in Africa, without ruffling too many feathers? The answer is simple, a private safari. Private safaris allow for our clients to tap into areas of interest in the bush that are specific to them. Our trips to the Delta in Botswana allow guests the luxury of their own private game vehicle, tracker and ranger.

(Lesh, guide and tracker extraordinaire! Sandgrouse heading out armed with Zeiss Victory binoculars on the hunt for the most interesting of wildlife encounters whilst at the impeccable Duba Plains Camp, part of the Great Plains Conservation set-up in the Okavango Delta, Botswana).

Having time alone with these experts who live and breathe the bush means that our clients can drill down into the most interesting aspects of wildlife, nature and local traditions. This means you can focus on the things you want to see, without distraction. Private safaris mean dedicating as much time to locating and viewing the aspects of the bush that appeal the most to you and your family. At Great Plains Conservation, it is not uncommon for guests to head out on safari, and not return until sunset, taking breakfast, lunch and dinner in the bush - before sundowners to close proceedings. This often happens if the action is simply too good to leave - and it often is in the Okavango Delta!

(Time well spent, Jonny at dawn with a family of elephants in the African bush - few experiences on earth can be better).

In the cover photo, Jonny is seen with Opie, a ranger and tracker and native Bushman, who has worked at Great Plains Conservation for 6-years, throughout this time, he has been in one specific area, the Selinda Spillway. This has allowed him to learn this area like the back of his hand. He is by nature, at one with the bush, having learned from his Grandfather and father, traditional Bushman skills such as tracking, fire lighting, hunting (by bow and arrow) and much more. Heading into the bush with someone who is so at home in the bush, is a gift in itself.

(The Burchell's Sandgrouse photographed by Jonny from our team in the currently dry, Selinda Spillway, north east of the Okavango Delta proper, Botswana.)

An adaptation that adult Burchell's sandgrouse have developed is the transport of water in body feathers from a water source back to the nest to water their chicks. Upon arriving at a water source, adult Burchell's sandgrouse first rub their bellies on dry ground to ruffle up their belly feathers, increasing the amount of water the feathers can hold. They then wade into the water and bob up and down on a horizontal axis to soak up the water in their belly feathers. Males have been observed to hold an average of 22 ml of water, while females can carry an average of 9 ml. Once the water is gathered, Burchell's sandgrouse fly back to the nest and allow their chicks to drink water from their belly feathers.

Opie and many his colleagues at the higher echelons of safari guiding, are true experts who live and breathe their work and their environment. To the uninitiated they are magicians! It' is quite remarkable how they are so attune to the bush, the spoor, various calls, signs and tracks.

Thanks to Opie, Jonny was able to track down two species of Sandgrouse in the Selinda Spillway area, both the Burchell's and the Double-Banded. These two species of the bird would have otherwise remained unseen if it were not for the sharp eyes of Opie scanning the ground from left to right as they rumbled through the bush. Open-sided, specially adapted 4.3 litre Toyota Land Cruiser vehicles with ample space, cubby boxes and mounting solutions provide the perfect platform for game viewing and photography. The Double-Banded Sandgrouse seem hyper aware however, and do not allow vehicles too close. They are more easy to spot and view at dusk when they return to watering holes to drink, or gather water in their feathers to take back to the chicks. However, heading out by day, to try and find these masters of camouflage on the deck is another task entirely. Much like Ptarmigan in the Scottish Highlands, they look like stones or boulders on the ground, however take flight far more readily, perhaps a result of various threats in the African bush.

With the mission brief given to Opie, the challenge was on!

Jonny usually prefers walking safaris, opting to travel through the bush on foot allows an immersive experience with the opportunity to view aspects of the bush that can be overlooked from the game vehicle where one is arguably more detached. This being one of the last days in Africa, Jonny and Opie opted for the Land Cruiser and departed camp at first light, prior to the sun rising. They headed out in the cooler temperatures which was a treat for later on in the day, the temperature rose rapidly to around 45'C. The hard work and dedication to the dream paid off with encounters of both the Double-Banded and Burchell's Sandgrouse. The birds blending in impeccably with their arid habitats - masters of camouflage these guys reluctantly each put to the wing and moved on to quieter corners of the bush, but not before Jonny was able to capture them on the fabulous Canon telephoto lense camera, supplied on a complimentary basis by the camp.

(Dawn in the Delta; there can be no better way to experience the delta than by mokoro canoe. The traditional mode of transport in this area allowace unfetted access to prestine nature. Simply glide through the natural world, floating on a bed of silence but for the perennial soundtrack of the delta).

(Sandgrouse guests arrive by private light aircraft charter into the Delta, Botswana).

(The Okavango Delta in Botswana is truly an ornthologist's paradise, here the bird species check-list is smashed!).

(The Namaqua Sandgrouse seen once again, mostly in pairs. Jonny & Solveig were afforded the luxury of seeing these incredible rare Sandgrouse whilst in Namibia travelling through vast areas of desert).

Elsewhere on this African odyssey, Jonny and Solveig were able to see the localised Namaqua Sandgrouse in the remote desert landscape of Namibia. As evening decended on a long 11-hour drive through the desert from Sossessvlei back to Windhoek, several pairs of these beautiful birds were seen in the dirt road, reluctantly taking flight as the Sandgrouse Travel & Expeditions Toyota Hilux rumbled close by. Seeing these pairs to flight, and their beautiful winged plumage was a sight that will stay with both Jonny and Solveig for many years to come.

The Namaqua sandgrouse can be found in various arid parts of South Africa and its neighbouring lands. It is common in the Kalahari Desert, the Nama Karoo (in central and western South Africa), and in parts of the Western Cape. In addition, it is also found in Namibia (especially in the Namib Desert), Zimbabwe, Botswana and Angola.

It favours deserts and other arid areas. In order to survive, this bird needs only seeds, some gravel, and easy access to some sort of fresh water source. Their habitat usually has rough vegetation and tussock-type grasses.

If you are thinking about planning a birding trip to Southern Africa, speak to our team today. Please drop either enquiries@sandgrousetravel.com, or jonny@sandgrousetravel.com an email. We are able to tailor your private safari to your specific requirements, catering for you and your group with the utmost attention to detail thus ensuring the most memorable and magical safari experience possible.

The newest and most eco-friendly expedition ship in the Arctic

Jonny Stage — Tue, 28 Nov 2023 17:00:00 +0000

MOST ECO-FRIENDLY SHIP IN THE ARCTIC WITH SANDGROUSE TRAVEL & EXPEDITIONS

We are thrilled to announce that we are now working with the newest and most eco-friendly expedition ship in the Arctic, offering Sandgrouse Travel & Expeditions clients the chance to cruise both the Svalbard archipelago and Greenland's east coast, in true comfort!

Luxurious cabins, spacious, bright and airy communal areas as well as a open to all viewing bridge, not to mention an on deck hot-tub and sauna, the MV Vikingfjord is a Sandgrouse private charter not to be missed.

WHAT WE LOVE ABOUT VIKINGFJORD

The most environmentally friendly small ship in the polar regions with a 95% reduction in NOX emissions.
Large, observation lounge located at the stern with side and rear facing windows to enjoy the view.
8 Spacious cabins with modern decor, comfortable beds and ensuite bathrooms with a choice between doubles, twins or singles.
Enjoy a sauna or outdoor hot tub on the upper deck.
Lounge area on the bridge with a great view.
Ice strengthened hull with 1C rating for exploring the polar regions.

MV VIKINGFJORD KEY FEATURES

New energy efficient engine and NOX cleaning fitted in 2023 offering the best environmental credentials.
Rebuilt from the ground up in 2023 as a modern expedition vessel offering cruise ship comfort.
Accommodates 12 guests in 8 ensuite cabins with windows that are all situated above the waterline.
Modern interior finished to a high standard in 2023.
Equipped with 2 x Zodiac landing crafts for shore landings
Fully staffed with experienced captain, crew and expedition leaders.

HIGHLIGHTS TO EXPECT ABOARD VIKINGFJORD

The Observation Lounge

A unique L shaped observation lounge situated on the stern on deck 2 with large windows offering fantastic views all around.
Comfortable sofas, a table and chairs and bench seating for all guests to sit and enjoy the polar scenery in the warm.
Mini bar and coffee machine.
TV for presentations.

The Restaurant

Located on deck 1 the restaurant offers comfortable seating for 12 guests across 3 tables with relaxed bench style seating and a modern, light Scandinavian interior.
Enjoy freshly prepared meals by our onboard chef.
Windows to enjoy the view on both sides.
A TV for presentations.

The stated above, MV Vikingfjord underwent a complete refurb and refit in 2023, and is now back in the waters in pristine condition, perfect for Sandgrous Travel & Expeditions guests and VIPs.

On Deck

Equipped with 2 Zodiacs that are used daily for exploring with our Expedition Team.
On deck Hot Tub and Sauna where you can enjoy the far reaching view from deck 3.
Multiple viewing areas located on the bow, the rear deck and on the top of deck 3.
A large mud room with on deck access for boot and gear storage.

The Bridge Lounge

Large open plan guest area with lounge, dining and seating area located at the stern. Equipped with TV for presentations, mini bar and hot drink service.
Observation lounge area with seating area on the bridge.
Spacious cabins with ensuite toilet and shower.
Large mudroom and storage spaces for skis, and equipment.

(There's even an on-deck sauna and hot-tub for the true Scandinavian experience!)

With only 12-passengers on any one cruise or charter, the vessel retains an intimacy that allows guests to take the best from their Polar cruise. We encourage our guests to charter MV Vikingfjord on an exclusive-use basis, always accompanied or hosted by a Sandgrouse team members as well as expert local guides and Polar explorers whom we know and work with often.

Activities include an array of on-shore explorations and forays via x2 zodiac landing craft or tenders, expect to be walking on glaciers, hiking unclimbed or unamed mountain peaks, wandering desolate Polar beaches, discover whale skeletons feated upon by Polar bears, watch Walrus, Svalbard Reindeer, Arctic Fox and incredible seabirds colonies. Visit sites of cultural importance from local Inuit communities, to abandonned mining or whaling stations.

Our Polar cruises aboard MV Vikingfjord offer the photographer a dream expedition - the polar light, lingering on for 24 hours, casts magnificent hues of pink, blue and orange, in direct contrast to the white and black of the mountain landscapes and the deep inky blues of the deep, dark and cold sea.

Sandgrouse Travel & Expeditions clients can join frequent shore landings via two zodiac boats, on shore they are guided by Polar expedition leaders who are experts in their specialist fields, from birding and wildlife, to geology and history.

To keep the ship's eco-footprint as minimal as possible, a fuel-efficient engine with Nitrogen Oxide (NOX) cleaning has been fitted to reduce emissions by 95%. Overall, with fewer vibrations and less harm to wildlife this is now one of the most . Once available, MV Vikingfjord can also burn biodiesel instead of Marine Gas Oil.

The ship will feature an ice-strengthened hull with a 1B rating, allowing the ship to get up close to landscapes and wildlife with minimal disruption.

Andy Marsh, one of the ships co-owners, says "We're thrilled to introduce MV Vikingfjord to our fleet, which will further enable our guests to explore the polar regions in an environmentally conscious way without compromising on experience or adventure."

"It was essential for us that Vikingfjord was as sustainable as a ship can be at present, and being upcycled, we can minimize the enormous environmental impact often not taken into account when building a new ship from scratch."

"Vikingfjord has also been designed with inclusivity, catering to all, from experienced explorers to first-time adventurers."

"We believe that by experiencing the incredible beauty of this region, we can inspire our guests to become ambassadors for the protection of the environment" he adds.

From April 2024, Sandgrouse Travel & Expditions adventurers and wildlife enthusiasts can embark on an expedition to Svalbard onboard MV Vikingfjord with 9-15 day photography and expedition tours encountering polar bears, walruses, whales, and up to 2,000 glaciers.

Later in August 2024, MV Vikingfjord will set sail to Greenland as one of the least populated places on the planet with towering icebergs, uninhabited fjords, Northern Lights, sheer granite peaks, and fast-moving glaciers where passengers can delve into the life of the remote Ittoqqortoormiit community.

Join us on our private charter cruise ship for a Polar adventure of a lifetime! Email jonny@sandgrousetravel.com to start planning something very special indeed.

James Bond 007 Adventure: Fully Loaded Espionage Experience has arrived, 'Shaken, not Stirred'

Sandgrouse Team — Sat, 13 May 2023 13:35:00 +0000

A James Bond Inspired Adventure, Like No Other. This is a complete off-market Scottish Highlands experience in the true spirit of '007'.

Celebrating 70-years of our favourite spy

Our 'Dossier for M' Bond experience, is unique. This particularly special Bond-inspired adventure provides our clients with an unmatched high-octane Scottish Highlands experience. With use of approximately 650,000-acres of private Scottish estates the stage is set for your thrilling double 'o' adventure.

iPhone / Android friendly link: A James Bond Adventure

The mission involves a realistic and fun storyline woven into an action-packed itinerary. Participants work with 'ex forces' operators who provide a highly authentic field of operations.

Expect to try your hand at varied aspects of espionage 'training' that would other-wise be reserved for the murky world of real life 'Bonds'; demolitions, safe-cracking, long range sniper ranges and even getting to grips with firearms platforms across the ages - including WW2 Sten guns and .303 bolt action rifles to modern MP5 sub-machine guns and much more.

Return private jet flights included from your city start point around the world, a seaplane flight to the Scottish Highlands, multiple twin-engine AW109 helicopter infils / exfils to top secret locations, demolitions and firearms experience with 'ex forces' operators, sniper rifle firing on long range targets, military grade special ops RIB boat transfers with 'ex forces' operators at the helm, Aston Martin drive through Glen Coe & Glen Etive, stays at remote off-market Highland castles (as well as an inaccessible Bond villain lair) located in some of Britain's most rugged landscapes, this trip is action packed. See below for a full 'What's Included' overview.

Bond's True Highland Heritage

We are firm believers that the true spirit of the world's most famous espionage character resides here in the rugged Scottish Highlands. The movie 'Skyfall' clearly explains to us the back story to Ian Fleming's world-famous character. Put simply, Bond is rooted in the Scottish Highlands, this is his home.

Today we offer the best possible opportunity on the market to live out a real life Bond adventure in Scotland. Participants will be walking in the footsteps of both the fictional Bond character, but also the real-life Ian Fleming himself, who spent large parts of his life in Scotland. Ian Fleming would spend summers in Scotland with his family and friends on the Fleming family Highland sporting estate, and of course during his time in the military, working with the British Armed Forces fledgling Commando units & Special Operations Executives.

("Send it!" - Firearms, demolitions, safe-cracking, plastics explosives and lots of hardware await!).

Now there is the very real chance for our VVIP clients to experience a one-of-a-kind 'James Bond' style rush. We are confident that there is nothing else like this on the open market for the adventure loving 'Commander Bond' fan. In fact, we would go as far as to say, we are pretty sure that if the 'Bond' curator himself, Ian Fleming were alive today, that he would want to do this incredible trip.

(Skyfall, in Scotland. The home of James Bond fictional and real - with Ian Fleming's connections to Scotland running deep).

Location: Scottish Highlands

At Sandgrouse Travel & Expeditions we are very fortunate to have unprecedented access to much of Scotland's most wild and remote locations - private lands and vast Highland estates where we can orchestrate incredible experiences.

The unique 'Dossier for M' experience is part of our carefully curated series of global adventures. Destinations include Scotland, Norway's Lofoten Islands, Arctic Sweden and South Africa.

'Dossier for M'

'Dossier for M' derives from Ian Fleming's first Bond novel, 'Casino Royale'. Casino Royale was the book that launched James Bond into the public psyche in the 1950's. The original story's allure endures to this day, a global phenomenom was born in 1953. We have all seen the subsequent 25 high-impact films with various encarnations of the 007 agent. We look forward to future iterations, and glimpes into the dapper Brit character's high-stakes world.

(Arrivals into the UK by our specially chartered 'Bond' private jet - the private jet will be used for your final return journey too).

This adventure is for those seeking out the true spirit of the world's most famous espionage character, combining off-market access to Scotland's most extraordinary estates, castles, properties, experiences and of course, Bond transport.

Participants are each issued an Omega Seamaster 'Bond Edition' and a Royal Navy issue Wooly Pully for good measure

(Participants are issued with a very special keepsake from their experience).

(Flying over the rugged fjord-like landscapes of the West Coast of Scotland to a would-be MI6 Headquarters).

"The proper function of man is to live, not to exist. I shall not waste my days in trying to prolong them. I shall use my time." - M

(Sandgrouse twin-engine AW109 helicopters, 'Blackgrouse', are used throughout the experience in Scotland, with relocations to some of the most remote and incredible accommodation and locations in Scotland).

The Mission Brief

Our James Bond inspired experience is either a 5-night (with London's Langham Hotel included) or solely 3-night Scottish Highlands mission that is all action-packed. If you so choose to add the optional extra of two nights at The Langham in London - one of Bond's favourite London addresses, expect to use your time here wisely.

This addition includes pre-arranged tailoring appointments at Huntsman Saville Row (for your Bond inspired Evening Wear), Walker Slater Covent Garden (Gentlemen's country suits) and of course, dinner reservations at Rules Restaurant - the oldest restaurant in London, serving up the finiest Game food to be found anywhere in the UK.

Once kitted out with your Bond-style attire, including your beautiful Omega Seamaster 'Bond Edition' wristwatch and let's not forget, a 'Bond' Royal Navy issue woolly pully, participants are soon set to be 'deployed'.

The following morning, flying direct by seaplane from London City Airport you will head north up to a top secret private castle in the Scottish Highlands. The seaplane touches down on the remote waters by one of the world's most impressive private castles. Here the on-site team awaits and the serious fun starts.

On arriving 'in the field', you will find yourself in the thick of it. Watching your seaplane take off from the loch and disappear over the horizon of the nearby mountains, it will now be time to take stock of your new rugged surroundings and get down to Bond business.

Anything is possible - we can even tandem parachute you in to the DZ.

(The Langham in London, provides the perfect 'Bond' residense whilst in the UK's capital city).

Your orders given, a plan hatched, your one-of-a-kind chase across the Scottish Highlands has just begun.

The following days see you living out some of the most thrilling adventures on offer in the UK. This is an itinerary that is unique within the travel industry for a host of reasons - a complete Bond travel package that includes some of the most exhilerating experiences.

(London City Airport to Scotland by our 'MI6' Seaplane. Our float plane drops participants right into the thick of it, landing at either the training ground, castle or private island accommodation, lochside!).
(Boys toys, reign supreme throughout this high-octane adventure).

We use some of the coolest gadgetry and 'boy's toys' our there. Supercars, Land Rovers, seaplanes, helicopters, private jets, military fast boats and hardware, as well as weapons testing ranges and much more. Our trips involve participation of "ex forces" operators who are the very best at what they do.

Elements of all of the above are to be savoured on the 'Dossier for M' experience, but guests also enjoy an array of unique Scottish Highland accommodation. Within your itinerary are properties that are totally private, off-market and reserved for the world's most secretive and elite circles.

(Military spec RIBs transport participants around the rugged West Coast of Scotland at up to 60 knots, with 'ex forces' helmsmen in their old stomping grounds).

Fully Loaded Travel

Return private jet flights included from your city start point around the world, a seaplane flight to the Scottish Highlands, multiple twin-engine AW109 helicopter infils / exfils to secret locations, military grade special ops RIB boat transfers with 'ex forces' operators at the helm, Aston Martin drive through Glen Coe & Glen Etive, stays at remote off-market Highland castles (as well as an inaccessible Bond villain lair) located in some of Britain's most rugged landscapes, this trip is action packed.

(Weapons System Demo: Bond fans will know the MP5 (German: Maschinenpistole 5), an iconic 9mm submachine gun, developed in the 1960s by a team of engineers from the German small arms manufacturer Heckler & Koch GmbH. Variants of the firearm have seen widespread usage in the official James Bond franchise from 1987's 'The Living Daylights' onward.)

(Demolitions experiences that leave an impression! Working with 'ex forces' experts, expect to be wow'd with some awe-inspiring detonations).

Secretive Castles, Private Lodges & Hideouts

All off-market, luxury private castles, lodges and Bond-villain lairs are unique to the trip and we are the sole operators with access to these one of a kind proeprties. Our accommodation is not available on the open market.

We have specifically curated the 'Dossier for M' experience to be centred around some of the most extraordinary private properties and residences in Europe. Places that are reserved for only the few.

(Private castles, estates and lodge hideouts - our itineraries are litered with unique off-market properties that fit the 'Bond' narrative).

These are private homes that few people on earth have had the opportunity to enjoy, rest assured they each have their own characteristics, playing their roles within the experience beautifully. From castles with helicopter hangers built into mountain-sides, to isolated lodges on the shoreline accessed by boat only with private moorings.

(Heli convoys to secretive Scottish island locations - discover private island hideaways, the real life Bond villain's lair).

Top Secret Filming Locations

Participants will be experiencing both inspired and real life film locations, working with expert teams and getting to grips with all the expected toys and gadgetry straight from the development labs.

There is of course, a visit to Glen Etive, which features so strongly in 'Skyfall' with Daniel Craig and Judy Dench as 'Bond and M'. We have arranged a photoshoot whilst here, with one of Bond's Aston Martins.

(Land Rover Convoys in the wheeltracks of the film crew from 'No Time To Die' - off market visits to filming locations and sites in the most remote areas of the wild Scottish Highlands).

(Enjoy unrestricted access to one of the UK's largest private ranges within this unique Scottish Highlands James Bond inspired adventure).

(Some of the UK's most unbelieveable homes and properties are carefully woven into the storyline. Access via helicopter or boat only of course).

There is a host of extraordinary reasons that this short sharp adventure packs a knock-out punch.

What's Included?

Private Jet flights from anywhere in the world (to London, Return from Scotland).
2 Nights Accommodation at The Langham Hotel London.
3 Nights Accommodation at Private Off-Market Scottish Castle.
Private Huntsman Saville Row & Walker Slater Covent Garden tux and suit fittings.
Provision of Royal Navy issue 'Commander Bond' Navy Blue Woolly-Pully jumper.
Mulitiple Twin-Engine Helicopter Flights.
Seaplane Flight London City Airport to Scottish Highlands.
Jaguar Land Rover 'Defender' Convoys with Drivers.
x2 Commemorative OMEGA Seamaster Diver 300m 007 Edition Titanium Automatic Men's Watches.
Use of approx up to 650,000 acres of private Scottish estates.
Sole Use of one of Scotland largest, private West Coast Islands.
Off-market Luxury Villa / 'the Villain's Highland Lair' accessible by boat or helicopter only.
Marine transfers with Military spec assault RIB.
Long sniper rifle range - target shooting & tuition.
Demolitions and explosives experience on private MOD approved weapons testing range.
Clay-pigeon shoot in disused Quarry.
Aston Martin V8 Vantage in Glen Etive photoshoot with professional photographers & lunch.
Castle Black-Tie dinner.
x1 Macallan 'Bond Edition' whisky bottle each participant.
Brimoncourt French Champagne supplied throughout.
Top private chef & catering throughout.
Wilderness lunches with top UK specialist outdoor chef.
Videographry Team creating a film of your trip.
24-hour Security Officers on-site at all properties.
24-hour on the ground Sandgrouse Travel support team.

(Of course, our Bond adventure features James Bond's iconic Aston Martin. There is even a photoshoot op in Glen Etive to capture the essence of this unforgettable adventure).

Pricing

Personalised pricing on application based on highly bespoke, tailor-made experience.

Please get in touch to learn more about this one of a kind James Bond adventure, how we can tailor the experience to your preferences and interest.

Email requests to: enquiries@sandgrousetravel.com or call +44 773600 4305 and leave a message with Moneypenny...

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, the Arctic and Africa and bring a wealth of first-hand experience to each of the bespoke trips we carefully create for our clients.

V8 Defender 'Islay Edition' by Jaguar Land Rover Classic Works

Sandgrouse Team — Fri, 05 May 2023 12:07:00 +0000

Introducing the latest offering from JLR Classic. The V8 Defender 'Islay Edition'. Pricing is £276k (including VAT) for a Defender 90 and £294k (Including VAT) for the 110.

With a £5k payment to secure an allocation followed by 40% deposit and the rest on completion, timings for these dream machines are looking to be first ¼ of 2024.

JLR Classic are working on only 30 of these stunning looking 'Islay Edition' Land Rovers. What are you waiting for?

The V8 Defender 'Islay Edition'

Collaborating with our friends at Kilchoman Distillery

Crossing the Arctic Circle - A 650km Snowmobile Expedition into the heart of Lapland with VetRun180, UK based Military Charity

Jonny Stage — Tue, 15 Mar 2022 11:29:00 +0000

In late February of 2022 the world looked to be well on course to rapidly opening up post the Covid-19 pandemic. Suddenly travel dreams were once more obtainable desires and no longer mere pipedreams. For almost two years our dreams had lain on the backburner as a “one day when the world is back to normal” fantasy.

And so it was that the fantastic military charity VetRun180 re-approached Sandgrouse Travel & Expeditions with a view to planning a new adventure. This time however, we would be travelling further afield then Scotland’s majestic Scottish Highlands - the charity was honing in on the frozen north of Scandinavia, Lapland to be precise!

"These remarkable expeditions allow participants to switch into an alternative world for a few very special days, the norms of day to day life back home for all of us are forgotten and life is simplified to what is really important. On these trips the guys are thrown together, and preconceptions seem to fall away, left behind in the real world. Time and again, seamlessly and quickly the groups find a unique rhythm that is comforting and familiar for all to be within" - Jonny Stage, founder of Sandgrouse Travel & Expeditions

With the world being in near complete lockdown for leisure travel since early 2020, for us at Sandgrouse, it was a dream come true to be able to help support the charity and plan an extraordinary overseas trip for a new group of medically discharged veterans. We jumped right to it in typical fast reaction fashion and started brainstorming ideas to match and hopefully exceed what we had previously created for the charity here in Scotland. The result was inevitably a trip of a lifetime for the group. Ditching Land Rovers for ski-doos or snowmobiles, an adventure of epic proportions beckoned. The trip that unfolded took the guys on a 650km, 100-hour adventure into the wilderness of Swedish Lapland, with an ultimate goal of crossing the Arctic Circle and living off-grid for 5 consecutive days.

Our trip started in Lulea, the small town capital of Swedish Lapland, located in North East Sweden on the Bothnian Sea, a part of the wider Baltic Sea. This area of Sweden is extremely cold during the long winter months, so much so that the brackish waters of the Gulf of Bothnia around and east of Lulea are frozen solid. This ice forms a vast area of pack-ice that is unlike anything south of the true Arctic. To experience anything comparable to it you would have to visit waters much much further north, nearer the pole itself.

Our group of x8 Iraq & Afghan veterans from VetRun180, plus Sandgrouse team members and expert local guides, embarked from Lulea on individual ski-doos or snowmobiles! We travelled across the pack ice north to the head of the Råne river valley. Here we would follow the river north west into the frozen and increasingly sparsely populated area of Norrbottens. The Råne river valley route is mirrored by an ancient iron ore trail north into the interior of Lapland; in centuries gone by, Saami herders were paid to bring out the iron ore extracts by reindeer sled to the coast from deep within the interior - loosely speaking we would be following this very route all the way up to the official Arctic Circle for the next few days, before returning south back to civilisation.

"This was a group of guys who until they rocked up at the airport in London a few days prior, had for all intents and purposes never met one another before, yet here we were in the heart of Lapland, as if long lost pals."

The journey was for all involved from the charity, a baptism of fire, but with our expert guides and a proven route across the wilderness - regular stops lead us each day deeper into the wilderness. Our first two nights on traill saw us sleeping in rustic log cabins, one of these incredible camps being owned by a true Saami reindeer herder. An authentic experience lay in wait for the group, sleeping in wooden huts lined with reindeer furs and heated by an open fire pit. This amazing camp turned out to be not only memorable due to the rustic cabins and remote setting on a frozen lake, but whilst we were there we were blessed with what many locals said was the most impressive Aurora Borealis (Northern Lights) display of the 21/22 winter season! The sky literally danced for us - vivid luminous greens, fluorescent pinks, rolling waves and starburst explosions above our heads as solar charged particles thousands of miles above the earth collided with our hospitable atmosphere! In Scotland we know of this phenomenon as “the merry dancer”, it's not hard to see why in Scandinavia these displays held so much sway in folklore and mythology. The Norse Gods of old were smiling on our group, we are quite sure of this!

Travelling on, the next few days would test the group with challenging riding on the snowmobiles. The group would head across varying terrain, differing snow and weather conditions and of course battle with the inevitable fatigue of such a testing trip. Due to an indomitable group spirit and our exceptional local guides, who continually plied us with local delicacies such as reindeer sausage and lingonberry jam, the group never missed a beat!

Northern Lights aside, the true phenomenon of this expedition was how well an immediate and solid bond was formed amongst the group. This was a group of guys who until they rocked up at the airport in London a few days prior, had for all intents and purposes never met one another before, yet here we were in the heart of Lapland, as if long lost pals.

All of us experienced new and exciting bucket-list wonders that will be carried within our hearts and minds for many years to come - but I am still amazed by the friendships and bonds formed on these short trips! That’s the beauty of the VetRun180 expeditions, the ethos of the trips is of course “adventure therapy’ and the motto of the charity is ‘If it doesn’t challenge you, it won’t change you’ - these are undoubtedly powerful and poignant sentiments, but there’s something more to these brilliant trips and expeditions by VetRun180. Something very special that I find can’t truly be explained in a catch phrase. These remarkable expeditions allow participants to switch into an alternative world for a few very special days, the norms of day to day life back home for all of us are forgotten and life is simplified to what is really important. On these trips the guys are thrown together, and preconceptions seem to fall away, left behind in the real world. Time and again, seamlessly and quickly the groups find a unique rhythm that is comforting and familiar for all to be within. Being away from normality and experiencing often new and incredible things allows for personal growth and reflection too. It is also the best chance to find new friends and if you wish, open up to others who understand you. I feel very privileged to have been able to be involved with all the groups we have worked with from VetRun180 - and the friendships and memories from this latest trip to Lapland will, like the others here in Scotland, stay with me forever.

Special thanks to Snugpak - for providing the group with their exceptional cold weather kit. These items of clothing kept the guys amazingly warm throughout their time in the Arctic and proved reliable and rugged. We used the Tomahawk jackets as well as insulated pants/trousers which formed the basis of our outerwear. Rated down to around -15 to -20 the kit kept everyone warm even when static on a snowmobile zooming along at 80kph across the pack ice!

I would also like to thank our local partners and guides, who really brought to life the area and trip. They captured the magic of where we were, personified the true spirit of hospitality and good will, changing what would have been a great expedition into a truly extraordinary expedition! Thomas, Michael, Issak, Jonas and Fredrik - thank you from us all!

A Luxury New Year's Eve in Lapland

Sandgrouse Team — Sat, 26 Feb 2022 13:08:00 +0000

New Year's Eve is unforgettable. Even more if you are lucky enough to spend it in Lapland, where the winter is always white, peaceful, and filled with the magic of the polar night. Snowfall and safety. Unbroken wilderness and environmental responsibility. Lapland in winter is like nowhere else on Earth.

There’s something magical about New Year breaks in your very own Private villa in Lapland… Unforgettable family feasts, group celebrations under the northern lights and bracing walks in the fresh air. We have selected for you some of the best high-end Villas from our Private Collection to spend the perfect New Year's Eve.

World-class services, comfort and ultimate privacy

Our villas are fully catered and equipped with special facilities and will provide you with complete privacy. Staff is on hand to meet your every need. A private chef to tantalise your taste buds, a wilderness guide at the door always ready for adventures, and a maid to make sure you never have to make that bed.

Let us prepare everything for you!

Dream Lodges across Finnish Lapland

At our dreamy VIP chalets and lodges in the heart of Finnish Lapland, food plays an essential part of the destination experience and serves as a gateway to culture.

Nordic cuisine, born out of the region’s pristine nature and its clean air, soil, and water, is based on locality, seasonality, and sustainability. Our discerning chefs ensure that all your requirements and wishes are attended to.

The Arctic Lodge

The Arctic Lodge, a log chalet boosting 355m2 of luxury is hidden away from the civilisation in northern Lapland, by majestic lake Inari. This exclusive Lodge celebrates all what the Finns love: privacy, connection to nature, wood-burning sauna, and panoramic views to the lake with own beach.

It features five bedrooms, various lounges, fully-equipped kitchen, fireplace, outdoor jacuzzi, numerous bathrooms and a terrace overlooking the terrain, you are surely to be pampered with space and luxurious comfort.

With direct access to the frozen lake and surrounding wilderness, the lodge provides an ultimate hideaway and an ideal location for those seeking wholesome living, outdoor experiences and something totally different.

The Karhu Villa

This magnificent log villa is located in a peaceful area of Levi, only 20 minutes drive away from Kittilä Airport and 15 minutes drive away from the Levi village.

In the decoration of the villa, different natural materials like large log wood and natural stones were used in order to create cosy atmosphere where you can feel yourself united with the nature.

The two-story villa features four spacious en-suite bedrooms, fully equipped kitchen, dining room and traditional Finnish sauna.

The heart of the villa is a beautiful living room that features high windows, impressive fireplace and comfortable sitting area.

The Wilderness Villa

The Wilderness Villa Levi is located by the river Lisma, in the middle of peaceful Lappish wilderness. Due to its private location, the Villa offers possibility to see reindeer and other arctic animals in the yard and in the forest surrounding the Villa. The location, away from artificial lights, is also perfect for Northern lights and star gazing.

The surface area of the Wilderness Villa is 112 m2. The Villa has a nice airy open-concept kitchen and living room, three bedrooms, two toilets and separate sauna cabin next to the main building. Sauna cabin has an electric sauna with two showers and outdoor hot tube.

The villa is made of wooden logs, and comes with modern technology.

The Villa Hilla

This magnificent villa for ten people comprises five bedrooms, a living room, a kitchen, a dining area, a utility room, a sauna area and extensive outdoor terraces. There is also a hot tub, a glass-roofed barbecue hut and two-car carport with car charging option.

The Villa has three floors, on the top floor a master bedroom with en-suite bathroom, with dimmable landscape window. On the middle floor there is a living room, a sauna department, a kitchen and two bedrooms and a main entrance. Downstairs utility room, three bedrooms.

Good opportunities to see the northern lights in the northern sky from the spacious windows. The nearest restaurant, lift, cross-country ski run and toboggan run 300 meters away.

The Champagne Villa

A rural haven hidden away in the heart of Lapland, this homestead property is where authenticity meets exclusivity.

This unique log villa is located in a peaceful area of Levi, only 20 minutes drive away from Kittilä Airport and 15 minutes drive away from the Levi village.

In the decoration of the villa, different natural materials like large log wood, and natural stone are combined with harmonious colors and with large windows in order to create atmosphere where you can feel yourself united with the nature.

The four-story villa features three en suite bedrooms, living room, fully equipped kitchen, dining room and fantasy sauna with outdoor jacuzzi and wine cellar with Champagne well.

Please email enquiries@sandgrousetravel.com to find out more and for booking information. We will be delighted to help plan your unforgettable Nordic escape this winter.

Office: +44 (0) 1764 664236 - www.sandgrousetravel.com

BORN TO RUN - Unique Highland Husky Run at The Fife Arms this winter with Sandgrouse Travel

Sandgrouse Team — Mon, 15 Nov 2021 10:22:00 +0000

"BRINGING JACK LONDON'S CLASSIC NOVEL 'THE CALL OF THE WILD' TO THE SCOTTISH HIGHLANDS"

Bringing Jack London's classic story 'The Call of the Wild' to the Scottish Highlands has been a dream of Sandgrouse Travel & Expeditions' founder, Jonny Stage for many years. Now we're excited to say we are offering something utterly unique with our 'Highland Husky Run' at The Fife Arms Hotel, Braemar. Join us for the perfect staycation activity this winter - bringing the magic of Lapland to Scotland for a unforgettable Scottish adventure.

(40 Siberian Huskies wait patiently at the midway lavvu or tipi situated way out at the end of the remote glen. Guests enjoy a warming Lingonberry tea and a traditional Scandinavian sweat treat whilst sat on thick woolly rugs by the crackling wood-burning stove).

After years of intrepid Sandgrouse adventures heading deep into the Arctic circle, as well as many expeditions to the frozen Polar world of Spitsbergen (Svalbard) just 650-miles short of the North Pole, Sandgrouse Travel & Expeditions have finally brought the excitement of distance dog-sledding to the Scottish Highlands!

This unique Scottish Highland dog-sledding experience is now available for those who cannot or do not wish to travel to the Pole. This is truly the perfect activity for a winter staycation in Scotland! Couples, families and groups can embark on a memorable adventure excursion in the heart of some of the UK's most dramatic and remote landscapes - living a Scandinavian bucket-list travel experience here in Scotland.

(Winter sun warming our backs as we head home after an incredible run down the glen with the Siberian Huskies).

(Hold on to your hats! Dog sledding with tricyle buggies until the temperatures drop and the snows arrive. During the winter of 2020, the coldest temperature in the glen was -24'C!)

Lucky guests can stay at The Fife Arms Hotel, the beautiful and world-renowned hotel located in the nearby picture-perfect village of Braemar.

(The Fife Arms, the base from which to enjoy our incredible dog-sledding adventures here in Scotland).

A short Land Rover transfer from the hotel, guests are warmly welcomed by expert dog-mushers and join the 40 Siberian husky dogs.

On arrival guests are given a briefing in the heated NATO Army Command tent on site, here they learn about how our expert dog-musher has competed in the world's longest dog-sledding race across Alaska, travelling solo 1,100 miles with up to 16-huskies. Inspired by tales of high adventure akin to those from the pages of Jack London's classic 'The Call of the Wild' novel, guests are ready to embark on their unique Hogmonay adventure.

If you can't make it for Hogmonay, fear not, the dogs can also be brought in for group bookings staying in January, February and even March before the temperatures rise again to beyond what is optimal for the dogs performance and comfort.

(The dog teams have a rest deep in the glen at our turn around point. Here guests enjoy a warming brew and drink in the magnificent Scottish Highland scenery. Surrounded by three towering Munro mountains, the end of this remote glen is incredibly pictureque).

Dog-sledding is traditionally operated of course with a sleigh or sled, however until the snows arrive here in Scotland, and take hold, we use tricycle buggies. These are fitted with bicycle style brakes to help slow the dogs when needed. The buggies are easy to ride and drive however a reasonable level of physical fitness is required on the hills where the dogs like a helping hand. Here guests can use one foot to kick much like a push-scooter - this helps the dogs up the longer inclines and they thank you for it running harder and faster on the flats. Guests should dress appropiately for a wintry day in the Scottish Mountains - wrapping up warm with layers and if they wish, a small day-rucksack.

To book your incredible, unique excursion please get in touch with our team via enquiries@sandgrousetravel.com. Spaces are highly sought after and limited throughout the Hogmonay period however we are able to run these incredible experiences in January, February and March for group bookings.

(The remote track snakes its way through the glen criss-crossing the salmon and trout filed river - it's easy to imagine oneself in Alaska or Scandinavia here!)

(Dog Sledding through the heart of the glen - keep an eye out for Golden and Sea eagles, as well as herds of Red deer on the skyline!)

(Born to Run! The dogs enjoy a rest before the excitement builds once more and we depart down the glen for home).

(Husky Therapy - These Siberian Huskies love a good cuddle. 40 Siberian Huskies brings 40 different personalities, each dog is different, some regard you with aloof look, whilst others give loving cuddles!)

(Near the turn around point on our 12-mile run (total) - the Scottish Highland dog-sledding excursion takes around 3.5 hours including stops).

(Some of the buggies are equipped with passenger seats which allows guests to experience the 'dog perspective' as we pant our way through the glen marvelling at the Highland landscapes!)

(Squad Goals! Get to know your team of dogs at the breaks - they run harder and faster for those they like!).

(Home stretch. Here the dogs are coming back in to camp at the head of the glen. Guests are picked up here and ferried back to The Fife Arms Hotel to sit by the fire and warm up after an amazing experience).

(Kovid the Husky - born during the height of the pandemic, Kovid loves running and can't wait to hit the trails again in the remote glen).

Call now on 01764 664 236 or alternatively email enquiries@sandgrousetravel.com - or email ghillie@thefifearms.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.

Spem Successus Alit: Successful VetRun180 Journey to be Repeated with new Group of Medically Discharged British Veterans

Sandgrouse Team — Fri, 09 Jul 2021 11:08:00 +0000

We are delighted to announce that following on from the great success of the 2020 Scottish Coast to Coast Expedition with the incredible UK-based military charity VetRun180, Sandgrouse Travel & Expeditions will be leading a re-run of this challenging and unique overland journey by Land Rover. This September will be the charity's second ever Scottish Highlands expedition and we are thilled to once again be involved from start to finish, facilitating a remarkable cross-country route.

The Group, Route & Vehicles

2021's trip will see an entirely new group of medically discharged British Armed Forces veterans head deep into the rugged and remote Scottish Highlands. As per last year, they will be traversing the width of the country from Dunnottar Castle in Aberdeenshire to Ardnamurchan Lighthouse out west (the UK's most westerly mainland point!).

The route once again crosses the great Highland sporting estates, thanks to the support and kindness of multiple land owners, including the likes of the Royal Family at Balmoral. The trip will of course, be conducted using a convoy of specially adapted Land Rover Defender 110s, all expedition ready and packed to the gunnels with the appropriate overland kit.

Differing from last year, there are a few exciting changes to the challenge - including pre-cached food depots along the route, where vital supplies will need to be found by the veterans using GPS coordinates!

Why 'Spem Successus Alit'?

Here at Sandgrouse Travel, the Ross clan motto comes to mind in a lot of what we do, 'Spem Successus Alit', literally translating to Success Nourishes Hope! We find our clan motto fits perfectly with the inspirational work being done by VetRun180, a charity that is actively helping medically discharged UK forces personnel on their individual roads to recovery.

The exciting expeditions the charity provide bring guys and girls together to reform common bonds, slot back into an environment they are familiar with and together as a team overcome challenging but fun obstacles.

To us, what Spem Successus Alit really means, is that success encourages further success, however small. This can indeed be seen throughout the trips and expeditions as the individual participants come out of their shells.

