LOCH NESS
ISLE OF SKYE
Outlander
Highland EXPLORER tours 2021 INVERNESS DEPARTURES FEATURING THE WORLD-FAMOUS Harry Potter Steam Train
reservations:+44 (0)131 558 3738 highlandexplorertours.com
FULL REFUND IF CANCELLED MORE THAN 24 HOURS IN ADVANCE
Multi-TripS & Groups of FOUR or more
S av e
10%
AWARD-WINNING TOURS LOCAL SCOTTISH GUIDES Small group experience Eilean Donan Castle Whisky tasting Isle of Skye Outlander
WE ARE COMMITTED TO YOUR WELL-BEING We have all adapted to this new world, where it’s imperative for us to take additional measures to stay healthy. That’s why you can travel with us reassured that we have put numerous new measures in place to elevate our hygiene standards and protocols. The health and well-being of our guests and team have always been, and always will be our priority. In this new, fast-changing Covid-19 era, we are doing all we can to adapt to new requirements and expectations.
STRINGENT ON THE ROAD PROTOCOLS Our coaches are sanitised before the start of your trip and have always been kept to very high standards. Following the outbreak of COVID-19, we have taken additional measures to elevate our hygiene and sanitary practices in accordance with guidance from the World Health Organisation (WHO) and as required, applicable government regulations. We have worked to ensure our groups are divided into smaller sets at each stop, to comply with the required physical distancing. All our guests are asked to follow hygiene practices recommended by the World Health Organistation including the thorough and regular washing of hands and sanitising when required. Hand sanitiser is available onboard for our guests to use throughout the day. TRUSTED PARTNERS, EXCEPTIONAL STANDARDS We are very selective in who we work with and choose to only use B&B/guest house, hotels, restaurants, ground handlers and venues that take the health and well-being of our guests as seriously as we do and agree to meet expected guidelines and specifications. PERSONAL RESPONSIBILITY – COVID-19 WARNING We have introduced these enhanced hygiene protocols – for you, our other guests and our team members. An inherent risk of exposure to COVID-19 exists in any public place where people are present. COVID-19 is an extremely contagious disease that can lead to severe illness and death. According to the UK Government, senior citizens and guests with underlying medical conditions are especially vulnerable. 2
We ask that you please take personal responsibility for your wellbeing. Regular washing of hands and sanitising. Please bring your own hand sanitiser. Please bring your own face mask. These are to be worn at all times on the coach and in public areas. Temperature checks will be taken at the start of each day on tour. If your temperature is above 37.5 degrees you may not be permitted to travel. Maintain social distancing. You need to make the team aware if you develop any COVID like symptoms. Please adopt physical distancing and hygiene practices throughout your pre-trip travel arrangements and follow all health instruction whether physical signage or requests from our professional team, once you are holidaying with us. In choosing to travel with Highland Explorer Tours, you voluntarily assume all risks related to exposure to COVID-19. Let’s help keep each other safe and healthy. Full details on our protocols and procedures can be found on the Well-Being page on our website.
BOOK WITH CONFIDENCE
In recognition that this business has confirmed that they have followed government and industry COVID-19 guidelines, ensuring processes are in place to maintain cleanliness and aid social/physical distancing.
This stamp is awarded to governments and companies around the world which have adopted health and hygiene global standardised protocols - to ensure consumers can experience ‘Safe Travels’.
Since 2006, we have been taking visitors from all around the world on unforgettable tours in Scotland. The world has changed a lot since then, and we’ve evolved and adapted along the way. Right now, this is more important than ever. Here are the ways we make booking a trip easy, secure and flexible - peace of mind guaranteed. FLEXIBLE DEPOSITS Want to book now and pay later. No problem. Simply select the Flexi-deposit option at check-out. Full payment will be required at least 45 days prior to departures. NO CHANGE FEE If you need to change your plans for any reason, you can be assured your money is protected. If you contact us to cancel at least 30 days prior to your trip departing we can move your tour date free of charge. Our Flexi-deposit guarantee means you can use your deposit with another trip or even use it with one of our incredible sister brands. PEACE OF MIND PROMISE We’re proud to be a part of the Travel Corporation, a family of brands with over 100 years of experience across the world - always run by the same family across four generations. Their heritage, customer care and commitment to service means you can always have peace of mind when booking with us. TTC is privately owned and remains financially strong, so you can rest assured your money is always safe. A HELPFUL GUIDE TO KEEPING YOU INFORMED We aim to make your tour with Highland Explorer Tours as stress-free as possible. You can help us by ensuring you are up-to-date with Scotland’s latest travel and health guidelines by visiting our TRAVEL REQUIREMENTS PAGE on our website. 3
96%
Over of our travellers recommend us on tripAdvisor
Passionate TRUSTED UNIQUE Passionate: ALL SCOTLAND – Subtle flavours and magnificent mountains, friendly locals and frantic battles, beautiful lochs and boisterous traditions. We share all of Scotland’s secrets, beauty and history with a passion. LOCAL GUIDES – Knowledgeable as Celtic Druids and as fiery as Viking Warriors, our local Guides reveal all the stories and history with a passion that truly brings Scotland to life. AUTHENTIC EXPERIENCES – Taste what the Scots have eaten for centuries and go to places only the locals know. We’re proud to show you the treasures that won’t be found in a guidebook.
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Eilean Donan Castle
TRUSTED: MULTI-AWARD WINNING – Fifteen years’ experience, 5-star award from VisitScotland and TripAdvisor’s ‘Certificate of Excellence’; It’s no secret that we deliver an exceptional standard of service. SUSTAINABILITY – We protect the environment we’re passionate about. This commitment is recognised by our Gold Green Tourism award, and proven by our innovative Eco Scheme where we match every £1 you donate. See page 16 for more details. OUR GUARANTEE – Our fleet is built for your comfort with USB charger points and free WiFi. We promise a fantastic time or we will refund the price of your tour.
