2020
Scenic Scottish Tours
or
£50
From
5
% WHEN YOU off PAY IN FULL
LOW DEPOSIT
Welcome
Sunset at Tangasdale
We’re delighted to share with you our brand new brochure of Scenic Scottish Tours for 2020. On the following pages, you’ll be able to browse the full range of what we have on offer for next year, from our brand new tours to our tried and tested, most popular holidays. If you’re wondering what’s new, you can look forward to a new wildlife tour which travels into the north-west Highlands of Scotland, a garden tour that goes even further north into Caithness and Sutherland, and a new tour combining the Outer Hebrides with Skye and the Summer Isles. If enjoying good food and drink is high on your list of priorities, we have just the thing, with two new food-themed tours, one to Argyll and one to Aberdeenshire, as well as a new whisky tour exploring the distilled delights of Islay and Jura. We also have a new extended tour of Scotland aimed not only at our increasing number of guests from overseas, but at anyone who would like to see the many facets of this wonderful country over the course of 11 spellbinding days. Elsewhere, we have our customary range of mesmerising Scottish breaks that will take you from the rugged coastlines to the sprawling countryside in search of birds, standing stones and fascinating heritage sites. Our team has personally visited over 35 Scottish Islands, so there’s no better company to rely on for a holiday here as we’re incredibly well-versed in all things Scotland! Whatever kind of trip you’re looking for, multi award-winning Brightwater Holidays can make your travel dreams a reality. We look forward to welcoming you.
British Travel Award Winners 2018 We were delighted to pick up two awards at the prestigious British Travel Awards – the Oscars of the travel industry. We won awards in the categories of best coach holiday company and best special interest holiday company. Thank you to everyone who voted for us.
How to book
Full financial protection
After you have enjoyed browsing these pages at your leisure and you’re ready to treat yourself to a place on one of our tours, just get in touch and we will do the rest.
All our holidays are fully bonded and protected. The air holiday packages in this brochure are ATOL Protected, since we hold an Air Travel Organiser’s Licence granted by the Civil Aviation Authority. Our ATOL number is ATOL 4498. ATOL protection does not apply to all holiday and travel services in this brochure. Holidays without flights are protected by ABTOT. This means that in the unlikely event of our insolvency, your holiday would be completed or refunded.
Give our friendly team a call on 01334 766461, or send us an email at info@brightwaterholidays.com For further details on any of our holidays, including day-by-day itineraries, what’s included and full booking conditions, please just head to our website: www.brightwaterholidays.com Happy browsing, and we look forward to hearing from you!
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Scenic Scottish tours Contents A Grand Tour of Scotland
pg 14
Grand Tour of the Outer Hebrides
pg 16
Grand Tour of the Outer Hebrides - 5 day
pg 18
Up Helly Aa - 6 day
pg 19
Up Helly Aa - 7 day
pg 20
Highlights of Orkney & Shetland
pg 22
An Archaeologist’s View of Orkney and Shetland
pg 24
Undiscovered Orkney
pg 26
Shetland and its Outer Isles
pg 27
Knitting in the Shetland Isles
pg 28
Scotland's Northern Edge
pg 30
Gardens of the Far North
pg 31
Gardens and Architecture of the Firth of Clyde
pg 40
Private Gardens of Caithness & Sutherland
pg 32
Arran, Scotland in Miniature
pg 41
Highland and Island Gardens
pg 33
Autumn Tints of Arran
pg 42
Aberdeenshire: Scotland’s Larder
pg 34
Coll & Tiree
pg 43
A Taste of Argyll
pg 35
Islay and Jura
pg 44
In the Footsteps of the Picts
pg 36
Whisky Tasting on Islay and Jura
pg 45
The V&A Museum, Dundee
pg 37
Mull, Staffa & Iona
pg 46
Gardens of Dumfries and Galloway
pg 38
Mull Wildlife Experience
pg 47
Highland Wildlife Safari
pg 48
Autumn Tints of Perthshire
pg 49
Stornoway, Skye and the Summer Isles
pg 50
Grand Tour of the Inner Hebrides
pg 52
A Classic Scottish Steam Break
pg 54
Scenic Scottish Railways
pg 56
Lord of the Glens - Highlands and Islands
pg 58
Lord of the Glens - Heart of the Highlands
pg 60
Glencoe
2020 PRICES
W
e promise that when we launch our new holidays our lowest prices are made available to give you the very best value for money. Over 70% of our 2020 prices are the same or cheaper than in 2019. It pays to book early as prices can increase as the departure date approaches.
Early booking offers Low deposits are available on all 2020 bookings until 9 August 2019. For UK/Europe holidays with no flights, pay £50pp deposit instead of £100pp; for UK/Europe holidays with flights, pay £100pp instead of £200pp; for tours over £3000pp, pay £300pp instead of 10%. Alternatively, pay in full at the time of booking, and receive a 5% discount on the basic holiday cost.
Pay in full at the time of booking and receive 5% off the cost of your 2020 holiday.
£50
From
5
% PAY IN FULL or off
LOW DEPOSIT £50 (instead of £100), £100 (instead of £200), long haul £300 (instead of 10%)
Terms and conditions apply (see website for details)
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Kilchurn Castle
Brightwater experience I
f you want to discover the beauty, history and culture of Scotland, you can trust our highly experienced team to offer you the very best of this unforgettable country. Based in the heart of Fife, we are proud of our country and passionate about the place we call home. Between us, we have visited every corner of the land – including a total of 35 islands – so we know this destination inside and out, allowing us to create the very best itineraries. For 25 years, we have drawn guests from all over the world to experience the many and varied delights of Scotland. Whether you want to discover the ancient treasures or the fresh air of Orkney and Shetland, take a ride along the most scenic railways, or discover Scotland’s finest castles, gardens, produce and wildlife – we’ve got it covered. The tours we have designed for 2020 include new destinations and new experiences, and each one showcases the unique magic of the country.
What makes our tours special? • • • •
We have over 25 years of experience and knowledge Unique and innovative holidays Experts in Scottish travel No hidden extras
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• • • •
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Well-planned itineraries that are perfectly paced Friendly and authoritative tour managers Welcoming and friendly service from first contact Peace of mind with financial protection
Departure points
Getting here
Scottish tours pick up from Dundee, Perth, Kinross, Dunfermline, Edinburgh (Marriott Hotel) and Glasgow. Occasionally Montrose, Arbroath, Aberdeen and Inverness are available depending on coach routing. Pick-up points and approximate departure times for every holiday are detailed in our full day-by-day itineraries, available on request by contacting our office on 01334 657155 or on our website: www.brightwaterholidays.com
What we include
Most UK regional airports offer a very good range of domestic flights with low-cost airlines, while on the train it takes a little over four hours to get from London to Edinburgh. So, if you live south of the border and want to join our Scottish tours, do ask us to quote for connecting travel. Why not treat yourself to a first-class upgrade and travel in comfort and style? Or enjoy the relaxation of an airport lounge before departure. We can also organise airport parking, fast-track security or priority boarding where available.
Our programme includes a host of tried and tested favourites, a handful of holidays making a welcome return and a peppering of brand new tours to capture the imagination. As always, we try to ensure that we give our guests a wealth of experiences. Whether it’s special access to gardens, hands-on workshops or visits to historic castles, you can do it all with us! All our tours now include porterage (where available), taking the weight off your mind.
Personalise your holiday Here, at Brightwater Holidays, it is important to us that you enjoy every second of your trip. This is why we offer ways in which you can tailor-make your holiday to best fit your needs, and there are always things we can do to help:
Room and cabin upgrades
Connecting travel
Extra nights either side
Extend pre- or post-tour
Whether you want to treat yourself to a sea or loch view, a junior suite or a superior cabin, just let us know and we’ll do the rest.
Rail or air travel to Edinburgh, Glasgow, Inverness or Aberdeen can be arranged along with airport parking, if required, for a supplement.
Overnight accommodation in Glasgow, Edinburgh and near other pick-up points as well as at airports are available at a supplement.
If you want to explore more of what your destination has to offer, why not extend your trip with an extra week and later flights, for example.
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Don’t just take our word for it... Let testimonials from our previous guests fill you with confidence about booking with Brightwater Holidays.
Mull, Staffa & Iona
“My first visit to the Scottish islands was with Brightwater and I left promising myself that I would one day return. The distance we covered allowed me to see more than just the islands listed in the itinerary and a particular highlight was our last day, which was filled with treats. We had private access to Duart Castle first thing in the morning before the crowds arrived – an experience I won’t forget. I got to watch puffins on the Treshnish Isles, explore the historic Abbey on the Isle of Iona and observe the rock formations on Staffa, created following a volcanic eruption. The hot chocolate we had on the return boat ride to colourful Tobermory was a nice surprise and the commentary from the Tour Manager throughout was interesting. I really felt a world away in the beautiful Scottish Isles.”
Ms Bennett, 2018 See page 46 for our 2020 tour
Duart Castle
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Grand Tour of the Outer Hebrides “Our guide, Alastair Walker, and our coach driver were both lovely characters and helped to make our holiday very enjoyable. Both the hotels were very comfortable and the staff were most accommodating – three of them even came out to wave us off as we left! For me, the highlights were seeing the plane arrive on Cockleshell Beach, visiting the Standing Stones of Callanish and the Norse Mill at Shawbost. We covered many miles by both land and water, and we thoroughly enjoyed our holiday with Brightwater.”
Mrs. Grahame, 2019 See pages 16-18 for our 2020 tour
Black Houses, Lewis
Highlights of Orkney & Shetland “I’ve always wanted to explore the Scottish Islands, so Brightwater’s Orkney and Shetland tour seemed like a great way to do so. It was a brilliant holiday. Our tour manager’s knowledge and consideration for us as guests made all the difference, and our coach driver, Kevin, was amazing. The archaeology on display in this part of Scotland is fantastic and a highlight for me was our visit to the settlement at Jarlshof. Another memorable part of the tour was the time we spent at the Italian Chapel, which is in such a remote area that the sight of it really stayed with me. The hotels were all comfortable, and I’m looking forward to my next trip.” Jarlshof
Mr. Foreman, 2019 See page 22 for our 2020 tour
Up Helly Aa “This was an event I’d wanted to attend for years and it did not disappoint. Shetland’s scenery was spectacular, its people were friendly and it was so clean. Our Tour Manager and coach driver were extremely helpful as well as knowledgeable about the local area. The icing on the cake, however, was the Viking Up Helly Aa festival itself. We have already booked to celebrate Christmas in the Borders and are so looking forward to it. We will definitely travel with Brightwater again.”
Mrs. Tarrant, 2019 See pages 19-21 for our 2020 tours
Burning longship
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The most magical Scottish islands... Grand Tour of the Outer Hebrides Where else in the UK can you travel the length of a sparsely populated island chain and see ancient standing stones, blindingly white beaches and mountains of granite that sparkle in the sunlight? Peace, tranquility and stunning scenery await.
Ullapool
See pgs. 16-18
Stornoway, Skye and the Summer Isles The Isle of Skye is currently one of Scotland’s most popular destinations and it’s easy to see why. From the ancient wonders of Lewis to the wildlife that can be spotted as we sail to Handa and the Summer Isles, experience your own slice of island life and see what all the fuss is about.
See pg. 50
Islay and Jura Hanging off the end of the Hebrides, Islay has a unique atmosphere, not least because you are never far from the tantalising aroma of fermenting barley and malt from one of the island’s nine distilleries – whisky lovers, rejoice! Then there’s mysterious Jura, dominated by three enormous mountains, where the sheep and deer outnumber the people.
See pg. 44
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Highlights of Orkney and Shetland
The islands of Orkney and Shetland are inextricably linked yet are quite different in character. Orkney is low, green and fertile while Shetland is rugged, brown and mountainous, yet both share a highly visible history and heritage that is quite distinct from the rest of Scotland. What’s more, Shetland was recently named as one of Europe’s top destinations by Lonely Planet.
See pgs. 22-23
Coll and Tiree If it’s sunshine you’re after, forget the Caribbean or the Canaries, the little island of Tiree has hours and hours of it to share with its visitors. Along with its neighbour Coll, these Hebridean gems offer the perfect escape from the noise and bustle of the modern world, with unspoilt beaches and flower-strewn meadows.
See pg. 43 Inverness Aberdeen
Mull, Staffa and Iona In the 45 minutes it takes to sail from Oban to Craignure on the Isle of Mull you can already begin to feel yourself relax. By the time you’ve cruised among the seabirds and seals of the Treshnish Isles and contemplated the cloisters of Iona Abbey you will be as chilled as your pre-dinner G&T. From the evocative Fingal’s Cave on Staffa to the historic abbey on Iona, these islands will leave any visitor with lasting memories.
See pg. 46
Glasgow
Edinburgh
Arran: ‘Scotland in Miniature’ The Isle of Arran really does encapsulate the essence of the country, with lush farmland at one end, soaring mountains at the other and sparkling coastline all around. Discover its whisky distillery, take a tour of its story-filled castle and let its glorious landscape enchant you.
See pg. 41
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New for 2020 Highland Wildlife Safari Scotland’s natural environment is second to none with a more diverse range of habitats than almost any other country of comparable size. Each of these habitats has its own speciality and as we head north into the scenic splendour of the Highlands, we will take a closer look at the wealth of wildlife and diverse range of plants and trees that flourish here. • View ospreys on their nests at Loch of the Lowes • If we are lucky, see the famous Moray Firth dolphins • Observe rare and endangered species from around the world as well as native animals at the Highland Wildlife Park
See pg. 48
Bottlenose dolphin
Private Gardens of Caithness & Sutherland The spectacular seascapes and wild lands of Caithness and Sutherland, right at the very top of Britain, are home to a surprising number of stunning gardens - from formal gardens that surround grand castles with heaving and colourful herbaceous borders, to small and homely private gardens tucked away in neat little villages. • Visit the Scots Baronial Dunbeath Castle and its fine formal gardens • Explore the Queen Mother’s former summer residence, the Castle of Mey • Travel through the empty lands of the far north of See pg. 32 Scotland and visit private gardens
Kyle of Tongue
A Taste of Argyll and Aberdeenshire: Scotland’s Larder Two tours celebrating the best of Scottish produce. In Argyll, enjoy four relaxed lunches in highly scenic locations while sampling some of the best seafood in the world. In Aberdeenshire, discover how this corner of Scotland produces top quality beef, whisky, soup, and shortbread. • Meet a prize-winning herd of Highland cattle • Tour Baxter’s Highland Village and the north east coast • Watch how both shortbread and whisky are made
See pgs. 34-35
Highland cattle
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Only in 2020 OK, we know this is our Scottish Scenic Tours brochure, but there are two unique events taking place in 2020 that you really need to know about...
©Passion Play Oberammergau 2020
Oberammergau and the Austrian Tyrol
Taking place only once every 10 years, the bucket-list experience of the Oberammergau Passion Play is upon us. This is your chance to watch locals from this tiny Bavarian village bringing the story that celebrates the suffering, death and resurrection of Jesus Christ so vividly back to life. If you miss it, you’ll be waiting another decade. Departing May & August 2020, 6 days from £2095 per person.
For more details visit www.brightwaterholidays.com/tours/oberammergau
Taj Mahal
WAFA 2020 and Palaces & Gardens of India’s Golden Triangle The World Association of Flower Arrangers will bring its 2020 showpiece event to the vibrant city of Jaipur in India. On this tour, along with entry to the WAFA showcase, you’ll pay memorable visits to the legendary Taj Mahal, the UNESCO-listed Agra Fort and the stunning Lodi Gardens. Explore the best of India’s horticultural delights with us. Departing 21 February 2020, 9 days from £1995 per person.
For more details visit www.brightwaterholidays.com/wafa-india
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tailor-made group travel Since its inception over 25 years ago, Brightwater Holidays has provided tailor-made travel arrangements for many private groups and societies, with a dedicated Group Travel department providing a highly personal service. The itineraries and packages have been as varied as the groups themselves, though it’s fair to say that Scotland features prominently on the list of requested destinations. Typically, tours include all transportation, accommodation and entry costs, visiting gardens, stately homes, art galleries and other specialist attractions depending on the group’s individual requirements. On most occasions, we also provide an experienced Tour Manager, who will ensure the smooth running of the holiday, leaving the group organisers free to relax and enjoy themselves. We aim to understand fully the requirements of your group, so if you are a group travel organiser or a group of friends and would like some advice or a quotation for a tour, please contact our Private Groups Manager, Jenni Duncan, who would be delighted to help tailor-make a package for you. Remember, it’s your tour and we will try and supply the perfect holiday to match your requirements and budget.