Concentrate on small goals, small changes in life and track them until they form a winning streak. With the successes the veterans can feel from these trips, they can form a winning streak to be carried through into their own lives back on civvy street. VetRun180 'Adventure Therapy' journeys can be the much needed spark in regaining lost confidence or lost identity, allowing the veterans to go on and pursue their next goals which hitherto may have alluded them since leaving the military. Either way, the trips are hugely enjoyable for all involved, and individuals benefit from them in their own personal ways - affirmation of the benefits of adventure, stepping outside one's comfort zone and the need to nurture a fortified spirit within.

Find Out More about VetRun180

We look forward to welcoming a new group of Britain's unsung heroes to Scotland in September 2021 - when we embark on the next installment of 'Adventure Therapy' with VetRun180.

For more information on the charity's work, trips and how you can be involved please visit their website directly at, www.vetrun180.org. Here you can learn more, or donate should you wish to help fund some of the incredible and vital work.

Staycation 2021 - Scotland for Luxury Family Holidays

Sandgrouse Team — Sun, 28 Mar 2021 17:00:48 +0000

So, it's now looking like summer 2021 staycations are the order of the day. With that in mind, what can be better than escaping to the UK's most beautiful country, Scotland!

We hold the keys to some of Scotland's most incredible private, exclusive-use homes. With a fabulous array of homes, castles and lodges across the country there's something out there that is perfect for you and your family. Choose from the borders to the Hebrides and Northern Isles, our property register is far larger than you might imagine with many confidential, off-market offerings.

If you're day-dreaming of a long lazy summer, spent at your very own family retreat far away from the rest of the world, Sandgrouse Travel & Expeditions have got you covered. And we mean it! Literally, there's space for the whole family and some!

As you know, Sandgrouse Travel & Expeditions specialise in creating unique, tailor-made holidays and journeys. We work with clients from both at home and abroad and in short, there is no limit to what can be created for our clients. Private castles, and fortified towerhouses, grand stately homes and traditional hunting lodges, exclusive sporting estates and private Hebridean islands - they are all available for the dream Scottish staycation. We provide you with as much or as little as you need, simply the keys to these Highland jewels, or perhaps everything from helicopter travel and expert local guides who will leave you enthralled with Scottish anecdotes.

With years of experience, Sandgrouse Travel & Expeditions are able to offer VIP clients exactly what they need, tapping into a diverse portfolio of accommodation from renowned hotel names to off-market private residences in secret locations. Most importantly perhaps, our clients consistently have their expectations exceeded - showing how Scotland can hold its own against global, exotic travel destinations.

Find out what all the fuss is about this summer - the Summer 2021 Staycation can be as incredible as any of your previous trips around the world - you just need to have the keys put in your hand!

Speak to our travel planners today to start working on a luxury Scotland holiday that will be one to talk about for years to come! Call +44 (0) 1764 664 236 or email jonny@sandgrousetravel.com for further info on how to book the ultimate UK staycation.

Scotland Coast to Coast - Successful Road to Recovery with VetRun180

Sandgrouse Team — Wed, 16 Dec 2020 13:57:00 +0000

ORGANISED BY CHARITY VETRUN180 AND FACILITATED BY SANDGROUSE TRAVEL & EXPEDITIONS, A GROUP OF FELLOW VETERANS SET OFF ON AN INTRIPID COAST-TO-COAST ADVENTURE ACROSS SCOTLAND

Words by Jonny Stage, edited by Craig Allen, and photography by Simon Green Photography - as per full feature in Land Rover Monthly Magazine (November 2020).

Every so often in life the opportunity for a grand adventure presents itself that cannot be passed by. What's more, you know if you don't jump at it, the chance will not arise again in the future.

That's exactly how Jonny Stage, founder of Sandgrouse Travel & Expeditions, felt when British military veterans' charity, VetRun180, approached him to discuss plans for a unique Scottish Highlands expedition. It didn't take long before planning was in full swing for an off-road operation across the Scottish Highlands, from east coast to west coast, passing through Scotland's most infamous but hidden Highland estates.

A team of 13 men, including ex-Royal Marine and ex-British Army personnel, would drive their specially equipped Defender 110s across the whole country, 90 percent of which would be off-road. Of course, in Scotland the ability to wild camp only adds to the sense of adventure and with some of the camps in the UK's most remote locations the stage was set for a truly memorable expedition.

The trip started with two days training at Land Rover Experience North Yorkshire in England, laid on by the charity. Here the participating veterans were put through their paces with a baptism of fire, gaining both LANTRA off-road driving qualitfications as well as First Aid at Work. Both a precaution for the upcoming expedition, but also handy to have in civilian life for employment opportunities going forward.

The official start point for the expedition was from the iconic Dunnottar castle near Stonehaven in Aberdeenshire. This entailed a lengthy road-move north on a Friday evening with the group coming from Yorkshire and heading for the border. A gloriously sunny Saturday morning saw the veterans, including their Land Rovers, line up for an official photo whilst being serenated by a local clan bagpiper. The Commander of Clan Baird even came down to wave us off - Welcome to Scotland!

The following days would see the convoy trundle and bushwhack its way over and through both moorland and forest. The convoy moved right out Royal Deeside towards Braemar, before crossing the mighty Cairngorm mountains and heading out west to an almost fjord-like landscape. Among many others, the charity was fortunate enough to gain access to the Royal family's private Balmoral estate, crossing infamous challanges such as the 'Burma Road', so named for its appalling condition! As the group negotiated back-to-back obstacles team work and military professionalism prevailed, characters came out of their shells, bonds were formed and a sense of camaradarie flourished. The charity's purpose was clear - 'therapy through adventure' - with the understanding that 'if it doesn't challange you it won't change you'.

One hugely memorably escapde on the trip came early on, as light was fading. The convoy had just reached its highest point on the route, just short of 3,000 feet south-west of Braemar. the next few kilometres would see the group trailblaze across the mountain following only a compass bearing, before dropping into a remote glen for a wild-camp many thousands of feet below. With light rapidly going and with it any decent visability, the group had to somehow find the best lines across both rock scree and peat bogs! Almost inevitably, yet incredibly only a few yards short of hard standing, all six Land Rovers became bogged down, just as the light finally went and a rain storm came in sideways. Team work once again prevailed, roles were designated and tow ropes were secured. Several hours later the veterans rolled into camp where once again despite being cold, wet and tired, their indomitable spirit prevailed. Without a murmur of discontent, these veterans mucked in to set up camp, cook a hot meal (egg banjos!), and get the hot brews on before turning in.

The following days would see the group wild camp in remote locations, see incredible Scottish castles and visit one of Britain's longest rifle ranges. They also visited the site of the famous WW2 Commando Training Centre at Achnacarry before finally arriving at the UK's most westerly mainland point - Ardnamurchan Lighthouse. A wild and remote place to finish this audacious expedition. A quiet sense of satisfaction was shared by all involved. No fanfares or welcoming committees, just a few exceptional guys around a final campfire on the beach, regaling stories of recent days adventuring.

VetRun180 is a UK-based military veterans' charity, formed by Simon Dedman and ex-Royal Marine Matt Abbot in 2018. Matt himself is an Iraq and Afghanistan vet. This young and hugely exciting charity takes phyically injured and mentally (PTSD) injured veterans on challenging expeditions around the globe. It is on these unique journeys where the teams are re-invoking their sense of adventure and teamwork. VetRun180 is genuinely saving lives through the spirit of adventure - a concept that will strike a chord with many of our readers.

The relatively young charity has made leaps and bounds in just a few successful years with an impressive number of exciting expeditions now under its belt from Swedish Lapland to the Empty Quarter in the dersert in Oman. With such exciting work it is little wonder VetRun180 has attracted notable patrons such as Brian Wood MC and Rusty Firman (ex-22 SAS Iranian Embassy hero).

VetRun180 is consistently providing 'adventure therapy' to groups of medically discharged UK-forces personnel. Although a simple concept, the charity has already racked up dozens of moving testimonials from UK veterans who have all been greatly helped by the charity's vital work.

A chat with team member Keiran Rafferty serves to illustrate the point. Raffs to his mates is ex-45 Commando and has completed multiple operational tours of Afghanistan. He was subsequently diagnosed with PTSD and has been helped by the NHS Veterans Support Team since leaving but still has difficulties adjusting to civilian life. He had previously attented a VetRun180 trip to Sweden and found it hugely beneficial so jumped at the chance to attend the Scottish Coast to Coast. The experience of working in a small team and overcoming the challenges thrown up by the trip have helped with his condition and he has made new friends amongst fellow veterans. He told me he could recognise others at different points on their road to recovery and together they operated as an informal self-help group.

The best parts of the military experience, working outdoors as a teamand overcoming challenges were all there, but without the bombs and bullets. Fireside chats provided a chance to talk with others who could recount similar experiences and everyone was helped in the process.

The team leader Ross meanwhile served for 19-years and was medically discharged in July 2015 but struggled to adjust to civilian life. After trying various jobs but finding nothing really worked for him, he saw an article in a local newspaper about VetRun180 and gave Matt a ring. Rocking up for his first expedition he says was like being back with his old Troop. the banter and team work was all there. Since then he hasn't looked back and as he says there is always someone there to have a brew and a chat with when and if you need it.

Expedition photographer Simon Green meanwhile learned his camera skills in the military as a trade photographer. Diagnosed with PTSD after several operational tours it has been a long road to recovery further exacerbated by the recent loss of his wife. Nothing he tried really helped until he met up with VetRun180 and joined his first expedition. Since then he has been able to reignite his passion for photography documenting the expeditions for media use and to promote the charity. He has also completed a Universtiy course and now runs his own successful photography business. As you will see from the pictures within this article, he knows how to use a camera and finds attenting these trips of huge benefit to his condition.

It's clear that these Land Rover based overland expeditions have a positive effect for all the veterans talking part. During and after an expedition, reports quickly come in that the guys have a more positive mindset and future outlook - as well as rediscovering a common bond, camaradarie and sense of purpose. Post expedition, these rekindled emotions live on and help to steer VetRun180 team participants onto further positive milestones on their personal roads to recovery.

License to Thrill - James Bond Day Trips

Sandgrouse Team — Thu, 05 Nov 2020 19:24:00 +0000

Step into the shoes of Commander James Bond on our one of a kind Bond-inspired day espionage trips. These unique 007 days out combine off market high-octane adventure elements with a visit to a private MI6-style HQ castle for a lunch and an Aston Martin photoshoot in Glen Etive, not to mention a crash course in sniper rifles and pistols on a range with ex-forces instructors.

Our unique Scottish Highland adventure sees clients being collected by helicopter from their accommodation before being flown to the West Coast of Scotland to land at a remote castle. Here they embark on a fast boat RIB journey with an ex-forces helmsman taking them to a villains lair for lunch. After lunch, the double 'o' agents are flown to a secretive location in the Scottish Highlands where they are put through their paces on a firearms range, working with pistols and sniper rifles under the expert supervision and tuition of our ex-forces instructors.

VetRun180 - Military Charity to Travel Coast to Coast Across Scottish Highlands with Sandgrouse Travel

Sandgrouse Team — Thu, 06 Aug 2020 17:13:00 +0000

VetRun180 is a UK-based military veterans charity, formed by its founders (themselves Iraq & Afghan vets) out of a necessity. This young and hugely exciting charity takes physically and mentally injured (PTSD) veterans on challenging expeditions around the globe. It is on these unique journeys where the lucky teams are re-invoking their great sense of adventure and teamwork. VetRun180 is genuinely saving lives through the spirit of adventure - a concept that strikes a chord with Sandgrouse Travel & Expeditions.

IF IT DOESN’T CHALLENGE YOU, IT WON’T CHANGE YOU - THAT'S THE VETRUN180 MANTRA

(VetRun180 will be travelling across Balmoral Estates in Royal Deeside, by gracious permission of Her Majesty The Queen's team, along with many other historic Scottish Highland estates who have shown great support for the charity's vital work).

The relatively young charity has made leaps and bounds in just a few successful years with an impressive number of exciting expeditions now under its belt from Swedish Lapland to the Empty Quarter desert in Oman. With such exciting work its little wonder VetRun180 has attracted notable patrons such as Brian Wood MC and Rusty Firman (ex-22 SAS Iranian Embassy hero).

VetRun180 is consistently providing ‘adventure therapy’ to groups of medically discharged UK-forces personnel. Although a simple concept, the charity has already racked up dozens of moving testimonials from UK veterans who have all been greatly helped by the charity's vital work.

During and after an expedition, reports quickly come in that the guys have a more positive mindset and future outlook - as well as rediscovering a common bond, camaraderie and sense of purpose. Post expedition, these both new and rekindled emotions live-on and help to steer VetRun180 team participants onto further positive milestones on their personal roads to recovery.

SCOTTISH HIGHLANDS OFF-ROAD - A COAST TO COAST EXPEDITION BY LAND ROVER DEFENDER

In September 2020, Sandgrouse Travel & Expeditions is proud to be working with VetRun180 on a unique Scottish project. We will be leading an off-road traverse of the Scottish Highlands, travelling 'Coast to Coast' via historic Highland estates in a convoy of up to seven Land Rover vehicles. Working closely with landowners, trusts and government organisations, Sandgrouse Travel & Expeditions has been able to set up a truly unique Scottish expedition for the veterans.

The specially equipped, expedition-ready Land Rover Defenders will meander their way all the way from the iconic Dunnottar Castle in the East to Ardnamurchan Lighthouse in the West (the UK's most westerly mainland point). Taking up to six days to complete the route, the group will overcome challenging off-road driving conditions, scale grand mountains, ford rivers, and wild-camp in Scotland's most incredible and remote locations.

(A Land Rover convoy trundles slowly by surely across Scotland. A journey arranged by Sandgrouse Travel & Expedition for VetRun180 - Scotland's Coast to Coast).

VetRun180 takes the time to train each team before leaving for an expedition. Each member of the group will gain a LANTRA off-road driving qualification as well as a first aid at work certificate. These two additions can give everyone the confidence to start the expedition with the knowledge required. They are also highly transferable skills, which can help with employment beyond the charities great challenges and expeditions.

Watch this space in the coming weeks as we release more exciting information about our incredible journey across the majestic and wild Scottish Highlands with our UK veterans for VetRun180.

HOW CAN I SHOW SUPPORT TO VETRUN180 AND THE AMAZING WORK THEY ARE DOING?

If you would like to donate to the VetRun180 charity please click here:

WE SUPPORT PHYSICALLY AND MENTALLY INJURED VETERANS BY TAKING THEM ON CHALLENGING EXPEDITIONS AROUND THE WORLD.

(The convoy of specially converted Land Rover vehicles will be one of the first to travel across Scotland almost in its entirity off-road thanks to the support and genorosity of many of Scotland's great Highland estates).

(Keep your eyes and ears open for further developments and news on our forthcoming adventure with the veterans - follow us at VetRun180 on Instagram and Facebook for regular updates!)

Luxury Highland Pony Picnics - Unique Scottish Experiences

Sandgrouse Team — Thu, 16 Jul 2020 21:46:00 +0000

Balmorality. "Scotch air, Scotch people, Scotch hills, Scotch rivers, Scotch woods, are all far preferable to those of any other nation in or out of this world". - Queen Victoria, ca. 1849.

Queen Victoria was right. One only need read her journal entries. Time in the Highlands of Scotland surrounded by wild and rugged nature, accompanied by Highlanders of noble character is hard to beat. What can be better than hearing stories of old from a loyal estate ghillie who's been fishing the river for the past 55-years, or walking through a grand glen with a tweet-clad pony-man, who for decades has been working with kind-eyed, native Scottish ponies?

Our pony picnic luncheons immerse guests in this old world. Sandgrouse Travel & Expeditions take very lucky guests on a time-travelling journey to the glorious Victorian and Edwardian eras, when Highland escapes were all the rage! Rediscover what made that time so very special - reconnect with nature for a few tranquil hours in the company of real Highlanders and enjoy a delicious picnic luncheon.

OUR LUXURY HIGHLAND PONY PICNICS ARE SET IN THE HEART OF THE SCOTTISH MOUNTAINS. WILD AND MAJESTIC LANDSCAPES OFFER A SPECIAL KIND OF MAGIC TO THOSE WHO SEEK THEM OUT.

('MacNab', a native Highland Pony, often referred to as a Garron, stands in a remote glen).

One of the numerous things that sets Sandgrouse Travel & Expeditions apart from our competitors in Scotland and further afield, is that we seek out and work with the very best. In whatever field of interest, we love connecting people! Luxury travel in Scotland is to us, as much about people and connections as it is about polished, high-end accommodation and Range Rover Vogue transfers.

Here in Scotland particularly, we have worked hard to find both absolute experts and captivating local characters. By featuring, finding and working with the real local people, those that live and breathe what they do and are passionate about it, we believe we are adding real depth to our clients trips.

REVIVING TRADITIONAL ASPECTS OF GRAND HIGHLAND HOLIDAYS FOR LUCKY SANDGROUSE TRAVEL CLIENTS.

(Carl Haag’s "Luncheon at Cairn Lochan" depicts the royal family picnicking in Scotland. John Brown, a Scots hunting and fishing guide (or ghillie) kneels as he serves Queen Victoria. Victoria’s personal servant or ghillie in Scotland at Balmoral Estate, of whom she writes, “always attends me when I go out—walking, riding and all our travelling expeditions.” “Invaluable, shrewd, and trustworthy man.” )

"On your magical walk through aromatic Caledonian pines, or along the banks of a peaty, fast-flowing river that races down the glen, you will hear stories of old that bring to life the traditional Highland way of life. Your pony-man and guide, will enthrall you with tales from the Victorian era when Queen Victoria and the Prince Consort, Albert, would have enjoyed the very same activities with guests on the Balmoral Estate.

At Sandgrouse Travel & Expeditions, the list of our unique experiences and connections is of course as varied as our clients interests, however we should admit that we do have our favourites. One of these has to be slowing down and reconnecting with Scotland's beautiful natural world.

SLOW DOWN AND RECONNECT WITH NATURE.

Guests are invited to head out to a stunning Scottish Highland location in a time old fashion, a way in which Queen Victoria, along with family and favoured guests would have once so enjoyed on Balmoral Estate - embarking on a traditional luxury Highland Pony Picnic. Today, activities on Balmoral Estate remain similar. Indeed, the estate is perhaps the ultimate model of a working Highland estate, its role relatively unchanged as the Scottish holiday home of a family that has never been happier than when pursuing its favourite outdoor activities in the wilds.

(Balmoral Castle Museum showcases how traditionally, the Queen's Highland Ponies would carry wicker grouse panniers into the hills, led in-hand by pony-men. Often the estate pony-men were in fact young boys working their way up through the ranks to one day be head stalkers or rangers).

(Today our traditional wicker 'Grouse Panniers', which have been handed down through the generations, are still being carried deep into the heather-clad glens. Loaded with delicious Scottish produce, guest enjoy a picnic to remember whilst surrounded by the grandeur of mountains and moorland).

(Heading deeper into the Scottish mountains - Unique to Sandgrouse Travel, this is perhaps the most memorable way to traverse the Scottish Highlands. Led by local experts and real Highland characters, you will set out to find a great spot for an open-air picnic).

Lucky guests embark on what is in this day and age is a totally unique offering. A slower adventure with a local expert who will bring to life your day adding real memories to savour. Your pony-man, dressed in traditional Scottish estate tweeds, will take you together with native Highland ponies (led in-hand) on a guided walk into the majestic Scottish Highlands.

The gentle and steadfast Highland Ponies (the original tractor and backbone of the Scottish Highlands) will be carrying their traditional 'grouse panniers' - wicker baskets once used to carry game off the moorland to the estate larders. Today however, the pony panniers will be loaded with a sumptuous Highland picnic. Expect fine sandwiches, Highland delicacies and artisanal specialities, along with Scotch whisky, champagne, tea and coffee!

(A recreation of Queen Victoria and her entourage including esteemed guests out enjoying a rather lavish, Highland Picnic luncheon. Lunch in the mountain air tastes so much better and a good walk helps work up a great appetite).

On your magical walk through aromatic Caledonian pines, or along the banks of a peaty, fast-flowing river that races down the glen, you will hear stories of old that bring to life the historical Highland way of life. Your pony-man and guide, will enthrall you with tales from the Victorian era when Queen Victoria and the Prince Consort, Albert, would have enjoyed the very same activities with guests on the Balmoral Estate.

Today, learn how our pony-man still hunts in the area from horseback, flying his specially trained eagles and hawks, working in union with his two pointer gundogs (our pony-man once bred falcons for the Saudi Royal Family - he is a true Highlander, a John Brown type and Gentleman).

(Tea and coffees safari style in the Scottish 'bush' or heather-clad mountains).

THE HIGHLAND PONY - SCOTLAND'S UNSUNG HERO.

(Highland ponies or Garrons are a hardy, docile breed of working hill ponies. They are nowhere more at home than in the rough and rugged terrain of Scotland. Indeed, they still out perform modern ATV's and all-terrain vehicles on many traditional Highland estates).

Highland Ponies are the largest and strongest of mountain and moorland breeds in Great Britain. As a worker the Highlander is immensely strong and very docile. It has always been used to carry deer for stalkers in the Highlands, and has been a great stand-by for the crofters in those parts. The pony is first-class for hill work on account of its sure-footedness, and is a well balanced walker.

Prehistorically domiciled with the Gael, in their joint homeland, was an indigenous pony whose ecology awaits exploration. The animal's merits of character, we think, deserve recognition - an unsung hero in the Scottish story. In partnership with a spartan people, this Caledonian horse has a history of adventure to fill the mind. It has, too, a future of popular recreation to be relished by those rediscovering nature and her ways.

Fossil remains dated 60,000 BC have revealed that a smaller predecessor of the Highland Pony flourished in Scotland then, to be lost in the Ice Age. The pure-bred Highland Pony today has ingredients of various early horse types but its basic lineage traces to a primitive Northern race of horse.

The types most numerous today feature the lighter "Western Isles' specimens and the larger, heavier "Mainland" type. "Garron" is the name of Gaelic origin, for the gelding of either type. This name is now erroneously applied, fondly and respectfully, to all Highland ponies, whether "cut" or not. It is a title more than a name.

(Sat by a roaring Scottish river, keep your eyes open for Scotland's majestic wildlife, from leaping salmon, to Golden eagles and Red deer - time immersed in nature offers rare and sacred gifts).

("...everything is picturesque in the extreme. It is without any exception the most delightful sort of life I have ever seen or experienced" - Charles J Matthews, September 1833).

Call now on 01764 664 236 or alternatively email enquiries@sandgrousetravel.com.

Solveig Kerdranvat — Tue, 19 May 2020 23:22:00 +0000

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:

PRIVATE CHARTER JET FROM LONDON TO GLASGOW PRESTWICK (RETURN)
LUXURY RANGE ROVER VOGUE - SELF DRIVE
EXCLUSIVE-USE FAIRYTALE LODGE ON 67,000 ACRE ESTATE
SCENIC HELICOPTER TRANSFER FLIGHTS
GLENFINNAN VIADUCT, GLEN COE AND RANNOCH MOOR BY AIR
PRIVATE WHISKY TASTING ON ISLAY WITH ISLAND HISTORY TOUR
PRIVATE FULL-DAY MARINE SAFARI WITH EXPERT GUIDE
ISLE OF RUM VISIT WITH KINLOCH CASTLE VISIT
PRIVATE TRADITIONAL PONY-PICNIC WITH PONYMAN
BLAIR CASTLE VISIT & VIP SHOPPING EXPERIENCE
VISIT TO HISTORIC SCONE PALACE
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.

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.

PRIVATE JET & HELICOPTER

Private Jet Flights (Return):

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.

TOUR SCOTLAND BY HELICOPTER. ULTIMATE LUXURY WHISKY TOUR OF SCOTLAND WITH PRIVATE CHOPPER

Sandgrouse Team — Sat, 09 May 2020 12:07:00 +0000

6 DAYS / 5 NIGHTS, SCOTLAND'S BEST PRIVATE HIGHLAND LODGES, HIDDEN GEM WHISKY TASTING EXPERIENCES & DISTILLERY TOURS, UNIQUE EXPERIENCES WITH LOCAL LEGENDS & CHARACTERS, TWO RANGE ROVER VOGUES WITH DRIVERS ON STANDBY, FULL HELICOPTER ITINERARY.

This carefully curated helicopter based Scotch whisky tour takes our VIP guests to some of the country's top distilleries with a focus on small scale, high-quality whisky production as well as meetings with the country's expert whisky bottlers who specialise in the art of maturation to produce inspired whisky.

Our whisky bottlers offer the complete range of scotch from vintage single malts and select grains to vatted malts and crafted blends. Beyond world-famous whisky making regions such as Islay, Jura and Speyside, this tailor-made helicopter whisky tour takes you to Viking Orkney, Highland Perthshire, West Coast Argyll and the Inner Hebrides!

As accommodation, our guests will stay at two of Scotland's most incredible, exclusive-use properties, private Highland homes that are offered to a very lucky few each year. Each complete with a resident chef and hosting team, making the perfect bases from which to strike out from and explore, savouring the delights of Scotland.

Within your unique Scottish tour you will also have the chance to experience some incredible memorable encounters with local legendary characters and guides. We have arranged for you a private Marine Safari with one of the country's top scallop divers complete with a remote uninhabited island beach BBQ (with whisky). We have also been able to arranged a special evening for you, dining with ex-SAS legend and adventurer Tom McClean - who will arrive by boat at the mooring of your truly unique private house (no roads in - helicopter and boat access only)!

On leaving the West Coast of Scotland you will also have the special opportunity to explore the 15th largest island in Scotland, the mystic Isle of Rum with its towering and foreboding Cuillin mountains, desolate beaches and a population of only eighteen people. Here, with your expert local guide, you will stumble across the fascinating Kinloch Castle as well as herds of wild-horses and Red deer roaming free in the lochan riddled hills. Expect to be thoroughly intreagued and amazed by the Isle of Rum!

To follow will be your base in wild Sutherland, a private 23,000 acre estate awaits with a grand old Victorian lodge as your own home. From here you will be able to strike out, tapping into Speyside, and further north to the ancient Orkney Isles - locations made possible to visit with your helicopter.

Throughout your trip, two Range Rover Vogues complete with dedicated driver guides will be on standby able to ferry you two and from pre-arranged sites of interest and distilleries and all luxury accommodation is fully-staffed and catered.

ITINERARY HIGHLIGHTS

ALL TRANSFERS BY PRIVATE CHARTER SANDGROUSE HELICOPTER
A NUMBER OF SMALL SCALE HIGH QUALITY PRODUCTION DISTILLERIES
EXPERT INDEPENDENT WHISKY BOTTLERS AND BLENDERS (SPEYSIDE)
PRIVATE MARINE SAFARI COMPLETE WITH UNINHABITED ISLAND VISIT & BBQ
ISLAY, ISLE OF JURA, ISLE OF MULL, ISLE OF RUM, ISLE OF RAASAY, ORKNEY ISLES
PRIVATE ISLE OF RUM TOUR WITH EXPERT LEGENDARY LOCAL INC. LUXURY SEAFOOD LUNCH ON BREATH-TAKING SANDY BEACH
2 LUXURY HIGHLAND, EXCLUISIVE-USE LODGES COMPLETE WITH CHEF AND HOSTS
2 LUXURY RANGE ROVER VOGUES ON STANDBY THROUGHOUT
AN EVENING DINNER WITH EX-SAS ADVENTURER TOM McCLEAN
INCREDIBLE LUNCH AT THE FIFE ARMS HOTEL, BRAEMAR
24-HOUR ON THE GROUND ASSISTANCE FROM SANDGROUSE TRAVEL

N.B. This trip can be created at any time of the year and is available solely through Sandgrouse Travel & Expeditions. Total Price: £145,000 inclusive of VAT. Based on x4 adults sharing.

DAY TO DAY OVERVIEW

Day 1: Whisky Galore

Today you will arrive in Scotland via Sandgrouse private charter jet (London to Glasgow Prestwick) and thrown straight into the thick of it! Transfering on the runway directly to your twin-engine chopper we've whisky tastings have been arranged for you at Jura, Ardnamurchan and finally Tobermoray whisky distillieries. Your first port of call will infact be Jura on the way up from the south with your helicopter. Having had a wonderful stop at this great and well loved island whisky, set quite apart from it's neighbours on Islay, you will fly north to the Isle of Mull. Here we have arranged for you to visit Tobermoray distillery. Lunch in Tobermoray.

Your final port of call today will be on the remote peninsula of Ardnamurchan, so remote that it seems as if another hebridian island. Ardnamurchan will be a great end to a day of fabulous tastings on Scotland's majestic West Coast giving you a good overview of the sutble differences in West Coast whiskies.

On finishing up at your final distillery, you will then have a short flight north around the coast to your incredible private Highland lodge, on the shores of one of Scotland's most dramatic and remote sea lochs, Loch Nevis. Here you are away from the world staying at a property accessed only by boat or helicopter. You will be warmly welcomed by the team from Sandgrouse and your chef will start preparing a delicous evening meal to enjoy in the convivial dining area withing the impressive kitchen room.

Accommodation: Loch Nevis Lodge

Day 2: Marine Safari with Expert Local Scallop Diver, Dinner with ex-SAS Adventurer.

This you will wake up in a hidden paradise - after a breakfast served up looking across Loch Nevis, either inside or out on the terrace, your helicopter will depart heading to the stunning Isle of Mull. Here we have arranged for another off-market experience. You will be heading out today with a local legend, former writer, turned adventurer and eithical fisherman, Guy Grieve will be inviting you aboard one of his boats - you will embark on a Scallop diving safari.

Guy dives himself, collecting incredible Scottish scallops from the seabed before preparing these delicious treats infront of you on a grill. If the weather is great, you could be in for a beach BBQ! Eitherway, a day with Guy on the water is a real Scottish experience to savour allowing you to fully connect with another of Scotland's famous industries.

Guy is quite a character, having lived a year alone in the Alaskan wilderness, sailed the Atlantic Ocean and written many books! Guy now runs his own food company, called The Ethical Shelfish Co. - supplying some of the UK's top restaurants with hand-foraged and dived scallops, crabs and lobsters.

After a great day with Guy filled with fun and laughs it will be time to fly back to your lochside lair, where an evening to remember awaits. We have arranged for you to be joined tonight for dinner by ex-SAS trooper and ocean going adventurer Tom McClean. Tom will arrive himself by boat from his remote home across the loch to regale stories and share a convivial evening filled with good food, a little more whisky and great laughs.

Day 3: Private Marine Safari visiting Isle of Rum, Whisky Tastings and Flight to Sutherland

This morning you will check-out of the incredible Loch Nevis Lodge, after a wonderful breakfast bid farewell to your Scottish chef and our team (for now - as we reconnect with you later today!).

You will be meeting local legend and ex-fisherman Billy who will take you straight from the moorings of the house on an trip out to sea through dramatic Loch Nevis and on to the foreboding Isle of Rum. Here you will discover the 15th largest island in Scotland, home to only 18-people. The Isle of Rum is dominated by the Red Cuillin (huge mountains in the same change of mountains as the Isle of Skye's Cuillin range) and home to herds of Highland Ponies running wild, Sea Eagles, Red Deer and Highland Cattle. This wild and intoxicating island was once the private holiday destination of a Victorian billionaire, who build the grand Kinloch Castle on the island - Billy will take you to some of Scotland's most beautiful and remote beaches, hill lochans and more including a quick show round of Kinloch Castle. Here your pilot will be able to land and depart from! Before leaving Rum, Billy will provide you with a good dose of Gaelic Whisky and a Scottish Seafood platter picnic complete with local fresh langaustines, lobster and or salmon.

Flying on from Rum, you will head north towards Skye which is one of Scotland's most well known islands. Lying off Skye to the east sits the beautiful Raasay island home to Raasay distillery. Here you will land at the community football pitch just 1km from the distillery, a local Land Rover Defender will be there to collect you and take you up to the distillery for a great tour of this exciting new whisky (the first bottles of which are going on sale in October 2020!). Learn more about how the distillery is trying to grow more and more of its own barley working with Scottish universities to trail crop cultivation and various strains of crop.

This afternoon you will fly cross country as per last year to the wonderful, remote Alladale Wilderness Reserve. Here you will be met by the fabulous team who will show you around and settle you in before serving a delicious evening meal. If you have time this evening on arrival you may wish to visit the Scottish Wildcat Breeding enclosure, learning more about this vital project, or see the newly opened Aquaponics farm on site supplying fresh veg to the house kitchens!

Accommodation: Alladale Wilderness Reserve & Lodge

Day 4: Speyside Whisky Run

Today you will rise to a wonderful Alladale breakfast in the grand dining room. Enjoy a good cup of tea or coffee to get you going then jump in the Land Rover down to the helicopter. You will have a short flight south to Speyside this morning where you will have your first port of call at Murray McDavid independent bottler and whisky blender. Murray McDavid offer a unique experience into the whisky world, give you a look at an alternative side to the industry with the chance to sample and savour some very rare single malts, blends and specialities.

After a great tour your drivers will take you back to the helicopter where you will fly on to nearby Benromach. Here you will enjoy a tasting tour (to be finalised) with a member of the distillery team.

Lunch today will be taken at the incredible Fife Arms Hotel, one of Europe's top hotels, newly refurbished and reopened. The Fife Arms is owned by the world's largest independent art dealers, and as a result is something of a unique property! With over 14,000 pieces of individual artwork including works by Picasso and Fued. this hotel is quite a destinaton to visit in the pictureque Victorian town of Braemar. Lunch here will be taken in the Clunie Restaurant or Flying Stag bar before you are driven the short distance down the road to Royal Lochnagar Distillery. Here you will have a Warehouse Tour of this small scale, high quality whisky. The Royal in the name was bestowed upon the distillery as HM The Queen (Victoria) once visited with her family when staying at nearby Balmoral Castle.

On finishing at Royal Lochnagar in Ballater, you will be driven back to the chopper where you will return to Alladale for an evening relaxing.

Accommdation: Alldale Wilderness Reserve.

Day 5: Orkney Isles, Scapa and Standing Stones.

Today you will be flying north from Alladale, striking out towards the very far north of Scotland and beyond. The Orkney Isles lie just a few miles of the northern most coast of mainland Britain, here you will find only two Scottish distilleries, Highland Park and Scapa both with a unique Orcadian expression. Following on from last years Highland Park visit, in 2020 you will visit Scapa distillery.

On arrival into Kirkwall airport a driver and car will meet you and take you the short distance to Scapa distillery where a guide will be waiting to give you a comprehensive tour of the distillery complete with tastings.

On leaving the distillery you will drive back to Kirkwall Airport where you will be able to take the chopper and fly to some near by Standing Stone sites (pre-arranged landing granded with land owners). These standing stone pre-date Stonehenge and it is believed that this area of the British Isles is where the relgion started from which crept south...

Accommodation: Alladale Wilderness Reserve

Day 6: Final day in Scotland - Speyside and Perthshire Whisky Gems

This morning is your last at Alladale, savour the serenity of the magical Highland setting, far from the rest of the world. After breakfast you will be run down to the helicopter, where you will fly direct to Speyside's Glenfarclas Distillery. Landing nearby the Range Rovers will take you to the doors of the distillery. Here you will meet head of operations and have an in-depth tour complete with tastings of this very special and ancient Speyside distillery.

Back at the helicopter you will then fly south to Highland Perthshire where you will visit your final distillery of the trip - Edradour Distillery sits in the charming Perthshire town of Pitlochry and again, on landing nearby to the distillery itself, your cars will take you to the doors for a tour (to be confirmed with the team). From here it's a short flip back to Glasgow Prestwick Airport where your Sandgrouse private charter jet awaits to fly you home to London.

WHAT'S INCLUDED

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.

Private Helicopter Transfers:

Plenty of room - these helicopters have room for six passengers, so we can easily transport a small party of you to your chosen destination.

Pre-arranged arrival day of Scottish Isle whiskies from Jura to Ardnamurchan and Mull.

Accommodation at one of Scotland's most exclusive private homes (a billionaire's private holiday home) on the shores of a true 'Scottish Fjord' with access via helicopter or boat only. The lochside Highland retreat is staffed with a Scottish chef as well as your Sandgrouse Travel hosts and will make a truly unique and memorable base from which to strike out from and explore the West Coast of Scotland. On the doorstep, a 20,000-acre private estate.

An Evening Dinner with Tom McClean - ex-SAS trooper and Ocean-going adventurer. Tom will arrive across the loch by boat before joining you for dinner in the lodge regaling stories of high adventure and life in one of the most remote parts of the UK.

Full-day Isle of Mull & Surrounding Isles excursion, Scallop Diving Safari with local personality, Guy Greive. Guy is the owner of Ethical Shellfish Company and an adventurer, author and all round great guy. He will treat you to a day on the water highlighting everything from local marine life, to sights on the mainland. You will enjoy a freshly caught seafood lunch with Guy today either onboard his boat or on the shore at a beautiful beach on an uninhabited island. Guy has previously lived alone in the wilderness of Alaska, building his own log cabin and hunting his own food. He has also sailed the Atlantic, and was a journalist at The Scotsman newspaper in Edinburgh. He now writes for various magazines as well as running his successful fishing company.

Private Tour of the Isle of Rum with local expert guide. Our ex-fisherman of 35-years is a true local hero beloved in his home town of Mallaig and around the Small Isles. Depsite being one of the 'Small Isles', Rum is infact the 15th largest island in Scotland and has only a population of 18 souls. You will discover the fascinating history of this remarkable island, once the private lair of a Victorian billionaire complete with it's own castle (Kinloch Castle - one of Scotland's most incredible castles which may sadly not be around in a further 20 years time due to lack of funding for upkeep). On Rum expect to see wild-Highland ponies, Golden Eagles and herds of Red Deer as you are taking up to the mountains with Billy in his Land Rover. Billy will serve you a private luxury seafood lunch either on a remote beach, in the hills or aboard his boat. Pre-arranged helicopter extraction from Kinloch Castle.

Private Tour of Murray McDavid specialist Speyside-based Scotch Whisky Bottler including Sandgrouse Range Rover road tranfers.

Tour of Benromach Distillery including Sandgrouse Range Rover road transfers.

Tour of Royal Lochnagar Distillery - The Warehouse Experience including Sandgrouse Range Rover road transfers from Braemar.

Tour of Isle of Raasay Distillery including local island transfer (Land Rover Defender).

Tour of Tobermoray Whisky Distillery, including island transfer.

Tour of Jura Whisky Distillery including local island transfer.

Tour of Edradour Distillery including Sandgrouse Range Rover road transfers.

Private Tour of Ardnamurchan Distillery including local transfer.

Private Tour of Glenfarclas Distillery including Sandgrouse Range Rover road transfers.

Tour of Scapa Distillery including local island transfer.

Acccommodation at Alladale Wilderness Reserve - Alladale Lodge on an exclusive basis. 23,000 acres of private estate or wilderness reserve lay at your disposal. Landing the chopper a short drive from the main lodge, you will be met by the team who will warmly welcome you to your Highland lodge for the next three nights. Breakfast, lunch and dinner included in your stay.

VIP Lunch reservation at The Fife Arms, Braemar. Including secured chopper landing site adjacent to newly opened and fast becoming top hotel in Scotland. (Lunch on own account)

Scottish Wildcat Breeding Programme enclosure visit. Scottish Wildcat's are rarer than Tigers and critically endangered as a species. The work being carried at around Scotland at capture breeding enclosures is ensuring the gene pool survives bringing numbers up before translocation work can begin in earnest.

Aquaponics visit on site at Alladale Wilderness Reserve - the lodge is now growing all their own veg in an incredible, sustainable and futuristic scheme.

24-hr, on the ground services and assistance from x2 dedicated Sandgrouse Travel & Expeditions menbers of staff.

x2 Sandgrouse Range Rover Vogue vehicles on stand-by throughout your trip and useable where possible (please understand there is a time delay in getting the cars from location to location however we have planned the trip to include our travel times and where it is not possible to have the cars, we have a driver and car of a suitable size arranged).

Should you wish to use your own helicopter, our fee incudes Sandgrouse Travel & Expeditions Pilot Support. We are able to help your pilot secure access, landing sites and with any other help they may require..

Call now on 01764 664 236 or alternatively email enquiries@sandgrousetravel.com.

PRIVATE EXPLORATION OF ARCTIC SVALBARD - SPITSBERGEN'S HIDDEN JEWELS WITH YOUR VERY OWN PERSONAL POLAR GUIDE

Sandgrouse Team — Thu, 07 May 2020 12:52:00 +0000

THE MOST EXTRAORDINARY WAY TO EXPLORE THE SUMMER MAGIC OF ARCTIC SVALBARD - WITH TOP NORWEGIAN POLAR GUIDE ON A ONE-TO-ONE BASIS.

DISCOVER PLACES FEW WILL EVER KNOW.

All photographs taken on Sandgrouse Travel & Expeditions adventures by our Polar guides.

3-WEEKS COMPREHENSIVE SUMMER SAILING AROUND SVALBARD / SPITSBERGEN WITH TOP NORWEGIAN POLAR GUIDE (SPECIALISING IN SVALBARD EXPLORATION).

Set high in the Arctic Ocean, the remote Svalbard archipelago extends between 74 and 81° north, about halfway between Tromso in Norway and the North Pole (only 600-miles south of the North Pole). It is the northernmost place in Europe, and in fact the furthest north in the world where you can travel by scheduled flight.

Spitsbergen which is the largest of the islands within the archipelago, offers Arctic experiences on the edge of the inhabitable world. So untouched by man, there are no roads beyond Longyearbyen, Spitsbergen's capital. Here, you really are on the border of civilization. Outside the city the vast wilderness is waiting for you.

Did you know? Lord Nelson the famous English Naval Admiral (HMS Victory and the Battle of Trafalgar) visited the arctic archipelago at the age of 14 on an expedition looking for a direct route to the East Indies. During this visit he is said to have killed a polar bear with the butt of his musket rifle, which misfired in the cold. Perhaps the young Nelson, eager to gain a name for himself embellished the truth a little here. We shall never know!

"Knowing that beyond Longyearbyen there is almost nobody for 10,000 sqkms fills you with both a buzzing excitement and a sense of trepidation, yet this heady mix is intoxicating" - Jonny Stage, Founder of Sandgrouse Travel & Expeditions.

The archipelago features an Arctic climate, although with significantly higher temperatures than other areas at the same latitude. The flora take advantage of the long period of midnight sun to compensate for the polar night. Svalbard is a breeding ground for many seabirds, and also features polar bears, reindeer, the Arctic fox, and certain marine mammals.

Seven national parks and twenty-three nature reserves cover two-thirds of the archipelago, protecting the largely untouched, yet fragile, natural environment. Approximately 60% of the archipelago is covered with glaciers, and the islands feature many mountains and fjords. Svalbard truly is, wilderness in it's most raw form

CHANCE TO SEE POLAR BEARS, WALRUS, WHALE-WATCHING, ARCTIC FOX, SVALBARD REINDEER AND TENS OF THOUSANDS OF MIGRATORY SEA-BIRDS, GLACIER HIKES, WILD-SWIMS, HIKING, KAYAKING, FOSSIL HUNTING, SITES OF HISTORIC IMPORTANCES INCLUDING FAMOUS TRAPPERS HUTS, TOTALLY ABANDONNED SOVIET SETTLEMENTS AND WORLD WAR 2 WRECKAGE.

MAP OF SVALBARD

Points of interest along your routing - as selected by your local Longyearbyen based Polar guide who will join you on leaving mainland Norway prior to your arrival into the archipelago's waters. During the voyage north you will be breifed comprehensively on the coming weeks, what's available to do and experience and where the most interesting places are to visit. Of course, with your own personal top guide, you can tailor-make your choices to suit your interests.

"Delving deeper into the realms of pure fantasy, as is easy to do in such a location, I imagine the likes of elves, orks, white walkers and even trolls. Are they watching us from the lofty mountain peaks that we drift past. Svalbard truly is a place of dreams."

Your guide is an expert in all things Polar adventure and lives on Spitsbergen all year round - usually leading challenging expeditions across some of Svalbard's most inhospitable terrain either on skis, with snowmobiles or with teams of huskies. A typical Norwegian, he has grown up in the mountains and spent the last 10-years now living and working on Spitsbergen following his passion of adventure and exploration. Let him take you to some of the most incredible places on earth, putting you in places few will ever have the chance to see. During your time cruising Svalbard you will have the opportunity to enjoy numerous adventures both on land and water - below are some examples of the incredible experiences on offer with your very own Polar guide.

Glacier Hiking

The archipelago of Svalbard is to a large extent covered by ice, in fact 60% of the land areas are covered by glaciers. In the summer, the winter snows melt, but the glaciers remain all year around. Travelling through the arctic by sailboat provides the perfect way of seeing some of these magnificent glaciers up close. The glaciers can provide a fun playground, you can rappel down crevasses, climb in the ice or simply just go for a hike with amazing views. By sailing for over multiple weeks around Svalbard you will have the best opportunity to not only hike on one or two glaciers, but the chance to actually learn the do's and dont's of glacier travel. This will enable you to explore more remote places on the glaciers and have much more fun!

Kayaking

If the sea is calm, kayaking in Svalbard under the midnight sun is a wonderful and tranquil experience. It allows you to get closer to the surroundings and the wildlife, such as puffins, seals and whales. Polar bears and walrus are animals we prefer not to meet while we are in the kayaks, however with a good understanding of the environment and locations you are travelling through, it is unlikely you will decide to kayak if there is a chance of seeing these awe-inspiring animals. Kayaks can be brought along for the entire sailing itienrary to give you the possibility kayak wherever we want.

Hiking

With a lot of easy access mountains and plenty of sunlight, hiking is a really wonderful summer activity on Svalbard. Hiking on-foot not only gives you the opportunity to get closer to wildlife on land, experiencing unique moments and encounters never to be forgotten, but also to look for fossils and explore cultural heritage sites such as old trapping or whaling stations. These are a fascinating legacy from hundreds of years ago. Going ashore on-foot even allows for simply pleasures such a kick-about (an informal game of the world's most northern footy match) or simply have a giant bonfire from driftwood and enjoy being what is likely to be in that moment, some of the most remote humans on earth!

Cultural Heritage

Svalbard is full of cultural heritage sites that date back to many hundreds of years. Because the climate is so cold and so dry it takes a very long time for these remains to deteriorate, as a result the remains can still be seen easily offering a glimpes into the depths of the past. Cultural heritage sites you can visit include 50 to 60 years old ghost cities from the Soviet era (where literally it seems as if the Russians that lived there only left a few weeks ago!), planes that were shot down during the war (WW2) along other artifacts from that time still left lying in the fuselages. Throughout the whole of Svalbard, several old trappers cabins can be found, for example the famous Texas Bar on the north west corner of Spitsbergen - looking as those it was left only days prior. You will also view the remains of the life of the earliest people to come to Svalbard, whalers from 400 years ago.

Wildlife

Svalbard has an amazing wildlife, millions of birds migrate north each summer spending the time breeding and feeding in this nutriant rich environment, expect to see numerous arctic fox and the Svalbard reindeer (which only exist here!), seal, whales, walrus and of course the king of the arctic, the Polar bear. Despite there being far more Polar bears than people here, some people live in Svalbard for many years without ever seeing a single polar bear, however the chance of seeing one increases dramatically by sailing north along the coast of Svalbard. If conditions allow it, the sea ice edge at approximately 80 degrees north would also be an amazing spectacle for the cruise. Here the marine wildlife is blooming, perhaps you will see bears hunt for seal and beluga whale, or if you are lucky, you may catch a glimpse of a narwhale!

Svalbard in Winter - A Sandgrouse Film.

Svalbard 78° North from Sandgrouse Travel & Expeditions on Vimeo.

Who would have thought?

Svalbard was named by the Vikings who first visited the archipelago in 1194. Svalbard which means 'cold edge' in ancient norse was later renamed Spitsbergen by the dutch explorer Willem Barentsz in 1596.

For a long time it was believed by the whalers in the 1500s and 1600s that Svalbard was linked to Greenland. Observations of ocean currents as early as 1614 however led people to the assumption that there was no connection between Svalbard and Greenland.

In total there have been recorded 168 species of birds on Svalbard since 1998, mostly as vagrants who happen to have been 'blown' to the Arctic but do not belong there. There are only approximately 30 bird species that come to Svalbard as regular breeders.

In winter there is only one species of bird on the island, Ptarmigan.

Call now on 01764 664 236 or alternatively email enquiries@sandgrousetravel.com.

Sandgrouse Back In North Africa: Land Rover Trip Now Open for Registration

Sandgrouse Team — Wed, 06 May 2020 18:03:00 +0000

JOIN OUR 2021 LAND ROVER CONVOY THROUGH NORTH AFRICA'S FABLED ATLAS MOUNTAINS & THE MAJESTIC SAHARA

Staying true to our namesake, we're migrating back to the beautiful and lonely desert. Here we recently found a peace and serentity that we long to savour once more. Join the Sandgrouse Explorers Club as we venture back to North Africa following our tried and tested overland routing in Morocco. We'll thread our way through the mighty Atlas Mountains and then on to the north western fringes of the vast Sahara desert where we will drive in the tracks of the old Paris-Daker rally along the Algerian frontier.

As a tourist destination Morocco is certainly well-known and well-loved. 'Sun, Sea and Souks' might be what the masses are searching for, not us! We all have friends who have 'ticked-off' the Morocco box with their short and sharp city-breaks, exploring crowded hot-spots and guide book favourites but we'll show you another side to this intoxicating part of Africa. Our idea of discovery takes us deep into the rural heart of the country - where there is no gloss on the realities of life. We'll be travelling through the high Atlas passes and on to the pistes of the alluring Sahara.

(A quick pit-stop down on the Algerian Frontier where we found this rust-free 109. The old girl had so much character. On one hand we would have driven her home to Scotland, but on the other, she seemed so effortlessly at home in the African dust!).

After our highly successful 2019 "desert raid" we've decided to commit to a re-run, this time however we are opening up the rally to those who wish to join us! We think it is fair to say that an overlanders dream trip awaits and this time made even better in the company of kindred-spirits.

(Sand as far as the eye can see! It's a breathtaking part of the world that is hard to fathom until one experiences the sheer scale and majesty).

With mountain trails and desert tracks that are simply unobtainable in mainland Western Europe, our North African rally ticks all the boxes for those in need of a far-out adventure. We'll lead the way on routes that we know offer great overall experiences. For all of us, a trip filled with both adventure and discovery awaits. We know this is a trip that's sure to scroll its way onto the pages of your most prized travel journal, to be one day regaled by the fireplace in years to come.

Register now for early bird information by emailing enquiries@sandgrousetravel.com - you will be kept up-to-date with all expedition developments and as we go about confirming a departure date for our glorious return to the North African dunes - Sandgrouse style!

(Heading into the rugged Atlas Mountains on tracks and trails that afforded day-long drives with no other vehicles encounterd).

(Land Rover Discovery. The LR4 in North Africa - our Discovery 4 never missed a beat on this trip, making the perfect, most comfortable overlander we have every used. For our next trip however, we will strip things back to basics with one of our Land Rover Defender 110s - but all Land Rovers are welcome here!).

In it together! A challenging group trip brings a special comradery.

Our previous trip was such a success that it left a lasting impression on the Sandgrouse Travel & Expeditions team. One thing that was at the forefront of our mind on the last trip though, was how much fun it would be to share these special experiences with like-minded adventurers.

Our tag-along rally is open to all Land Rover lovers, so tuck in behind the Sandgrouse Travel & Expeditions lead Land Rover and follow our tracks as we wind our way through some of the most incredible, and accessible overland tracks to be found anywhere in the world. Here it's possible to find yourself truly 'all the way out there' - where a peace and serenity can be found that has been lost in most of Western Europe.

(Looking at camel spoor in the sand with the Discovery parked in the only available shade for a for what seemed like thousands of kilometres).

UK-based lovers of adventure and overlanding will have no doubt previously enjoyed various forays into the expedition world with their own vehicles in Europe and as best possible, around the British Isles. These destinations certainly offer up some glorious gifts, especially for the intrepid - but what they do not offer is the vast, unpopulated, seemingly endless expanses of land where driving on a compass baring is a reality. To us at Sandgrouse Travel & Expeditions, that is where adventure takes on its true sense of the word, its true meaning.

(Heading towards the saharan sand dunes on what was once an old Paris-Dakar rally route)

(Bivoacing in the Sahara desert with our Snugpak Ionosphere tent and BASHA, the two are perfect for expeditions where a quick low-key pitch and fast strike of camp is required).

(Using dried camel dung and foraged hardwood, we build an evening campfire to cook on, and enjoy gathering around each evening).

Our carefully planned routing allows for a great mix of both mountain trails and desert dunes. The mountain tracks which wind their way through the Atlas, provide both challenging terrain as well as high altitude living - with some camps at over 9,000ft above sea-level. Heading out of the mountains to the south of Morocco, we follow famous old Paris-Dakar routes through exciting dunes, salt flats and vast oueds (dry river valleys or wadis).

(Evenings on our overland trips are spent around the campfire sharing stories over a brew or something a little stronger. In North Africa, our overland evening meals usually involve a traditional tagine prepared in the Berber way).

When to Go? How long do I need?

Morocco is a year round destination, but we prefer to travel through such a hot and arid country as early into the 'season' as possible. Our preferred time of year to travel is February or March. We'll have the interest of some possible snow in the mountains, chilly nights and pleasant warm days. Of course the further into the desert we travel, the hotter the temperatures we might incur, with some high 20's to early 30's as pretty standard.

(Passers by at our camp on the Algieran border - this remote camp was seemingly far away from the rest of the world).

Travelling in the early part of the year also has other added benefits, firstly it's a dark and depressing time to be in the UK so a great option for anyone who is getting a little tired of winter. Secondly, as it's early in the season it means we avoid other overlanders. We'll be the first to hit the trails and tracks, certainly in the high Atlas. This adds wonderfully to the sense of adventure, and perhaps too, even to the hospitality recieved in-situ. The first guests on the trail each season certainly seem to be warmly recieved by the locals who run out of their houses to wave as you trundle by!

How much does it cost? What's Included?

Our extremely modest convoy joining fee allows you to join the Sandgrouse Explorers Club group and tag along with us for the duration of our time traversing Morocco.

You'll be effectly buying a pre-planned route that's tried and tested by our team with known stops and lay-overs that work for wild-camps as well as preferred Auberges (accommodation for a good shower and rest). The route will be issued to you on arrival into Tangiers and will be a comprehensive waypoint to waypoint routing that is also downloadable onto any handheld GPS units, iPad, Satnavs etc.

Of course, by joining our group you also gain the opportunity to travel in a fun convoy of like-minded people whom you may never ordinarily have had the chance to meet. We'll all be making new friends and sharing new experiences that are unlikely to be ever forgotten.

Guiding & On-The-Ground Support
Our guides will be leading the way, trail blazing ahead to ensure that your trip runs as smoothly as possible. On call 24 hours a day, our modern, support vehicle is ready to deal with incidents that may occur on or off-road. We are equipped with sat- phones, CB radios, multiple GPS navigation systems, recovery hardware and first-aid kits. In the event of breakdown of your vehicle, we have crew joining us with industry-leading knowledge on in-field repairs. The crew will endeavour to get you to a recoverable position.

Campsites
The cost of your camping for the duration of the trip is included in the convoy joining fee.

All associated personal costs are to be paid and sorted by individuals themselves such as return ferries, fuel, food, etc.

What dates are you going?

Depending on how things work out with global travel restrictions due to the current Covid19 pandemic, we'll be aiming for February 2021 as our departure.

Those joining us will want to allocate two to three weeks to this adventure as in order to get there from the UK, there's a good 4-days worth of travel including a 24-hour ferry crossing from Plymouth to Santander.

(Look out for unusual road signs from donkies to camels. Travelling through North Africa offers a real immersion into an alternative culture, close to Europe yet exotic and unknown. An Arabic country that we found friendly and open. We can't wait to return!)

(We made it! Sat atop some of the mighty Saharan dunes to catch a sunset before returning to our Land Rover camp).

(Hours of endless fun as we navigate the challenging dunes in the Sahara desert).

Call now on 01764 664 236 or alternatively email enquiries@sandgrousetravel.com.

JOIN OUR SAFARI CONVOY THROUGH KENYA BY LAND ROVER SERIES 1

Sandgrouse Team — Tue, 05 May 2020 12:40:00 +0000

Self-drive in a Sandgrouse Travel & Expeditions convoy of up to six 1950's Series I and Series IIa Land Rovers through the Kenyan bush on an overland safari of a lifetime. Head out with Anti-Poaching patrols, meet Maasai elders, sleep out under the stars with a multi-night wild-camp safari, encounter incredible wildlife and much more!

7-DAYS, SELF-DRIVING SIX 1950's SERIES 1 LAND ROVERS IN CONVOY THROUGH SOME OF KENYA'S MOST INCREDIBLE WILDERNESS AREAS TEEMING WITH WILDLIFE, EXPLORE THE LOLLDAIGA HILLS IN THE SHADOW OF MT KENYA, ENCOUNTER BIG GAME SUCH AS LIONS, ELEPHANTS, LEOPARD AND MUCH MORE, DISCOVER MAASAI CULTURE INCLUDING MEETINGS WITH TRIBAL ELDERS & A NIGHT AT TRADITIONAL MAASAI VILLAGE BOMA, OVERNIGHT WITH WILD-CAMPS DEEP IN THE BUSH (PLUS EXCITING OPTIONS TO CLIMB MT KENYA & SPEND TIME WITH A HIGHLY TRAINED ANTI-POACHING UNITS).

Interested to learn more about this unique adventure opportunity? Discover much more below with a complete overview of the trip including a day by day breakdown as well as a summary of activities and adventures.

To find out dates of our Land Rover trip, register your interest for the adventure: simply call our office on +44 (0)1764 664 236 or email enquiries@sandgrousetravel.com.

An ageless matriarch still roaming wild, these British icons were kicking up red dust on the tracks of Northern Kenya when the old King was alive!

Flying direct into Nairobi, Kenya, the group will hop straight on a short internal flight which will see them land at a remote airstrip in Northern Kenya. Here they are a short 45-minutes trundle on dirt roads from their HQ for the next 6-nights. The traditional tented safari camp in which the group shall be based is set by the Lolldaiga Hills on a private 50,000-acre conservancy. This part of Kenya is truly breathtaking, under-populated it remains a sanctuary for nature and wildlife. Most of the conservancy in fact overlooks the slopes of snow-capped Mt. Kenya, Africa's second highest peak (second only to Mt Kilimanjaro) - which is available to climb with a guide as optional extra.

The all-canvas camp is situated deep into the bush overlooking an often frequented watering-hole making this the perfect spot to start your safari. Here you will find a main mess tent for group hang-outs, coming together, relaxing, meals and briefings. Well spread out from the main mess tent are a further 6-canvas accommodation tents, each sleeping two adults comfortably with their own bush bathrooms. The camp is unfenced, which means wildlife does walk through the camp at night, leaving tracks and signs to discover each morning over a strong coffee as the African sun climbs into the sky.

A very long time in the making, this is safari as we have all dreamt it - fans of these old girls, who still trundle with pride across the African savannah, will surely live a travel dream on this unique Sandgrouse Travel & Expeditions journey.

During your stay we have planned an exciting itinerary which takes you on a multi-day safari using the six restored Land Rover Series 1 & 2 vehicles - the group will be able to self-drive these iconic overlanders themselves through the bush!

Your hosts will make sure you walk, drive, climb and camp in lush woodland and dry savanna in search of lion, leopard and elephant, as well as leave the wildlife behind to spend time learning from Maasai elders. Their lessons on leadership, courage and tradition can be illuminating and certainly offer a unique perspective - be prepared to discover something about yourselves too!

When the days are done, venture back to camp (wild-camping and or the main camp) with the safari-converted Land Rovers for some chill-time by the campfire and a night under canvas.

N.B. Based on x12 adults across x6 tents sharing x6 Series Land Rovers.

ITINERARY HIGHLIGHTS:

SELF-DRIVE 6 SERIES LAND ROVERS THROUGH THE KENYAN WILDERNESS
CONSTANT SAFARI - LIONS, LEOPARDS, ELEPHANT & MUCH MORE
BOTH DAY AND NIGHT GAME DRIVES
OVERLANDING CHALLENGES ON AN EPIC MULTI-DAY OVERLAND JOURNEY
EXPLORE THE REMOTE LOLLDAIGA HILLS
TRADITIONAL CANVAS TENTED CAMP
FLY-CAMPING (WILD CAMPING IN THE AFRICAN BUSH WITH TENTS AND HAMMOCKS)
MEET MAASAI TRIBES INCLUDING TRIBAL ELDERS
SPEND A NIGHT IN A MAASAI VILLAGE BOMA
DISCOVER 10,000 YEAR OLD ROCK ART
OPTION TO WORK WITH ANTI-POACHING UNITS IN AREA
OPTION TO CLIMB MOUNT KENYA WITH GUIDE - 5,199M (17,060ft)

Day 1: Arrival into Kenya

Arrival into Nairobi in Kenya, will be followed by catching a short internal flight up to the remote north of the country close to the slopes of Mt Kenya. Touching down at Nanyuki Airport, clients will be met by the teams airside with a warm welcome. From here they will be transfered in x2 Land Rover Defender 110s.

On collection, the group will have a 45-minute drive through the wilderness, true African bush - depending on what wildlife or 'game' is encountered on the way, the time to camp may increase on this 'game drive transfer' from airstrip to camp.

On arrival into camp, the hosts and owners will make sure to greet you warmly, before getting you all settled into life in the Kenyan bush. Select your tents and reconvene in the main mess tent before a breifing on the days ahead and some general information on your time in Kenya.

Tonight will be an early dinner before a convivial sundowner drink by the campfire. Once the stars start to come out, it will be time for bed before the adventure of a lifetime truly kicks off tomorrow.

Day 2: Lolldaiga Hills

Today sees the group rise early to the orchestra of the bush - birds and wildlife throng in this area, especially by the watering-hole in camp. Days on safari typically start early, as this is when animals are still very active and there's a high chance of good encounters. After an early wake-up call, a strong coffee and some breakfast, a game drive in Lolldaiga Hills awaits in two Land Rover Defender 110's especially converted into multi-seat safari vehicles.

During today's extensive game drive and exploration, the group will embark on a walk to some ancient caves to view pre-historic tribal rock art. Whilst here, a discussion into tribalism and how to has the power to destroy a united country by Peter, the conservancy Head Ranger will begin. Peter's entire family were killed by cattle rustlers from another tribe in 2018 and he speaks very well on the subject of unity.

This afternoon, you will embark on a game drive back to camp, not before catching some sundowner drinks in the hills at a suitable superb lookout spot.

Once back at camp, gather in the mess tent for dinner together, before heading down to the fire pit for a beer and time together sharing stories.

Day 3: Land Rover Overland Safari, Walk and Wilderness Camp

This morning you will wake up in camp and enjoy a delicious breakfast and morning brew at HQ before a breifing and the big 'off'.

Today you will all be piling back into the Series Land Rovers where you will have about a one and a half hour drive through complete wilderness heading north to the furtherest reaches of the conservancy.

Depending on what wildlife and driving challenges the convoy encounters along the way, of course this journey time could be much longer. On arrival into the area you are set to reach, the team will start to search, with the guides suggestions, for a suitable place to set up a wilderenss camp for the night.

Set up camp as a group in the wilderness, gather some wood etc for a fire later this evening and have a bite to eat.

This afternoon you will be embarking on a walking safari with head guide / ranger Peter. During a walking safari, you will see and learn a lot more about the aspects of the bush you miss from the vehicles. Look out for the 'Small Five', animals that don't make the box ticking of typical tourist but are surely just as interesting.

Tonight the team will cook on the campfire and sleep under the stars in the true wilderness.

Day 4: Overlanding by Series Land Rover

Today's incredible African dawn brings with it a full day of adventure and learning. Enjoy a bush breakfast in camp, some East African blended strong coffee a stretch before striking camp making sure to try and leave no trace.

Pile back into the beautiful old Series Land Rovers and head to the nearby Maasai community. Here you will spend the morning meeting the community, where as a group you will have the chance to have a personal discussion with the elders in the camp.

Then leave the community and drive the LRs back into the south, all the while tackling some unique driving challenges on the way (Your hosts / guides have planned a route that will test you and the Land Rovers!). Instead of going back to the camp this afternoon, the group will spend another night in the bush with another wilderness 'fly-camp'.

Tonight will be slightly different however, instead of camp beds, the group will hang up a hammock each against a tree and sleep out! Gather around the campfire and share stories and laughs from the day whilst dinner is prepared by one of the group and the host team...

The following morning, wake up and drive back to the camp for a proper shower!

Day 5: Maasai Teachings and Night in a Boma

Today is a day that will likely offer the whole group a unique perspective that you are unlikely to find elsewhere or again in your lives. A full day spent with the tribal community on the northern border of the conservancy.

The Maasai community here are great friends of the camp owners, having known them all their lives. Through this special relationhip, and mutual respect, todays's experience is not a touristy experience and the group will embed with the locals completely. Your host, the lodge owner Ed, has worked with this community for many years. Ed has worked with businesses from across the world to help companies restategise and work out business ‘mind blocks’ using the Maasai’s intricate and in-depth knowledge of their area and tribe and apply it to business (a sort of strategy session with unique insights from an alternative life stuggle).

Today the group will have a small strategy session / meeting with the Maasai elders where the group, led by Ed as a facilitator (and often translator), discuss challenges they have faced, problems they are having in their lives, and then talk with the elders about what they can learn from a nomadic community such as this one. Ed can explain this idea further on arrival into camp in Kenya and we can make a contingency if required, but this is really a worthwhile and fulfilling experience which none of the group are likely to forget.

After the visit to the community elders, the group can sit and eat with the community before sleeping in the boma (the traditional massai village, encircled by thorn bushes to keep wildlife out).

Day 6: Safari Drives, Relaxation or join an Anti-Poaching Unit

Today is a day with little to no agenda. Part of being in the magical African bush is having the time to soak it up and enjoy this very special part of the world. Today if free for self-drive safari and / or resting in the camp, not too much after a less-than-comfortable night’s sleep in the boma!

As an alternative today, and at an additional charge, (please discuss with your Sandgrouse Travel & Expeditions travel planner prior to booking) we can arrange an incredible experience teaming up with a local Anti-Poaching Unit on a nearby famous wildlife conservancy.

Ranger Experience - Meet rangers working on the front line to protect wildlife from human-wildlife conflict and poaching. Train with the rangers. Visit a highly successful, award winning conservancy, visit HQ to learn how conservation can work to protect wildlife. All in all an enthralling day which will not be forgotten in a hurry, and a chance for the group to take away some interest, as well as perhaps impart some of their own service skills to the ranger team?

Day 7: Departure Day or Mt Kenya

Today you will either be departing camp and heading back to the nearby airstrip to connect with your domestic flight to Nairobi Airport, and onwards home to the UK, or alternatively you may have chosen to extend your stay and embark on our Climb Mt Kenya addition!?

Mt Kenya is Africa’s second highest mountain and is only a 30-minute drive from the camp. It takes approx 3-4 days to the third highest peak and is an incredible bolt-on to this most magical of trips.

Speak to your Sandgrouse Travel & Expeditions travel planner to discuss adding this into your itinerary. The climb can be added in at any stage of your trip (early on, mid-way through or at the end) but please let us know before booking your Safari Convoy itineary so we can make arrangements with mountain porters and guides before arrive in Kenya.

Mount Kenya Climb

Climb Mt Kenya with Sandgrouse Travel & Expeditions on a three day bolt-on to your Land Rover safari in Kenya. Please speak to your travel planner to discuss the very real possibiliy of adding in three additional days to your itinerary to climb Mount Kenya, Africa's second highest mountain and the highest mountain in Kenya at just over 17,000 feet.

Guests can either reach the third highest point on the mountain or push for the true summit which is more of a technical climb involving some roped-up sections and a very good level of fitness.

Fly-Camping or Wild Camps

For those with an adventitious spirit, we encourage guests to spend a night or two sleeping under the stars in a fly camp or wild camp. The fly camp allows you to spend the night perched on top of a rock or in a sandy river bed - giving you the perfect location to start your safari the next morning.

A roaring fire and chef-cooked meals will accompany the intimate sounds of the bush. A watchman stands guard to keep wildlife at bay and to keep guests safe at all times.

This experience is always a highlight for our guests, and we encourage you to experience it.

Game Drives and Bush Walks

The camp has a fleet of custom-built Land Rovers made for the bush and for game viewing, included in the fleet are long wheelbase game viewing vehicles.

As well as having the opportunity to drive your own 4x4 on a self drive we always recommend making use of professional drivers, excellent spotters and local knowledge to help you navigate rocky roads and herds of elephant.

Early mornings and dusk are the best times to spot a leopard or surprise a lion. The open sided, extended Land Rovers are the perfect vehicles to help you encounter our incredible wildlife.

On foot, join one of the local guides on a safari-less-ordinary and set off on foot across the bush to learn more about the things that you might miss in a car. Groups will be on the lookout for the ‘Small Five’, which include the leopard tortoise among them and are common in the area. Our guide are also well educated in the flora of the area, including trees, flowers and which plants are used for medicinal purposes by local communities

Cave Visits

Northern Kenya has some of Kenya’s oldest rock art in it, and a visit to these ancient sites can transport you back several hundreds of years to a continent that was extremely different to the one you see today. The art gives a glimpse into the lives of the hunter-gathers that lived in the area and the traditional lives they lead - some elements are even visible in today’s nomadic communities that can be met with during your stay.

Cultural and Maasai Teachings

The world from other eyes, We think that to truly understand a place, you need to spend time with its people. Africa is home to thousands of different tribes each unique and ancient in their traditions. Africa is so much more than wildlife, so why stop at The Big Five?

The owners of the camp share an ethos to better understand what we can learn from indigenous tribes ability who inhabit the region and have learned how to thrive in the harshest lands, and how we can use that to develop ourselves into more conscious, aware and purposeful members of the global community. As a result, the camp owners love to bring guests to meet with their friends, and to their home - a manyatta (a local Maasai home) - in northern Kenya to speak with the village elders and empowered women of the community to learn about their past, present and future in this ancient place.

Call now on 01764 664 236 or alternatively email enquiries@sandgrousetravel.com.