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HIGHLAND DAY TOURS
ISLE OF SKYE
Achnasheen Kilt Rock Beauly Portree Eilean Donan Mallaig Castle Glenfinnan
Clava Cairns INVERNESS Loch Ness
ABERDEEN
Fort Augustus
Fort William DUNDEE
Oban STIRLING GLASGOW EDINBURGH
FREE AUDIO GUIDES AVAILABLE
We offer FREE foreign language audio translations in German, Spanish, Italian, Portuguese, French and Mandarin. We are the only tour company in Scotland to offer this service on all of our scheduled day tours allowing the best customer experience possible for all our travellers. 6
Entdecker mit Leidenschaft... Wir sind bestrebt, Ihnen jeden Tag die allerbesten Reiseerlebnisse zu bieten. Unsere Reisetouren sind darauf ausgelegt, das Beste aus Ihrer Zeit in unserem atemberaubenden Land zu machen, damit Sie das authentische Schottland erfahren. Unsere Mission ist es, Ihre Erwartungen zu übertreffen, ein Engagement, das von VisitScotland mit 5 Sternen ausgezeichnet wurde und sich in den gleichbleibend ausgezeichneten Bewertungen unserer Kunden widerspiegelt. Auf all unseren Reisetouren stehen Audioführer zur Verfügung.
Passionnés de découvertes... Notre objectif est de vous apporter ce qu’il y a de mieux pour vos voyages. Nous avons donc conçu des circuits qui, à chaque instant, vous feront découvrir notre extraordinaire pays et vous permettront de vous donner un véritable gout de l’Écosse. Nous avons pour mission d’aller au-delà de vos attentes, tel est le sens de l’engagement que nous avons souscrit conformément à notre accréditation 5 étoiles de VisitScotland et aussi en réponse aux commentaires élogieux reçus de notre clientèle. Des guides audio sont à votre disposition pour chacun de nos voyages.
Pasión por descubrir... Trabajamos cada día para ofrecerle las mejores experiencias en viajes. Nuestras visitas guiadas están programadas de modo que pueda sacar el máximo partido de su visita en nuestro impresionante país y vivir una auténtica experiencia escocesa. Nuestra misión es sobrepasar sus expectativas, un compromiso constatado por nuestra acreditación de 5 estrellas por parte de VisitScotland, y las continuas opiniones favorables de nuestros clientes. Existen audio-guías a su disposición en todas nuestras visitas.
Paixão Pela Descoberta... Dedicamo-nos a proporcionar as melhores experiências de viagem todos os dias. As nossas visitas guiadas foram concebidas para aproveitar o máximo da sua estadia no nosso maravilhoso país e para lhe proporcionar uma autêntica experiência da Escócia. A nossa missão é exceder as suas expectativas, um compromisso que é reconhecido pela nossa acreditação de 5 estrelas da VisitScotland e pela consistência do excelente retorno por parte dos nossos clientes. Encontram-se disponíveis Guias Áudio em todas as nossas visitas guiadas.
Amanti della Scoperta... Siamo dediti a garantire ogni giorno le migliori esperienze di viaggio. I nostri tour sono strutturati in modo che possiate godervi il tempo che passerete nel nostro stupendo paese e per farvi vivere la vera Scozia. La nostra missione è quella di andare oltre le vostre aspettative, un impegno riconosciuto dal nostro punteggio di 5 stelle nella classifica VisitScotland e dai costanti commenti positivi dei nostri clienti. Le Audio Guide sono disponibili in tutti i nostri tour.
热衷于发现之旅… 我们专注于每天提供最优秀的旅游体验。 我们的旅游路线力图帮助 您最大限度地利用您在我们这美丽无比的国家所度过的旅游时光 ， 并给予您一个真正的苏格兰体验。 我们的使命是超越您的期待 ，我 们有游览苏格兰5星级认证 ，也一直得到积极的客户评价反馈。 我 们所有的旅游路线都提供导游音频设备。
CONTENTS TOUR ROUTE 1 DAY Loch Ness, Whisky & Outlander
TOUR ROUTE 1 Day Isle of Skye & Eilean Donan Castle
TOUR ROUTE 1 DAY HARRY POTTER TRAIN & THE SCENIC HIGHLANDS
1 Day Tours Harry Potter Train & The Scenic Highlands
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Loch Ness, Whisky & Outlander
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Isle of Skye & Eilean Donan Castle
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Sustainable Tourism
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Terms & Conditions
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Tours at a Glance
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Jacobite Steam Train
UNIQUE: EXPLORE MORE – Our trips give you versatility and the choice to see Scotland your way. Saunter around a beautiful town, delve into a historic castle; it’s your trip, and it’s your choice. SAVINGS – Mini Groups – Save 10% when ‘4 or more’ adults book any day tour together. – Multi Trip Deals – Save 10% when two day tours are booked together. FREE WIFI – Available on-board our mini-coaches. INTERPRETIVE MATERIALS – We offer free foreign language audio guides on every tour. 7
we travel because the world is beautiful.
We want to keep it that way.
DOWN UNDER TOURS
A FAMILY OF BRANDS We at The Travel Corporation (TTC), Highland Explorer Tours’ parent company, have been creating enriching travel experiences for over 100 years. As a fourth-generation, family-owned business, we provide a rich tradition of expertise, delivering exceptional hospitality, outstanding quality and superb value no matter which of our companies you choose to travel with.
TRavelled before? If you are a previous guest of The Travel Corporation we would like to offer you a discount on your next adventure with us. For more information, visit ttc.com/loyalty.
EVAN EVANS
SUSTAINABLE TOURISM We are proud to be active partners and supporters of the TreadRight Foundation’s sustainability work and projects. Created as a joint initiative between The Travel Corporation’s (TTC) family of brands, the TreadRight Foundation is a not-for-profit organisation that works to help ensure the environment and communities we visit remain for generations to come. To date, TreadRight has supported more than 50 sustainable projects worldwide.
AAT KINGS
When travelling with Highland Explorer Tours you can support some of these projects. To learn more about our past and current projects, visit TreadRight.org.
TREES FOR Life UK based Trees for Life is a charity working to restore the Caledonian Forest, which formerly covered a large part of the Scottish Highlands. Since 1989, Trees for Life has been helping to bring the forest back from the brink, both through natural regeneration and by planting trees. Trees for Life is the beneficiary of Highland Explorer Tours Environmental Charity Offering Scheme. For more information see page 16.
HAGGIS ADVENTURES
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Jacobite Steam Train
“Great day trip in the Highlands! A lot of scenic views, traditional Scottish music along the way, steam train experience, best guide ever! Totally recommended!” ION | NOVEMBER 2020
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1 DAY TOUR
Harry Potter TRAIN & THE Scenic Highlands
Includes Jacobite Steam Train Ticket
JACOBITE STEAM TRAIN GLENFINNAN
FULL REFUND IF CANCELLED MORE THAN 24 HOURS IN ADVANCE
LOCH NESS MALLAIG FORT AUGUSTUS COMMANDO MEMORIAL BEN NEVIS
Enjoy a full day of stunning scenery and fresh Highland air, as we travel all the way around Loch Ness and along the idyllic West Coast. Our journey reveals ancient ruins, a poignant war memorial, beautiful beaches and a hidden waterfall – with untamed mountains never far from sight. Not only will you watch the Jacobite Steam Train as it crosses the Glenfinnan Viaduct, you will later hop aboard and experience it for yourself. Made famous by the Harry Potter films, and voted one of the world’s most scenic railway journeys, this is a trip you’ll never forget! We depart Inverness at 7.30am and begin our journey along the world-famous Loch Ness, stopping for photos above the ruins of Urquhart Castle. We continue south and visit the Commando Memorial which overlooks the Nevis Range; home to the UK’s highest mountain, Ben Nevis. Next, it’s time to set your sights upon the Jacobite Steam Train and hop aboard the train at Fort William.
MAY - September
Monday, Wednesday, Friday & Sunday June - September
Selected* Thursdays October
Selected* MondayS & Fridays *Please see website for exact dates
We then take the stunning ‘Road to the Isles’ towards Glenfinnan viaduct to watch the train cross the wonderful viaduct and wave farewell.
DEPARTS RETURNS
The beautiful scenery continues into the evening with a stop in Fort Augustus to see the Caledonian Canal and Loch Ness up close. Finally, we visit the Falls of Foyers and Dores Beach on the banks Your journey through magnificent landscapes will end in the fishing of Loch Ness, arriving back into Inverness port of Mallaig where you can try fresh seafood for lunch or explore around 8.00pm. the town.
07:30 20:00
INCLUSIONS Jacobite Steam Train Ticket Local Scottish Guide WiFi
LEWIS & HARRIS
Audio Guides
Jacobite Steam Train Take a trip on the world-famous Jacobite Steam Train as it travels over the 21 arches of the impressive Glenfinnan Viaduct. Featured in a number of Harry Potter films as the ‘Hogwarts’s Express’ the Jacobite Steam Train is an outstanding way to take in the beautiful scenery of the Scottish West Coast and we guarantee it is an experience you will never forget.
ISLE OF SKYE Portree
INVERNESS Eilean Donan Loch Ness Castle Mallaig Fort Augustus Glenfinnan Fort William DUNDEE Oban
STIRLING GLASGOW EDINBURGH
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Urquhart Castle on Loch Ness
“I am so glad I booked Highland Explorer Tours. It took the stress away from planning and driving and we got to sit back enjoy the fantastic views and wonderful places. Fraser our tour guide was great, full of wonderful anecdotes and stories. It made for an unforgettable and fun experience for my two boys.” SAM | SEPTEMBER 2020
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1 DAY TOUR
Loch Ness, Whisky & Outlander
LOCH NESS CRUISE OPTION
LOCH NESS
FULL REFUND IF CANCELLED MORE THAN 24 HOURS IN ADVANCE
URQUHART CASTLE BEAUTIFUL BEAULY PRIORY, AS SEEN IN OUTLANDER WHISKY DISTILLERY VISIT CULLODEN BATTLEFIELD CLAVA CAIRNS STANDING STONES – INSPIRATION FOR CRAIGH NA DUN IN OUTLANDER
Join us on a jam-packed journey in the Highlands, to enjoy many iconic Scottish experiences in just one day. Our adventure begins at the legendary Loch Ness, where you have the option to take a cruise to the ruins of Urquhart Castle; prime monster spotting territory! After lunch in beautiful Beauly we visit a Highland whisky distillery, where the best way to learn about the “water of life” is to taste it. Learn the true story which inspired Outlander at Culloden Battlefield, and attempt your own journey through the stones at Clava Cairns. We return to Inverness in the early evening. Depart central Inverness and journey to the world-famous Loch Ness, where you will have the option to join a cruise to the ruins of the 13th century Urquhart Castle, or to explore the nearby village of Drumnadrochit. Enjoy lunch in one of the charming local cafés in beautiful Beauly and walk it off exploring Beauly Priory; used in the filming of Outlander. Our next stop is a Highland whisky distillery, where you can join an optional tour to learn about whisky production and sample a wee dram.
APRIL- October May - SEPTEMBER
Thursday, Saturday Wednesday, Thursday, FRIDAY & Sunday & SATURDAY & Sunday 08:45 DEPARTS 08:45 DEPARTS 17:30 RETURNS 17:30 RETURNS INCLUSIONS
ADULT Beauly Priory CONCESSION
Listen to tales of the Jacobite rebellions and the brutal Battle of Culloden, on our visit to Culloden Battlefield. Outlander fans will love the mysterious burial chambers and standing stones at Clava Cairns. When you’ve heard the harrowing history behind the Outlander story, you might not want to travel back in time to meet Jamie Fraser after all! Return to Inverness in the early evening.
£45 £42
Local Scottish Guide WiFi INCLUSIONS Audio Guides Beauly Priory Local Scottish Guide WiFi
EXPLORE Audio Guides MORE Loch Ness Cruise & Urquhart Castle RESERVE AT THE TIME OF BOOKING
LEWIS & HARRIS
Loch Ness Cruise & Urquhart Castle Enjoy this fully guided cruise on the mysterious Loch Ness including entry to the ruins of Urquhart Castle situated on the north west shores of the Loch. Cruise duration approximately 1 hour. Free time at Urquhart Castle approximately 1 hour.
Highland Whisky Distillery Tour
EXPLORE MORE PAY LOCALLY
Loch NessVisitor CruiseCentre & Urquhart Castle Culloden (ADULT / CONCESSION FROM £21.50) PAY LOCALLY (Reserve at the time of booking)
ISLE OF SKYE Portree
Beauly
Clava Cairns INVERNESS Loch Ness Fort Augustus
Highland Whisky Distillery Tour (ADULT / CONCESSION FROM £6.00, PAY IN CASH LOCALLY)
Culloden Visitor Centre (ADULT / CONCESSION FROM £11.50, PAY LOCALLY)
Fort William DUNDEE Oban
STIRLING GLASGOW EDINBURGH
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The Storr, Isle of Skye
“My friend Alina and I had an amazing trip yesterday! All Covid-19 measures were in place. Our driver and guide Caitlin was warm, friendly, helpful and had a brilliant way of storytelling. She kept us entertained, informed and played music to match the place or feeling. We can tell she loves the job she does!” Sonia | September 2020
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1 DAY TOUR
Isle of Skye & Eilean Donan Castle
EILEAN DONAN CASTLE OPTION
LOCH NESS EILEAN DONAN CASTLE
FULL REFUND IF CANCELLED MORE THAN 24 HOURS IN ADVANCE
OLD MAN OF STORR, ISLE OF SKYE LEALT FALLS, ISLE OF SKYE KILT ROCK WATERFALL, ISLE OF SKYE PORTREE, ISLE OF SKYE
Leave behind the ‘Capital of the Highlands’ for a full day adventure through the rugged Highlands to the enchanting Isle of Skye. On this trip, it is as much about the journey to get there as it is about the island destination. Cast your eyes upon the world-famous Loch Ness and venture inside the iconic Eilean Donan Castle on an optional tour, before immersing yourself in the myths and magic of the Isle of Skye. The ancient mountains, unique rock formations and dramatic coastline will take your breath away as we explore the Trotternish Peninsula, before our scenic drive back to Inverness. We depart the city of Inverness at 8am to drive alongside Loch Ness – home of the elusive monster – and onwards through the mountains towards the west coast. Majestic mountains give way to vast sea lochs, once used by Vikings as an access route to our lands. We stop at the romantic Eilean Donan Castle, where you have the option of taking a tour to explore inside.
APRIL- October May - SEPTEMBER
Wednesday & Wednesday, Thursday, Friday FRIDAY & SATURDAY 08:00 DEPARTS & Sunday 20:00 RETURNS 08:45 DEPARTS 17:30 RETURNS INCLUSIONS Local Scottish Guide ADULT CONCESSION WiFi
of rival clans and a fugitive prince. Enjoy lunch in the capital of the island on our stop in Portree, where you can visit the colourful harbour.
£45 £42
Audio Guides
INCLUSIONS Beauly Priory
Marvel at the Old Man of Storr, Lealt Falls and Kilt Rock, and take in the last of Skye’s otherworldly landscape before we return to the mainland. We arrive back into Inverness for around 8pm.
EXPLORE Local Scottish GuideMORE WiFi Eilean Donan Castle PAY LOCALLY Audio Guides
After crossing the Skye Bridge, your guide will entertain you with stories of local legends and folklore, as well as the true tales LEWIS & HARRIS
EXPLORE MORE Loch Ness Cruise & Urquhart Castle
Eilean Donan Castle Eilean Donan Castle is situated on a sea loch surrounded by magnificent Highland scenery. This magical and idyllic setting is what makes this one of Scotland’s most iconic attractions. Take a tour to find out about the castle’s colourful history.
Kilt Rock
ISLE OF SKYE Portree
(ADULT / CONCESSION FROM £21.50) (Reserve at the time of booking)
Achnasheen
Highland Whisky Distillery Tour
INVERNESS Eilean Donan Castle
(ADULT / CONCESSION FROM £6.00, PAY IN CASH LOCALLY)
Loch Ness Fort Augustus
Culloden Visitor Centre (ADULT / CONCESSION FROM £11.50, PAY LOCALLY)
Fort William DUNDEE Oban
STIRLING GLASGOW EDINBURGH
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WE CARE Highland Explorer Tours are delighted to have achieved gold status in the Green Tourism Business Scheme. This scheme recognises our company’s ongoing commitment towards sustainability that is achieved by excellent practices throughout the company. Coach travel has been proven to reduce congestion and cause less pollution per passenger kilometre than any other form of transportation. Our coach fleet is among the most efficient in
Europe and complies with EU emissions standards. Highland Explorer Tours has been awarded with a 5-star accreditation by Ecostar scheme that provides recognition and guidance on environmental best practice to coach operators. Highland Explorer Tours, as part of The Travel Corporation, is proud to commit to using environmentally friendly paper for the body of our brochures. This brochure is made of material from well-managed, FSC certified forests and other controlled sources.
Environmental Charity Offering (Eco) Scheme Highland Explorer Tours are committed to sustainable tourism and to preserving Scotland’s natural wildlife, environment and unique cultures for future generations to enjoy. We have pioneered an Eco Scheme where you can make an optional £2 donation when booking any tour. We will match every donation you make.
Trees for Life are an award-wining charity working to restore the Caledonian Forest in the Highlands of Scotland. The charity has funded the protection of a number of existing forest remnants and have so far planted over half a million trees. For more information go to www.highlandexplorertours.com/about-us/ sustainable-tourism
Accessibility Statement We are committed to making your tour with us as enjoyable as possible no matter what your individual needs are. Nevertheless, there are certain limitations that may arise due to the local and rural nature of Scotland. The following is intended to provide useful information for anyone travelling with us. Our coaches generally pick up and drop off customers at attractions or viewpoints, although there may be a short walk to meet the coach at some locations. Unfortunately, our guides are not able to assist with wheelchairs or offer physical assistance when
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embarking or disembarking from the bus. Passengers should be able to board and disembark the coach themselves using the access stairs or with the assistance of a travelling companion. If you have any accessibility requirements, please contact us before booking. One of our experienced reservations staff will be more than happy to assist with your enquiry. For our full accessibility statement, go to www.highlandexplorertours.com/essential-info/accessibility
Edinburgh
Highland Explorer Tours - Terms & Conditions
Photography: Scottish Viewpoint, Jacobite Cruises, Historic Scotland, Shutterstock Images, Dennis Hardley photography - www.scotphoto.com, Lynne Morris Photography, Stephen Bridger Photography, Visit Scotland, Kenny Lam, Richard Nixon, Gillian Renilson, Sharon Pleimling, Michelle Morgan, and Graham Stevenson.
Once Highland Explorer Tours, a trading name of Radical Travel Group Limited, hereinafter referred to as “the Operator”, confirms your booking a contract is made between the Operator and you upon the terms and conditions set out below. Your statutory rights are not affected. In a booking with more than one passenger the ‘lead passenger’ will be deemed to have accepted the terms and conditions on behalf of all passengers within the booking. The ‘lead passenger’ is the passenger who makes the booking on behalf of all passengers in a multi-passenger booking and is named in the ‘lead passenger’ field within the booking. Within these Booking Conditions, “you” and “your” means all persons named on the booking (including anyone who is added at a later date). 1. Booking/Acceptance 1.1 The Operator accepts a booking on the understanding that a deposit or full payment has been collected and held either by the Operator directly, or by an authorised travel agent on the Operator’s behalf. Bookings made via the Operator’s own website are considered as made with the Operator directly. 1.2 On confirmation of your booking, subject to availability and at the Operator’s discretion, the Operator will reserve your place(s) on your selected products (“tours”). It is your (or on bookings involving more than one person, the lead passenger’s) responsibility, as the customer, to check the accuracy of your booking and travel dates. A contract is only made between you and the Operator upon your booking being confirmed and accepted and communication thereof to either you or your authorised travel agent (hereinafter referred to as “confirmation”). 1.3 On confirmation of your booking, a Booking Statement indicating the amount paid and an e-ticket will be sent to either you or your travel agent 1.4 In order to reserve your tour: 1.4a) Tours costing 200 GBP, 400 AUD, 360 CAD, 240 EUR, 500 NZD, 340 USD, 2,000 ZAR or less: full payment must be made at time of booking. No deposit option available. 1.5 The Operator reserves the right to cancel the booking and apply cancellation charges should full payment not be received within the above specified periods. 1.6 If you wish to book to travel at student prices, you must have an ISIC, ITIC or ISE student card or a Student Flights ID Card, valid at the time of and for the duration of your travel with the operator. Please note the minimum age for children on our tours is 5 years old. Children (aged 5-16 inclusive and must be accompanied by an adult), Seniors (aged 60+). 2. Cancellations & Changes 2.1 Cancellation of your booking must be in writing to either the Operator (for direct or website bookings) or the authorised Agent through which your booking was made. If your booking was made through an authorised Agent, all amendments and cancellations must be made directly through the Agent and not with the Operator (the Agent may also levy cancellation charges in addition to those noted below - please check with the Agent at time of booking). When written notification has been received by the Operator, a fee will be levied to cover the costs incurred. The amount of the cancellation fee will be dependent on the number of days prior to the departure date of the tour (not including the day of departure or the day of notification). 2.2 Cancellation of individual passengers from a multiple booking where a group discount applies (‘4 or more’ discount) may mean that the discount applied on booking will be forfeited, due to the qualifying criteria no longer being met. If the cancellation results in the qualifying criteria no longer being met then the total price payable for the remaining passengers on the booking will be adjusted, and any forfeited discount will be reclaimed through deduction in calculating any refund due to the cancelling passengers. The following cancellation policies apply: HIGHLAND EXPLORER TOURS. Cancellations Cancellations from 45 days Full fee 2.3 Product outside 45 days until full fee threshold threshold Highland Explorer No Fee No Fee 24 hrs or less Tours - Day Tours 100% fee
4. Changes by The Operator 4.1 Prices in this brochure are based on costs and exchange rates at December 2020. Should these costs change it may be necessary to make a surcharge on the price of your tour. Should the total tour price increase by more than 10% you will have the right to cancel within 7 days of notification without penalty. 4.2 No surcharge in respect of costs or currency fluctuations will be made once payment of the deposit for your tour has been received. This guarantee excludes fuel surcharges and does not apply to any taxes, charges or levies imposed by any government or their agencies. In exchange for these guarantees, no refund will be made if costs are reduced. The surcharge will only be made where the increase in cost will affect the price of the tour by more than 2%. 4.3 The Operator reserves the right to vary, modify or cancel any itinerary, either part or wholly. If this is necessary, they will substitute alternative arrangements of comparable value, or at the Operator’s discretion provide a full or partial refund. 4.4 If access to any country or area is prohibited for reasons of force majeure (i.e. circumstances such as political unrest, war or threat of war, riots, civil strife, closure of airports or ports, industrial disputes, terrorist activity, natural and nuclear disasters, fire, epidemic or health risk, Acts of God, adverse weather conditions or other similar events beyond the Operator’s control) the Operator reserves the right to amend or alter the product, or fully or partially withdraw the programme. If the Operator cannot offer suitable substitute services, you will be entitled to a refund (less reasonable expenses incurred by the Operator in respect of your booking). The amount of the refund will be calculated pro-rata based on used portion of the tour. 4.5 The Operator reserves the right to alter or substitute the type of vehicle mentioned in the brochure or websites. 5. Dispute Procedures 5.1 If you have a complaint in respect of any Operator, you should inform the Operator’s Representative at the time. Any complaint that cannot be resolved by the Representative should be submitted in writing within 28 days of the incident to The Customer Services Manager, Highland Explorer Tours, 60 High Street, Edinburgh, EH1 1TB, Scotland, United Kingdom so that your complaint can be passed to and then investigated by the Operator. The Operators will not consider complaints after the 28 day period from the end of your tour. 5.2 The contract and all matters arising in respect hereof shall be subject to Scots Law unless the Operator agrees otherwise in writing. 5.3 If any provision of this contract is held invalid or unenforceable by any court of competent jurisdiction, that provision shall be deemed to be rewritten to give effect to the same purpose within the permitted limits of the law. The validity and enforceability of the other provisions shall not be affected. 5.4 If you are unsuccessful in any legal action instituted against the Operator, you agree to pay all the Operator’s costs, including but not limited to attorney / client costs. 5.5 Our Guarantee Policy. Any Issues need to be raised whilst on tour to info@ highlandexplorertours.com or 0131 558 3738. If these issues are not resolved to your satisfaction a full refund will be awarded. 6. Contracting Parties 6.1 The booking conditions detailed herein contain the entire contract between you and the Operator. No representation, term, warranty or condition can be expressed or implied by reference to any other writing, advertisement or conversation. This contract may only be varied by a duly authorised officer or Director of the Operator in writing. 6.2 Your contract is with the Operator. At any time, and at the Operator’s complete discretion, the Operator may nominate to you in writing any other company or person to have the benefit of some or all of those provisions of this contract, which the Operator may then specify, as if you had agreed the provisions concerned directly with that company or person in the first place as well as agreeing them with the Operator. The Operator may at its complete discretion assign all or any rights and liabilities arising under or by virtue of this or any other contract with you. 6.3 All bookings with carriers and other service providers are subject to their terms and conditions and limitations of liability. Please note that some of these limit or exclude liability in respect of death, personal injury, delay and * Upgrades and Add Ons do not qualify for a deposit payment and attract a 0% fee if cancelled with their loss or damage to baggage. Whilst the Operator cannot accept any responsibility for any connected product outside 45 days. loss as a result of such actions or as a result of any act or omission of any such third 2.4 Private Group / Bespoke Tours – specific cancellation fees apply to each tour, the parties, the Operator will give reasonable assistance in helping to resolve any reasonable Operator will inform you of these prior to payment. A non-refundable deposit will be dispute. 6.4 Every effort is made to ensure brochure accuracy at the time of going to required at time of booking to cover any accommodation, third party supplier, meals and print, however the Operator cannot be held responsible for printing and typographical attraction costs. Where bookings include entrance fees to attractions, accommodation, errors, or errors arising from unforeseen circumstances. involve accommodation upgrades or specific accommodation requests any cancellation fees incurred by the Operator will be passed on to you in addition to the standard Private 7. Minimum Numbers Group / Bespoke Tour refund policy. 2.5 Any changes of departure date or tour within 45 The Company reserves the right to cancel extended (multi-day) and day tours where the days of departure but prior to the full fee threshold (as defined in clause 2) will incur an minimum number of passengers is not reached. The minimum number of passengers administration fee of 25 GBP, 45 AUD, 45 CAD, 30 EUR, 45 NZD, 45 USD, 400 ZAR per person required for tour departure is 6. In such cases, the Company’s liability to the Customer is either the full return of monies paid for the tour or provision of a suitable alternative tour per tour, subject to availability and charges in lieu of clauses 2.7 or 2.8 where the new departure date / tour must be immediately nominated. These changes may result in the as agreed with the Customer. 8. Validity loss of any special discounts applied to the originally booked Tours and are in addition The programmes, products and tours advertised on the website and brochure are valid to any fees that may be levied by your Travel Agent. 2.6 Tour changes to one of a lower from the operating season pertaining to each Operator as specified in the brochure and value or seasonality will result in the loss of any special discounts applied to the the Operator’s website, unless stated to the contrary. These Terms and Conditions originally booked tour and will be subject to an administration fee equivalent to the supersede all previous Terms and Conditions issued and are valid for all reservations cancellation fee on the original tour booked. 2.7 Tour changes to one of higher value or seasonality will require the difference in price to be paid. This may also result in the loss made on or after 21 December 2020, until replaced. of any special discounts applied to the originally booked tours. 2.8 If the reason for your 9. Your Responsibilities cancellation is covered under your insurance policy, you may be able to make a claim 9.1 COVID-19. An inherent risk of exposure to COVID-19 exists in any public place where under that policy. 2.9 No name changes are permitted. 2.10 The Company reserves the people are present. COVID19 is an extremely contagious disease that can lead to severe right to cancel tours where the minimum number of passengers is not reached. Minimum illness and death. We ask that you please take personal responsibility for your wellbeing. number of passengers required for tour departure. In such cases, the Company’s liability This begins with packing any personal protective equipment and sanitisers you require. to the Customer is either the full return of monies paid for the tour or provision of a Please adopt physical distancing and hygiene practices throughout your pre-trip travel suitable alternative tour as agreed with the Customer. Highland Explorer Tours is not arrangements and follow all health instructions whether physical signage, or requests liable for any cancellation or change cost or penalties incurred on other travel from our professional staff, once you are holidaying with us. To travel with Highland arrangements, including air travel, that may be affected thereby. Highland Explorer Explorer Tours, you voluntarily assume all risks related to exposure to COVID19. Full details Tours is not responsible for other travel arrangements that you or your party have made of hygiene protocols can be found on our website. 9.2 The tour products offered are outside Highland Explorer Tours and which are affected by our cancellations. Cancellation forms of transportation. For this reason the Operator’s representative cannot offer due to Force Majeure Events. 2.11 If Highland Explorer Tours cancels a trip as a result of a constant special attention or assistance should you have any physical disability requiring Force Majeure Event, Highland Explorer Tours will provide an alternative comparable trip such attention. 9.3 Passengers must be aged 5 or over and be accompanied by a person (if available). If an alternative is not available you will be offered a future travel credit or 18 years or over. There is no upper age restriction. 9.4 Passengers with specific physical or a refund. No compensation is payable in these circumstances. Where a trip is terminated medical requirements. We will try to accommodate any passenger on tour but due to the mid-trip due to a Force Majeure event, if we provide you with any alternative services or nature of the product, we are required to consider specific physical or medical assistance (such as hotels or travel) then you agree to pay for these costs. requirements on a case by case basis. We also ask that all passengers familiarise 3. Local Tours & Excursions themselves with our Accessibility Statement. We will do our best to accommodate any 3.1 You may have the opportunity to purchase local tours or excursions from your Guide passenger who may have specific assistance requirements provided they are or Check-in Staff. These tours and excursions are run by local operators and will be accompanied by a companion capable of providing such necessary assistance and do not subject to their terms and conditions. 3.2 Local tours and excursions purchased via require special assistance from the Operator’s personnel. Any medical or physical Guides/Check-In staff are non-refundable. It is your responsibility to meet the tour at the condition requiring third party attention or treatment must be advised in writing to our designated departure point and time. Travel on local tours and excursions will only be Reservations Team when the booking is made. We ask that any special requests or permitted on presentation of the issued voucher to the named operator. 3.3 Local tour requirements concerning travel arrangements or accommodation also be made at time and excursion vouchers that are lost or stolen cannot be replaced. 3.4 Please note that of booking to ensure we can provide the best service possible. If submitting such prices printed in brochures are correct at the time of print and maybe subject to change. notification, it is your responsibility to ensure it is acknowledged with your booking
confirmation. The Operator cannot guarantee travel in the absence of such an acknowledgement. We will pass on any reasonable requests to the relevant suppliers but cannot guarantee that your requests will be met. The fact that a special request has been noted on your confirmation invoice or on any other acknowledgement is not confirmation that the request will be met. Failure to meet any special requests will not be a breach of contract on our part unless the request has been specifically acknowledged and confirmed as guaranteed by our Operations Team. The Operator reserves the right to refuse to carry anyone if it is felt that the individual cannot cope with the requirements of the tour and who may require services and facilities that the Operator cannot guarantee will be available. The nature of the tours means that not every type of disability can be accommodated despite reasonable endeavour’s of the operator. Most tours involve getting on and off coaches, trains, boats or ferries, sitting for long periods on coaches without toilet facilities, walking and other physical activities which may involve steps and stairs at sightseeing stops, visitor attractions and accommodation units. Coaches are not adapted to carry wheelchairs and do not have ramps, lift or low floor access. Collapsible wheelchairs can generally be carried in the luggage hold but you must check in advance with our Reservations Team to ensure that this is the case for your tour. The Operator cannot carry any motorised wheelchairs under any circumstances. You agree not to hold the Operator responsible for any decision made by them or by any service provider to refuse to carry you, provide any facilities or accommodation to you, or to provide any service to you in the absence of written acknowledgement and acceptance of your special request or of your specific assistance needs from our Reservations Team. Please note that 100% cancellation charges would apply in these circumstances. 9.5 It is your responsibility to have a valid passport and all necessary visas, permits and certificates on your person for your selected itinerary, to have all necessary vaccinations and to comply with applicable laws. Schengen Visas – it is your responsibility to have your passport stamped on entry to the European Union. The Operator will not allow you to travel if you do not have a valid visa for your destination. The Operator will not allow you to travel without a valid passport. 9.6 You agree to comply with the authority of the Operator’s representative and the laws and regulations of the countries visited, including customs and foreign exchange restrictions. If you do not do so, you may, at the discretion of the Operator’s representative, be asked to leave the tour. No refunds will be issued in such circumstances. 9.7 You agree that the Operators’ representatives may take photographs and video recordings of you while you are a passenger. These may be used in the Operator’s brochures and/or advertising and publicity material (including social media) without obtaining any further consent or payment in respect of such photographs and/or films. 9.8 You agree that the Operator may use any text written in comments books, recorded in customer surveys or input to online forums, in brochures, websites and/or advertising and publicity material without obtaining any further consent or payment in respect of comments. 9.9 There may be times when the Operator’s personnel and/or representatives have to make a decision in the interests of safety. It is a condition of booking that you comply with the authority and decisions of the appointed representative of the Operator. If you do not comply with the said representative or are not compatible with the general enjoyment and well-being of members of the tour, the Operator reserves the right to refuse to allow you to continue the tour. In such a case the Operator will not be liable for any refund, compensation or any additional costs incurred by you. The Operator cannot accept liability for the behaviour of others on your tour nor if any facilities are curtailed as a result of their actions. 9.10 The Operators do not tolerate any form of abuse, verbal or otherwise, of its personnel. Any person abusing or threatening the Operator’s personnel or associated representatives will automatically forfeit their right to onward travel. 9.11 You are responsible for looking after your personal belongings whilst travelling. The Operator cannot be held responsible for any personal belongings left behind or damaged on any tour irrespective of the circumstances. 9.12 It is the responsibility of the individual passenger and authorised Travel Agent on the passenger’s behalf, to check the accuracy of dates booked upon receipt of their Booking Statement confirming ‘Full Payment’. 9.13 If you paid a Student price on booking, you will be required to prove this entitlement at check-in for each departure by exhibiting a valid ISIC, ISE or ITIC student card or Student Flights ID Card. Should you not be able to do this, you will be charged the difference between the full tour price and the student discounted price in addition to an administration fee of 25 GBP / 45 AUD / 45 CAD / 45 NZD /45 USD /30 EUR /400ZAR. 9.14 The Operator has a zero tolerance policy on possession of illegal drugs or substances. Any passenger deemed to have breached this condition by the Operator will automatically forfeit their right to onward travel and any associated refund. 9.15 By booking a trip that includes Multi-share accommodation, you acknowledge that the Operator and / or its representatives is unable to confirm if the room allocation is single gender. 9.16 Safety. Where the guest occupies a motor coach seat fitted with a safety belt, neither Highland Explorer Tours or the Operator nor its agents or co-operating organisations or service providers will be liable for any injury, illness or death or for any loss or damages or claims whatsoever arising from any accident or incident, if the safety belt is not being worn at the time of such an accident or incident. This exclusion and limitation of liability shall not be used to imply that the Operator or its agents or affiliated entities are liable in other circumstances 10. Highland Explorer Tours - Operating Company All Highland Explorer Tours are operated by: - Radical Travel Group Limited Atholl Exchange, 6 Canning Street, Edinburgh EH3 8EG. Registered in Scotland No 136334. 10.1 A selection of local Operators provide additional services across tours advertised in this brochure. For a full set of details and their respective terms and conditions please refer to HighlandExplorerTours.com. 11. Data Protection Statement Please be assured that we have measures in place to protect the personal booking information held by us. This information will be passed on to the principal and to the relevant suppliers of your travel arrangements. The information may also be provided to public authorities such as customs or immigration if required by them, or as required by law. Certain information may also be passed on to security or credit checking companies. We will only pass your information on to persons responsible for your travel arrangements. This applies to any sensitive information that you give to us such as details of any disabilities, or dietary/religious requirements. (If we cannot pass this information to the relevant suppliers we will be unable to provide your booking. In making this booking, you consent to this information being passed on to the relevant persons). Where the data might be passed on for marketing purposes, you have the right to opt out of future marketing. You also have a right of access to data held which can be obtained by writing to Radical Travel Group Limited, Atholl Exchange, 6 Canning Street, Edinburgh EH3 8EG. Further detail and our full Privacy Policy can be found on our website. Please see HighlandExplorerTours.com 12. Terms and Conditions For a full expanded list of our Terms and Conditions please see HighlandExplorerTours.com
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TOURS AT A GLANCE DEPARTS
RETURNS
1 Day Harry Potter Train & The Scenic Highlands (May - October)
07.30
20.00
1 Day Isle of Skye & Eilean Donan Castle (May - October)
08.00
20.00
1 Day Harry Potter Train & The Scenic Highlands (May - September)
07.30
20.00
1 Day Loch Ness, Whisky & Outlander (May - October)
08.45
17.30
1 Day Harry Potter Train & The Scenic Highlands (June - September)
07.30
20.00
1 Day Isle of Skye & Eilean Donan Castle (May - October)
08.00
20.00
1 Day Harry Potter Train & The Scenic Highlands (May - October)
07.30
20.00
SAT
1 Day Loch Ness, Whisky & Outlander (May - October)
08.45
17.30
SUN
1 Day Loch Ness, Whisky & Outlander (May - October)
08.45
17.30
1 Day Harry Potter Train & The Scenic Highlands (May - September)
07.30
20.00
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HOW TO BOOK YOUR TOUR: BY PHONE: +44 (0) 131 558 3738 ONLINE: www.highlandexplorertours.com EMAIL: info@highlandexplorertours.com IN PERSON: • Our Office – 60 High Street, Edinburgh, EH1 1TB • VisitScotland Inverness iCentre • Your Hotel Concierge or Guest House Reception
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