Group size A small group of friends, a club of 50, or anything in between — no matter the number – we’ll find the visits and hotels that offer the perfect fit.
Transport Plane, train, or coach — how will you get to your destination? We figure out the cost and itinerary implications so you can make an informed choice.
Room and board 5* luxury accommodation and pre-dinner drinks or comfortable hotels and independent meals? You decide on the particulars, and we’ll factor it all into your total price.
Tour destination Let us know where you’d like to go and for how many days, and we’ll do the rest. Multi-centre trip around Scotland or three-week break to New Zealand - whatever you have in mind, we can make it happen.
All inclusive All site and garden visits included, or a pick-and-mix of optional excursions — just how much you’d like to cover in the cost of your tour is up to you.
Get in touch and get started
O
ur friendly and highly experienced Private Groups Manager, Jenni Duncan, has been with Brightwater for over 20 years. Give her a call on 01334 657155, or send an email to groups@brightwaterholidays.com to get things started. If you would like some inspiration, have a look at our website www.brightwaterholidays.com No matter what stage of planning you’re at, our team will be able to work with you every step of the way.
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Popular itineraries
Gardens of the Scottish Borders
Highland and Island Gardens
Among the rolling hills of the borderlands of Scotland and England are a host of attractive gardens, from contemporary classics such as the Alnwick Garden to intimate private gardens and historic manors. Our tour straddles the border as we visit timeless country house gardens and some splendid private gardens by the River Tweed.
The Western Seaboard of Scotland is home to some of the finest gardens in Europe. Many types of plant flourish in this gentle and moist climate, enjoying the benefit of the Gulf Stream, which is kind to unusual exotic shrubs and trees. Highlights include the splendour of Mount Stuart on the Isle of Bute and Arduaine Gardens at Loch Melfort.
Gardens of Kent and Sussex
Gardens of Yorkshire
If there’s one tour that epitomises the joy of strolling around a perfect English country garden, it is this one – with one shining example after another to be savoured and enjoyed. These include the much-copied Sissinghurst, Lullingstone Castle with its unique World of Plants and Nymans Garden, which offers outstanding plants in a theatrical setting.
A tour of the gardens of Yorkshire has an added attraction in that it takes place against an ever-changing backdrop of stunning landscapes, with peaks and dales, hidden wolds and peaceful market towns. The gardens themselves are equally fine and combine to create a tour as rich and refreshing as a pint of best Yorkshire bitter.
Oberammergau 2020: Great for Groups
WAFA 2020 and Palaces & Gardens of India’s Golden Triangle
Occurring just once per decade, the historic Passion Play of Oberammergau is the rarest of rare treats — and it’s also, as luck would have it, the perfect example of how we can tailor a tour around your specific interests or travel goals. With the Passion Play as your tour’s headliner, there’s plenty of room for the supporting acts.
Another key event taking place in 2020 is the World Association of Flower Arrangers show in Jaipur, India. We can arrange an inclusive tour that takes you to all the great sights of the Golden Triangle such as the Taj Mahal and the Amber Fort.
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A Grand Tour of Scotland
Eilean Donan Castle
T
his tour is designed for anyone with the desire to travel the length and breadth of Scotland, and who wants to get a real taste of all the beauty and diversity that fair Caledonia has to offer. From Edinburgh we head north along the ‘backbone’ of Scotland to Speyside; north and west to Ullapool on the wild yet wonderful west coast; south to Fort William and Oban for more West Highland magic, and back through the historic heartlands of Stirlingshire to the capital. Among the highlights are an exclusive whisky tasting and dining experience in Edinburgh, with a further whisky tasting at the home of The Glenlivet in Speyside; boat trips to the remote Summer Isles and on romantic Loch Lomond; a highly scenic journey by steam train over the Glenfinnan Viaduct to Mallaig; and a classic excursion from Oban that takes in the islands of Mull, Staffa and Iona. We also enjoy visits to historic castles including Stirling, Cawdor, Eilean Donan and Blair, along with Mary Queen of Scots’ childhood home of Falkland Palace. There are further royal connections on our optional excursion, which includes visits to the Palace of Holyroodhouse, Her Majesty The Queen’s official residence in Scotland, and mighty Edinburgh Castle, home to the Scottish Crown Jewels.
Departures
What’s Included 10 nights’ dinner, bed & breakfast: three nights in the Edinburgh area, two nights in the Inverness area, two nights in Ullapool, one night in Fort William and two nights in Oban
Royal Yacht Britannia
17 May & 22 August 2020 All visits as outlined in the itinerary Comfortable coach travel and all ferry crossings Services of a professional tour manager
Price 11 days from
£2295
Single room supplement
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14
£480
per person
Itinerary Day 1 We depart from our designated pick-up points and
travel to our hotel. Alternatively, please make your own way to the hotel. There is an optional excursion this afternoon for a panoramic introductory tour of Edinburgh, including visits to Edinburgh Castle and Holyroodhouse. Inc. Meals: Breakfast & dinner.
Day 2 Today we have the rare experience of following in the
footsteps of Churchill, Nelson Mandela and Gandhi when we enjoy a tour of the Royal Yacht Britannia. Later we continue to Rosslyn Chapel, which has enjoyed huge popularity since the publication of the Da Vinci Code, before we enjoy a Scotch Whisky Experience including a platinum tasting tour that is followed by a lavish ‘Taste of Scotland’ dinner.
The Jacobite
Day 9 We depart today on the classic Three Isles
Excursion, which departs from the Ferry Terminal in Oban on Caledonian MacBrayne’s service to Craignure. On Mull, we continue by coach on a scenic route through the southern part of the island to Fionnphort, where we board the ferry for the 45-minute boat ride to the Isle of Staffa. On the water, keep an eye out for sightings of whales, dolphins, basking sharks and sea eagles. After landing on Staffa, we can walk along the shoreline over the hexagonal basalt columns that make up the island to visit Fingal’s Cave. Finally, we sail south to the Isle of Iona, where we have time to explore on foot. We return by ferry to Mull and by coach to Craignure in time for the ferry back to Oban at the end of a long but most rewarding day.
Inc. Meals: Breakfast & dinner.
Day 3 Today we depart Edinburgh and visit Falkland
Palace, a renaissance gem adored by Mary Queen of Scots. Fans of ‘Outlander’ will recognise the square outside the palace as the location for Inverness in the opening episode. In the afternoon, we travel to Blair Castle, home to Scotland’s only private army. The rooms allow you to walk back through 700 years of Scottish history. Inc. Meals: Breakfast & dinner.
Day 4 Today we embark on a circular tour of Speyside,
starting at Cawdor Castle, the setting which inspired the story of the mad Scottish king, Macbeth. We conclude with a visit to the home of one of the great names of Speyside whisky, The Glenlivet, at its remote location in Strath Avon. We see the unique lantern stills that help shape the spirit’s flavour and taste the single malt straight from the cask.
Inc. Meals: Breakfast & dinner.
Day 10 We travel to Tarbet where we embark on a two-hour Rob Roy cruise on Loch Lomond. We sail past the hidden caves and secret prison, where he sat in hiding, and are treated to a whisky coffee aboard the boat in true Scottish style. We return to dry land where our adventure continues with a visit to Stirling Castle. We return to our hotel in the Edinburgh area this evening for a farewell dinner.
Inc. Meals: Breakfast & dinner.
Day 5 Today, we depart for Ullapool stopping at the
breathtaking Corrieshalloch Gorge and Falls of Measach on the way to our comfortable hotel in Ullapool.
Inc. Meals: Breakfast & dinner.
Inc. Meals: Breakfast & dinner.
Day 6 After breakfast this morning we transfer the short
Day 11 This morning our Grand Tour has come to an end and we will return to our original pick-up points.
distance to Ullapool Pier, where we will board the MV Summer Queen for our Summer Isles Cruise. As we head out of Ullapool, sailing down the centre of Loch Broom, keep a look out for Mussel Bay, where you can often see a colony of Atlantic seals basking on the rocks. Sailing to the Summer Isles themselves, we will visit Cathedral Cave, where we can see the shags and cormorants nesting inside.
Inc. Meals: Breakfast only.
Inc. Meals: Breakfast & dinner.
Day 7 Today we have a long but rewarding day as we drive south to Fort William, breaking our journey at the dramatic and much-photographed Eilean Donan Castle, in an awe-inspiring setting where three lochs meet. Inc. Meals: Breakfast & dinner.
Day 8 Today we enjoy a return journey on the Jacobite
Steam Train to Mallaig, the longest mainline steam-hauled train journey available in the UK. It passes through some superlative scenery on the way to the coast at Mallaig and crosses the iconic Glenfinnan Viaduct, which features in four of the Harry Potter films. From Fort William, we continue down the coast to Oban. Inc. Meals: Breakfast & dinner.
Blair Castle
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A Grand Tour of the Outer Hebrides - 6 days
Luskentyre, Harris
O
ur extended tour of the Hebrides has proved extremely popular, offering as it does a unique opportunity to travel the length and breadth of the Western Isles. Our Grand Tour takes in all the beauty and diversity of this very special environment with 10 different islands and four ferry trips included. Two comfortable hotels ensure that this holiday is as relaxing as possible, while at the same time offering great variety. We take the ferry from Mallaig to Lochboisdale in South Uist and continue to our hotel in Benbecula. We visit the islands of Eriskay; Vatersay with its fantastic sandy beaches, and Barra, including visits to Kisimul Castle and Cockleshell Beach, used as the island’s airport. A captivating journey follows as we travel north by ferry from North Uist and on through the magnificent mountain scenery of Harris and the rolling moorland of Lewis to Stornoway. We continue with visits to the remarkable Standing Stones of Callanish, the tranquil little Norse Mill at Shawbost and the distinctive Black Houses at Gearrannan. Our return route takes us by ferry from Stornoway to Ullapool.
Departures (Benbecula - Stornoway, from £995pp)
23 June, 14 July, 21 July, 25 August & 15 September 2020
What’s Included Five nights’ dinner, bed and breakfast: two nights at the Dark Island Hotel and three nights at the Cabarfeidh Hotel, Stornoway. (one dinner and one breakfast served on board the ferry)
Sea aster
All visits as outlined in the itinerary Comfortable coach travel and all ferry crossings Services of a professional tour manager
(Stornoway - Benbecula, from £935pp)
10 May & 7 June 2020
Price 6 days from
£995
Single room supplement
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16
per person
£195
Itinerary Day 1 We depart from our designated pick-up points and
head to Mallaig, stopping en-route for refreshments. We catch a ferry to Lochboisdale in South Uist and enjoy dinner on board. Upon arrival, we continue over causeways to Benbecula. Inc. Meals: Dinner only.
Butt of Lewis
Kisimul Castle
Day 2 After breakfast we head for Barra, travelling via the
little island of Eriskay. Upon arrival in Barra, we enjoy a tour of the island, including a visit by boat to Kisimul Castle. Next we visit Cockleshell Beach, the unique airport runway whose use is governed by the tides. Finally, we visit Vatersay by the causeway, which links the two islands. In the course of our tour today, we hope to see many species of wildflowers. Inc. Meals: Breakfast & dinner.
Day 3 We check out of our hotel and take the ferry from
Berneray to Leverburgh, located on the Isle of Harris. Upon arrival we visit St Clement’s Church at Rodel. The tombs here are among the most spectacular in Scotland. Next, we travel along the coast to the rolling moorland of Lewis, continuing to our hotel in Stornoway. Inc. Meals: Breakfast & dinner.
here, we move on to the Black Houses at Gearrannan, typical of the crofting settlements, which, until relatively recently, were found throughout the Western Isles. The final visit on our circular tour is the Norse Mill at Shawbost, a reconstruction of the type of building used by Viking settlers. Inc. Meals: Breakfast & dinner.
Day 5 Today we visit Lews Castle and Museum, where we can meet the famous Lewis Chessmen and view the Outer Hebrides as never before in a wrap-around audio-visual presentation. This afternoon we visit St Columba’s Ui Church, one of the most important archaeological sites on the island. We will also see the Port of Ness and the Butt of Lewis, home to the unique Stevenson lighthouse. Inc. Meals: Breakfast & dinner.
Day 6 This morning we check out of the hotel and take the early morning ferry from Stornoway to Ullapool (breakfast will be served on board) before continuing to our original pick-up points. Inc. Meals: Breakfast only.
Note: The above itinerary is for the Benbecula to Stornoway departures. We also operate this tour in reverse on 10 May and 7 June 2020 with two nights in Stornoway & three nights in Benbecula from £935pp
Callanish Standing Stones
Day 4 This morning after breakfast we travel to the west coast of Lewis for a visit to the 5,000-year-old Standing Stones of Callanish. Undoubtedly the most remarkable antiquity in the Western Isles, this collection of almost 50 stones forms a well-marked megalithic avenue. From
Black Houses, Lewis
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A Grand Tour of the Outer Hebrides - 5 day Callanish, Isle of Lewis
O
ur shorter version of the Grand Tour begins with a scenic drive via Fort William, Glenfinnan and Mallaig, before taking the ferry to Lochboisdale in South Uist and continuing to our hotel in Benbecula. From here, we visit the islands of Eriskay, Vatersay with its fantastic sandy beaches and Barra, including a visit to Cockleshell Beach, which is used as the island’s airport. A captivating journey follows as we travel north by ferry from North Uist, on through the magnificent mountain scenery of Harris and the rolling moorland of Lewis to Stornoway, our base for the next two nights. We continue with visits to the remarkable Standing Stones of Callanish, the tranquil little Norse Mill at Shawbost and the distinctive Black Houses at Gearrannan. Our return route takes us by ferry from Stornoway to Ullapool.
What’s Included Four nights’ dinner, bed & breakfast: two nights at the Dark Island Hotel and two nights at the Cabarfeidh Hotel, Stornoway (one dinner and one breakfast served on board the ferry) All visits as outlined in the itinerary
Itinerary Day 1 We depart by coach
from our pick-up points and head for the ferry terminal at Mallaig. We sail to Lochboisdale in South Uist before continuing to our hotel in Benbecula. Dinner is on board the ferry. Inc. Meals: Dinner only.
Day 2 Today we head for
Barra, travelling via the little island of Eriskay. We enjoy a tour of the island before visiting Cockleshell Beach, the unique runway whose use is governed by the tides. Finally, we visit Vatersay the film location for “Whisky Galore”. Inc. Meals: Breakfast & dinner.
Day 3 This morning we take the ferry from Berneray to Leverburgh on the Isle of Harris and visit
St Clement’s Church at Rodel. The tombs here are among the most spectacular in Scotland. We continue along the coast through the rolling moorland of Lewis to our hotel in Stornoway. Inc. Meals: Breakfast & dinner.
Day 4 We have a full day of
visits today. First, we gaze upon the Standing Stones of Callanish, then we visit the Black Houses at Gearrannan and the Norse Mill at Shawbost. Inc. Meals: Breakfast & dinner.
Day 5 We depart this
morning on an early ferry to Ullapool, with breakfast served on board. Upon arrival on the mainland, we continue to our original pick-up points. Inc. Meals: Breakfast only.
Comfortable coach travel and all ferry crossings Services of a professional tour manager
Departures
31 March, 7 April & 6 October 2020
Price 5 days from
£695
Single room supplement
www.brightwaterholidays.com
per person
£140
St Clement’s Church
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Up Helly Aa - 6 day A Viking squad in Lerwick
F
ight off the lingering gloom of winter with a blazing torch and bone-rattling cry, and watch as warm island hospitality and unabashed merrymaking come together in a festival unlike any other. This is Up Helly Aa, a once-yearly invocation of flame and festivity, when Vikings take over the sleepy Shetlands. Join us for this six-day experience, taking in rugged landscapes, wonderful wildlife and a host of historical sites. Explore the fascinating Prehistoric and Neolithic Settlement of Jarlshof, visit the nearby cliffs at Sumburgh Head, enjoy the festive atmosphere of Lerwick, and take scenic ferry rides that offer a breathtaking perspective of the Shetland Islands. Travel through Tingwall and Girlsta, enjoy panoramic views at Saxa Vord on Unst, and admire the utilitarian grandeur of the Sullom Voe Terminal.
Five nights’ dinner, bed & breakfast: three nights at the Busta House Hotel and two nights in 2-berth inside cabins on Serco Northlink Ferries. (Outside cabins available at a small supplement) All visits as outlined in the itinerary Comfortable coach travel throughout Services of a professional tour manager
27 January 2020
Day 1 We depart from our
Day 4 Today we visit
Inc. Meals: Dinner only.
Inc. Meals: Breakfast & dinner.
Day 2 After breakfast we
Day 5 This morning we
designated pick-up points and travel to Aberdeen, boarding the Serco Northlink ferry in time for dinner. We sail overnight to Lerwick.
disembark and are immersed straight away in the day’s festivities as Up Helly Aa takes over the town of Lerwick once again. Inc. Meals: Breakfast & dinner.
Day 3 We depart for a
What’s Included
Departures
Itinerary
Price 6 days from
£995
per person
Single room supplement - on request
full-day tour, which, weather permitting, will take us to the northern isles of Yell and Unst. We travel north through Tingwall and Girlsta and past the oil terminal at Sullom Voe. After a 15-minute crossing, we travel across Yell to Gutcher, at the north end of the island. We then make another short ferry crossing to the island of Unst, before driving north to Baltasound. We continue northwards again and enjoy marvellous views from Saxa Vord Hill.
Mavis Grind and stop for a walk along the sea cliffs at Eshaness, which offer spectacular views over the offshore rocks.
check out of our hotel and depart on a full-day tour, which begins with a visit to Scalloway, the original capital of Shetland. Later, we explore the Norse Settlement of Jarlshof before ending our day at Sumburgh Head. Dinner is served on board the ferry. Inc. Meals: Breakfast & dinner.
Day 6 After breakfast on
board, we disembark in Aberdeen and make our way back to our original pick-up points. Inc. Meals: Breakfast only.
Inc. Meals: Breakfast & dinner.
Shetland Hotel, Lerwick supplement £150pp
Guizer Jarl
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Up Helly Aa - 7 day Up Helly Aa festival
A
wander through the streets of Lerwick is normally a quiet, peaceful experience, but take a walk there at the end of January and it’s quite likely that you will bump into a squad of very large, very bearded Vikings, resplendent in gleaming chainmail and winged helmets. Later, the Vikings and their fancy-dressed followers fill the narrow streets, their flaming torches illuminating the dark winter skies, their boisterous songs filling the air. A 30-foot Viking longship is carried aloft before it is set alight with a thousand blazing brands. As the sky over Lerwick shimmers with heat and light, fireworks explode, brass bands play and the gloom of winter is lifted for another year. This is Up Helly Aa, the annual winter festival of Shetland, which celebrates the lengthening of the days and the coming of another year, not to mention the chance of a good old knees-up. It’s run by Shetlanders for Shetlanders, but that’s not to say visitors aren’t welcome and the island hospitality will be as warm as ever. Shetland is a beguiling place to visit at any time, but in the short winter days the islands take on a special character with steely grey seas and dramatic skies. During our stay we will take in the prehistoric and Norse settlement of Jarlshof to the south, and tour as far as the islands of Yell and Unst to the north. Up Helly Aa itself is on the Tuesday, when we will have the day free to enjoy the various events in Lerwick, culminating in the torchlight procession and boat burning ceremony in the evening, the highlight of an unusual and uplifting winter break.
What’s Included Six nights’ dinner, bed & breakfast: four nights at the Sumburgh Hotel and two nights in two-berth inside cabins on Serco Northlink Ferries. (Outside cabins available at a small supplement)
www.brightwaterholidays.com
Serco Northlink ferry
Departures
25 January 2020
All visits as outlined in the itinerary
Price
Comfortable coach travel throughout
7 days from
Services of a professional tour manager
20
£995
per person
Single room supplement - on request
Itinerary Day 1 We depart from our designated pick-up points and travel to Aberdeen, boarding the Serco Northlink ferry in time for dinner. We sail overnight to Lerwick. Inc. Meals: Dinner only.
Day 2 After breakfast, our tour begins with a visit to
Scalloway. The castle built by Earl Patrick Stuart still dominates the skyline. More recently, Scalloway was the secret base of the heroes of the Norwegian Resistance and the wartime exploits of the ‘Shetland Bus’ from a courageous memoir. Later, we head to Mainland Shetland, where we explore the Prehistoric and Norse Settlement of Jarlshof. From here, we travel to Sumburgh Head, the southern tip of mainland Shetland, which is also an RSPB Reserve and site of a lighthouse that is still functioning. Inc. Meals: Breakfast & dinner.
Jarlshof
Day 5 We enjoy another scenic excursion to the west
mainland of Shetland today, which takes us to Walls – terminus for the ferry to the island of Foula – and the headland at Sandness, overlooking Papa Stour island. Inc. Meals: Breakfast & dinner.
Day 6 After a leisurely breakfast, we depart for a full-day
tour, which, weather permitting, will take us to the northern isles of Yell and Unst. We travel north through Tingwall and Girlsta and past the oil terminal at Sullom Voe. After a 15-minute crossing, we travel across Yell to Gutcher, at the north end of the island. After a refreshment stop we make another short ferry crossing to the island of Unst. We shall drive north to Baltasound. After lunch (not included) we continue northwards again and enjoy marvellous views from Saxa Vord Hill. Our return route takes us via East Yell and Burravoe. Back at Lerwick we will rejoin our ship for our sailing to Aberdeen. Dinner is served on board. Inc. Meals: Breakfast & dinner. Sunrise at Sumburgh Head
Day 3 A scenic excursion to the north mainland of Shetland awaits. Our route takes us over the Mavis Grind, an isthmus just 100 yards wide, and through a stark landscape of hills, moors and lochans. We stop for a walk along the Eshaness sea cliffs, which offer amazing views over the nearby islets. There are also many caverns and sea caves, one of which was recently declared the largest in Britain.
Day 7 After breakfast on
Lerwick, capital of Shetland
board, we disembark in Aberdeen and return to our original pick-up points. Inc. Meals: Breakfast only.
Inc. Meals: Breakfast & dinner.
Day 4 After breakfast this morning, we depart for Lerwick,
where you are free to explore at leisure and view the various activities associated with the Up Helly Aa festival which takes place today. Keep an eye out for the various squads of ‘guizers’ — groups of about 20 men who choose a theme and dress up as whatever takes their fancy each year. As darkness falls, the squads begin to assemble for the torchlight parade and eventually a procession of 1,000 men snakes its way through the streets, carrying aloft flaming brands of paraffin-soaked hessian. Rush hour in Shetland
Inc. Meals: Breakfast & dinner.
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Highlights of Orkney & Shetland the ‘Islands of the Simmer Dim’
Whale bone, Orkney
S
ail away to lands steeped in history, wildlife and stunning scenery, far from the jostling crowds, to the haunting beauty of the Orkney and Shetland Isles. Many people have landed there before you - some as early as 3000 BC. Most famous of all were the Vikings, but they were not alone and all around you will find historical treasures. Both Orkney and Shetland have their own identity, Orkney being very green and fertile, while Shetland has a more rugged cliff and sea loch scenery. Both, however, share a colourful history of Picts, Norsemen, ancient antiquities, buried treasure, and seafaring legends, bound up with an independent spirit that makes them quite different from the rest of Scotland. We sail with Serco Northlink Ferries and their modern, purpose-built vessels – the Hrossey and the Hjaltland – from Aberdeen overnight to Lerwick. We then have two full days to tour Shetland. After rejoining the ship for an evening sailing to Kirkwall, we have a further two full days touring Orkney, before our short crossing back to the mainland. Ring of Brodgar
What’s Included One nights’ dinner, bed & breakfast at the Busta House Hotel, Shetland and three nights’ bed & breakfast (plus two dinners) at the Kirkwall Hotel, Orkney All ferry crossings, including one nights’ accommodation in two-berth inside cabins on Serco Northlink Ferries MV Hrossey/Hjaltland on the outward sailing. (Outside cabins available at a small supplement)
www.brightwaterholidays.com
One breakfast and two dinners on board ship All visits as outlined in the itinerary Comfortable coach travel throughout Services of a professional tour manager
Departures
20 April, 4 May, 8 June, 27 July, 17 August & 14 September 2020
Price 6 days from
£1095
Single room supplement June, July & August supplement £60pp
£375
22
per person
Itinerary Day 1 We depart from our designated departure points and
travel to Aberdeen. We take an overnight ferry to Lerwick and once on board, we shall check in to our comfortable, twin-berth cabins which have en-suite facilities. The ship has a delightful restaurant, where dinner is served this evening. Inc. Meals: Dinner only.
Day 2 After breakfast, we leave the ship and commence our tour of Shetland. Our first stop is Scalloway, where we visit the ruined castle built in 1600 by the infamous Earl Patrick Stewart. We then continue north towards the spectacular cliffs of Eshaness. Look out for the ‘Otters Crossing’ sign at the narrow isthmus known as Mavis Grind, where it is said to be possible to throw a stone from the North Sea to the Atlantic Ocean. From here, we transfer to our hotel.
Neolithic site of Skara Brae
ages remain uncertain. We then continue to Maeshowe, the finest chambered tomb in Western Europe. Built before 2700 BC, Maeshowe was raided by the Vikings in the 12th century, and it houses the largest collections of runic inscriptions to be found in any one place in the world. A visit to Skara Brae is also included, with its new visitor centre depicting the history of this world famous monument.
Inc. Meals: Breakfast & dinner.
Inc. Meals: Breakfast & dinner.
Day 5 This morning, we have free time to explore Kirkwall at leisure. In the afternoon we depart on a tour of the south end of mainland Orkney, crossing the Churchill Barriers which were built after the sinking of the HMS Royal Oak in October 1939. We also stop off at the beautiful Italian Chapel, built on the site of a former prisoner of war camp. Inc. Meals: Breakfast & dinner.
Day 6 After breakfast we
Scalloway Harbour
Day 3 Today we start with a visit to the outstanding
Prehistoric and Norse Settlement of Jarlshof, with over three acres of remains, spanning 3,000 years since the days of the Stone Age, including oval shaped Bronze Age houses, an Iron Age broch and wheel houses. From here we travel to mainland Shetland to Sumburgh Head and visit the RSPB reserve, home to thousands of seabirds including puffins, guillemots and razorbills. This afternoon we travel through small communities before we have free time in the island’s Puffins capital of Lerwick and an opportunity to visit the state of the art Shetland Museum. This evening we rejoin our ship and sail to Orkney. Dinner is on board and upon arrival in Orkney, we transfer to our hotel.
check out of the hotel and transfer to St Margaret’s Hope to catch the Pentland Ferries, sailing to Gills Bay. We then return to our original pick-up points. Inc. Meals: Breakfast only.
Italian Chapel
Inc. Meals: Breakfast & dinner.
Day 4 We have a full-day excursion to mainland Orkney
visiting the many archaeological sites including the great stone circles of Brodgar and Stenness, which lie to the north side of the Orphir Hills. To this day the monuments’
St Magnus Cathedral
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An Archaeologist’s View of Orkney & Shetland
Dunnottar Castle
T
he islands of Orkney and Shetland are littered with archaeological remains. People first came here over 5,000 years ago and many of their remains survive. Research is ongoing here and excavations by archaeologists continue to uncover new information. The islands are therefore of enormous interest to anyone who enjoys first-hand contact with ancient settlements and buildings, and the people who once lived here. During our time on Shetland we will visit the uninhabited island of Mousa with its 2,000-year-old full size broch, the Prehistoric and Norse settlement of Jarlshof, St Ninian’s Isle with its 6th century church, and the ruined castle of Scalloway. We then travel to Orkney where we visit the Italian Chapel; the Tomb of the Eagles, which offers a unique ‘hands-on’ experience - an opportunity to handle 5,000-yearold artefacts excavated from an extensive cliff-top site; Maeshowe, the finest chambered tomb in Western Europe; and Skara Brae as well as Skaill House. En route to Aberdeen, we will stop for a photo opportunity at Dunnottar Castle, a clifftop fortress dating back to the 3rd century.
What’s Included One nights’ dinner, bed & breakfast at the Busta House Hotel, Shetland and three nights’ bed & breakfast (plus two dinners) at the Kirkwall Hotel, Orkney All ferry crossings, including one nights’ accommodation in two-berth inside cabins on Serco Northlink Ferries MV Hrossey/Hjaltland on the outward sailing. (Outside cabins available at a small supplement)
www.brightwaterholidays.com
Mousa Broch
Departures
One breakfast and two dinners on board ship
27 April, 6 July & 31 August 2020
All visits as outlined in the itinerary Comfortable coach travel throughout
Price
Services of an archaeological expert as tour manager
6 days from
£1195
Single room supplement July & August supplement £60pp
£375
24
per person
Itinerary Day 1 We depart from our designated departure points
and travel to Aberdeen, via the dramatic coastal ruins of Dunnottar Castle, and board the Serco Northlink ferry for our overnight sailing to Shetland. Inc. Meals: Dinner only.
Italian Chapel
Day 4 This morning we depart on a tour of southern Orkney,
Mousa Broch
Day 2 Arriving in Lerwick, we take a tour of the island,
passing through the communities of Gulberwick and Cunningsburgh. Weather permitting, we cross to Mousa to visit the 2,000-year-old Mousa Broch, an Iron Age tower still standing at its original 13m height. Returning to the mainland, we visit Hoswick Visitor Centre, before heading to the outstanding Prehistoric and Norse Settlement of Jarlshof, where three millennia of history may be traced in the remains and buildings, from oval-shaped Bronze Age houses to Viking longhouses and medieval farmhouses. Finally, we visit the nearby cliffs at Sumburgh Head before transferring to our hotel. Inc. Meals: Breakfast & dinner.
crossing the Churchill Barriers, built after the sinking of the HMS Royal Oak in October 1939. We stop first at the Italian Chapel, built on the site of a prisoner of war camp. Several hundred Italians, captured during the North African campaign, were sent here to work on the Causeways and converted two huts into a chapel. The marvellous paintings in the interior were the work of Domenico Chiocchetti, one of the prisoners who has returned several times to restore and repaint parts of the building. We continue to the Isbister chambered tomb (otherwise known as the Tomb of the Eagles for the number of talons of sea eagles found there) and the Liddle Burnt Mound – two exceptional sites discovered by the same farmer some 50 years ago. We return to Kirkwall for free time this afternoon, where you may choose to visit the magnificent St Magnus Cathedral. Inc. Meals: Breakfast & dinner.
Day 5 Today we enjoy an excursion to the heart of Neolithic
Orkney’s UNESCO World Heritage Sites. We visit Maeshowe, home to the largest collection of runic inscriptions to be found in one place in the world, the evocative Ness of Brodgar and the world-famous prehistoric stone settlement of Skara Brae. Later, we visit the iconic Standing Stones of Stenness and Neolithic village of Barnhouse. Inc. Meals: Breakfast & dinner.
Day 6 We check out of the hotel and transfer to St
Margaret’s Hope to catch the Pentland Ferries to Gills Bay. We will then return to our original pick-up points. Inc. Meals: Breakfast only.
St Ninian’s Beach
Day 3 We travel up to St Ninian’s Isle, with its church
dating from the 6th century, when Christianity first came to Shetland. We travel to Scalloway, Shetland’s former capital, where we visit the ruined castle of the infamous Earl Patrick Stewart before continuing through Tingwall Valley, site of the old Norse parliament. We return to Lerwick to explore the town before sailing to Orkney. Inc. Meals: Breakfast & dinner.
Jarlshof
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Undiscovered Orkney Skara Brae
O
rkney is an archipelago of 70 islands, each with their own distinctive charm, history and natural beauty. Based on Mainland, as the principal island is called, we will have an opportunity to visit previously unexplored areas as we discover the historic landmarks and captivating landscapes of the North and South Isles. On the island of Westray we will relive Orkney’s Viking past as we sail the Old Norse sea routes. We will also sail across Scapa Flow to Hoy – an island of dramatic mountain scenery and seascapes that inspired the Orcadian symphonies of former resident Sir Peter Maxwell-Davies. Finally, we will explore Mainland and the sites that are collectively known as the ‘Heart of Neolithic Orkney’ – Maeshowe, the Stones of Stenness and Skara Brae.
Itinerary Day 1 We depart from our
pick-up points and travel north to Scrabster to catch the evening ferry to Orkney. Upon arrival, we transfer to our hotel. Inc. Meals: Dinner only.
Day 2 After breakfast, we
head to Westray and visit the Scaun Natural Arch, where guillemots and fulmar can be spotted. Later, we discover Westray Heritage Centre, before touring the historic Noltland Castle. Inc. Meals: Breakfast, lunch & dinner.
What’s Included
Day 3 We tour the island
Four nights’ bed & breakfast at the Kirkwall Hotel, Orkney. Three dinners in the hotel and one on board the Serco Northlink ferry (all with wine) Two lunches
of Hoy, visiting the Dwarfie Stone, which dates from around 3000 BC, and Rackwick Bay, once home to composer Sir Peter
All visits as outlined in the itinerary
Maxwell-Davies. Later, we visit the stone-built Martello Tower, Lyness Naval Base and the Naval Cemetery. Inc. Meals: Breakfast & dinner.
Day 4 A full day exploring
mainland Orkney awaits, as we visit the archaeological sites of Maeshowe, Skara Brae and the Standing Stones of Stenness. After an opportunity to explore the local Museum and Arts Centre, we visit the Highland Park Distillery for a dram. Inc. Meals: Breakfast & dinner.
Day 5 We catch the ferry
back to the mainland and visit the Timespan Museum and Arts Centre in Helmsdale before continuing back home. Inc. Meals: Breakfast & lunch.
Comfortable coach travel and all ferry crossings Services of a professional tour manager
Departures
15 June & 24 August 2020
Price 5 days from
£1095
Single room supplement
www.brightwaterholidays.com
per person
£300
The Old Man of Hoy
26
Shetland and its Outer Isles Shetland seascape
I
f you want to get away from it all, Shetland is the place to be. There are over a hundred islands here, only 16 of which are inhabited, each with its own individual character, and our tour offers the opportunity to visit four of them, providing a real taste of the diversity of this amazing archipelago. We visit the little island of Mousa, whose Iron Age broch is the best-preserved example anywhere in the world; the Shetland Croft House Museum, which gives an insight into a typical 19th century croft; and Jarlshof, which provides a unique archaeological time-capsule, spanning 3,000 years of successive settlements. Finally we have a tour of the northernmost islands of Yell and Unst, a day of stunning seascapes and air so fresh it takes your breath away.
What’s Included Four nights’ dinner, bed & breakfast: two nights at the Busta House Hotel and two nights in two-berth inside cabins on Serco Northlink Ferries. (Outside cabins are available for a small supplement) All visits as outlined in the itinerary
Itinerary Day 1 We depart from our
pick-up points and travel to Aberdeen. From here, we sail overnight to Lerwick with Serco Northlink Ferries. Inc. Meals: Dinner only.
Day 2 Disembarking at
Lerwick, we start with a visit to the Shetland Croft House Museum, housed in a typical thatched croft house of the 19th century. Next we explore the outstanding Norse Settlement of Jarlshof, which has over three acres of remains, including Viking longhouses and medieval farmhouses. This afternoon, we visit the little island of Mousa to view the 2,000-year-old broch — the best preserved example in the world. Inc. Meals: Breakfast & dinner.
Day 3 Today, we have a
full-day tour of Yell and Unst. We travel north through Tingwall and Girlsta and past Sullom Voe, before arriving at Toft where we catch the ferry to Yell. Upon arrival, we transfer to Gutcher before taking the ferry to Unst and visit Muness Castle, Baltasound and Saxa Vord Hill. Inc. Meals: Breakfast & dinner.
Day 4 After breakfast
this morning we return to Lerwick and enjoy some free time. Later, we board the overnight ferry to Aberdeen. Inc. Meals: Breakfast & dinner.
Day 5 We disembark and
return to our original pick-up points. Inc. Meals: Breakfast only.
Comfortable coach travel and all ferry crossings Services of a professional tour manager
Departures
15 June, 26 June & 1 August 2020
Price 5 days from
£985
per person
Single room supplement June supplement £30pp
£250
Jarlshof
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Knitting in the Shetland Isles Local colour © Frances Taylor
E
ven those who think they know all there is to know about the art of knitting can pick up a thing or two in the scenic Shetland Isles, and we’re not just talking about those pesky dropped stitches... As anyone who’s been lucky enough to visit the Shetland Isles can surely attest, it can get a bit chilly. It should come as no surprise, then, that one of their most famous exports is as warming as the welcome we receive on landing there. There are workshops aplenty, both starting off our mornings and rounding off our afternoons, which present the perfect opportunity to hone our skills — and perhaps learn some new ones — under the watchful eye of experienced tutors. We also tour the island, including visits to various wool-related outlets, such as the Hoswick Woollen Mill and the elegant Nielanell Design Studio, the perfect opportunity to pick up a stylish souvenir; as well as local sights such as the historic archaeological site at Jarlshof and the spectacular sea cliffs at Sumburgh Head. Shetland knitwear
What’s Included
Departures
Five nights’ dinner, bed & breakfast: three nights at the Busta House Hotel and two nights in two-berth inside cabins on Serco Northlink Ferries. (Outside cabins are available for a small supplement)
Three knitting workshops with expert local tutor
Three lunches
Services of a professional tour manager
24 September 2020
All visits as outlined in the itinerary Comfortable coach travel and all ferry crossings
Price 6 days from
£1345
Single room supplement
www.brightwaterholidays.com
28
£295
per person
Itinerary Day 1 Departing from our pick-up points, we arrive in
Aberdeen and board the ferry for our overnight crossing to Shetland. There is a comfortable bar and lounge, and we have dinner on board this evening. Once we have finished getting to know each other as a group, we are lulled to sleep in private en-suite cabins by the motions of the North Sea. Inc. Meals: Dinner only.
Scalloway Castle
Day 5 Following breakfast, we spend the rest of the morning
engaged in a final knitting workshop. From here, we venture to Scalloway where we have the chance to explore. We continue to Lerwick, where the remainder of the afternoon is free, our last chance to pick up some Shetland yarn and souvenirs, or perhaps simply take in the sights of the town. Alternatively you may wish to browse the Jamieson’s of Shetland shop and view a video presentation giving an insight into the family owned business which has specialised in wool from the native Shetland sheep for five generations. This evening, we board the ferry which takes us back to Aberdeen, with dinner served in the ship’s own restaurant.
Sumburgh Head
Day 2 This morning we disembark at Lerwick, capital of
the Shetland Isles. From here, we travel to the southern tip of mainland Shetland, where we visit the outstanding Norse settlement of Jarlshof and nearby Sumburgh Head, a windswept sanctuary and migration route for all manner of birds. We then have free time for lunch in Lerwick before we visit the award-winning Textile Gallery of the Shetland Museum and Archives for a guided tour. Our next stop is the Shetland Textile Museum, where we find an inspiring collection of local pieces, located within a restored 18th century fishing station. Finally, we transfer to our hotel where we enjoy dinner.
Inc. Meals: Breakfast, lunch & dinner.
Day 6 We dock at Aberdeen
this morning and after breakfast on board, we join our coach and transfer to our original pick-up points.
Inc. Meals: Breakfast & dinner.
Inc. Meals: Breakfast only.
Day 3 After breakfast we have our first interactive
Shetland yarn
workshop. We will be joined by a local tutor who will help us to learn the basics of Shetland hand-knitting. We have lunch in the hotel before visiting the Nielanell Design Studio at Sandwick. Here, we discover an inventive range of alternative knitwear, including hand-spun batts just waiting to be used. We continue to Hoswick and stop in the visitor centre, housed in a former woollen mill. The centre includes weaving machinery, local items and an interpretation of the Hoswick Whale case. Finally, we visit the Laurence Odie Knitwear outlet at Hoswick Woollen Mill. Inc. Meals: Breakfast, lunch & dinner.
Day 4 We depart on a tour of western Shetland this
morning. Visits include Walls, terminus for the ferry service to the island of Foula, and the headland at Sandness, which overlooks the island of Papa Stour. We return to our hotel for lunch and a second hands-on workshop, a great opportunity to ask your tutor any burning questions and to hone your techniques. We have dinner at our hotel this evening. Inc. Meals: Breakfast, lunch & dinner. Knit one, purl one
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Scotland’s Northern Edge John O’Groats
T
Itinerary
he coastal views and landscapes are breathtaking – sometimes quite literally, as the wind whips in off the Pentland Firth and snatches the breath from your mouth. Standing here on the northern edge of mainland Britain you are moved to reflect on the awesome, unstoppable power of the sea and the equally indomitable strength of the ancient rock beneath your feet.
Day 1 We depart from our
pick-up points and head to our hotel in Thurso. Inc. Meals: Dinner only.
Day 2 This morning, we visit
We begin at Dunnet Head, the most northerly headland of all, and visit the Castle of Mey, the former summer home of the late Queen Mother. Travelling west, we continue to Strathnaver, the lonely valley which evokes the dark days of the notorious ‘Highland Clearances’. From our hotel at Kinlochbervie we seek out some of the gems of the north-west, such as Smoo Cave at Durness.
Duncansby Head, which offers stunning views from the cliff top. After a brief visit to John O’ Groats, the landmark at the “end of the road”, we continue to the Castle of Mey, former holiday home of the late Queen Mother, and Dunnet Head, with some of the most extensive views in northern Scotland. Inc. Meals: Breakfast & dinner.
What’s Included
Day 3 Our first visit today
Four nights’ dinner, bed & breakfast: two nights at the Station Hotel, Thurso (or similar) and two nights at the Kinlochbervie Hotel
is to Strathnaver Museum, which takes us on a journey
from the mystical past of prehistory to the vibrant culture of today. We travel to Tongue, where we have free time for lunch before we visit the impressive Smoo Cave and continue to our hotel in Kinlochbervie. Inc. Meals: Breakfast & dinner.
Day 4 We travel south to
Tarbet, the starting point for our boat trip to the island of Handa, whose human population left in 1847 and is now home only to seabirds. Inc. Meals: Breakfast & dinner.
Day 5 We journey home
today, travelling via Laxford Bridge, Loch More, Loch Shin, Lairg, Bonar Bridge, and Tain. Inc. Meals: Breakfast only.
All visits as outlined in the itinerary Comfortable coach travel throughout Services of a professional tour manager
Departures 4 June, 11 July & 27 August 2020
Price 5 days from
£695
Single room supplement
www.brightwaterholidays.com
per person
£160
Dunnet Head lighthouse
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Gardens of the Far North Dunrobin Castle
A
journey to the far north of Scotland brings many rewards, not least the sense of freedom and open space to be found in the thrilling seascapes of the coasts or the vast, empty expanse of mountain and moorland that separates east from west. Rewards also come in the shape of some enchanting castles and gardens, which we have threaded together to bring out the best of this remote and unspoilt region. Top of the bill is Inverewe, a truly wonderful garden, which involves a scenic journey to the wild west coast. The Castle of Mey is where the late Queen Mother created a homely garden, which reflected her great love of flowers. We also visit the gardens of Cawdor Castle, immortalised in ‘Macbeth’; Dunrobin Castle, the ancestral home of the Dukes of Sutherland; Dunbeath Castle, perched on a promontory, and the privately-owned garden of Langwell.
Itinerary Day 1 We journey north,
stopping en route in Pitlochry. We continue to the gardens of Cawdor Castle, which include vast herbaceous borders, a rose garden and a peony walk. Inc. Meals: Dinner only.
Day 2 This morning we
visit Dunrobin Castle, the château-style ancestral home of the Dukes of Sutherland. Later we continue to John O’Groats before having an afternoon visit to the gardens of the Castle of Mey. Inc. Meals: Breakfast & dinner.
What’s Included
Day 3 After breakfast,
Four nights’ dinner, bed and breakfast at the 3-star Best Western Inverness Palace Hotel One lunch All visits as outlined in the itinerary
we have a long but most rewarding day as we drive across the north of Scotland to visit Dundonnell House Garden. Next, we visit Inverewe Gardens,
unquestionably one of the most outstanding gardens in the country. We will return to Inverness via Loch Maree. Inc. Meals: Breakfast & dinner.
Day 4 Our first stop this
morning is the private gardens of Dunbeath Castle. Thereafter, we explore the private garden at Langwell before returning to the hotel. Inc. Meals: Breakfast & dinner.
Day 5 En route home we
visit the House of Aigas and enjoy lunch using produce from the estate. We continue to Abriachan Gardens where we will have the chance to purchase plants from the adjoining nursery before returning home. Inc. Meals: Breakfast & lunch.
Comfortable coach travel throughout Services of a professional tour manager
Departure
28 June & 10 July 2020
Price 5 days from
£975
Single room supplement
per person
£280
Langwell
31
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New for 2020
Private Gardens of Caithness & Sutherland Dunbeath Castle
T
he spectacular seascapes and wild lands of Caithness and Sutherland, right at the very top of Britain, are home to a surprising number of stunning gardens – from formal gardens that surround grand castles with heaving and colourful herbaceous borders, to small and homely gardens tucked away in neat little villages. Travelling amongst the jagged headlands and shining white sands on the Northern coast, our visits include two gardens both protected from the wind by high walls – Bighouse Lodge by Melvich and The House of Tongue in a spectacular setting on the Kyle of Tongue. We could not go to Caithness without including a visit to The Castle of Mey, the former summer retreat of the late Queen Mother, and we also tour the fine gardens that surround Dunbeath Castle.
Itinerary Day 1 We depart for the
private garden of Old Allangrange, where a beautiful 17th century lime-washed house is the backdrop to a semi-formal garden with many fine old trees. Inc. Meals: Dinner only.
Day 2 Travel along the
Three nights’ dinner, bed & breakfast at the Station Hotel, Thurso (or similar)
coast to Bighouse Lodge. The walled garden features herbaceous borders, a sunken garden and four separate conceptual gardens behind the hedgerows. We continue to the House of Tongue, a 17th century house with a walled garden, herbaceous borders, old fashioned roses, vegetables, soft fruit, and a small orchard.
All visits as outlined in the itinerary
Inc. Meals: Breakfast & dinner.
What’s Included
Day 3 This morning we
visit The Castle of Mey the former summer home of the late Queen Mother, which she renovated and lovingly restored. This afternoon we will visit the private garden at the Auld Post Office before continuing to Dunbeath Castle, whose extensive gardens feature mature and new plantings. Inc. Meals: Breakfast & dinner.
Day 4 En-route home we
visit the award-winning private garden The Lookout at North Kessock, which enjoys lovely views over the Moray Firth, before continuing to Inverness Botanic Garden which provides a sub-tropical oasis in the heart of the Highlands. Inc. Meals: Breakfast only.
Comfortable coach travel throughout Services of a professional tour manager
Departures
6 July & 20 July 2020
Price 4 days from
£545
Single room supplement
www.brightwaterholidays.com
per person
£120
Castle of Mey
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New for 2020
Highland and Island Gardens Arduaine Gardens
M
Itinerary
aking a welcome return to our collection of Scottish garden tours, this one is for lovers of rhododendrons, magnolias and camellias, which thrive in the gentle climate of Scotland’s western seaboard. In May and June these flowering shrubs turn peaceful gardens into a riot of colour.
Day 1 We depart from our
On the Isle of Bute we visit the unique Ascog Fernery and Mount Stuart, one of the most spectacular High Victorian Gothic houses in Britain and a real treasure trove for the garden enthusiast. We also visit Gigha, a gem of an island, where Sir James Horlick (of bedtime drink fame) created his marvellous woodland garden at Achamore. Other grand gardens include Arduaine at Loch Melfort, the quaint private garden of An Cala on the Isle of Seil, Crarae Gardens with its great collection of Asiatic shrubs, and Benmore Botanic Gardens, near Dunoon.
What’s Included Three nights’ dinner, bed & breakfast at the Best Western Inveraray Inn, Loch Fyne
pick-up points and head for Wemyss Bay, where we catch the ferry to the Isle of Bute. Here we visit the spectacular house and gardens of Mount Stuart and the unique Ascog Hall Fernery. Later, we catch the ferry back to the mainland and continue to our accommodation on Loch Fyne.
Day 3 We visit the garden
at Arduaine, a splendid site overlooking Loch Melfort, full of the most magnificent plants, and the small, private garden of An Cala on the Isle of Seil, which has equally impressive views out to sea. Inc. Meals: Breakfast & dinner.
ferry to Gigha and visit Achamore Gardens where rhododendrons reign supreme, constituting one of the best collections in Scotland.
Day 4 Today we visit Crarae Gardens, which is stuffed like a good plum pudding with plenty of rich fruit; the great Asiatic flowering shrubs - azaleas, camellias and magnolias. Our last visit is to Benmore Botanic Gardens, the country annexe of the Royal Botanic Garden in Edinburgh.
Inc. Meals: Breakfast & dinner.
Inc. Meals: Breakfast only.
Inc. Meals: Dinner only.
Day 2 We take the
All visits as outlined in the itinerary Comfortable coach travel and all ferry crossings Services of a professional tour manager
Departures
15 May & 5 June 2020
Price 4 days from
£645
Single room supplement
per person
£135
An Cala
33
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New for 2020
Aberdeenshire: Scotland’s Larder Highland cattle
N
ot for nothing have we called this Scotland’s Larder, as Aberdeenshire – with its rich red soil and abundant farms, its skilled bakers, passionate distillers and brave fishermen – is indeed the origin of much of the best food and drink to come out of Scotland. Put the diet on hold and join us on a four-day tour featuring top-quality producers, from a prize-winning herd of Highland cattle to melt-in-the-mouth shortbread, smooth malt whisky and a household name in the world of preserves and soups. Based at Ardoe House Hotel & Spa in Aberdeen, we travel the length and breadth of the county, and into neighbouring Moray, sampling, tasting and learning all about the food and drink produced here.
Itinerary Day 1 We head for our
first visit, which is to Aberdeenshire Highland Beef in Banchory. Welcomed in style by a piper, we will meet Grace the farmer and her prize-winning herd of pedigree Highland cattle, and can enjoy a tasting of the finished product. Inc. Meals: Dinner only.
Day 2 We visit Baxter’s
Three nights’ dinner, bed & breakfast at the 4-star Ardoe House Hotel, Aberdeen
Highland Village at Fochabers, home to a famous range of soups and other quality products. In the afternoon we call in at Dean’s Shortbread Bakery, where we can observe the purpose-built bakery in action while enjoying a cup of tea and some shortbread.
One lunch
Inc. Meals: Breakfast & dinner.
What’s Included
Day 3 We head north
through lush and fertile farmland to Mintlaw, home to the Aberdeenshire Farming Museum before continuing to Cullen, where we will sample the local creamy fish soup, Cullen skink. Later, we tour Glen Garioch Distillery and enjoy a taste of award-winning Highland single malt whisky. Inc. Meals: Breakfast, lunch & dinner.
Day 4 Visit Aberdeen’s
Maritime Museum, which tells the story of the fishing industry. We break our homeward journey at Castleton Farm Shop, a last chance to stock up on more delicious produce from Scotland’s larder. Inc. Meals: Breakfast only.
All visits as outlined in the itinerary Comfortable coach travel throughout Services of a professional tour manager
Departures
10 June & 18 September 2020
Price 4 days from
£575
Single room supplement
www.brightwaterholidays.com
per person
£120
Shortbread
34
New for 2020
A Taste of Argyll Oban
W
e know that many of our guests prefer not to have a large meal in the middle of the day and for that reason we include very few lunches in our tours. But we also know that some of you like nothing better than a relaxed lunch in a top quality restaurant with great food, great company and a glass of wine. If that’s you, then look no further – this is a holiday tailor-made with foodies in mind. Argyll, in the West Highlands of Scotland, produces some of the best food in the world, with its rich coastal waters yielding a treasure trove of seafood, and its rain-kissed moors and pastures providing the perfect habitat for raising beef, lamb and game. Based at the comfortable Loch Melfort Hotel, noted for its cuisine and blessed with stunning views, we will tour the ancient kingdom of Dalriada, enjoying its wonderful scenery as well as its superb food and drink.
What’s Included Three nights’ dinner, bed & breakfast at the 3-star Loch Melfort Hotel, Argyll Four lunches Comfortable coach travel throughout Services of a professional tour manager
8 May & 3 October 2020
Price 4 days from
£975
Single room supplement
Day 1 We head for Argyll,
stopping for lunch at the Loch Fyne Oyster Bar just outside Inveraray. We then continue to our hotel on the shores of Loch Melfort.
will call in at the Kilmartin House Museum and visit a selection of the nearby Neolithic and Bronze Age sites.
Inc. Meals: Lunch & dinner.
Inc. Meals: Breakfast, lunch & dinner.
Day 2 We travel north to
Day 4 We cross the
Oban, hailed as the ‘Seafood Capital of Scotland’. After some free time to browse Oban’s excellent range of specialist shops we have lunch at Ee-Usk, Oban’s premier seafood restaurant. Later in the afternoon, we will walk over to the nearby Oban Distillery. Our tour includes a dram of Oban 14 Year Old and Oban Little Bay.
so-called ‘Bridge Over the Atlantic’ to the islands of Seil and Easdale, and continue to the Isle of Eriska Hotel, an award-winning luxury hotel and restaurant. Finally we call at the Inverawe Smokehouse, a final chance to stock up on more delicious produce from Argyll. Inc. Meals: Breakfast & lunch.
Inc. Meals: Breakfast, lunch & dinner.
Day 3 Walk down to the
All visits as outlined in the itinerary
Departures
Itinerary
per person
£150
adjacent Arduaine Garden, full of the most magnificent plants, which provide year round colour. For lunch today we will travel a little way south to the Crinan Hotel, which has a very picturesque location at the western end of the Crinan Canal. On the way back to our accommodation, we
35
Dram of whisky
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In the Footsteps of the Picts Pictish Stone, Aberlemno
L
iving beyond the northern frontier of the Roman Empire, the people of northern Scotland in the Dark Ages were known as the Picts – a name given by the Romans meaning the ‘painted – tattooed ones’. They were renowned as one of the most warlike of the Celtic barbarian tribes of Europe, successfully attacking the Roman army, and yet few of their homes or forts have ever been found. They did, however, leave behind some of the finest carved stones and jewellery from early medieval Europe. During this tour we will travel through the heartland of the southern Picts in Perthshire and Angus, tracking down these elusive people and coming face-to-face with them through the clues of their everyday life as seen in the incredible artistry of their monumental stone sculpture.
What’s Included Three nights’ dinner, bed & breakfast at the 4-star Links Hotel, Montrose All visits as outlined in the itinerary
Itinerary Day 1 We depart by coach
from our pick-up points and transfer to the National Museum of Scotland, where we will be joined by one of the curators for a specially arranged guided tour of the Pictish jewellery collection and sculpture held here. Inc. Meals: Dinner only.
Day 2 We begin with a visit
to the symbol-inscribed cross-slab, depicting angels and a striding cloaked figure at Eassie. We then travel to Brechin to view the medieval round tower and adjacent cathedral. Next, we visit nearby Aberlemno with its four magnificent Pictish stones. From here, we travel the short distance to St Vigeans Museum of Pictish Sculpture.
Day 3 We head to Dunkeld to visit the Pictish hillfort, and then onto the attractive village of Dunning, where we visit the Pictish monastery. We then travel to Forteviot, the royal centre of Pictish kings, and finally, we explore Perth Museum, viewing its fine displays and collections. Inc. Meals: Breakfast & dinner.
Day 4 We drive to St
Andrews this morning to see the decorated stone sarcophagus of a great Pictish king before travelling by boat (weather permitting) to visit the monastery on the Isle of May, a National Nature Reserve. We return to our original pick-up points this evening. Inc. Meals: Breakfast only.
Inc. Meals: Breakfast & dinner.
Comfortable coach travel throughout Services of an archaeological expert as tour manager
Departures
19 June, 7 August & 4 September 2020
Price 4 days from
£575
Single room supplement
www.brightwaterholidays.com
per person
£90
St Andrews Cathedral
36
The V&A Museum, Dundee V&A Dundee - © Ross Fraser McLean
A
rt, culture and history await on this wonderful, fourday Scottish escape. Experience the stories that shaped the city of Dundee and the surprisingly scenic surrounding countryside as we travel from gallery to architectural marvel, and see this often-neglected corner of Scotland in a fascinating new light. We take a tour of the fabulous Glamis Castle, the former childhood home of Queen Elizabeth, the Queen Mother, and spend time at the newly opened V&A Museum in Dundee, where the best in Scottish creativity and international design is showcased. We visit the RRS Discovery, one of the last three-masted wooden ships built in Britain, and her sister attraction – the Verdant Works, which tells the tale of life in 19th century Dundee. In neighbouring Fife (not far from Brightwater HQ), we tour historic Kellie Castle, with its gorgeous Arts & Crafts garden. Perth Museum and Art gallery rounds off an illuminating tour.
What’s Included Three nights’ dinner, bed & breakfast at the 4-star Indigo Hotel, Dundee (or similar) All visits as outlined in the itinerary Comfortable coach travel throughout
Itinerary Day 1 We start our tour
at Kellie Castle, home to the Earls of Kellie and restored in 1878, with a visit to the old stables, now housing an exhibition on Hew Lorimer’s life, and a stroll in the magical Arts & Crafts garden. Inc. Meals: Dinner only.
Day 2 This morning we visit
the V&A Museum Dundee, which showcases Scottish creativity and offers the best in design from around the world, while providing a place of inspiration and discovery. This afternoon, we tour the McManus Gallery & Museum, where we discover how Dundee developed through the ages from a small settlement into the great city we know today, and the Verdant
Works, a former jute mill which shines a light on 19th century Dundee. Inc. Meals: Breakfast & dinner.
Day 3 We visit the RRS
Discovery, which sailed with the National Antarctic Expedition of 1901-04, captained by Robert Falcon Scott. This afternoon, we travel north of Dundee for a visit to Glamis Castle, which has been a royal residence since 1372 and was the childhood home of the Queen Mother. Inc. Meals: Breakfast & dinner.
Day 4 We begin our journey
home with a stop off at the Perth Museum and Art Gallery, one of the oldest museums in Britain with over half a million objects. Inc. Meals: Breakfast only.
Services of a professional tour manager
Departures
29 March, 7 June & 4 October 2020
Price 4 days from
£499
per person
Single room supplement June supplement £66pp
£135
Kellie Castle
37
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Gardens of Dumfries and Galloway Drumlanrig Castle
I
n the south-western corner of Scotland, Dumfries and Galloway is home to some of the country’s most attractive gardens. The artistic highlight of our tour is undoubtedly Dumfries House, actually in Ayrshire, which Prince Charles helped to save. One of the Adam brothers’ finest achievements, the stunning interiors showcase a unique collection of Chippendale furniture, while the walled garden is one of the most exciting new garden developments in Scotland. We see something rather different at Broughton House – an artist’s garden at the restored former home of ‘Glasgow Boy’ EA Hornel, which shows the influence of his time in Japan and is always full of colour. Further highlights include Drumlanrig Castle, with its extensive gardens and world-class collection of fine art and furniture. This was one of the first and most important Renaissance buildings in the grand manner built in Scotland. A hidden gem nestled in a bowl of rolling hills in the heart of Dumfries and Galloway, Crawick Multiverse is another interesting stop – with its unique combinations of natural features and artificial landscaping.
Glenwhan Gardens
Departures
12 June, 16 August & 4 September 2020
What’s Included Three nights’ dinner, bed & breakfast at the 4-star Woodland House Hotel, Dumfries
All visits as outlined in the itinerary Comfortable coach travel throughout
Price
Services of a professional tour manager
4 days from
£575
Single room supplement
per person
£140
June supplement £20pp
www.brightwaterholidays.com
38
Itinerary Day 1 We depart from our pick-up points and head for
Dumfries House, near Cumnock in Ayrshire. As we will discover on our guided tour, its stunning interiors are home to a world-class collection of furniture by Thomas Chippendale and many late 18th century cabinet makers. We will also visit the Queen Elizabeth Walled Garden, which is one of the best examples of its kind in Scotland and in many ways the flagship of the restoration project. After our visit, we will travel to our accommodation. Inc. Meals: Dinner only. Dumfries House
Estate. The gardens have been largely created by students at the School of Horticulture, which started here in 1960. Mature woodland of beech, conifers and oaks form the background to a large collection of shrub roses, sweeping mixed borders, dwarf heathers, peat and rock gardens, a walled kitchen garden and superbly maintained glasshouses. Inc. Meals: Breakfast & dinner.
Logan Botanic Gardens
Day 2 Today we visit Glenwhan Gardens, spread out over
a windy hilltop with marvellous views of Luce Bay and the Mull of Galloway. Since 1979, a very large, interesting and individual garden has been created that is filled with good plants – almost any gardener will find something unfamiliar here. This afternoon we continue to the world-famous Logan Botanic Gardens at Port Logan. The garden was started by the McDougall family who lived here for 800 years, and since 1969 it has been in the care of the Royal Botanic Garden at Edinburgh. Logan Botanic Garden is beautifully laid out, particularly in the walled garden with its fine terraces and well-planned borders under an avenue of cabbage palms. The climate here is exceptionally mild and several different habitats provide conditions for a huge range of plants. Next door are the gardens of Logan House, which were originally part of Logan Botanic Garden. This Victorian woodland garden features champion trees, sweeping lawns and ancient shrubberies, meandering pathways and a majestic monkey puzzle avenue.
Threave House and gardens
Day 4 En route home we visit the gardens at Drumlanrig
Castle. Surrounded by the 120,000 acre Queensberry Estate, Drumlanrig Castle was completed in 1691 by William Douglas, 1st Duke of Queensberry and is one of the first and most important renaissance buildings in the grand manner in Scotland. Our final visit is to Crawick Multiverse, a hidden gem nested in a bowl of rolling hills in the heart of Dumfries and Galloway. This major new land restoration project has transformed a former open cast coal mine into a spectacular artland and public amenity and was designed by Charles Jencks, the celebrated landscape architect and author. Inc. Meals: Breakfast only.
NB: as the gardens at Logan House are at their best in the early summer, on our August and September departures we will instead visit Cally Gardens at Gatehouse of Fleet. Inc. Meals: Breakfast & dinner.
Day 3 This morning after breakfast we visit Broughton
House, a fascinating 18th century house and garden that was home to E A Hornel from 1901 until his death in 1933. During his lifetime, he had twice lived in Japan and his experience there influenced many of his paintings. The garden, which runs down to the estuary of the Dee, also shows the influence of his time in Japan and is always full of colour. After a visit to the wonderful plantsman’s nursery of Ellenbank, we continue to the gardens of the Threave
Crawick Multiverse
39
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Gardens & Architecture of the Firth of Clyde Mount Stuart
J
oin us as we visit architectural marvels and fine gardens in and around the Firth of Clyde, including works by the ever-popular Charles Rennie Mackintosh. We visit his House for an Art Lover, Scotland Street School and Hill House, one of his finest domestic creations. Currently undergoing a major conservation project, it is now enclosed in a metal box, allowing a unique opportunity to view normally inaccessible parts the building. We also sail to the Isle of Bute for a visit to the High Gothic masterpiece, Mount Stuart. Finally, we enjoy afternoon tea at the iconic Willow Tearooms in Glasgow’s Sauchiehall Street, which was recently reopened having been restored to their former glory.
What’s Included Three nights’ dinner, bed & breakfast at the 4-star Gleddoch House Hotel, Langbank One afternoon tea All visits as outlined in the itinerary Comfortable coach travel and all ferry crossings
Itinerary Day 1 We depart by coach this morning and head for Glasgow’s Bellahouston Park, where we visit the House for an Art Lover. Later, we continue to our hotel. Inc. Meals: Dinner only.
Day 2 After breakfast, we
visit Hill House and have a close-up look at the conservation work from inside the protective box, as well as admiring the original interiors. Next we explore the nearby gardens of Glenarn, reputedly one of the best woodland gardens in Scotland. Inc. Meals: Breakfast & dinner.
Day 3 This morning, we
head for Wemyss Bay where we catch a ferry to Rothesay. Upon arrival we explore the house and
gardens of Mount Stuart, which is one of the largest Victorian Gothic houses in Britain before visiting the unique Ascog Hall Fernery, a tiny fragment of sub-tropical jungle on this small Scottish island. Inc. Meals: Breakfast & dinner.
Day 4 We travel to
Glasgow and visit Scotland Street School, which has many typical Mackintosh features and details built into the stonework and staircases. We continue to the Hunterian Museum, home to one of the largest collections outside the National Museums. Finally, we will enjoy afternoon tea at the authentically restored Willow Tearooms in Sauchiehall Street. Inc. Meals: Breakfast & afternoon tea.
Services of a professional tour manager
Departures
25 May & 7 September 2020
Price 4 days from
£595
per person
Single room supplement September supplement £40pp
£120
www.brightwaterholidays.com
House for an Art Lover
40
No single supplement
Arran: ‘Scotland in Miniature’ Brodick Castle
A
s you board the ferry at Ardrossan, you see the distinctive silhouette of Goat Fell rising dramatically from the clear waters of the Firth of Clyde, giving a foretaste of your destination whose unique magic never disappoints. Often described as “Scotland in Miniature”, Arran has a blend of Highland and Island scenery with granite peaks and deep glens to the north of the island, contrasting with its rolling and lush farmlands to the south. Only 56 miles around its coastline, the small villages are compared to ‘jewels on a necklace’ strung out like pearls around the island. From Blackwaterfoot, we will visit Whiting Bay, Lamlash, Brodick - the capital of Arran, the pretty village of Corrie under the shadow of Goat Fell, and Sannox before passing the ‘12 Apostles’ at Lochranza.
What’s Included Four nights’ dinner, bed and breakfast at the 3-star Kinloch Hotel, Blackwaterfoot One lunch
Itinerary Day 1 We depart from our
designated pick-up points and head for Ardrossan to catch the ferry to Brodick. Upon arrival we travel to our hotel in Blackwaterfoot. Inc. Meals: Dinner only.
Day 2 This morning we
embark on a circular tour of Arran. From Blackwaterfoot, we visit Whiting Bay, Lamlash, Brodick, Corrie and Sannox. Down the west coast we take in Pirnmill and Catacol, with its ‘Twelve Apostles’, 19th century cottages built to relocate locals from inland homes. Next, we visit Arran Distillery for a tour and tasting of their single malt along with lunch. In the evening we enjoy a talk from a local historian. Inc. Meals: Breakfast, lunch & dinner.
All visits as outlined in the itinerary
Day 3 Today we are free
to relax. For those who prefer, there is an optional excursion to the little Hebridean island of Gigha and Achamore Gardens, where something is always in bloom. Inc. Meals: Breakfast & dinner.
Day 4 We travel to Brodick Castle and gardens, which offer views across the Firth of Clyde. On site we find a delightful Bavarian summerhouse. The afternoon is free to explore Brodick before we return to the hotel for a farewell dinner. Inc. Meals: Breakfast & dinner.
Day 5 This morning we
catch the ferry back to the mainland before returning to our original pick-up points. Inc. Meals: Breakfast only.
Comfortable coach travel and all ferry crossings Services of a professional tour manager
Departures
25 May, 13 July, 24 August & 21 September 2020
Price 5 days from
£675
per person
No single room supplement
Goatfell
41
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No single supplement
Autumn Tints of Arran Goatfell
A
t no time are we more assured of Arran’s beauty than in the autumn months, when its wild woods and wide open spaces are aflame with a riot of red and gold foliage. Just add impressive castles, imposing mountains and idyllic bays for a truly unforgettable trip. We will be based for three nights at the 3-star Best Western Kinloch Hotel in Blackwaterfoot, on the western shore of the island, overlooking Kilbrannan Sound and the Mull of Kintyre. The hotel has a heated swimming pool, sauna, solarium, squash court, snooker and fitness room. Here you will receive a truly warm welcome, sample the best of local Arran produce and enjoy a friendly atmosphere.
Itinerary Day 1 We depart from our
designated pick-up points and head for Ardrossan to catch our ferry to Brodick. Upon arrival, we travel to our hotel in Blackwaterfoot. Inc. Meals: Dinner only.
Day 2 Today we have a
circular tour of the island of Arran. From Blackwaterfoot we will visit Whiting Bay, Lamlash, Brodick, Corrie, and Sannox under the shadow of Goat Fell and other mountains, and then down the west coast to Catacol and Pirnmill, with its ‘12 Apostles’. Inc. Meals: Breakfast & dinner.
What’s Included Three nights’ dinner, bed and breakfast at the 3-star Kinloch Hotel, Blackwaterfoot All visits as outlined in the itinerary
Day 3 This morning, we
visit Brodick Castle and gardens, which occupies a splendid position as it is well
protected from westerly winds and overlooks the Firth of Clyde. The present garden dates from 1932 when the Duchess of Montrose started an ambitious woodland garden with a collection of rhododendrons. A walled garden, dating from 1710, has been restored and mixed borders on three sides retain the gardener’s interest throughout the year. We have free time this afternoon to explore Brodick. Inc. Meals: Breakfast & dinner.
Day 4 This morning we
catch the ferry back to the mainland before returning to our original pick-up points. Inc. Meals: Breakfast only.
Comfortable coach travel and all ferry crossings Services of a professional tour manager
Departures 19 October 2020
Price 4 days from
£475
per person
No single room supplement
www.brightwaterholidays.com
Catacol
42
Coll and Tiree Tiree and Balephuil Bay
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oll and Tiree are two little jewels basking in the Hebridean Sea. Steeped in the romantic legends and the tangled history of the western isles, they abound with natural wonders, abundant wildlife and ancient remains. Offering peace, tranquillity and spiritual calm, they can also be wildly invigorating as the machair (coastal meadowland) comes alive with flowers during the summer months, creating a colourful carpet along the shoreline. From our base in comfortable and friendly guesthouse accommodation, we will explore a few of Coll’s unspoilt beaches of glistening white sand, and some of the ancient cairns and Iron Age forts that litter the island. There are many more wonderful beaches, machair and monuments to be found on Tiree and we will also visit the Skerryvore Lighthouse Museum, which records the building of Britain’s tallest lighthouse.
What’s Included Four nights’ dinner, bed & breakfast: two nights at the Coll Hotel and two nights at the Scarinish Hotel, Tiree Two packed lunches All visits as outlined in the itinerary
Itinerary Day 1 We depart from our
pick-up points and head for Oban, where we board a ferry to Coll. We arrive in the little harbour of Arinagour and we transfer to our hotel. Inc. Meals: Dinner only.
Day 2 We depart for a tour
of the island, enjoying the purples, yellows and whites of the flowers that punctuate the rich greens of the machair in summer. Next, we visit the RSPB reserve, which was established to help protect the corncrake. Inc. Meals: Breakfast, lunch & dinner.
Day 3 This morning, we
take the short ferry crossing to Tiree, renowned as one of the sunniest places in Britain. We have the rest of the day to relax.
Day 4 Today, we tour Tiree,
passing through the small crofting townships where some of the distinctive speckled cottages remain. We will visit the Skerryvore Lighthouse Museum and the Treshnish Isles Natural History Museum, which offers visitors the opportunity to learn about the enchanting Treshnish Isles. Inc. Meals: Breakfast, lunch & dinner.
Day 5 We check out of our
hotel and view ‘An Turas’, a piece of architecture the locals have named the ‘Wind Tunnel’, before we board the ferry back to the mainland. Inc. Meals: Breakfast only.
Inc. Meals: Breakfast & dinner.
Comfortable coach travel and all ferry crossings Services of a professional tour manager
Departures 23 June, 7 July & 25 August 2020
Price 5 days from
£1295
Single room supplement
per person
£360
Coll island
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Islay and Jura Port Charlotte, Islay
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slay represents the southern extreme of the Inner Hebrides. Once the ancient home of the Lord of the Isles, it has always been popular with archaeologists and historians. Today the island is perhaps better known for its distinctive malt whiskies, its sandy beaches and its diverse birdlife. While we are here, we visit the Bowmore Distillery, the oldest distillery on the island, and Loch Gruinart RSPB Nature Reserve, where we have the opportunity to hopefully see many bird species. To the north-east is Islay’s neighbour Jura, an untamed and rather mysterious island with just 200 human inhabitants, dominated by the “Paps of Jura”. Completing our trio of islands we offer an optional excursion to Colonsay, with its glorious beaches and a superb woodland garden.
Itinerary Day 1 We depart from our pick-up points and catch the ferry from Kennacraig to Port Askaig, Islay. Upon arrival we transfer to our hotel, which overlooks the harbour. Inc. Meals: Dinner only.
Day 2 Our first visit will
be to Bowmore Distillery where we enjoy a guided tour. We continue to Loch Finlaggan, which was once the centre of the ‘Lordship of the Isles’ and finally today we visit the Loch Gruinart RSPB Nature Reserve. Inc. Meals: Breakfast & dinner.
What’s Included
Day 3 Following breakfast,
Four nights’ dinner, bed & breakfast at the comfortable Port Askaig Hotel, Islay All visits as outlined in the itinerary Comfortable coach travel and all ferry crossings
20 April, 8 June, 13 July, 14 September 2020 June, July & September supplement £30pp
Price 5 days from
£995
Single room supplement
www.brightwaterholidays.com
travel to the neighbouring island of Jura, which has a record of habitation stretching back over 5,000 years. We enjoy a scenic tour before having some free time in Craighouse, the main settlement on the island with a shop, tearoom and Jura’s distillery. Inc. Meals: Breakfast & dinner.
Day 5 We leave Islay this morning and make our way home, stopping at the picturesque village of Inveraray, before returning to our original pick-up points. Inc. Meals: Breakfast only.
Inc. Meals: Breakfast & dinner.
Services of a professional tour manager
Departures
you are free to explore Islay. Alternatively, you may wish to join our optional excursion to Colonsay, where we visit the 30-acre woodland garden and Kiloran Bay.
Day 4 This morning, we
per person
£175
Inveraray
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New for 2020
Whisky Tasting on Islay and Jura Laphroaig distillery
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he Inner Hebridean island of Islay is synonymous with whisky; indeed if you take a walk down the main street in Bowmore, the heady aroma of malt and fermenting barley carries all around the town. There are now no fewer than nine working distilleries on the island and we will be visiting the newest of these along with three of the most famous and long-established. Islay whisky has a reputation for strong, peaty flavours which can be an acquired taste, but as we will discover there are also lighter-tasting Islay whiskies to be enjoyed. We also take the opportunity to visit Islay’s sparsely populated neighbour Jura, home to a subtly smoky, sherry cask-finished whisky. With a wide range of tastings included, this is a tour suitable for both whisky connoisseurs and for those who are just getting to know the manifold delights of the ‘water of life’.
What’s Included Four nights’ dinner, bed & breakfast at the comfortable Port Askaig Hotel, Islay All visits as outlined in the itinerary Comfortable coach travel and all ferry crossings
Itinerary Day 1 We head for Kintyre
Day 3 Visit the neighbouring
Inc. Meals: Dinner only.
Inc. Meals: Breakfast & dinner.
Day 2 We tour Ardnahoe
Day 4 We visit two
and catch the Kennacraig to Port Askaig ferry, and continue on to the adjacent Port Askaig Hotel.
Distillery, the most recently opened on the island, and enjoy a tasting of five different drams with the distinctive characteristics of the various whisky producing regions of Scotland – an excellent introduction to the world of whisky. After a visit to the informative Museum of Islay Life, we transfer to Bowmore for the marquee event of our holiday, the top-of-the-range ‘Vaults Secrets’ tour and tasting at Bowmore Distillery.
island of Jura, where we enjoy a scenic tour before visiting the distillery for a tasting of this subtle malt.
distilleries today: Bruichladdich, which produces a range of peated and unpeated single malts, and Laphroaig, where our tour is followed by a tasting of three whiskies. Inc. Meals: Breakfast & dinner.
Day 5 After breakfast, we transfer to Bowmore with some free time to browse the various whisky shops before catching the ferry to the mainland. Inc. Meals: Breakfast only.
Inc. Meals: Breakfast & dinner.
Services of a professional tour manager
Departures
3 July & 18 September 2020
Price 5 days from
£1395
Single room supplement
per person
£175
Slainte!
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Mull, Staffa & Iona Duart Castle
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he Isle of Mull is a place of tumbling burns, high peaks, dramatic views, and a silent, lonely beauty. From our base at the comfortable Isle of Mull Hotel & Spa, we will explore some of the highlights of the island. The multi-coloured buildings that line the waterfront of the island’s principal town, Tobermory, will be familiar to many. From here, we sail on a wildlife cruise that takes us to the Treshnish Isles, home to thousands of seabirds including puffins, and the little island of Staffa, whose natural cathedral of basalt columns is one of the wonders of the west coast. Duart Castle, the 13th century home of the Chief of Clan MacLean, enjoys stunning views across the Firth of Lorne to Ben Cruachan. Lying just off the Ross of Mull, the sacred isle of Iona is famous the world over for its peaceful Abbey, a place of calm and contemplation.
Itinerary Day 1 We depart from our
designated pick-up points and head for Oban, where we board the late afternoon ferry to Mull. Inc. Meals: Dinner only.
Day 2 Today, we drive to
Fionnphort and cross as foot passengers to Iona. Here, we visit its famous Abbey and explore the island, which attracts many visitors every year. Inc. Meals: Breakfast & dinner.
Day 3 This morning, we
What’s Included Three nights’ dinner, bed & breakfast at the comfortable Isle of Mull Hotel & Spa, Craignure One packed lunch All visits as outlined in the itinerary
depart for Tobermory, the starting point for our wildlife cruise to the Treshnish Isles and Staffa. We hope to see whales, dolphins and sea eagles. We arrive on the idyllic Isle of Lunga, the largest of the Treshnish Isles. Surrounded by wildflowers and stunning scenery,
the main attraction is the large puffin colony nesting in burrows (May & June only). Next, we take the short crossing to Staffa. We explore the island, in particular the massive natural cathedral known as Fingal’s Cave, following in the footsteps of illustrious tourists from Sir Walter Scott to Queen Victoria. Inc. Meals: Breakfast, lunch & dinner.
Day 4 Following breakfast,
we visit Duart Castle, where we have the chance to explore the dungeons and the state rooms. We take a short ferry crossing and enjoy a scenic drive through Morvern before crossing Loch Linnhe by the Corran ferry and continuing our journey home. Inc. Meals: Breakfast only
Comfortable coach travel and all ferry crossings Services of a professional tour manager
Departures
15 May, 12 June, 14 August & 11 September 2020 August supplement £30pp
Price 4 days from
£765
Single room supplement
www.brightwaterholidays.com
per person
£195
Fionnphort, Isle of Mull
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Mull Wildlife Experience Puffins on the Island of Lunga
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ith its diverse landscape of mountains, sea lochs, moorland, and peatbog, the Isle of Mull is home to a wide range of mammals and birds, and has established itself as one of the UK’s top wildlife destinations. Mull is a paradise for birdwatchers and one of the best places in the country to see big raptors such as the golden eagle and white-tailed sea eagle, as well as a multitude of seabirds such as puffins, guillemots, razorbills and kittiwakes. This is also one of the most important habitats in Europe for dolphins, porpoises and whales. In the course of our cruise in the waters around Mull, we hope to see some of these elusive and mysterious mammals as well as the huge but harmless basking sharks. Otters, seals and red deer are just some of the other animals we will look out for during our time on the island.
What’s Included Three nights’ dinner, bed & breakfast at the Isle of Mull Hotel & Spa, Craignure Two packed lunches
Itinerary Day 1 We depart from our
Day 3 Today, following
Inc. Meals: Dinner only.
Inc. Meals: Breakfast, lunch & dinner.
designated pick-up points and head for Oban, where we board the afternoon ferry to Craignure and transfer to our hotel. This evening we have a presentation by a member of the Hebridean Whale and Dolphin Trust.
Day 2 Our first stop today
is awe-inspiring Staffa and, in particular, Fingal’s Cave. As we cruise through the many islands and rocks that make up the Treshnish Isles, look out for the common and Atlantic grey seals. Finally, we land on Lunga, the largest of the islands, where we spend a few hours viewing puffins, razorbills, fulmars, shags, and kittiwakes.
breakfast, we have a wildlife walk on the island of Mull with one of Mull’s top guides. We will learn how to find and where to search for different animals. Today, we can hope to see otters, seals and sea eagles.
Day 4 We check out of
our hotel and enjoy a short wildlife cruise in the waters around Mull. We will look for whales, dolphins, porpoises, basking sharks, and seals. Thereafter, we catch the ferry back to Oban before returning to our original pick-up points. Inc. Meals: Breakfast only.
Inc. Meals: Breakfast, lunch & dinner.
All visits as outlined in the itinerary Comfortable coach travel and all ferry crossings Services of a professional tour manager
Departures 21 May 2020
Price 4 days from
£945
Single room supplement
per person
£195
Otter
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New for 2020
Highland Wildlife Safari Bottlenose dolphin
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Itinerary
cotland’s natural environment is second to none with a more diverse range of habitats than almost any other country of comparable size.
Day 1 We depart for
the Loch of the Lowes Wildlife Reserve, where the star attraction is a pair of breeding ospreys. We continue to the Highland Wildlife Park near Aviemore, which has an extensive collection of both native and exotic animals, most famously Hamish the polar bear.
We begin at the Loch of the Lowes Wildlife Reserve where, in addition to a pair of breeding ospreys, you may spot deer, otters, red squirrels, and woodland birds. The Highland Wildlife Park’s collection includes both native and non-native species, such as snow leopard and polar bear. Our boat-trip on the Moray Firth should take us almost to within touching distance of the resident pod of dolphins, while at the House of Aigas we will see a beaver dam and wildcat project.
Inc. Meals: Dinner only.
We have a day among the majestic mountains of Wester Ross as we travel to Beinn Eighe National Nature Reserve and our tour concludes at the Fish Ladder at Pitlochry Dam for a chance to see the mighty salmon making their way upstream.
What’s Included Three nights’ dinner, bed & breakfast at a comfortable hotel in the Inverness area One lunch
Day 2 We take a boat
trip on the Moray Firth, where we have an excellent chance of seeing bottlenose dolphins at close quarters. We continue to the House of Aigas Field Centre, where we have a guided walk around the estate to view the beaver dam and Scottish Wildcat project. Inc. Meals: Breakfast, lunch & dinner.
All visits as outlined in the itinerary
Day 3 We travel through
some glorious mountain scenery to Loch Maree, where we enjoy a gentle woodland walk at the Beinn Eighe National Nature Reserve. In the afternoon we visit Inverewe Gardens, with a host of botanical specimens, both native and exotic. Inc. Meals: Breakfast & dinner.
Day 4 We travel south
to visit the Abernethy National Nature Reserve at Loch Garten, where we hope to see a number of different birds, including the crested tit, crossbills and ospreys. Our final stop is at Pitlochry Dam and Fish Ladder, an opportunity to see salmon passing upstream on the River Tummel. Inc. Meals: Breakfast only.
Comfortable coach travel throughout Services of a professional tour manager
Departures
Price
July supplement £30pp
4 days from
26 June & 24 July 2020
£695
Single room supplement
www.brightwaterholidays.com
per person
£90
Osprey
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Autumn Tints of Perthshire Dunkeld Cathedral
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Itinerary
erthshire is home to some remarkable trees and, come autumn, the leaves turn from fresh green to a palette of red, gold, yellow and bronze – a wonderful sight to behold as the morning mists clear.
Day 1 We travel to Scone
At Scone Palace, we see some of the towering specimens and then visit two historic trees – the Parent Larch in the grounds of Dunkeld Cathedral and the Birnam Oak, the last surviving remnant of the wood mentioned in ‘Macbeth’. We visit the Fortingall Yew, which is at least 3,000 years old; The Hermitage, the wild ‘tree garden’ created by the Dukes of Atholl; and the wonderful woodland garden at Cluny House. We conclude at Faskally Forest, which offers a glorious profusion of trees and Diana’s Grove at Blair Castle, which presents probably the best ‘big tree’ experience in the country.
Palace, whose magnificent collection of trees includes the original Douglas fir raised from the seed that plant-hunter David Douglas sent back from America in 1827. We continue to Dunkeld in the afternoon. Near the famous cathedral, we will find the remaining Parent Larch, the sole survivor from a group of larches planted here over 250 years ago, and nearby the Birnam Oak, believed to be the last surviving remnant of Birnam Wood, as mentioned in ‘Macbeth’. Inc. Meals: Dinner only.
What’s Included Two nights’ dinner, bed & breakfast at the 3-star Birnam Hotel, Dunkeld
Day 2 Our first visit is to
the geographical heart of Scotland, where stands
the Fortingall Yew, which has been guesstimated at anything between 3,000 and 9,000 years old. We continue to the wonderful woodland garden at Cluny House; the wild tree garden at the Hermitage, and on to Aberfeldy, where we see the birch trees that inspired Robert Burns. Inc. Meals: Breakfast & dinner.
Day 3 After a stroll around
Faskally Forest, we continue to the Pass of Killiecrankie, which offers a splendid walk beside the River Garry, then we travel north to Blair Castle to visit Diana’s Grove, an outstanding ‘big tree’ experience. Inc. Meals: Breakfast only.
All visits as outlined in the itinerary Comfortable coach travel throughout Services of a professional tour manager
Departures 11 October 2020
Price 3 days from
£325
Single room supplement
per person
£50
Autumn in the Hermitage, Dunkeld
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New for 2020
Stornoway, Skye & the Summer Isles Gairloch
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an any three place names evoke the joys of Scotland’s great outdoors more succinctly than Stornoway, Skye and the Summer Isles? Stornoway, a stronghold of Gaelic culture; Skye, one of the most popular island destinations in Scotland; and the Summer Isles – well, the very name says it all. Join us on this tour and get to know them better. Calming coastlines, ancient megaliths, brilliant black mountains, and romantic boat rides are all there for us to enjoy first-hand, creating extraordinary experiences and memories to last a lifetime. We will enjoy a morning cruise aboard the fittingly regal ‘Summer Queen’, with the chance of spying a shy grey seal at the surface. We will continue with a circular tour of Lewis, taking in archaeological sites from the Stone Age, Iron Age brochs, Viking settlements, and thatched cottages that were common just a couple of generations ago. At the lush sub-tropical eden of Inverewe Gardens, we will admire a host of captivating trees and plants from around the world. Gearrannan Black House Village
What’s Included Five nights’ dinner, bed & breakfast: three nights at the Gairloch Hotel and two nights in Stornoway (Caberfeidh Hotel in July and the Caladh Inn in September)
Departures
All visits as outlined in the itinerary
9 July & 16 September 2020
Comfortable coach travel and all ferry crossings Services of a professional tour manager
Price 6 days from
£995
Single room supplement
per person
£175
July supplement £40pp
www.brightwaterholidays.com
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Itinerary Day 1 We depart from our pick-up points and travel north
via Strathbran and Loch Maree through some spectacular mountain scenery to our comfortable hotel in Gairloch, which enjoys splendid views towards the north end of Skye with the hills of Harris and Lewis low on the horizon. Inc. Meals: Dinner only.
Callanish Standing Stones
Day 5 This morning we travel to the west coast of Lewis for
a visit to the 5,000-year-old Standing Stones of Callanish. Undoubtedly the most remarkable antiquity in the Western Isles, this collection of almost 50 stones forms a well-marked megalithic avenue, comprising 19 monoliths and ending in a circle of 13 stones, with a great cairn at the centre. From here, we move on to the Black Houses at Gearrannan, typical of the former crofting settlements; the exceptionally wellpreserved and imposing Carloway Broch, and finally the Norse Mill at Shawbost, where barley grain was ground into meal by Viking settlers.
Inverewe Gardens
Day 2 We transfer to Ullapool for our Summer Isles cruise.
Inc. Meals: Breakfast & dinner.
As we sail down the centre of Loch Broom, keep a look out for Mussel Bay where you can often see a colony of Atlantic seals basking on the rocks. Continuing to the Summer Isles themselves, we will pass Cathedral Cave, where we can see the shags and cormorants nesting inside, and sail past Tanera Mhor, the only inhabited island within the group. On the way back to our hotel we call in at Inverewe Gardens, unquestionably one of the most outstanding gardens in the country. The balmy Gulf Stream Drift Climate promotes luxurious growth and it is a jungle of mature exotic trees and shrubs laced with winding walks.
Day 6 After breakfast we travel south to Harris, which,
in contrast to the rolling moorland of Lewis, is more mountainous. We descend to sea level at Tarbert (the Gaelic name for a narrow isthmus, which recurs throughout the western Highlands and Islands) in time to catch the morning ferry to Uig on the Isle of Skye. We then travel through Skye with brief comfort and photo stops at Portree and Sligachan, cross back to the mainland via the graceful Skye Bridge and continue our homeward journey via Spean Bridge, Loch Laggan and Pitlochry.
Inc. Meals: Breakfast & dinner.
Inc. Meals: Breakfast only.
Day 3 Depart for Tarbet,
where we catch the little ferry to Handa Island. As we walk round the island, look out for seabirds such as guillemots, razorbills, and great and arctic skuas to name but a few. After spending around three hours on the island, we will catch the ferry back and return to our hotel. Arctic skua
Inc. Meals: Breakfast & dinner.
Day 4 This morning we return to Ullapool in time to catch
the morning ferry to Stornoway. On arrival in Lewis we visit the Lews Castle and Museum, where we can meet the famous Lewis Chessmen and visit St Columba’s Ui Church, one of the most important archaeological sites on the island. We then transfer the short distance to our comfortable accommodation. Inc. Meals: Breakfast & dinner. Lews Castle
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Grand Tour of the Inner Hebrides Isle of Iona
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omplementing our Grand Tour of the Outer Hebrides, this equally grand yet relaxing tour takes in the principal Inner Hebridean isles of Mull, Islay and Jura as well as the famous little island gems of Staffa and Iona. We begin on the Isle of Mull with a visit to the colourful ‘capital’ Tobermory, followed by an exciting boat trip to the tiny island of Staffa and its famous Fingal’s Cave, an amazing natural cathedral of basalt columns. A full day is given over to the wonderfully peaceful island of Iona, with its famous abbey and beautiful beaches, a place of calm and contemplation. After a visit to Duart Castle, which enjoys superb views over the Firth of Lorne and the surrounding mountains, we enjoy a highly scenic cruise as we sail south on the Caledonian MacBrayne ferry from Oban, calling in briefly at the little island of Colonsay and continuing to Islay. We will explore the island with visits to historic Loch Finlaggan and the Museum of Islay Life as well as a tour and tasting at the Bowmore Distillery, one of nine distilleries on the island. We will also visit Jura, Islay’s sparsely populated and rather mysterious neighbour, a naturalist’s paradise dominated by three majestic mountains.
One packed lunch
Departures
9 May, 20 June, 1 August & 5 September 2020
What’s Included Six nights’ dinner, bed & breakfast: three nights at the Isle of Mull Hotel, Craignure and three nights at the Port Askaig Hotel, Islay
Oban
All visits as outlined in the itinerary Comfortable coach travel and all ferry crossings
Price
Services of a professional tour manager
7 days from
£1595
Single room supplement
per person
£300
August supplement £50pp
www.brightwaterholidays.com
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Itinerary Day 1 We depart from our designated pick-up points and
head for the Western Highlands. On arrival in Oban we take a ferry to Craignure on the island of Mull. Our base is the Isle of Mull Hotel & Spa, conveniently located close to the ferry terminal with superb views of the Morvern Hills and Duart Castle. The hotel offers excellent spa and leisure facilities, including an indoor swimming pool and steam room. Inc. Meals: Dinner only.
Day 2 After breakfast we depart for Tobermory, the island’s
‘capital’ whose colourful buildings lining the waterfront will be familiar from a hundred calendars. This is the starting point for our cruise to the little island of Staffa and the Treshnish Isles, during which we hope to see whales, dolphins, basking sharks, various seabirds, and sea eagles. We sail first to Staffa, where we hope to have time ashore to explore Fingal’s Cave, one of the wonders of the west coast. We continue to the Treshnish Isles and observe the wildlife, which in June includes puffins. Inc. Meals: Breakfast, lunch & dinner.
Tobermory
Day 5 This morning, following breakfast, our first visit will
be to Loch Finlaggan which was once the centre of the ‘Lordship of the Isles’. We continue to Bowmore Distillery, which is the oldest distillery on the island and has stood on the shores of Loch Indaal since 1779 and it’s here we will see how this unique whisky is produced by hand, before maturing in Spanish and American oak casks. Later, we transfer to Port Charlotte on the other side of Loch Indaal for a visit to the Museum of Islay Life. The museum was established in 1976 and is housed in the former Free Church in Port Charlotte. Since then, it has built up a main collection of over 2,700 objects, including stone implements used in the Mesolithic era. Inc. Meals: Breakfast & dinner.
Day 6 This morning, we travel to the neighbouring island of
Jura, an island which has a record of habitation stretching back over 5,000 years. The island, with approximately 200 inhabitants, is 30 miles long and seven miles wide and it is a naturalist’s paradise. It is dominated by the three mountains known as the “Paps of Jura”, the highest being 2,576ft. The northern end of the island was home to George Orwell, who wrote his masterpiece “1984” while living here at Barnhill. We enjoy a scenic tour before having some free time in Craighouse, a lovely little village and the main settlement on the island with a shop and tearoom. Inc. Meals: Breakfast & dinner. Fingal’s Cave
Day 7 After breakfast, we check out of the hotel and
take the morning ferry to Kennacraig on the mainland. We continue our homeward journey, stopping en route in Inveraray, returning to our original pick-up points.
Day 3 Today we drive along the Ross of Mull to Fionnphort,
where we cross as foot passengers to the Isle of Iona. Here, we have the opportunity to visit the Abbey and wander over the island, taking in the atmosphere of calm and contemplation which attracts visitors from all over the world.
Inc. Meals: Breakfast only.
Inc. Meals: Breakfast & dinner.
Day 4 Following breakfast, we visit Duart Castle, the
13th century home of the Chief of Clan MacLean. We explore the dungeons, the state rooms and appreciate the strategic position of the castle from the top of the keep. Following our visit we catch the lunchtime ferry back to Oban, where there will be time for a quick stroll before we board the afternoon ferry to Islay. The wonderfully scenic passage takes us south along the Firth of Lorn, stopping briefly at the island of Colonsay before continuing to Port Askaig. Our hotel is conveniently located next to the harbour. Inc. Meals: Breakfast & dinner. Bowmore Distillery
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A Classic Scottish Steam Break Jacobite
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team locomotion has an enduring fascination for many of us and combined with the wonderful scenery of Scotland it becomes utterly irresistible. The Jacobite Steam Train, from Fort William to Mallaig, is one of the longest steam-hauled rail journeys available in Britain today, an 84-mile round trip through some spectacular scenery that also includes the 21-arch Glenfinnan Viaduct. The PS Waverley requires a new boiler before re-entering service in 2020, but hopefully we will once again enjoy a cruise on the Firth of Clyde. If not, we will take a boat trip on Loch Lomond and visit Inveraray Castle instead. We also enjoy a trip on the SS Sir Walter Scott, one of the last surviving screw steamers, which has graced the calm waters of Loch Katrine since 1900. Our tour includes a unique boat journey on the Falkirk Wheel, the world’s first rotating boat lift. The Falkirk Wheel is part of the biggest canal restoration project ever undertaken in Britain, as a result of which the Union and the Forth & Clyde canals are once again linked together and fully operational. Glenfinnan Monument
Departures
What’s Included Three nights’ dinner, bed & breakfast at the Arrochar Hotel, Loch Long
Comfortable coach travel throughout
26 June, 9 July, 13 August & 9 October 2020
Services of a professional tour manager
All visits as outlined in the itinerary
Price 4 days from
£595
Single room supplement
www.brightwaterholidays.com
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£90
per person
Itinerary Day 1 We depart from our designated pick-up points and
travel to the Falkirk Wheel, the world’s first rotating boat lift. We start the journey on the water at New Port Downie from where you sail into the Falkirk Wheel. Enjoy the truly spectacular scenery as the wheel commences its graceful ascent to join the Union Canal 35m above. We sail along the Union Canal and under the historic Antonine Wall – the Roman’s most northern frontier. Thereafter, we head to our hotel. Inc. Meals: Dinner only.
Falkirk Wheel
travelling over the “Rest and Be Thankful” and through stunning Argyll scenery. Dinner will be served in the evening. *Subject to the Waverley returning to service. An alternative excursion including a cruise on Loch Lomond and a visit to Inveraray Castle will be substituted if necessary. Inc. Meals: Breakfast & dinner.
PS Waverley
Day 4 We depart for a Day 2 Today, following an early start, we will journey back
in time on the Jacobite steam train and experience one of the most memorable and spectacular railway journeys in the world – the famous Fort William to Mallaig line, following The Road to the Isles. “The Jacobite” combines the romance of the steam era with the opportunity to drink in the stunning views of this wild and historic part of Scotland. From the slopes of Ben Nevis, the line runs through rugged mountains, past sea and inland lochs, and onto the shores of the Atlantic at Mallaig. The route also takes us over the massive Glenfinnan Viaduct overlooking Loch Shiel, where Bonnie Prince Charlie raised his standard in 1745. There is time to enjoy lunch (not included) in Mallaig, but do leave room for a special treat as we enjoy champagne on the return journey.
SS Sir Walter Scott cruise on the steam ship SS Sir Walter Scott on Loch Katrine. The Sir Walter Scott is the only surviving screw steamer in regular passenger service in Scotland. The grand old lady has been sailing majestically on Loch Katrine since 1900. Launched in 1899 she retains her original engines, which are powered by steam using smokeless solid fuel. Following our cruise we enjoy a tour of the Trossachs before continuing on to our original departure points.
Inc. Meals: Breakfast only.
Inc. Meals: Breakfast & dinner.
Day 3 Today after breakfast, we will head for Helensburgh
and commence our sail ‘Doon ra Watter’ on the world’s last seagoing paddle steamer – The Waverley*, the last ocean-going paddle steamer plying its trade on the River Clyde. It was built in 1946 to replace the 1899 Waverley, which was sunk at Dunkirk and is an extremely impressive sight with its immense 2100 horsepower steam engine. On board facilities include a self-service restaurant, cafe, bar and souvenir shop. We will leave the ship at Tighnabruaich, where our coach will be waiting to take us back to the hotel, Loch Long
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Scenic Scottish Railways Strathspey Railway
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he north of Scotland is blessed with some wonderfully scenic railway lines. The challenge of building railways through some of the most difficult terrain in the British Isles was taken up by the great engineers of the Victorian age. Their legacy is in the sweeping curves and majestic viaducts of the single-track lines, which cross wild moors and lonely glens. Using scheduled diesel train services, we will travel northwards to Wick, following the coast as far as Helmsdale, before sweeping inland through the wild and empty country of Sutherland and Caithness, and westwards to Kyle of Lochalsh, by Strath Bran and Strath Carron to the shores of Loch Alsh. We have the added attraction of steam haulage for our two other journeys. The ‘Jacobite’ ensures that the haunting sound of a steam whistle continues to echo around Glenfinnan, as the train crosses ‘Concrete Bob’ McAlpine’s magnificent viaduct on its way from Fort William to Mallaig. At Aviemore, we take the train to Boat of Garten on the preserved Strathspey Line, which provides an authentic taste of the golden age of rail travel in the Highlands.
What’s Included Three nights’ dinner, bed and breakfast at a comfortable hotel in the Inverness area
Ben Nevis
Departures
Comfortable coach travel throughout
8 May & 25 September 2020
Services of a professional tour manager
All excursions and visits as outlined in the itinerary
Price 4 days from
£595
Single room supplement
www.brightwaterholidays.com
56
£90
per person
Itinerary Day 1 We depart from our pick-up points and travel to
Aviemore where we join the Strathspey Railway. We will board the maroon-liveried coaches evoking memories of train journeys in the 1950s and 60s. The train will be hauled by a lovingly restored steam locomotive from the collection that is housed in the engine shed adjacent to the station here. The line crosses heather-covered moorland with the Cairngorm Mountains beyond, scenes which have changed little in the last hundred years. The train stops at Boat of Garten, a village created by the former railway companies that served the area and Broomhill, which doubled as ‘Glenbogle’ in the popular BBC TV series, Monarch of the Glen. The train will then return to Aviemore and we continue our journey by coach to our hotel.
Eilean Donan Castle
into the early mists of time - evidence of a Pictish fort was found in vitrified rock uncovered during excavations, some of which has been kept for visitors to see.
Inc. Meals: Dinner only.
Inc. Meals: Breakfast & dinner.
Glenfinnan Railway Viaduct
Day 4 After an early breakfast we travel through the Great
Glen to Fort William, where we join ‘The Jacobite’ steam train and experience one of the most memorable and spectacular railway journeys in the world – to Mallaig on the famous ‘Road to the Isles’. ‘The Jacobite’ combines the romance of the steam era with the opportunity to drink in the stunning views of this wild and historic part of Scotland. From the slopes of Ben Nevis the line runs through rugged mountains, past sea and inland lochs and onto the shores of the Atlantic at Mallaig. The route takes you over the massive Glenfinnan viaduct overlooking Loch Shiel, where Bonnie Prince Charlie raised his standard in 1745. After some free time in Mallaig, we rejoin the train and return to Fort William before continuing to our original departure points.
Steaming through the Scottish Highlands
Day 2 Today we will travel the short distance to Dingwall
where we board the morning scheduled diesel train service to Wick. The line takes us along the shores of the Cromarty and Dornoch Firths, looping round by Lairg and back to the coast. From Golspie the line follows the spectacular coastline as far as Helmsdale, where it turns inland, pausing at remote stations such as Forsinard and Altnabreac, before reaching Georgemas Junction, the most northerly railway junction in Britain. The driver changes ends here to take the train to Thurso before we continue to the terminus at Wick. On arrival here, we will rejoin our coach and return to our hotel by the more direct but equally scenic coastal route.
Inc. Meals: Breakfast only.
Inc. Meals: Breakfast & dinner.
Day 3 We will return to the station at Dingwall, this time
heading west to Kyle of Lochalsh on the scheduled diesel train service. Our route takes us through Strath Bran and the isolated little station at Achnasheen, on into Strath Carron to the head of Loch Carron, passing Stromeferry, the one-time terminus of the line, before we reach the current terminus at Kyle of Lochalsh. We have time here to stretch our legs and enjoy the stunning views across to the Isle of Skye before continuing by coach to the 13th century castle, Eilean Donan. This must be one of the most photographed castles in Scotland, with its impossibly romantic setting on Loch Duich. The beginnings of Eilean Donan Castle reach back Kyle of Lochalsh
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Lord of the Glens
– Highlands and Islands Tobermory
T
he Highlands and Islands cruise combines both fresh and saltwater cruising, as the Lord of the Glens sails between Inverness, Fort Augustus and Oban. These are wonderful times of year to make this classic Scottish journey, with the first fresh greens of spring and golden autumn colours reflected in the calm waters of the tranquil lochs. We begin at Inverness at the northern end of the canal and cruise Loch Ness to Fort Augustus. The vessel is then lifted by a series of six inter-connected locks that lead to peaceful Loch Oich and onwards to Banavie in the shadow of Ben Nevis. Here, we see Thomas Telford’s engineering masterpiece – Neptune’s Staircase, a series of eight inter-connected locks that take vessels back to sea-level near Fort William. We then sail out into the sea and cruise south on Loch Linnhe, the long fjord-like loch that leads down towards Mull and Oban, where the voyage concludes. In between our cruising, there is also a full programme of shore excursions including a train journey, a visit to the Glenfinnan Monument, and visits to both Duart Castle and Tobermory. The MV Lord of the Glens has 27 beautifully appointed and well-equipped state cabins, all with windows and en-suite facilities. The ‘Robert Louis Stevenson’ restaurant presents cuisine using local and freshly sourced produce, whilst the ‘Sir Walter Scott’ bar and lounge on the upper deck provides magnificent panoramic views of the Highland scenery. With all meals and excursions included, this cruise offers excellent value for money - a spring or autumn treat to be savoured.
What’s Included Five nights’ accommodation in a lower deck twin cabin on a full board basis. All cabins have en-suite facilities and can be upgraded at a supplement
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Lord of the Glens
Departures Inverness to Oban
17 April, 28 September & 8 October 2020 Oban to Inverness
22 April, 3 October & 13 October 2020
Price Shore excursions as described in the itinerary Return coach transfers from Inverness
58
6 days from
£1345
Single cabin supplement from
per person
£800
Itinerary Day 1 Travel to Inverness under your own arrangements.
A coach transfer is provided from Inverness Airport or Inverness Bus Station to Muirtown Basin at the start of the first section of the Caledonian Canal, where we embark the MV Lord of the Glens. This evening, we join the captain for a welcome reception before dinner. Inc. Meals: Dinner only.
Day 2 This morning, we depart on a cruise that takes us
the length of Loch Ness. This most famous of Scottish lochs is 23 miles long, one mile wide and up to 600ft deep. Whether Nessie is a relic from the age of dinosaurs or just a carefully cultivated myth remains to be seen, but be sure to keep an eye out just in case! On the way we pass by the ruins of Castle Urquhart, which provides the perfect photo opportunity. This afternoon is free to explore Fort Augustus before dinner is served this evening. We moor overnight in Fort Augustus. Inc. Meals: Breakfast, lunch & dinner.
Fort Augustus and Loch Ness
to explore Tobermory, the principal town on Mull, whose multi-coloured buildings will be familiar to many. There are a number of interesting craft shops and a famous pub. We moor here overnight. Inc. Meals: Breakfast, lunch & dinner.
Day 5 Enjoy your breakfast as we sail to Craignure. Upon
Lord of the Glens
Day 3 After breakfast we ascend the series of six
inter-connected locks that run through the centre of Fort Augustus and we sail through various man-made sections of the Caledonian Canal, which was started in 1803 to plans produced by Thomas Telford. By the time the canal finally opened in 1822, it had taken 17 years and cost £840,000. We continue through peaceful Loch Oich and Loch Lochy to Banavie. This afternoon we board a scheduled diesel train, which takes us along the shores of Loch Eil and across the iconic Glenfinnan Viaduct for a visit to the Glenfinnan Monument. In a dramatic setting at the head of Loch Shiel, the monument was built in 1815 to commemorate the Jacobites who fought and fell during the 1745 uprising. We moor in Banavie for the night, with dinner served on board.
arrival we visit Duart Castle, the 13th century home of the Chief of Clan MacLean. Here we can explore the dungeons, the state rooms and appreciate the strategic position of the castle from the top of the keep. After lunch on board, we sail down the Sound of Mull and across the Firth of Lorn to the bustling port of Oban, whose distinctive skyline is dominated by the Coliseum-like McCaig’s Folly. This afternoon there will be a walking tour including the whisky distillery and McCaig’s Folly. Tonight, we join the captain for our farewell reception and dinner. Inc. Meals: Breakfast, lunch & dinner.
Day 6 We disembark this morning. A coach transfer is
provided back to Inverness Bus Station and Inverness Airport. Alternatively, you may return home independently. Inc. Meals: Breakfast only.
Inc. Meals: Breakfast, lunch & dinner.
Day 4 We negotiate
Neptune’s Staircase this morning, an impressive series of eight inter-connected locks that lower vessels stepby-step to sea-level at Corpach, close to Fort William. Here we leave the Caledonian Canal and enter Loch Linnhe. We have the afternoon at leisure
Neptune’s Staircase
Jacobite steam train
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Lord of the Glens
– Heart of the Highlands Urquhart Castle, Loch Ness
T
his seven-night cruise combines both fresh and saltwater cruising, as the Lord of the Glens sails from Kyle of Lochalsh to the islands of Skye and Mull and to Oban, featuring some of the remote and breathtakingly beautiful scenery of Scotland’s west coast, and then through the Caledonian Canal to Inverness. Highlights include Loch Ness, Loch Oich and Loch Lochy, and Thomas Telford’s engineering masterpiece Neptune’s Staircase, a series of eight inter-connected locks that take vessels back to sea-level near Fort William. In between our cruising, there is also a full programme of shore excursions including visits to Armadale on the Isle of Skye, the little islands of Eigg and Iona, colourful Tobermory on the Isle of Mull, romantic Eilean Donan Castle, the Glenfinnan Monument, Culloden Battlefield and prehistoric Clava Cairns. Kylerhea
Departures What’s Included Seven nights’ accommodation in a lower deck twin cabin on a full board basis. All cabins have en-suite facilities and can be upgraded at a supplement
Inverness to Kyle of Lochalsh Shore excursions as described in the itinerary Return coach transfers from Inverness
27 April & 14 September 2020 Kyle of Lochalsh to Inverness
4 & 18 May 2020
Price 8 days from
£2295
Single cabin supplement from
www.brightwaterholidays.com
60
per person
£1400
Itinerary Day 1 Travel under your own arrangements to Inverness.
A coach transfer is provided from Inverness Airport or Inverness Bus Station to Muirtown Basin at the start of the first section of the Caledonian Canal, where we embark the MV Lord of the Glens. This evening we join the captain for a welcome reception before dinner. Inc. Meals: Dinner only.
Glenfinnan Monument
The tiny island has a unique sense of peace and tranquillity. Later, we return by coach to the vessel at Craignure and sail across the Firth of Lorn, pausing for photographs in front of Duart Castle, the 13th century home of the Chief of Clan MacLean. We continue to Oban where we moor overnight. Inc. Meals: Breakfast, lunch & dinner.
Day 5 We sail north into Loch Linnhe, a long fjord carved
Plockton
Day 2 After breakfast, we depart by coach for an excursion
to Eilean Donan Castle. This must be one of the most photographed castles in Scotland, with its impossibly romantic setting on Loch Duich. We will also visit the picturesque village of Plockton, a National Trust for Scotland conservation village with an incomparable location on a sheltered bay of Loch Carron, surrounded by a ring of hills. Returning to the ship in the afternoon, we sail via the narrows at Kylerhea and the Sound of Sleat to Armadale on the Isle of Skye. Here, we will see the Clan Donald Centre and Gardens before sailing to Inverie in Loch Nevis, one of the most remote locations in Scotland with a famous pub that can only be accessed by boat. We moor at Inverie overnight. Inc. Meals: Breakfast, lunch & dinner.
Day 3 This morning we
sail to the tiny island of Eigg, where you get a sense of what life is like for the 90 or so people who live on this island, which came into community ownership in 1998. After exploring the island, we sail around Ardnamurchan Point, eventually arriving in Iona Abbey Tobermory on the Isle of Mull. Tobermory’s most famous and striking feature is the row of brightly painted houses that lines the waterfront, originally built by the British Fisheries Company for £20 each to house its workers. We moor in Tobermory overnight.
out by the last ice age, to Corpach. In the afternoon, we depart by train on the West Highland railway, travelling over the impressive Glenfinnan Viaduct, to visit the Glenfinnan Monument. In a dramatic setting at the head of Loch Shiel, the monument was built in 1815 to commemorate the Jacobites, who fought and fell during the 1745 uprising. Inc. Meals: Breakfast, lunch & dinner.
Day 6 After breakfast we ascend Neptune’s Staircase,
an impressive flight of eight inter-connected locks that lift the vessel 103 feet above sea-level to Banavie. We then sail through Loch Lochy and Loch Oich, and various man-made sections of the Caledonian Canal. Inc. Meals: Breakfast, lunch & dinner.
Day 7 We negotiate the series of six inter-connected locks
that run through the centre of Fort Augustus. We continue on a cruise that takes us the length of Loch Ness. En route, we pass the ruins of Castle Urquhart, providing the perfect photo opportunity. In the afternoon, we visit the National Trust for Scotland’s Visitor Centre at Culloden, the scene of the last battle fought on British soil in 1746. We also explore the Clava Cairns, a group of exceptionally well-preserved burial cairns. Inc. Meals: Breakfast, lunch & dinner.
Day 8 This morning we leave the ship. A coach transfer is provided to Inverness Bus Station and Inverness Airport. Alternatively, you may return home independently. Inc. Meals: Breakfast only.
Inc. Meals: Breakfast, lunch & dinner.
Day 4 We sail down the Sound of Mull to Craignure, the
main ferry port of Mull, and depart by coach for a visit to the Isle of Iona, the last resting place of some 50 Scottish kings.
Neptune’s Staircase
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Dates for your diary I
f you’ve enjoyed browsing these pages and letting our exciting range of 2020 trips inspire your travel plans, you’ll be glad to see that we have put all of our departure dates into a handy calendar below. So, take a look at the month-by-month listing of holidays we have to offer and when you’re ready to book, simply get in touch with our friendly team or just venture online to book via our website!
January
May
Up Helly Aa - 7 days
25 Jan
Highlights of Orkney and Shetland
4 May
Up Helly Aa - 5 days
26 Jan
Scenic Scottish Railways
8 May
Up Helly Aa - 6 days
27 Jan
A Taste of Argyll
8 May
Grand Tour of the Inner Hebrides
9 May
Grand Tour of the Outer Hebrides (S-B)
10 May
Highland and Island Gardens
15 May
Mull, Staffa & Iona
15 May
A Grand Tour of Scotland
17 May
Mull Wildlife Experience
21 May
Gardens of the Firth of Clyde
25 May
Arran, Scotland in Miniature
25 May
February WAFA and Palaces & Gardens of India’s Golden Triangle
21 Feb
March The V&A Museum, Dundee
29 Mar
A Grand Tour of the Outer Hebrides - 5 days
31 Mar
June
April
Scotland’s Northern Edge
4 Jun
Highland and Island Gardens
5 Jun
The V&A Museum, Dundee
7 Jun
A Grand Tour of the Outer Hebrides - 5 days
7 Apr
Grand Tour of the Outer Hebrides (S-B)
7 Jun
Islay and Jura
20 Apr
Islay and Jura
8 Jun
Highlights of Orkney and Shetland
20 Apr
Highlights of Orkney and Shetland
8 Jun
An Archaeologist’s View of Orkney and Shetland
27 Apr
Aberdeenshire: Scotland’s Larder
10 Jun
Gardens of Dumfries and Galloway
12 Jun
Mull, Staffa & Iona
12 Jun
Shetland and its Outer Isles
15 Jun
Undiscovered Orkney
15 Jun
In the Footsteps of the Picts
19 Jun
Grand Tour of the Inner Hebrides
20 Jun
Coll and Tiree
23 Jun
Grand Tour of the Outer Hebrides (B-S)
23 Jun
A Classic Scottish Steam Break
26 Jun
Highland Wildlife Safari
26 Jun
Shetland and its Outer Isles
26 Jun
Gardens of the Far North
28 Jun
Jacobite steam train
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July
September
Whisky Tasting on Islay and Jura
3 Jul
Gardens of Dumfries and Galloway
4 Sep
Private Gardens of Caithness & Sutherland
6 Jul
In the Footsteps of the Picts
4 Sep
An Archaeologist’s View of Orkney & Shetland
6 Jul
Grand Tour of the Inner Hebrides
5 Sep
Coll and Tiree
7 Jul
Gardens of the Firth of Clyde
7 Sep
A Classic Scottish Steam Break
9 Jul
Stornoway, Skye & the Summer Isles
9 Jul
Mull, