Historical Scotland August 11 - 22 , 2024
Scotland, as a storyteller once told us “ if you scratch the surface of Scotland, it bleeds with history”. You just might get a chance to meet this storyteller up close and personal when you join this “small group” Historical Tour of Scotland. Take the hand of local guides who will take you to a land of music, rugged mountain beauty, hairy coos (cows) white sandy beaches to dip your feet in, cobbled streets that keep the footprints of history intact. Prepare yourself to be amazed, and awestruck as you tour a land so full of mystery, beauty, and a people whose strength of love for land and country can be felt in every town and village we visit.
Tour size: Max 15 people
Walking: Moderate: Most walks are moderate - however- in order to really see the rugged beauty of Scotland’s landscape one must be able to do a fair amount of walking and sometimes uphill. The city of Edinburgh is built layer upon layer of cobbled streets that beg for exploration depending on how able one's legs are for up and downhill steps and tiny alleyways.
Monday, April 10 Depart USA Our adventure begins, we will depart our local airports and depart for Scotland. Be prepared to be Amazed!!!
Tuesday, April 11th
AIRPORT TO TROSSACHS ~ EDINBURGH TO CALLANDER
After departing Edinburgh we stop off for a quick photo/coffee stop at the Stunning Forth Bridges, a World UNESCO Heritage site in the ancient port of South Queensferry.
Heading North, over the Bridge, we can take in the stunning Medieval Village of Culross (Outlander was filmed here). Our next stop is the amazing Kelpies, largest aluminum equine sculpture in the world. We will visit the popular Doune Castle, made famous on TV & Movies such as 'Outlander, Game of Thrones, Monty Python and Outlaw King. There is restoration work going on at the Castle so the visit may be limited to the Outside. Everything today depends on timings/arrivals. We will enjoy dinner at our hotel. Hotel: TBA
Highlights: Forth Bridges, Culross, Kelpies and Doune Castle
Dinner and Overnight Hotel: Callander/ Trossachs area TBA
Wednesday, April 12 ~ TROSSACHS, CALLANDER TO OBAN (VIA GLENCOE
After breakfast we will head north to Balqhuidder and the home of Rob Roy MacGregor...hero or villain? We can enjoy a walk in the wonderful village of Killin and view the falls of' Dochart.
Heading North before having lunch on your own at the Tyndrum at the Green Welly stop. Great for a wee bit of retail therapy! We then head West and a great but gentle walk to the inspiring and imposing Kilchurn ruined castle...picture postcard perfect! Our last visit of the day is a hidden gen, St. Conan's Kirk...Scotland's miniature Notre Dame. Designed and built by Walter Douglas-Campbell, the Kirk is unique in having an example of almost every style of church architecture. Highlights include a Norman doorway, Gothic flying buttresses, a Celtic cross, Arts and Crafts carvings, the Saxon tower and even a Stone circle.
We will then round the stunning Appin coast to Oban for the next two nights. Dinner will be on your own to enjoy.
Overnight: Overnight Oban/Argyll
Hotel: TBA
Thursday, April 13 ~ TOUR OF THREE ISLANDS
After breakfast we will take in the landscape of three different islands: PLEASE Keep in mind that everything regarding “Islands” depends on the weather. Following are weather dependant and may have to be omitted if the weather is not conducive for the ferry services. Three Islands: Tour (Mull, Iona & Staffa) *The Isle of Mull in Scotland sits just off the country’s west coast and is the second-largest island of the Inner Hebrides. There is so much to experience with abundant wildlife, historic ruins, beautiful beaches as well as the UK’s largest eagle population
* Duart Castle (Ancestral Home of Clan Maclean) Duart Castle proudly guards the sea cliffs of the Isle of Mull, while enjoying one of the most spectacular and unique positions on the West Coast of Scotland. Brought back from ruin in 1911, the Castle treasures 800 years of history of one of Scotland’s oldest Clans, The Macleans, and is one of the last surviving privately owned Clan Castles in Scotland.
*The tiny, enchanting Isle of Iona is a peaceful haven, while you can discover one of Scotland's geological wonders on a boat trip to Staffa time and weather permitting.
* Boat tour to Fingal's Cave, Staffa. * Stunning drive to Fionnphort
Foot Ferry to Iona ~ Walking around Iona allows you to take in the tranquillity of the island with its amazing turquoise waters and scenic beaches with little effort as the island is only 1.5 miles wide and 3 miles long.
Dinner and Overnight in Oban/Argyll Hotel: TBA
Friday, April 14 ~ OBAN TO PLOCKTON Heading North we round the Appin Peninsula and take a few photos of the Castle Stalker viewpoint. We then round the coast and follow the road to magnificent Glencoe. The road through Glen Coe takes you through the heart of an ancient volcano. We will stop in this magical area for a chance to stretch your legs.
We will stop for lunch in the famous Claighaig Inn located in the very heart of Glencoe. You might want to sample a Scottish craft ale or a “wee” malt whisky - (they have a collection of approximately 400 types).
We then head West following the route of the Jacobite Express, the Glenfinnan Viaduct (pictured above) is perhaps best known from its use in the Harry Potter movies.. Afterwards we can take a walk on one of Scotland's most beautiful white sandy beaches, made famous in the movie with Burth Lancaster, 'Local Hero'. We then board the Ferry 'Over the Sea to Skye'. We will then come off the island by bridge...makes sense to me. We will continue on to Plockton , known as the most beautiful fishing village in the West Highlands (according to the designer of this itinerary) .
FUN FACT: The TV series 'Hamish Macbeth' & the 1973 cult movie 'The Wicker Man' were both filmed here!Dinner will be arranged in an excellent local pub! Dinner and Overnight: Plockton Hotel: TBA
Saturday, April 15th ~ NORTHERN SKYE DAY TOUR
There are so many things to see and do on the Isle of Skye that it would be impossible to see all of the great sites. The island has a coastline 400 miles long, highlights include, the Fairy Glen, Old Man of Storr, The Fairy Pools, Neist Point and much more...
Your guide will chat to you on tour about how to get the best from your time there. We will indeed be spending the day on a sometimes “misty” island, so much will depend on the personality of the day - the clearer the (Skye) line - the more time we can spend exploring. We will enjoy dinner at a local restaurant before heading back to Plockton for our overnight stay. Dinner and Overnight: Plockton Hotel: TBA
Sunday, April 16th, ~SOUTHERN SKYE TOUR
Today we will enjoy a day trip to Elgol & Loch Coruisk. We start by taking a stunning drive onto Skye, then off via the amazing Kylerhea Ferry, which is the last of its kind in Europe. Onto the Paladrome of Glenelg (Twinned with Mars ). Check out the ancient Brochs, massive stone houses circa 2000 years old. We end this section with the stunning view of the five sisters of Kintail. We will return to our hotel in Plockton where you can rest before you have dinner on your own time. There are three pubs/restaurants in Plockton so be sure to make your reservations in advance. Overnight: Plockton. Hotel: TBA
Monday, April 17th ~ PLOCKTON TO INVERNESS (via TORRIDON)
This morning after our breakfast we will embark on an amazing journey into the 'Wild Wests' Northern Highlands. We climb the steepest road in Scotland, the Bealach Na Ba for some amazing views of wild, rugged beauty. We then descend into 'Wester Ross' and head towards the oldest mountains on the Planet...the Torridons, 4 billion years old! A stunning drive to the awesome Corrieshalloch Gorge...DO NOT WALK ON THIS BRIDGE IF YOU HAVE VERTIGO!!
If time allows, we can take a more gentle stroll to Rogie falls later in the afternoon. We will arrive in Inverness later in the day where you can rest a bit before we enjoy dinner at our hotel. Dinner and Overnight: Inverness. Hotel: TBA
Tuesday, April 18th ~CIRCUMNAVIGATE LOCH NESS
Today we will circumnavigate Loch Ness which will give us a chance to see both ends of the Loch, 23 miles long. Heading down the quiet and remote South Side of the Loch, will give us a chance for a short hike to spectacular hidden waterfalls at Foyers. We will visit the town of Fort Augustus which offers plenty of shopping or you might want to take an optional boat trip on the Loch at Fort Augustus followed by lunch.
There are great hikes and a walk to Urquhart Castle which has a lively history. It was one of the great castles taken by the English when Edward I invaded in 1296. We will then head back to Inverness for your 2nd night. There are many pubs and restaurants you can choose from for dinner on your own. Overnight: Inverness Hotel: TBA
Wednesday, April 19th ~ INVERNESS TO PERTHSHIRE
Enjoy breakfast, take a final look around your room to make sure everything is packed and ready for departure. Many of you have been looking forward to our first visit today which is the Culloden Battlefield...last stand for the Jacobites, and defeat for Bonnie Prince Charlie in 1746. We will have a set time to meet with a very knowledgeable guide who will take us back in time to an event that changed the way of life in the Highlands. The deep rooted culture along with the heart and soul of Scotland is still alive and thriving.
We will step even farther back in time to Ancient history with a visit to the amazing tombs and standing stones of Clava Cairns (4-5000 years old) . These stones were the inspiration for the transporting stones in the film “Outlander.” Heading down the country we stop at the Newtonmore reconstructed village from the 1700's (Outlander filmed here ). When we arrive at our hotel in Perthshire for the evening, you can relax before we enjoy our final farewell dinner in Scotland.
Dinner and Overnight Perthshire Hotel: TBA
Thursday, April 20th ~ PERTHSHIRE TO EDINBURGH VIA STIRLING
This is a day for good walking shoes. After breakfast we will depart Perthshire and enjoy the Hermitage Waterfall walk in Scotland's Tall tree country before heading to view the Wallace Monument where the famous William Wallace led his troops to victory at the Battle of Stirling Bridge. We will then visit Stirling Castle. We then head into the historical city of Edinburgh via magnificent South Queensferry, and thread the Forth Bridge. If time permits, we can stroll through the picturesque Dean Village before heading to your city center hotel for two nights. The remainder of the day is yours for your own exploring and dinner at the many pubs and restaurants that abound in Edinburgh. Overnight: Edinburgh. Hotel: TBA
Friday, April 21, EDINBURGH - OLD TOWN WALK AND FREE DAY
After breakfast we can take you on a guided walk through the amazing Old Town and your guide will bring the city to life. By now we have all become good traveling friends,we can exchange numbers and addresses and bid our farewells perhaps over a pint or coffee as the rest of our time in Edinburgh will pass quickly.
The remainder of the day is for you to explore Edinburgh on your own and have time for those last minute souvenirs. Again you can choose dinner on your own time and stay out enjoying Edinburgh’s history and culture. Your hotel will be in the heart of the Old Town so get out and enjoy your last evening in Scotland. Overnight: Edinburgh. Hotel: TBA
Saturday, April 22, Depart for Home We will more than likely have an early flight so double check to make sure you have all your belongings, especially your passport. There will be transportation for the group departure to the airport. Anyone who is spending extra days in Edinburgh will have to make their own arrangements to the airport. We now have so many memories to dwell on as we depart for our homes. It is our hope that Scotland became alive to you, taught you a few history lessons and found a warm place in your hearts and perhaps you can return someday soon.
Pricing Information:
$ $4600.00 per person based on two persons to a room
$ 700.00 Single Room Supplement
Deposit to hold space: $500.00 per person - (non-refundable)
Final payments due by: March 1 , 2023 The Fare Includes:
~Exclusive transport by luxury motorcoach with a local driver/guide
(Small group tour based on 15 people)
~Meet and greet service with one group transfer upon arrival and departure at airport
~Hotel accommodation based on twin bedded rooms with private bath for (11)nights
~Full breakfast (11)
~Included Dinners at hotels or local restaurants (6)
~Visits and admissions to Ferry services and Activities that are listed - unless titled “OPTIONAL” lunches, and drinks are not included.
~ gratuities for included meals,service charges and taxes
What is Not included on the Tour The land price of the tour does not include airfare; (Air can be arranged by Martha’s Travel Corner) excess baggage charges; items of a personal nature; meals not included on the itinerary; sightseeing attractions listed as “optional excursions” and gratuities to the Full time Motorcoach Driver. (Allow 10 -12 Euro per day per person) Travel Protection Insurance ( can be provided by Martha’s Travel Corner - ask for details)
Hotel Check In- Check-in time is approximately 2:00 p.m. and onwards. Most hotels will hold your luggage for you upon arrival, until your room is available. Not all of the hotels have Porters for luggage so be prepared to carry your own luggage to your room - another reason to PACK LIGHT
TIPPING SUGGESTIONS WHILE IN SCOTLAND:
Restaurants (with table service): 10-15% of total, if gratuity is not already included in the bill.
Bars / pubs: No tip unless drinks are served to your table, then it is about £1 per round.
Taxis: The fare is usually rounded up to the nearest pound (£).
Hotels: Porters are tipped about £1 or £2 per bag/suitcase. It is also considerate to tip a concierge for arranging services, such as making dinner reservations, order a taxi, etc.
In general, retail staff and counter staff at cafes/coffee shops are not tipped. Although visitors are not obligated to tip tour guides, it is always appreciated when left as a thank you for exceptional service.
LUGGAGE INFORMATION
This tour is by mini-bus and so, to ensure comfortable seating for everyone on our tour, we need to limit the size and amount of luggage. Each guest is allowed one suitcase (total length, width and height cannot exceed 158m (62 inches), or weigh more than 20kg or (44 pounds) and one smaller item (e.g., a small backpack or day bag) for daily essentials. If you have more luggage, we ask you to please make arrangements to store it while you are on the tour as we will not have the space to bring it along.
FITNESS & ACTIVITY LEVEL Although this tour is paced as “Moderate” please note that this tour includes some walking at some of the sightseeing stops. This means you need to be prepared and able to walk between 1-3 kilometres on certain days (approx 1-2 miles.) If you cannot make the walk, we will try and make other arrangements for you. Many of the hotels and manor houses in Scotland do not have porters available. You also need to be able to carry your own luggage when boarding the bus each day although hotel staff are happy to help. We will also help one another.
Martha’s Travel Corner~Web: www.marthastravelcorner.com ~ E-mail: marthajconover@gmail.com ~ Mobil: 815 712 9048
RESERVATION APPLICATION (call or email for a printer friendly copy)
PLEASE ENCLOSE A COPY OF THE PHOTO PAGE OF YOUR PASSPORT WITH YOUR RESERVATION.
Please return to: Martha’s Travel Corner ~ P.O. Box 1116 Oswego, IL 60543
Please reserve _________ places for me/us on the Historical Tour of Scotland - April 10 - 22, 2023 Enclosed is my/our check in the amount of $_______________ ($500.00 deposit per person) for the LAND ONLY portion of tour
Final Payment due for Land Portion: March 1, 2023 Group Air can be arranged through Martha’s Travel corner upon request.
Group Air is due by (flight and pricing details upon request)
Tour Protection is highly recommended - Contact Martha’s Travel Corner for Plans and Rates
Please make checks payable to: MARTHA’S TRAVEL CORNER or through Zelle. Payments can also be made by credit card; however a 3.5% per transaction surcharge applies on all transactions. If using a credit card, please call Martha’s Travel Corner (815 712 9048) with your details.
Mr. Mrs. Ms. __________________________________________________________
(PRINT FULL NAME - IDENTICAL TO PASSPORT)
Mr. Mrs. Ms. __________________________________________________________
(PRINT FULL NAME - IDENTICAL TO PASSPORT)
Address _____________________________________________________________________
City ___________________________ State _______________ Zip Code _________________
E-mail address___________________________________________________________
Telephone: Home (______)___________________________Mobil(_____)___________________________
I will room with (if other than spouse) ______________________________________________
Please check one: Twin room _____ ( Two beds ) Double room ____ ( one bed, usually a King size depending on hotel) Single room______________(one bed for single)
I do not have a roommate but will share. If a roommate cannot be found, I will pay the single room supplement of $700.00.__________
Emergency Contact___________________________________ Telephone______________________
Wheelchair assistance? ________________ List Dietary Restrictions_____________________________
