EXPLORERHighlandtours LOCH NESS ISLE OF SKYE AWARD-WINNINGOUTLANDERTOURSLOCALSCOTTISHGUIDESFreepicniclunchonLochNessDAYTourLOCHLOMONDOUTLANDERDAYTOUREdinburghTattooHighlandGamesRESERVATIONS: 44 (0)131 558 HIGHLANDEXPLORERTOURS.COM3738 FROM 10% MULTI-TRIP SAVE £39
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 Discover and explore places only the locals know. We’re proud to show you the treasures that won’t be found in a guidebook.
2 Over 96% of our travellers recommend us on UNIQUETRUSTEDPassionatetripAdvisorPassionate:
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.
The Storr, Isle of Skye TRUSTED: MULTI-AWARD WINNING Sixteen 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 30 for more details. OUR GUARANTEE Our fleet is built for your comfort with USB charging points. We promise a fantastic time or we will refund the price of your tour.
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.
我们专注于每天提供最优秀的旅游体验。热衷于发现之旅 们所有的旅游路线都提供导游音频设备。们有游览苏格兰5星级认证并给予您一个真正的苏格兰体验。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我们的旅游路线力图帮助，我们的使命是超越您的期待，我，也一直得到积极的客户评价反馈。我 FREEAVAILABLEGUIDESAUDIO Alnwick Castle & The Borders TOUR ROUTE ExplorerOutlander TOUR ROUTE LEWIS HARRIS& Perth AlnwickBamburghCastle BridgeSpeanGlencoe STIRLINGEDINBURGHDunkeldDoune Falkland
in
DAYHIGHLANDTOURS offer FREE foreign language audio translations German, Spanish, Italian, Portuguese, French and Mandarin. We are the only tour company in Scotland to day travellers.
tours allowing the best customer experience possible for all our
Whisky Waterfalls& TOUR ROUTE TOUR ROUTE Loch &StirlingLomond,CastleTheKelpies We
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. 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. 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.
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.
Entdecker mit Leidenschaft...
ABERDEEN DUNDEEGLASGOWINVERNESSFort William OFISLESKYE Loch Ness Loch ExplorerNess TOUR ROUTE
offer this service on all of our scheduled
1 Day Tours Loch Ness Explorer 9 Whisky & Waterfalls 11 Sustainable Tourism 30 Terms & Conditions 31 CONTENTS 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 or jump on the Jacobite Steam Train; 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. INTERPRETIVE MATERIALS We offer free foreign language audio guides on all day tours. 5 Loch Lomond, Stirling Castle & The Kelpies 13 Alnwick Castle & The Borders 15 Outlander Explorer 17 Edinburgh Tattoo 18 Highland Games 19 Accommodation 20 The Jacobite Steam Train 21 3 Day Tour Isle of Skye & The Highlands 23 5 Day Tour Isle of Skye, Loch Ness & Inverness 25 6 Day TourS Isle of Skye & The Outer Hebrides 27 Up Helly Aa 28 Private Group Tours 29 Tours at a Glance 32
we travel because the world is beautiful. We want to keep it that way. Loch Lomond and The Trossachs National Park
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 TOURISM
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.
A FAMILY OF BRANDS
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. 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 Our Road To Net Zero
DOWN UNDER TOURS EVAN EVANS AAT HAGGISKINGSADVENTURES
SUSTAINABLE
neutralcarbon TOUR
As of January 1st 2022, all our tours are carbon neutral, and we’ve developed a five-point Climate Action Plan to guide us – committing to carbon reductions and evolving to support the transition to a lowcarbon future. For more information, visit highlandexplorertours.com/about-us/carbon-neutral-tours
Trees for Life is the beneficiary of Highland Explorer Tours Environmental Charity Offering Scheme. For more information see page 30.
Fort Augustus on Loch Ness
“A wonderful day trip provided by Scot with a great array of stops, information, cultural insights and musical interludes (led by Scot of course). Even having to hand sanitize regularly and to wear a mask did not detract from the enjoyment and feeling of safety on this full day tour. I would thoroughly recommend and plan to return again and use them for trips in the future.”
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Mike | SEPTEMBER 2020
ADULT £50-£69 CONCESSION £47-£66 INCLUSIONS Local Scottish Guide Picnic Lunch Audio Guides EXPLORE MORE Loch Ness Cruise ADULT FROM £16.50 / CONCESSION FROM £15.50 (Reserve at the time of booking) DUNDEE GLASGOW EDINBURGH STIRLING INVERNESS Fort William OFISLESKYE AugustusFort LEWIS HARRIS& Loch Ness ABERDEEN GlencoeOban REFUNDFULL IF CANCELLED MORE THAN 24 HOURS IN ADVANCE Perth neutralcarbon TOUR
Loch Ness Cruise A cruise on the mysterious and beautiful Loch Ness is an unforgettable experience, offering you the chance to catch a glimpse of Nessie. The boat uses the very latest hi-tech colour sonar and underwater imaging systems to enhance the hunt. You can also relax with a coffee or beer in the onboard bar. Reserve your cruise at the time of booking to guarantee your seat. Cruise duration is approximately 1 hour. 20:00
APRIL&FRIDAYWednesday,SEPTEMBERThursday,&SATURDAYSunday DEPARTS 08:45 RETURNS 17:30 ADULT £45 CONCESSION £42 INCLUSIONS Beauly Priory Local Scottish Guide AudioWiFi Guides EXPLORE MORE Loch Ness Cruise & Urquhart Castle (ADULT / CONCESSION FROM £21.50) (Reserve at the time of booking) Highland Whisky Distillery Tour (ADULT / CONCESSION FROM £6.00, PAY IN CASH LOCALLY) Culloden Visitor Centre (ADULT / CONCESSION FROM £11.50, PAY LOCALLY) 9 1 DAY TOUR LOCH EXPLORERNESSBOATCRUISEONLOCH NESS FORT AUGUSTUS, HIGHLAND VILLAGE GLENCOE – THE WEEPING GLEN CALEDONIAN CANAL AND THE GREAT GLEN BEN NEVIS, BRITAIN’S HIGHEST PEAK LUNCHPICNICFREE
ALL EVERYYEARDAY DEPARTS 08:00 RETURNS
A fantastic tour to Loch Ness visiting a diverse range of classic Highland scenery including many ‘must see’ sights and the chance to go monster hunting on Loch Ness! Other highlights include dramatic Glencoe, mighty Ben Nevis, the Great Glen and Highland Perthshire. Heading north from Edinburgh we pass the imposing ramparts of Stirling Castle and drive through the scenic Trossachs National Park, Rob Roy country. We cross the wilds of Rannoch Moor before stopping at dramatic Glencoe, scene of the infamous massacre in 1692. Our journey takes us through Fort William passing Ben Nevis, Britain’s highest mountain, before entering the Great Glen. Arriving at Fort Augustus on the banks of Loch Ness, you have the chance to take a boat cruise on the loch, go for a walk or just relax by the Caledonian Canal in this charming Highland village. Our return journey takes us past shimmering Loch Laggan before climbing over the wild and lonely Drumochter Pass in the Cairngorms National Park. Heading south, we enter Perthshire, a land of forests, rivers and mountains, where we stop in a wee village. We continue south over the Firth of Forth where we view the spectacular Forth Bridges before arriving back in Edinburgh in the evening.
10 Whisky Distillery Visit “Our day was truly spectacular and it was enhanced by our amazing tour guide Calum! What a combination; the sites, history and whisky were inspiring. We would highly recommend going on this adventure!” REIDERFOUR | JULY 2019
A fabulous day tour that explores much of Scotland’s iconic scenery, sights and experiences. From our ancient capital and stories of Scotland’s most famous patriot to stunning Highland landscapes, and the opportunity to sample a drop of our favourite national drink! Leaving Edinburgh, we make our way to the ancient Scottish capital of Stirling, where the skyline is dominated by its castle and the iconic Wallace Monument. We stop at the monument and hear how William Wallace lead Scotland to victory at the battle of Stirling Bridge and played a crucial role in the Wars of Independence. We then take to the back roads and drive through Scotland’s scenic beauty and further into the Highlands. Glens, forests and rivers aplenty, we’ll take you through the centre of this picturesque region before stopping at one of Scotland’s most famous whisky distilleries. After reviving ourselves with a wee dram of the ‘water of life’, we head to the Hermitage in the heart of Perthshire and take a short woodland walk. Our return journey visits the quaint village of Dunkeld, in Macbeth country, where a stunning cathedral sits comfortably by the banks of the River Tay. Before returning to Edinburgh we pass the iconic Forth Bridges, the new World Heritage Site.
OPTIONWHISKYTOUR
11 1 DAY TOUR &WHISKYWATERFALLSSAMPLEWHISKYATSCOTLAND’SOLDESTWORKINGDISTILLERYTHENATIONALWALLACEMONUMENTHERMITAGEFORESTWALKDUNKELDCATHEDRAL
ALL THURSDAYSATURDAYYEARAPRIL-OCTOBER DEPARTS 08:45 RETURNS 17:30 ADULT £45-£52 CONCESSION £42-£49 INCLUSIONS Local Scottish Guide Hermitage Forest Walk Dunkeld Cathedral Audio Guides EXPLORE MORE Glenturret Whisky Distillery ADULT / CONCESSION FROM £15.00 (Reserve at the time of booking) DUNDEE GLASGOW EDINBURGH STIRLING INVERNESS Fort William OFISLESKYE AugustusFort LEWIS HARRIS& Loch Ness ABERDEEN Perth REFUNDFULL IF CANCELLED MORE THAN 24 HOURS IN ADVANCE Glenturret Whisky Distillery The optional guided tour gives you an insight into how ‘uisge beatha’ (the ‘water of life’) is made and takes you on a journey to discover the history behind Scotland’s most iconic export. Dunkeld neutralcarbon TOUR
“The trip was awesome. We saw even more than originally advertised. Our guide listened to the group and our preferences and made slight changes accordingly. The story of my day trip into the Highlands will be one I tell for the rest of my life thanks to him and that wonderful day.”
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Ann | February 2020
Loch Lomond
A splendid introduction to Scotland. This tour fuses the remarkable beauty of Loch Lomond and The Trossachs National Park with the savage history of Stirling Castle. On this trip there is plenty of time to examine the unique architecture and ponder over the majestic natural and man-made wonders. We depart Edinburgh and head west through Scotland’s central belt towards the ‘Bonnie Banks of Loch Lomond’ where we take time at Balmaha to admire views of Ben Lomond. Here, you will have the opportunity to go on a woodland walk that will afford you spectacular views of the loch. Standing on its bank you will understand why Loch Lomond has been immortalised in a world famous song. The afternoon is spent exploring Stirling. Take the chance to discover impressive Stirling Castle, one of Scotland’s most important structures both historically and architecturally. Many royals have been crowned at Stirling Castle, including Mary Queen of Scots, and it was central to William Wallace’s fight in the Wars of Independence. Alternatively explore Stirling, geographically one of the most significant towns in Scottish history. On our return journey to Edinburgh you will have the chance to visit and marvel at the stunning Kelpies, the world’s largest equine sculptures dedicated to the horse powered heritage of Central Scotland, designed by Andy Scott.
STIRLING CASTLE Stirling Castle is arguably the most impressive and historically important castle in Scotland. Seen for miles around, its imposing position has played a hugely strategic role throughout the centuries. Once home to the Scottish Royals, the building has been subject to many bloody sieges and much political intrigue.
13 1 DAY TOUR LOCH LOMOND, STIRLING CASTLE & THE KELPIES STIRLING CASTLE BALMAHA VILLAGE WITH VIEWS TO BEN LOMOND LOCH LOMOND AND THE TROSSACHS NATIONAL PARK THE KELPIES, MAGNIFICENT 30M HIGH STEEL SCULPTURES STIRLINGCASTLEOPTION
ALL MONDAYFRIDAYSUNDAYYEARAPRIL-OCTOBERJUNE-AUGUST&Wednesday DEPARTS 08:45 RETURNS 17:30 ADULT £42-£54 CONCESSION £39-£51 INCLUSIONS Local Scottish Guide Audio Guides EXPLORE MORE Stirling Castle ADULT FROM £16.50 / CONCESSION FROM £10.00 (Reserve at the time of booking) DUNDEE GLASGOWINVERNESSEDINBURGHFort William OFISLESKYE AugustusFort LEWIS HARRIS& Loch Ness ABERDEEN Perth STIRLING REFUNDFULL IF CANCELLED MORE THAN 24 HOURS IN ADVANCE neutralcarbon TOUR
MAUREEN | JULY 2019
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“A beautiful day with a stop by the seaside village of Bamburgh and views of Bamburgh Castle. Our tour guide Gill was very knowledgeable about local and national history, local areas of interest and a great deal of fun.”
Alnwick Castle
ALNWICK BEAUTIFULCASTLECOASTLINE DRIVE BAMBURGH AND ITS CASTLE CROSS THE BORDER FROM SCOTLAND TO ENGLAND
JUNE -
ALNWICKCASTLEOPTION
at the time of booking)
The magnificent Alnwick Castle was built over 920 years ago. Its purpose was to control the perilous borders between Scotland and England. But now it’s renowned for more than bloody history. The expansive gardens are world famous, the art collection is unrivalled and the rooms are some of the finest examples of 19th century Italianate design.
FRIDAYSUNDAYTUESDAYAUGUSTAPRIL-AUGUSTAPRIL-SEPTEMBER 08:15 17:30 £47-£52 £44-£49 FROM £18.50 FROM £9.75 (Reserve
15 1 DAY TOUR ALNWICK CASTLE & THE BORDERS
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ALNWICK CASTLE
DUNDEESTIRLINGGLASGOWINVERNESSFort William OFISLESKYE AugustusFort LEWIS HARRIS& Loch Ness ABERDEEN Perth St Andrews AlnwickCastleBamburgh Braemar REFUNDFULL IF CANCELLED MORE THAN 24 HOURS IN ADVANCE EDINBURGH neutralcarbon TOUR
INCLUSIONS Local Scottish Guide Audio Guides EXPLORE MORE Alnwick Castle ADULT
Combine movie magic and historic wonder on this trip through the Scottish Borders and Northumberland. You will visit the picturesque seaside village of Bamburgh and take in the superb views of the 5th century Bamburgh Castle, but it is Alnwick Castle that’s the true star of this show. It’s not only a key filming location for Harry Potter and Downton Abbey; it’s also a historic location of epic conquests and royal splendour. Take this trip and become enthralled by Scottish and English borders regions. We leave Edinburgh in the morning and head south to the Borders. On the way to England, you will see the gently rolling hills and dramatic coastlines of East Lothian. Our first stop is the beautiful coastal town Bamburgh. Take a stroll to the stunning beach and view the dramatic 5th century Bamburgh Castle sitting on a natural throne of volcanic dolerite. We will spend the afternoon exploring Alnwick Castle. There is a lot to do here; admire large stately rooms and beautiful architecture, explore the spectacular gardens or learn a little about the popular films and TV shows that have been filmed here. After spending time in Alnwick, we make our way back over the border to Scotland. On our drive home we’ll regale you with tales of the turbulent past before arriving into Edinburgh early evening.
Midhope Castle
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“Had an enjoyable day out visiting sites where Outlander was filmed. We had Caitlin as our tour guide. Caitlin is so enthusiastic with her story telling and history of the Jacobites. The highlight of the day was Lallybroch.”
SUe | SEPTEMBER 2020
EXPLOREROUTLANDERDOUNECASTLE*USEDASCASTLE
17 1 DAY TOUR
LEOCH CULROSS, THE FICTIONAL VILLAGE OF CRANESMUIR FALKLAND, SETTING FOR 1940’S INVERNESS LINLITHGOW PALACE MIDHOPE CASTLE* – THE REAL-LIFE LALLYBROCH OptionDouneCastle
DOUNE CASTLE Known to the Outlander fans as Castle Leoch – the seat of Clan MacKenzie, Doune Castle is one of the best-preserved medieval strongholds in Scotland. Built in 14th century the castle has survived through the wars and rebellions of Scotland and has its own interesting history. It also starred in MontyPythonandtheHolyGrail and more recently featured as the setting for Winterfell in the pilot episode of Game of Thrones
Imagine walking in the footsteps of Jamie and Claire from the hit series Outlander, with a local Scottish Guide regaling all the gruesome history and stories that made this an epic hit. We take you on a journey to some of the most famous scenes from the series such as Midhope Castle, the real-life Lallybroch, Doune Castle, seat of Clan MacKenzie and the impressive Linlithgow Palace. Your Guide will give you an insight into the history and stories of each location, making this the perfect trip for those looking for a quick Outlander fix. We make our first stop at Linlithgow Palace known as Wentworth Prison in the show. We then visit Doune Castle, one of Scotland’s best preserved medieval castles and used as the setting for Castle Leoch in Outlander. You’ll have time to explore this historic stronghold. Our journey takes us on to the Kingdom of Fife, an area of great historical importance and the ancestral home of Scottish monarchs. We make a stop at Culross, where Claire was accused of witchcraft in the village of ‘Cranesmuir’. This charming village is the most complete example of a 17th and 18th century burgh in Scotland today. After lunch we continue to the village of Falkland, used for filming 1940’s Inverness. With over 28 listed buildings it gives a good representation of this period. Our final stop is at Midhope Castle, the real-life Lallybroch, arriving back in Edinburgh early evening.
APRIL
ThursdaySaturdayTuesday,SEPTEMBERThursday,&SundayOCTOBER-NOVEMBER&SUNDAY DEPARTS 08:45 RETURNS 17:30 ADULT £44-59 CONCESSION £41-£56 INCLUSIONS Local Scottish Guide Audio Guides EXPLORE MORE Doune Castle* ADULT FROM £9.00 / CONCESSION FROM £5.40 (Reserve at the time of booking) * Please note that there are dates throughout the year where Midhope Castle and Doune Castle are closed for estate activity and filming. DUNDEE GLASGOWINVERNESSEDINBURGHFort William OFISLESKYE AugustusFort LEWIS HARRIS& Loch Ness ABERDEEN Perth St AndrewsSTIRLING REFUNDFULL IF CANCELLED MORE THAN 24 HOURS IN ADVANCE neutralcarbon TOUR Doune Falkland
EDINBURGHTATTOO AUGUST - SEE DATES BELOW MONDAY - SATURDAY DEPARTS 08:45 RETURNS 17:30 ADULT £164 CONCESSION £161 INCLUSIONS Local Scottish Guide Edinburgh Military Tattoo Ticket Whisky Distillery Tour Dunkeld AudioHermitageCathedralForestWalkGuides AVAILABLE DATES - AUGUST
SAMPLE WHISKY AT SCOTLAND’S OLDEST WORKING DISTILLERY
A stunning day tour of the Highlands, a land of forests, mountains, rivers and glens. Visit a local whisky distillery and sample a warming dram of single malt whisky. The day concludes with our return to Edinburgh in time for an evening at the world famous Edinburgh Military Tattoo. We leave Edinburgh behind and pass Stirling with views of its impressive Castle and the Wallace Monument. Then it’s into the scenic beauty of the Highlands, once home to the infamous cattle thief and rogue, Rob Roy MacGregor. We visit a local whisky distillery where you will learn how the ‘water of life’ is made and sample a wee dram. We then explore the peaceful Hermitage and take a short woodland walk to see the stunning Black Linn Falls on the River Braan. We take in Dunkeld with its spectacular cathedral on the banks of the River Tay before returning south past the inspiring Forth ArriveBridges.backin Edinburgh, with time to grab a bite to eat before making your own way to the evening performance of the Military Tattoo at Edinburgh Castle. Military Tattoo at Edinburgh Castle
The Edinburgh Tattoo was breathtaking and it was also lovely to catch up and have a chat with people whom we had met during the day trip.”
NEIRDAH | AUGUST 2019 M T W T F S S 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 REFUNDFULL IF CANCELLED MORE THAN 24 HOURS IN ADVANCE neutralcarbon TOUR
18 EDINBURGH TATTOO DAY TOUR THE WORLD FAMOUS EDINBURGH MILITARY TATTOO
“Our tour guide Duncan was very knowledgeable and friendly. Our day was amazing… everything went very smoothly and we had a most enjoyable day.
DUNKELD THEHERMITAGECATHEDRALFORESTWALKNATIONALWALLACEMONUMENT DISTILLERYINCLUDESTOUR
* RETURNS
Join us on a day tour to a real Highland Games where you can soak up the atmosphere and experience the excitement. The Games, or Gatherings, take place in towns and villages throughout the country and are a highlight of the Scottish calendar, making for a truly memorable day out amongst grand Highland scenery. SATURDAYSEPTEMBER&SUNDAY 08:30 17:45 £87 CONCESSION £84 Scottish Guide to the Games
DEPARTS
* ADULT
INCLUSIONS Local
BRAEMAR GATHERING * DEPARTS 08:00 & RETURNS 20:30
Braemar Games
“The whole day was amazing. The tour guide Scot made sure we all had a fantastic day out in Pitlochry. His commentary on the bus was superb, full of Scottish wit and even some glorious singing! Probably the best guided tour I’ve ever been on, everything ran smoothly and we were very well looked after! definitely recommend to anyone.”
GAMES PROGRAMME
Sun 29th May Blair Atholl Sun 12th June Glamis Sat 2nd July Luss Sun 7th August Bridge of Allan Sun 21st August Crieff Sat 3rd September Braemar Gathering* Sat 10th September Pitlochry
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RADIL | SEPTEMBER 2019 REFUNDFULL IF CANCELLED MORE THAN 24 HOURS IN ADVANCE neutralcarbon TOUR
19 HIGHLANDGAMESHIGHLAND GAMES DAYPARTICIPATETOURINTHETRADITION OF A CLAN GATHERING PIPING COMPETITIONS & HIGHLAND DANCING CABER TOSSING & HAMMER THROWING TRADITIONAL HIGHLAND DRESS STUNNING HIGHLAND SCENERY INCLUDESGAMESTICKET
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BRAEMAR GATHERING Known as ‘The Games’, and originating from those believed to have been held by Malcolm III in the 11th Century, an annual Highland Games Gathering is held at Braemar in Royal Deeside on the first Saturday in September. The Gathering is one of the most famous. Her Majesty the Queen is patron and frequently attends. Having Royal Family at the games has been a tradition since Queen Victoria attended back in 1848.
Entrance
The Highland Games are renowned over the world as a test of strength between Clans. These athletic contests date back over 900 years and the Games are a fantastic spectacle where you’ll see Highland dancing, pipe band displays, hammer throwing, tug-of-war and caber tossing. We have created a range of day tours based around these spectacular cultural events that include the best of our beautiful landscape. Each has its own local charm and character. Our programme includes a visit to the world famous Braemar Gathering attended by members of the Royal Family since Queen Victoria first attended in 1848.
ACCOMMODATION OPTIONS: BED & BREAKFAST (B&B)/GUEST HOUSE In most cases you are staying in a B&B (Bed and Breakfast), which is renowned for offering visitors a warm Highland welcome. Most B&Bs offer a traditional Scottish cooked breakfast and is included in the price. On occasion, you are staying with a family who let out rooms in their home to visitors, giving you the opportunity of experiencing Scotland in a more authentic way.
B&Bs and guest houses are both generally located within one mile of the centre of town, although during peak season, this distance may be slightly further.
Accommodation is included in the B&B and hotel options. We use local 3* bed & breakfasts, guest houses and 3* Highland hotels. We give you the choice so you can choose what best suits your budget. Whatever you decide, you are guaranteed a comfortable room and a warm Highland welcome.
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ACCESSIBILITY STATEMENT: Highland hotels and B&Bs do not have lifts/ elevators. For more information see our Accessibility Statement on page 30.
HOTEL Highland hotels are smaller than typical hotels ensuring a cosy and hospitable welcome. Facilities are more limited when compared with most hotels situated in large cities, however, you can be assured of a comfortable stay within close proximity to the centre of town. They are usually family run and have their own individual style and character. They serve traditional Scottish breakfast and often offer a dinner option too. Portree SOLO TRAVELLERS: We have limited availability of single room upgrades which can be selected at the time of booking where available.
HOSPITALITYHIGHLAND
The West Highland Line has been voted ‘Top Rail Journey of the World’ in Wanderlust Magazine for several years and you’ll understand why as soon as you hop on board.
JOURNEYTOPVOTEDRAILINTHEWORLD
The Jacobite Steam Train then passes through Glenfinnan where Bonnie Prince Charlie raised his standard to begin his ill-fated claim to the throne in 1745.
Jacobite Steam Train
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Starting in Mallaig or Fort William the train visits Arisaig, Britain’s most westerly railway station, and from the coast you can see the ‘Small Isles’ of Rum, Eigg, Muck and the stunning white beaches used in films such as Local Hero and Highlander.
The Jacobite Steam Train was featured in a number of Harry Potter movies as the ‘Hogwarts Express’ and travels over the 21 arches of the impressive Glenfinnan Viaduct. We then cross over the viaduct with amazing views down Loch Sheil before heading to Fort William in the shadow of Ben Nevis, Britain’s highest mountain.
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.
THE JACOBITE STEAM TRAIN
“I had a wonderful trip, and am amazed by how much ground we were able to cover! Our guide Thomas was fantastic, personable, and funny. He shared lots of information about each place we passed or visited, and gave great suggestions for places to eat. I would absolutely recommend this trip!”
Jacobite Steam Train
Rebecca | JUne
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2022
23 3 DAY TOUR ISLE OF SKYE & THE HIGHLANDS
Discover the Highlands and the magical Isle of Skye with its outstanding natural beauty, Viking history, and ancient myths and legends. This is a journey packed with many of Scotland’s most iconic sights and scenery, as well as the chance to travel one of the great train journeys in the world on the Jacobite Steam Train.
DAY TWO: We spend the day exploring the dramatic Isle of Skye with its amazing scenery, lochs, mountains and rugged coastline. Hear tales of Bonnie Prince Charlie’s escape from the mainland against the backdrop of the jagged Cuillin Mountains. Highlights include the mysterious rock formation of the Old Man of Storr, Kilt Rock with its cascading waterfall and Dunvegan’s impressive castle. (Overnight: Portree) DAY THREE: We have the chance to explore a wee bit more of the beautiful Isle of Skye before taking the ferry to the west coast fishing village of Mallaig. Here you can board the Jacobite Steam Train to Fort William, one of the most spectacular railway journeys in the world. The train crosses the Glenfinnan Viaduct where a monument to Bonnie Prince Charlie’s campaign now stands. We head south through the dramatic scenery of Glencoe, wild Rannoch Moor then the heart of Rob Roy country before arriving back in Edinburgh. * (Mid-April to mid-October)
DAY ONE: Leaving Edinburgh, past stunning views of the Forth Bridges, we enter the Highlands through Perthshire, a land of forests, rivers and mountains. We visit the quaint village of Dunkeld with its historic cathedral sitting on the banks of the River Tay. It’s then further north into the Highlands before we enter the Great Glen. At Fort Augustus, there is time to explore the shores of Loch Ness and a chance to spot Nessie. The journey continues to the famous Isle of Skye, but first we take in spectacular Eilean Donan Castle, one of Scotland’s most famous icons. Our home for the night is the Isle of Skye, the ‘winged isle’.
THE SKYE INN
The Skye Inn is a deluxe B&B situated in a quiet corner of Portree, just a five minute walk from the main square. The grand dining room, large open fire, comfy sofas and first class Highland hospitality offer the warmest of welcomes. For those who select the B&B option
The Skye Inn is the preferred accommodation for the two nights on the Isle of Skye.
DUNKELD DUNVEGANCATHEDRALCASTLE* DUNDEE GLASGOW EDINBURGH STIRLING INVERNESS Fort William LEWISOFISLESKYE&HARRIS Loch Ness ABERDEENPortreeGlencoe = no. of overnights2 Perth AugustusFort 2 MAYSATURDAYMondaySEPTEMBER&WednesdayALLYEAR DEPARTS 08:00 RETURNS SUMMER* 20:30 RETURNS WINTER* 17:30 DELUXE B&B HOTEL ADULT £219-£359 £369-£509 CONCESSION £205-£345 £355-£495 PER PERSON PRICE BASED ON DBL/FAMILY & TWIN SHARE ACCOMMODATION INCLUSIONS Local Scottish Guide 2 Nights B&B/Hotel Accommodation Ferry Crossing ‘Over the Sea’ from the Isle of Skye * Dunkeld Cathedral Audio Guides EXPLORE MORE Jacobite Steam Train * ADULT FROM £55 (Reserve at the time of booking) Dunvegan Castle Entrance * ADULT FROM £14 / CONCESSION FROM £9.00 (Reserve at the time of booking) ACCOMMODATION Accommodation is included. See page 20 for details about the B&B and hotel options. SEASONAL VARIATIONS * Summer itinerary mid-April to mid-October. † Winter Itinerary mid-October to April. Day three south via Skye Bridge, Glencoe and Rannoch Moor. See website for details. neutralcarbon TOUR
CATHEDRALINCLUDESDUNKELD
(Overnight: Portree)
CASTLE
JACOBITE STEAM TRAIN* STUNNING ISLE OF SKYE LOCH
EILEANGLENCOENESSDONAN
Evita | SEPTEMBER 2020
“The tour was truly enjoyable. We were able to see the most beautiful outskirts of the Scottish Highlands and learn a lot about the historic significance of each place we visited. A huge thanks to Rich our guide because he made this tour authentic by sharing his personal stories. He was knowledgeable but also a very good story-teller and that made our learning experience so much fun.”
Eilean Donan Castle
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Please see website for winter itinerary. HIGHLAND CAPITAL CULLODENINVERNESS BATTLEFIELD (AS FEATURED IN
Dunvegan
/ CONCESSION FROM
DAY THREE: We explore more of the mysterious Isle of Skye with its awe-inspiring mountains, stunning coastline, myths and legends before returning to the mainland. On the way to Loch Ness we pass Eilean Donan Castle and wind our way along the Great Glen to Inverness, the Capital of the Highlands. (Overnight: Inverness) DAY FOUR: Hunt for the elusive monster with a cruise on Loch Ness* before heading north towards the stunning beauty of the northwest Highlands. We take in the beautiful town of Beauly with its Priory dating back to 1230, then it’s into the rugged and isolated mountains that secure Scotland’s place as one of the last great wilderness in Europe. (Overnight: Inverness)
ALL MondayYEAR DEPARTS 09:00 RETURNS 17:30 DELUXE B&B HOTEL ADULT £425-£615 £689-£879 CONCESSION £405-£595 £669-£859 PER PERSON PRICE BASED ON DBL/FAMILY & TWIN SHARE ACCOMMODATION INCLUSIONS Local Scottish Guide 4 Nights B&B/Hotel Accommodation Ferry Crossing ‘Over the
Entrance * ADULT FROM
BATTLEFIELDCULLODEN
at the time of
DAY FIVE: Leaving Inverness we visit the Highland Folk Museum to get a real taste of Highland life from the past centuries before heading for a local whisky tasting, also known as the ‘water of life’. For our final stop we visit Dunkeld and take a walk through the quaint village, on to the River Tay and make a visit to the cathedral. Returns approximately at 5.30pm.
* Whisky ClavaCullodenTastingBattlefieldCairns EXPLORE MORE Jacobite Steam Train * ADULT
25 5 DAY TOUR ISLE OF SKYE, LOCH NESS & INVERNESS JACOBITE STEAM TRAIN* ISLE OF SKYE LOCH NESS CRUISE* WHISKY DISTILLERY VISIT EILEAN DONAN CASTLE FISHINGGLENCOEPORT OF OBAN INCLUDESWHISKYTASTING
Culloden Visitor Centre (Pay locally) ACCOMMODATION Accommodation is included. See page 20 for details about the B&B and hotel options. * Summer only –
Loch Ness Cruise * ADULT
DAY TWO: Take the steam train* from Fort William crossing the Glenfinnan viaduct featured in the Harry Potter movies or travel the equally impressive ‘Road to the Isles’. We arrive in Mallaig and take the ferry* ‘Over the Sea to Skye’, before driving to our overnight destination in Portree. (Overnight: Portree)
/ CONCESSION FROM
Take a spectacular journey through the Highlands and the magical Isle of Skye. Venture through a range of classic Highland scenery; experience many local gems and be inspired by myths and legends. We’ve got mighty Glencoe, the option to ride the ‘Hogwarts Express’ Jacobite Steam Train, whisky tasting and ruined castles galore. From start to finish, every part of this trip reveals a little more of Scotland’s quintessential charm. & VISITOR CENTRE Working in partnership with the National Trust for Scotland we are delighted to offer you a special discounted admission fee. On the 16th of April 1746, Culloden was the site of the last pitched battle fought on the British mainland. Through an interpretive exhibition and a visit to the battlefield itself, you can learn why this hour long conflict changed Highland life and world history forever. With ongoing archaeological research and fresh historical interpretations, the story is far from over… More recently Culloden has been used as the backdrop to the popular TV series Outlander. Sea’ Isle Skye FROM £55 (Reserve booking) Castle £14 £9.00 (Reserve booking) FROM £26.00 £19.00 (Reserve booking) mid-April to mid-October OUTLANDER)
of
at the time of
DAY ONE: We leave Edinburgh at 9.00am and head to the iconic Kelpies. We then head north past Stirling and take in views of the Wallace Monument and Stirling Castle. We will make a stop for lunch before entering the Highlands heading through wild Rannoch Moor and Glencoe and on to the quaint fishing town of Oban. (Overnight: Oban)
to the
DUNDEE GLASGOW EDINBURGH STIRLING Fort William OFISLESKYE AugustusFort LEWIS HARRIS& Loch Ness ABERDEEN Glencoe Perth Portree Oban = no. of overnights4 Ullapool INVERNESS2 1 1 neutralcarbon TOUR
at the time of
26 Isle of Harris
ROBIN | JUNE 2019
“We struck gold on this tour with our guide Duncan. He knew Scotland like the back of his hand, and told us great stories, wild legends and lots of useful information about each area. The Outer Hebrides will steal your hearts as it did ours. The final day of the tour was the cherry on top with a ride on the Jacobite Steam Train!”
Prepare for an unforgettable journey across the Highlands and Islands, where we discover some of Scotland’s most iconic destinations, as well as the hidden gems; from the world-famous Loch Ness to the remote corners of the Outer Hebrides. We explore by land and sea, from beach to battlefield, castle to coastal town; where stunning scenery, ancient monuments, and Scotch whisky are guaranteed. Immerse yourself in the magic of the Isle of Skye and Glencoe, while we keep you entertained with myths, legends, and tales from our rich history.
JUNESATURDAYSEPTEMBER DEPARTS 08:30 RETURNS 20:30 B&B ADULT £879 CONCESSION £859 PER PERSON PRICE BASED ON DBL/FAMILY & TWIN SHARE ACCOMMODATION SINGLE ROOM UPGRADE AVAILABLE AT THE TIME OF BOOKING INCLUSIONS Local Scottish Guide 5 Nights B&B Accommodation Gearrannan Blackhouse Village Whisky Tasting All Ferry Crossings EXPLORE MORE Jacobite Steam Train ADULT FROM £55 (Reserve at the time of booking) Eilean Donan Castle (Pay locally) ACCOMMODATION Accommodation is included. See page 20 for details about the B&B options. DUN FERRYIRONCARLOWAY,AGEBROCHFROMSKYE TO THE WEST COAST FISHING VILLAGE OF MALLAIG HIGHLAND CAPITAL INVERNESS DUNDEE GLASGOW EDINBURGH STIRLING INVERNESS Fort William OFISLESKYE AugustusFort LEWIS HARRIS& Loch Ness ABERDEEN Glencoe Perth Portree = no. of overnights5 Stornoway Ullapool Mallaig 122 Spean Bridge neutralcarbon TOUR
27 6 DAY TOUR ISLE OF SKYE & THE OUTER HEBRIDES EILEANISLELOCHGLENCOENESSOFSKYEDONAN CASTLE JACOBITE STEAM TRAIN CALLANISH STANDING STONES INCLUDESWhiskyTasting
DAY TWO: Start the day with fresh air and stunning scenery at Black Water Falls. We continue north and take to the water on the ferry from Ullapool to Stornoway on the Isle of Lewis and continue our journey south to the Isle of Harris. You’ll be blown away at the beauty of the flawless white sand beaches with turquoise sea, and a backdrop of mountains. We have time to explore the island and view beautiful seal colonies before indulging in some of the best local produce. (Overnight: Stornoway)
DAY ONE: We travel north towards Bannockburn; site of the famous battle won by ‘Outlaw King’ Robert the Bruce. Learn about William Wallace as we pass Stirling Castle, and catch a glimpse of Doune Castle, which appears in MontyPython&theHolyGrail, Outlander and Game of Thrones. Soak up the atmospheric scenery in Glencoe and learn about the legend of ‘Nessie’ at Loch Ness. (Overnight: Inverness)
DAY THREE: Travel back in time to the Neolithic period at the mysterious 5000-year old Callanish Standing Stones, and then fast-forward to the Iron Age at the broch of Dun Carloway. Experience traditional island life at the Gearrannan Blackhouse Village, and then explore the remote and rugged Atlantic coastline. Visit the Butt of Lewis, the most northerly point on the island, to see the isolated lighthouse. (Overnight: Stornoway) DAY FOUR: Depart Stornoway and drive back south towards the picturesque Isle of Harris. We enjoy free time to shop for Harris Tweed before we board the ferry and go over the sea to the Isle of Skye. Spend the afternoon exploring the Trotternish peninsula, learning about the island’s myths and legends, while gazing at the enchanting scenery. We arrive at our final stop in the main town of Portree in time to enjoy dinner in one of the local restaurants and sample some whisky. (Overnight: Portree) DAY FIVE: Enjoy a magical day of island exploration on the Isle of Skye. Visit the enchanted waters of the Sligachan River with views of the old bridge and the breathtaking Cuillin mountains. Drive over the Skye Bridge to the iconic and beautiful Eilean Donan Castle; used in the filming of Highlander and James Bond. Free time back in Portree; visit the shops, restaurants, and picturesque harbour with its colourful facades. (Overnight: Portree)
DAY SIX: We have the chance to explore a wee bit more of the beautiful Isle of Skye before taking the ferry to the west coast fishing village of Mallaig. We take the ferry back to the mainland, arriving at the fishing village of Mallaig on the west coast. You have a chance to experience one of the most spectacular railway journeys in the world and travel over the Glenfinnan Viaduct on the Jacobite Steam Train; made famous by Harry Potter. We take the scenic route back to Edinburgh through the Cairngorms National Park, arriving around 8.30pm.
6 DAY TOUR 28TH JANUARY 2023 SATURDAY DEPARTS 08:30 RETURNS 17:30 ADULT / CONCESSION £995 PER PERSON PRICE BASED ON DBL/FAMILY & TWIN SHARE ACCOMMODATION SINGLE ROOM UPGRADE AVAILABLE AT THE TIME OF BOOKING INCLUSIONS Local Scottish Guide 2 Overnight Ferries (Twin-Share Cabin) 3 Nights Hotel Free Time in Lerwick Guided Tour of Shetland EXPLORE MORE The Shetland Museum, Lerwick GLASGOW EDINBURGH STIRLING INVERNESS Fort William OFISLESKYE AugustusFort LEWIS HARRIS& Loch Ness ABERDEEN Perth St Andrews = no. of overnights5 John O’Groats Thurso Durness Braemar SHETLANDLerwick ORKNEYISLES 2 3 DUNDEE neutralcarbon TOUR
BREATHTAKING SCENERY OF THE SHETLAND ISLANDS ST ANDREWS, HOME OF GOLF TRADITIONAL MUSIC SESSIONS
DAY ONE: Leaving our capital city of Edinburgh we stop to view the iconic Forth Bridge, opened in 1890 for the passage of trains heading north. We then travel on through the Kingdom of Fife with its stunning coastal scenery before stopping at the ancient university town of St Andrews. Known as the Home of Golf, the town also boasts the magnificent ruins of a 12th Century Cathedral. We then travel to Aberdeen via Dunnottar Castle, perched dramatically on the edge of the North Sea, and board the ferry for the overnight journey to the Shetland Islands. (Overnight: Ferry) DAY TWO: After sailing into Lerwick we spend the morning enjoying the main town of Shetland including a visit to Clickimin Broch. After a visit to Scalloway Castle we spend the afternoon in the north of the island exploring the fantastic coastal areas of Lunna and Eshaness before we return for a night out in the Shetland capital! (Overnight: Lerwick) DAY THREE: In the west of Shetland we will visit the islands of Burra and Trondra before heading to the stunning beach at St Ninian’s Isle. We then visit Jarslhoff, one of Scotland’s finest prehistoric sites, before moving onto the stunning cliffs and sea views at Sumburgh in the far south of the island. We return to Lerwick to prepare for the main event with some celebrations in town with the locals. (Overnight: Lerwick)
DAY FOUR: The big day! You get to watch the junior Jarl Squad (young Vikings) have their own parade before the main event. Vikings make their way through the streets culminating in the ceremonial burning of a full size replica Viking Long Ship. Your Guide will be available throughout the day to make sure you don’t miss any of this world famous festival. (Overnight: Lerwick)
DAY SIX: We make our way through Royal Deeside and pass Crathie Kirk where the Royal Family worships when at their Highland residence. We also visit the resting place of John Brown, ghillie to Queen Victoria and made famous in the movie Mrs Brown starring Billy Connolly. We will then have ample time to visit Braemar for lunch. Our return journey passes through the Cairngorms National Park before arriving back in Edinburgh.Military Tattoo at Edinburgh Castle
DAY FIVE: After breakfast, we venture north taking in the ancient Tingwall Parliament and explore the west of the Island. Our return to Lerwick allows free time for souvenir shopping or a visit to the Shetland Museum before boarding our overnight ferry back to mainland Scotland. (Overnight: Ferry)
FESTIVALVIKINGFIRE
28 UP HELLY AA VIKING PARADE AND LONGBOAT BURNING ROYAL BRAEMAR TIME IN LERWICK TO VISIT THE SHETLAND MUSEUM
Few have heard of it, let alone been. Our destination is the remote islands of Shetland in the far north of Scotland for one of the most incredible festivals in Europe. On the last Tuesday of January this traditional winter festival marks the lengthening of the days and the dawn of another year. Classic Scottish dancing, traditional Shetland music, the boat burning ceremony and torchlight procession makes for an unforgettable experience.
We have been offering the best tours throughout the Highlands of Scotland for many years and with our knowledge and expertise, we are well placed to offer private tours with itineraries tailor-made to suit your interests. We can cater for groups of any size and whether you want a day tour, a multiday tour or an airport transfer, we can help. With a dedicated Groups Department, experienced local Guides and a fleet of modern midi-coaches, you can relax and enjoy your time in Scotland as we’ll take care of all the planning.
If you are part of a group in search of your own personal tour of Scotland, we would love to hear from you. We’ll design an itinerary to suit your budget and requirements to help you get the most out of your tour. No matter where you would like to go, or what special interest you may have, we will put together a tour that will deliver an exceptional and unforgettable Weexperience.wouldbe delighted to discuss your requirements and put together the perfect tour for your group so please feel free to contact us.
Golf – Scotland is the home of Golf.
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Email: groups@highlandexplorertours.com
History & Heritage – explore your Clan’s heritage or relive one of Scotland’s great stories from the past.
Film Locations– see iconic locations from your favourite films and TV shows, like Outlander and Macbeth.
Castles – discover some of our most iconic buildings built centuries ago.
Weddings – get married in your dream castle in Scotland to make your special day truly memorable.
Taste of Scotland – with some of the best produce around and incredible restaurants to boot, Scotland is a foodie’s paradise.
PRIVATE GROUP TOURS
Whisky Trail – take a trip through Scotland’s whisky regions to find your perfect malt and discover the different techniques that make Scotland’s favourite drink.
POSSIBLE TOUR THEMES INCLUDE:
Ed nburgh
Highland Explorer Tours are delighted to have achieved gold status in the Green Tourism Business Scheme for the 5th year running. 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.
WE CARE
Accessibility Statement
Environmental Charity Offering (Eco) Scheme
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The accommodation establishments are of 3-star standard or equivalent and are located in a mixture of small towns and rural villages; some of which may have sloping streets and uneven paths.
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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-winning 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 highlandexplorertours.com/about-us/sustainable-tourism
The properties are generally less than one mile away from the village/town centre and all the locations have taxis available on request from the accommodation reception. Guest houses only provide breakfast whereas hotels have dinner and breakfast options available. There will always be vegetarian options available but in more rural locations, gluten free and dairy free options may be limited. It will not be possible for guests to prepare their own food in guest house or hotel kitchens. With only a very few exceptions all B&B and Highland hotel bedrooms have en-suite bathrooms. Level-entry showers, ground floor bedrooms and adapted toilets are very limited, only available on request and cannot be guaranteed. There may be several steps before accessing the reception area from the front entrance and Highland hotels do not have lifts/elevators. Please contact us for advice about evacuation or porters should you need assistance. 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 you enquiry. For our full accessibility statement, go to highlandexplorertours.com/essential-info/accessibility
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 our overnight accommodation properties, 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 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.
Highland Explorer Tours - Terms & ConditionsNess.LochLovat,TheVisitScotland.Duncan,JohnAhvenainen.HeidiTattoo.EdinburghRoyalThePhotography.BridgerStephenClass.SkyeTrust.AmenityShetlandViewpoint.ScottishStevens.SallyNixon.RichardVisitScotland.Tomkins,PaulPower.LiamVisitScotland.Lam,KennyScot.ChaoticTheGillespie,KayHetman.KasiaVisitScotland.Duncan,JohnRoss.JamiePlotkin.HaleyStevenson.GrahamRenilson.GillianPhotography.DRWWin,DavidPhotography:
3.7 For requests including upgrades to private rooms or other special accommodation requirements, a non-refundable deposit may be taken when the upgrade is confirmed.
3.5 Festivals & Special Events & Add On Products: (Special conditions apply to non-standard products). Festivals, Special Events including Highland Games tour, Edinburgh Military Tattoo tour, Up Helly Aa, 4 day Islay tour, 4 day Mull tour, 6 day Shetland tour & Add On Products: (Special conditions apply to non-standard products see table 3.4). 3.6 Private Group / Bespoke Tour - specific cancellation fees apply to each Tour, the Operator will inform you of these prior to payment. A non-refundable deposit will be required at time of booking to cover any accommodation, third party supplier, meal and attraction costs. Where bookings include entrance fees to attractions, accommodation, 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 Group / Group Tours refund policy.
3.3 Cancellation of individual passengers from a multiple booking where a group discount applies (e.g. ‘Mates’ Rates’ discount) will mean that the discount applied at the time of 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: The below cancellations fees are levied from periods of notice given prior to confirmed/nominate departure date as % of the total trip fare.
* For trips that do not qualify for a deposit option when booked more than 45 days prior to the confirmed / nominated departure date, any cancellation outside 45 days will levy the same fee as per cancellations from 45 days until the full fee threshold.
3.14 Cancellation due to Force Majeure Events – If Highland Explorer Tours cancels a trip as a result of a Force Majeure Event, Highland Explorer Tours will provide an alternative comparable trip (if available). If an alternative is not available you will be offered a future travel credit or a refund. No compensation is payable in these circumstances. Where a trip is terminated mid-trip due to a Force Majeure event, if we provide you with any alternative services or assistance (such as hotels or travel) then you agree to pay for these costs.
1.5 In the case of bookings made within 45 days of tour departure, the full cost of the tour will be payable immediately at time of booking 1.6 The Operator reserves the right to cancel the booking and apply cancellation charges should full payment not be received within the above specified periods.
7. Changes by the Operator 7.1 Prices in brochure and website are based on costs and exchange rates at September, 2021. 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. 7.2 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%. 7.3 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. 7.4 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. 7.5 The Operator reserves the right to alter or substitute the type of vehicle mentioned in the brochure or websites.
The Operators operate a No Smoking Policy on all their vehicles and properties and this includes e-cigarettes.
10.3 If any provision of this contract is held invalid or unenforceable by any court of competent jurisdiction, that provision shall be deemed to be re-written 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. 10.4 If you are unsuccessful in any legal action instituted against the Operator, you agree to pay all of the Operator’s costs associated to any such legal action, including but not limited to attorney / client costs. 10.5 DATA PROTECTION - To process your trip booking, Highland Explorer Tours will need to use personal information for you and guests in your booking. Personal information may include each guest’s name, address, phone number, email address, passport and sensitive information such as health, medical, dietary, mobility, religious or other special requirements. This personal information may be passed on to other suppliers of your travel arrangements in addition to public authorities (such as customs and immigration), security and credit checking organisations, and otherwise as required by law. Highland Explorer Tours will process your personal data in accordance with the General Data Protection Regulations (GDPR) . You can find out more about Highland Explorer Tours Privacy Policy and the safeguards available at highlandexplorertours.com/essential-info/ privacy-security-policy. We may also use the personal information you provide us to review and improve the trips and services that we offer, and to contact you (by mail, email and/or telephone) about other trips and services offered by Highland Explorer Tours that you may be interested in. If you don’t want to receive this information, or if you want a copy of the personal information we hold about you, write to us at Highland Explorer Tours (see address below). Highland Explorer Tours may charge a fee for supplying you with this information as permitted by law.
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8. Weather Conditions
11.5 Please note that no airline or carrier depicted or recommended in this brochure by virtue of their endorsement of this brochure represents themselves either as contracting with any legal relationship with any such purchaser. 11.6 Every effort is made to ensure brochure accuracy at the time of going to print, however the Operator cannot be held responsible for printing and typographical errors, or errors arising from unforeseen circumstances.
1.7 If you wish to book to travel at student prices, you must have an ISIC, ITIC or ISE student ID card or a Student Flights ID Card, valid at time of and for the duration of your travels with the Operator. Photocopies or confirmations of purchase will not be accepted.
13. Minimum Numbers 13.1 The Company reserves the right to cancel tours where the minimum number of passengers is not reached. 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 as agreed with the Customer. Highland Explorer Tours is not liable for any cancellation or change cost or penalties incurred on other travel arrangements, including air travel, that may be affected thereby. Highland Explorer Tours is not responsible for other travel arrangements that you or your party have made outside Highland Explorer Tours and which are affected by our cancellations.
Under no circumstances can the Operators be held responsible for any delay, deviation or cancellation due to weather conditions, nor can any tour be cancelled or amended by you at any time on the basis of weather conditions.
10. Complaint Procedures and Data Protection
* Upgrades and Add Ons do not qualify for a deposit payment. and attract 0% fee if cancelled with the connected product outside 45 days. Please see table above.
1.3 On confirmation of your booking, a Booking Statement confirming ‘Full Payment’ and an e-ticket will be sent to either you or your Travel Agent for fully paid bookings. A Booking Statement indicating the amount paid and an e-ticket will be sent, for bookings where only a deposit or lesser amount has been paid. 1.4 In order to reserve your tour: 1.4a) Tours costing 200 GBP or less: full payment must be made at time of booking. 1.4b) Tours costing more than 200 GBP a non-refundable flexi-deposit of 50 GBP per person per tour is required, but if the booking is made within 45 days of the nominated departure date the full amount payable must be made at the time of booking. This payment is in addition to any deposit required by your Travel Agent. The deposit is accepted as a first instalment of the total tour price by the Operator only once the booking has been confirmed in writing by the Operator or your travel agent. Please note that there is no deposit option for the Up Helly Aa Viking Fire Festival Tour or the Mull & Iona & Staffa Puffin Experience, Shetland Summer Solstice and Islay Festival of Music, Whisky & Culture Festival tours). Full Payment has to be made at the time of booking and normal cancellation fees apply (see 3.1). 1.4c) The outstanding balance of the tour price must be paid by no later than 45 days prior to the scheduled, nominated or confirmed tour departure date or the payment date specified in any promotion, which shall be by the due date stated on the confirmation issued to you. Whilst every endeavour will be made to remind you of the payment due dates, it is your responsibility to make this payment in full by the due date. If payment is not made to the Operator or to your authorised Travel Agent (for Agent bookings) by the due date, the Operator will assume that you have cancelled your tour and cancellation charges in accordance with clause 3 below will be levied by the Operator 1.4d) Booking Statements confirming ‘Full Payment’ will not be issued until full payment has been received by the Operator or authorised Travel Agent.
1. 1.1Booking/Acceptance
5. Local Tours and Excursions 5.1 You may have the opportunity to purchase local tours or excursions from the Guides / On-Board Guides / Check-in Staff. These local tours and excursions are run by local Operators and you will be subject to their terms and conditions. 5.2 Local tours and excursions purchased via Guides / On-Board Guides / Check in Staff are non-refundable. It is your responsibility to meet the tour at the designated departure point and time. Travel on local tours and excursions will only be permitted on presentation of the official Guides / On-Board Guides / Check in Staff issued voucher to the named local Operator. 5.3 Local tour and Excursion vouchers that are lost or stolen cannot be replaced. 5.4 Please note that prices printed in brochures are correct at the time of print and maybe subject to change.
3. Cancellations & Changes 3.1 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).
4. Your Responsibilities 4.1 COVID-19 – 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. We ask that you please take personal responsibility for your wellbeing. This begins with packing any personal protective equipment and sanitisers you require. Please adopt physical distancing and hygiene practices throughout your pre-trip travel arrangements and follow all health instructions whether physical signage, or requests from our professional staff, once you are holidaying with us. To travel with Highland Explorer, you voluntarily assume all risks related to exposure to COVID-19. Full details of hygiene protocols can be found on our website. 4.2 The tour products offered are forms of transportation. For this reason the Operator’s representative cannot offer constant special attention or assistance should you have any physical disability requiring such attention. 4.3 Passengers must be aged 5 or over and be accompanied by a person 18 years or over. For tours of more than 1 day passengers must be aged 18 years or over on date of travel commencing. The Operator may, at its absolute discretion, and in exceptional circumstances, give confirmation of acceptance of a person outside this age restriction, provided that they are accompanied by a responsible person of 18 years or over. There is no upper age restriction. 4.4 Passengers with specific physical or medical requirements. We will try to accommodate any passenger on tour but due to the nature of the product, we are required to consider specific physical or medical requirements on a case by case basis. We also ask that all passengers familiarise themselves with our Accessibility Statement. We will do our best to accommodate any passenger who may have specific assistance requirements provided they are accompanied by a companion capable of providing such necessary assistance and do not require special assistance from the Operator’s personnel. Any medical or physical condition requiring third party attention or treatment must be advised in writing to our Reservations Team when the booking is made. We ask that any special requests or requirements concerning travel arrangements or accommodation also be made at time of booking to ensure we can provide the best service possible. If submitting such 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 endeavors 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. 4.5 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. 4.6 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.
6. 6.1Insurance There is no travel insurance cover included in the price of any ticket, tour, trip or product represented on the website. 6.2 TRAVEL INSURANCE – Travel insurance is required for all passengers covering all applicable dates of travel with Highland Explorer. This insurance must cover; trip interruption, personal injury, medical expenses, evacuation and repatriation cover including during pandemic events. The choice of insurer is yours. We recommend you purchase your insurance at or soon after booking your trip. Highland Explorer Tours will not be held liable for any costs incurred by the passenger resulting from their failure to obtain adequate travel insurance.
10.1 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 Operator’s Representative should be submitted in writing within 28 days of the incident to The Customer Services Manager, Highland Explorer, 60 High Street, The Royal Mile, Edinburgh, 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 date of your tour. 10.2 The contract and all matters arising in respect hereof shall be subject to English Law unless the Operator agrees otherwise in writing.
2. 2.1Travelling The Operator’s e-tickets / Booking Statements confirming ‘Full Payment’ are not transferable. Your e-ticket / Booking Statement indicating that full payment has been made must be produced at any time at the Operator’s request. You will also be required to produce your valid passport, and the valid student ID card used when booking for travel at student prices, each time you travel. A valid passport is required as proof of identification for all tours. 2.2 Baggage is restricted to one reasonable sized suitcase or backpack and one small carry-on bag per passenger (maximum combined weight 15kg). Carry-on bags must not weigh more than 10kg. Baggage in excess of these limits may not be carried. 2.3 It is your responsibility to check-in with the Operator not less than 15 minutes prior to the specified departure time. The Operator will not be liable for any service that departs or returns later than its specified time, even if as a result you miss a connecting service. The Operator will use its best efforts to ensure that departure and return times are met.
Once the Operators, as detailed in Clause 14 below, (hereinafter referred to as “the Operator”), confirm your booking, a contract is made between you and the Operator under 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).
4.7 We at Highland Explorer Tours (The Travel Corporation) take the data privacy of our travellers and guests very seriously and are committed to abiding by the associated governing laws. Please be notified that from time to time our Travel Directors may organise group photo opportunities as part of trip experiences. Such photos may be shared to our company social media channels such as Facebook, Instagram, Twitter or LinkedIn. We will not share the image with anyone for any use other than for Company promotion. Please remove yourself from the group photos organised by the Director if you choose not to participate. 4.8 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. 4.9 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. 4.10 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. 4.11 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. 4.12 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’. 4.13 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. 4.14 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. 4.15 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. 4.16 SAFETY Where the guest occupies a motorcoach 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.
3.4 Product Cancellations Cancellations from 45 days Full fee outside 45 days until full fee threshold threshold Highland Explorer Flexi-Deposit 45-22 full days prior 21 days or less Standard Trips (3.2) to departure -25% fee 100% fee Highland Explorer 50% fee 45-22 full days prior 21 days or less Festivals, Events (3.5) to departure 50% fee 100% fee Highland Explorer No fee No fee 24 hrs prior to departure Day Tours or less - 100% fee
11. Contracting Parties 11.1 The booking conditions detailed here in 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. 11.2 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.
3.8 Any changes of departure date or tour within 45 days of departure but prior to the full fee threshold (as defined in clause 3) will incur an administration fee of 25 GBP per person per tour, subject to availability and charges in lieu of clauses 3.10 or 3.11 where the new departure date/tour must be immediately nominated. These changes may result in the loss of any special discounts applied to the originally booked Tours and are in addition to any fees that may be levied by your Travel Agent. 3.9 Tour changes to one of a lower value or seasonality will result in the loss of any special discounts applied to the originally booked tour and will be subject to an administration fee equivalent to the cancellation fee on the original Tour booked. 3.10 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 of any special discounts applied to the originally booked Tours. 3.11 If the reason for your cancellation is covered under your insurance policy, you may be able to make a claim under that policy. 3.12 No name changes are permitted. 3.13 The Company reserves the right to cancel tours where the minimum number of passengers is not reached. 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 as agreed with the Customer. Highland Explorer Tours is not liable for any cancellation or change cost or penalties incurred on other travel arrangements, including air travel, that may be affected thereby. Highland Explorer Tours is not responsible for other travel arrangements that you or your party have made outside Highland Explorer Tours and which are affected by our cancellations.
11.3 All bookings with other Operators and 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 loss or damage to baggage. Whilst the Operator cannot accept any responsibility for any loss as a result of such actions or as a result of any act or omission of any such third parties, the Operator will give reasonable assistance in helping to resolve any reasonable dispute. 11.4 Many accommodation arrangements referred to in this brochure are provided independently and directly by third party providers (unless stated otherwise). Any such contracts undertaken are made directly between you and the third party accommodation provider. They are subject to the terms and conditions, and limitations of liability, imposed by the individual accommodation provider. All such arrangements are made independently of the Operator, regardless of any help and assistance, which the Operator may provide in securing such arrangements.
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 Operators’ own websites 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 product(s) “tour(s)”. 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 including your travel dates. A contract is only made between you and the Operator upon your booking being confirmed and accepted through written communication thereof to either you or your authorised Travel Agent (hereinafter referred to as “confirmation”).
14. Operating Companies 14.1 Highland Explorer Tours are operated by Radical Travel Group Limited, Registered in Scotland No. 136334. 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 Forhighlandexplorertours.comyourstatutoryrightsplease refer to www.legislation.gov.uk
12. Validity The programmes, products and tours advertised on the website and brochure are valid from the operating season pertaining to each Operator as specified in the brochure and the Operator’s website, unless stated to the contrary. These Terms and Conditions supersede all previous Terms and Conditions issued and are valid for all reservations made on or after 31st January 2022, until replaced.
3.2 Flexi-Deposit: If you need to cancel for whatever reason, where written confirmation is received by the Operator from you or your authorised Agent at least 45 days notice prior to your confirmed or nominated departure date, your deposit value will remain as a credit on your booking available to use against another trip. One deposit amount can be credited per trip. Deposits cannot be combined or applied to existing bookings. No refund of the deposit will be applicable. Where the new trip departure is within the 2022 operating season (defined as the period covering all scheduled departures), this must be confirmed in writing to the Operator minimum 45 days prior to the new departure date.
9. No Smoking Policy
08.00
SATURDAY 1 Day Loch Ness Explorer (All year) 08:00 20:00 £50-£69 SAVE £3 1 Day Outlander Explorer (April – September) 08:45 17:30 £44-£59 SAVE £3
Loch Ness Explorer (All year) 08.00 20.00 £48-£59 SAVE £3
Southern Highlands & A Taste of ‘The Water of Life’ (April - September) 08.45 17.30 £106-£110 SAVE £3 Edinburgh Tattoo (August) 08.45 17.30 £146 SAVE £3 Edinburgh Tattoo Taste (August) 08.45 17.30 £192 SAVE £3
Edinburgh Tattoo Taste (August) 08.45 17.30 £192 SAVE £3 Day Isle of Skye & The Highlands (April - October) 08.00 20.30 £289-£405 SAVE £14 Day Islay Festival of Whisky, Music & Culture (27th May 2020) 09.00 19.30 £849 SAVE £14
Day Up Helly Aa (23rd January 2021) 17.30 £879 N/A Day Isle of Skye & The Outer Hebrides (June - September) 08.30 20.30 £799 SAVE £20
08.00 20.00 £48-£59 SAVE £3 Loch Ness & A Taste of the Highlands (April - November) 08.00 20.00 £81-£93 SAVE £3 The V&A Museum, St Andrews & The Kingdom of Fife (May - August) 08.15 17.30 £47 SAVE £3 St Andrews & a Taste of the Old Course (May - August) 08.15 17.30 £76 SAVE £3 Loch Lomond, Stirling Castle & The Kelpies (All Year) 08.45 17.30 £41-£49 SAVE £3 Alnwick Castle & The Borders (April - September) 08.15 17.30 £47 SAVE £3 Outlander Explorer (April - May, September) 08.45 17.30 £53-£56 SAVE £3 Highland Games (May, June & August) 08.30 17.45 £78 SAVE £3 Day Isle of Skye & The Highlands (May - September) 08.00 20.30 £309-£405 SAVE £14 IMPORTANT INFORMATION Highland Explorer Tours Radical Travel Group DEPART FROM: YOUR TOUR: 60 High Street, Edinburgh, EH1 1TB InformationConciergeCentreorGuest House Reception BY PHONE: +44 (0) 131 558 3738 ONLINE: highlandexplorertours.com EMAIL: info@highlandexplorertours.com HIGHLAND EXPLORER TOURS –a division of Radical Travel Group Ltd Printed on paper sourced from sustainable forests. Also available online. Please pass on or recycle. NOVEMBER 2019 @HIGHEXTOURS/HIGHLANDEXPLORERTOURS/HIGHEXTOURS STATIONBUS ST SQUAREANDREWS INFORMATIONTOURIST PRINCES STREET STREETHANOVERSTREETFREDERICK NORTH BRIDGE SOUTH BRIDGE STNIDDRY STBLACKFRIARS STMARY’SStCOWGATETO GRASSMARKET CHURCH TO CASTLE TOUR CHECK IN 60 HIGH STREET TRAINWAVERLEYSTATION ROYAL MILE / HIGH STREET PRINCESMARKETSTREETSTREET JULY 2022 * Except Braemar – departs 08:00 / returns 20:30 ** Returns 17:30 in Winter (October – March) *** Please arrive 15 mins before departure for check-in
1 Day Whisky & Waterfalls (April – October ) 08:45 17:30 £45-£52 SAVE £3
Loch Lomond, Stirling Castle & The Kelpies (April - September) 08.45 17.30 £46-£49 SAVE £3
1 Day Whisky & Waterfalls (All Year) 08:45 17:30 £45-£52 SAVE £3
1 Day Edinburgh Tattoo (August) 08:45 17:30 £164 SAVE £3
Southern Highlands & A Taste of ‘The Water of Life’ (August) 08.45 17.30 £110 SAVE £3 Edinburgh Tattoo (August) 08.45 17.30 £146 SAVE £3
1 Day £3
WEDNESDAY 1 Day Loch Ness Explorer (All year) 08:00 20:00 £50-£69 SAVE £3 1 Day Edinburgh Tattoo (August) 08:45 17:30 £164 SAVE £3
1 Day Edinburgh Tattoo (August) 08:45 17:30 £164 SAVE £3
3-Day Isle of Skye & The Highlands (May – September) 08:00 20:30 £219-£359 SAVE £14
THURSDAY 1 Day Loch Ness Explorer (All Year) 08:00 20:00 £50-£69 SAVE £3
1 Day Outlander Explorer (April – November) 08:45 17:30 £44-£59 SAVE £3 FRIDAY 1 Day Loch Ness Explorer (All year) 08:00 20:00 £50-£69 SAVE 33
Loch Ness & A Taste of the Highlands (April - November) 08.00 20.00 £81-£93 SAVE £3
Loch Ness Explorer (All Year) 08.00 20.00 £48-£59 SAVE £3
TUESDAY 1 Day Loch Ness Explorer (All year) 08:00 20:00 £50-£69 SAVE £3 1 Day Edinburgh Tattoo (August) 08:45 17:30 £164 SAVE £3 1 Day Alnwick Castle & The Borders (June – August) 08:15 17:30 £47-£52 SAVE £3 1 Day Outlander Explorer (April – September) 08:45 17:30 £44-£59 SAVE £3
08.30
Returns at 17:30 between January –mid-April and mid-October –December ** Except Braemar –departs 08:00/returns 20:30
Southern Highlands & A Taste of ‘The Water of Life’ (August) 08.45 17.30 £110 SAVE £3 Edinburgh Tattoo (August) 08.45 17.30 £146 SAVE £3 Edinburgh Tattoo Taste (August) 08.45 17.30 £192 SAVE £3 Day Isle of Skye & The Highlands (June - September) 08.00 20.30 £319-£405 SAVE £14 Day Mull, Iona & Staffa Puffin Experience (5th June 2020) 08.30 17.30 £699 SAVE £14 Loch Ness Explorer (All Year) 08.00 20.00 £48-£59 SAVE £3 Loch Ness & A Taste of the Highlands (April - November) 08.00 20.00 £81-£93 SAVE £3
Loch Ness Explorer (All Year)
1 Day Loch Lomond, Stirling Castle & The Kelpies (June – August) 08:45 17:30 £42-£54 SAVE £3
Highland Games (July & September)* 08:30* 17:45* £87 SAVE £3 1 Day Edinburgh Tattoo (August) 08:45 17:30 £164 SAVE £3 3 Day Isle of Skye & The Highlands (All Year) 08:00 20:30** £219-£359 SAVE £14 6 Day Isle of Skye & The Outer Hebrides (June – September) 08:30 20:30 £879 SAVE £20 6 Day Up Helly Aa (28th January 2023) 08:30 17:30 £995 N/A SUNDAY 1 Day Loch Ness Explorer (All year) 08:00 20:00 £50-£69 SAVE £3 1 Day Loch Lomond, Stirling Castle & The Kelpies (All Year) 08:45 17:30 £42-£54 SAVE £3 1 Day Alnwick Castle & The Borders (April – August) 08:15 17:30 £47-£52 SAVE £3 1 Day Outlander Explorer (April – November) 08:45 17:30 £44-59 SAVE £3 1 Day Highland Games (May, June & August) 08:30 17:45 £87 SAVE £3 HIGHLAND EXPLORER TOURS RADICAL TRAVEL GROUP Day Isle of Skye & The Highlands (May - September) 08.00 20.30 £309-£405 SAVE £14 Day Isle of Skye, Loch Ness & Inverness (April - October) 09.00 17.30 £535-£745 SAVE £20 Loch Ness Explorer (All Year) 08.00 20.00 £48-£59 SAVE £3 Loch Ness & A Taste of the Highlands (April - November) 08.00 20.00 £81-£93 SAVE £3 Whisky & Waterfalls (April - August) 08.45 17.30 £48-£54 SAVE £3 Southern Highlands & A Taste of ‘The Water of Life’ (April - August) 08.45 17.30 £106-£110 SAVE £3 Edinburgh Tattoo (August) 08.45 17.30 £146 SAVE £3 Edinburgh Tattoo Taste (August) 08.45 17.30 £192 SAVE £3 Outlander Explorer (April - September) 08.45 17.30 £53-£56 SAVE
Outlander Explorer (April - September) 08.45 17.30 £53-£56 SAVE £3 Day Shetland Summer Solstice (18th June 2020) 08.00 17.30 £919 SAVE £14 Loch Ness Explorer (All Year) 08.00 20.00 £48-£59 SAVE £3 Loch Ness & A Taste of the Highlands (April - November) 08.00 20.00 £81-£93 SAVE £3
Outlander Explorer (June - August) 08.45 17.30 £56 SAVE £3 Whisky & Waterfalls (All Year) 08.45 17.30 £45-£54 SAVE £3 Southern Highlands & A Taste of ‘The Water of Life’ (All Year) 08.45 17.30 £98-£110 SAVE £3 Edinburgh Tattoo (August) 08.45 17.30 £146 SAVE £3 Edinburgh Tattoo Taste (August) 08.45 17.30 £192 SAVE £3 Highland Games (July & September) 08.30** 17.45** £78 SAVE £3 Day Royal Braemar and Highland Games (5th September 2020) 08.00 17.45 £245 SAVE £6 Day Isle of Skye & The Highlands (All Year) 20.30* £199-£405 SAVE £14
Loch Lomond, Stirling Castle & The Kelpies (April - October) 08.45 17.30 £46-£49 SAVE £3 Alnwick Castle & The Borders (April - August) 08.15 17.30 £47 SAVE £3 Whisky & Waterfalls (August) 08.45 17.30 £54 SAVE £3
Whisky & Waterfalls (August) 08.45 17.30 £54 SAVE £3
1 Day Loch Lomond, Stirling Castle & The Kelpies (April – October) 08:45 17:30 £42-£54 SAVE £3
1 Day Alnwick Castle & The Borders (April – September) 08:15 17:30 £47-£52 SAVE £3
Loch Ness & A Taste of the Highlands (April - November) 08.00 20.00 £81-£93 SAVE £3 Whisky & Waterfalls (April - September) 08.45 17.30 £48-£54 SAVE £3
ALL TOURS DEPART FROM: 60 High Street, Royal Mile Edinburgh HOW TO BOOK YOUR TOUR IN PERSON: • Our Office – 60 High Street, Edinburgh, EH1 1TB • Visitor Information Centre • Your Hotel Concierge or Guest House Reception BY PHONE: +44 (0) 131 558 3738 ONLINE: highlandexplorertours.com EMAIL: info@highlandexplorertours.com IMPORTANT Information HIGHLAND/HIGHEXTOURS/HIGHLANDEXPLORERTOURS@HIGHEXTOURSEXPLORERTOURS – a division of Radical Travel Group Ltd. We are currently running our tours in conjunction with our sister company HAGGiS Adventures TOURS AT A GLANCE DAY TOUR DEPARTS *** RETURNS ADULT FROM CONCESSIONS MONDAY 1 Day Loch Ness Explorer (All year) 08:00 20:00 £50-£69 SAVE £3 1 Day Edinburgh Tattoo (August) 08:45 17:30 £164 SAVE £3 1 Day Loch Lomond, Stirling Castle & The Kelpies (June – August) 08:45 17:30 £42-£54 SAVE £3 3 Day Isle of Skye & The Highlands (May – September) 08:00 20:30 £219-£359 SAVE £14 5 Day Isle of Skye, Loch Ness & Inverness 09:00 17:30 £425-£615 SAVE £20
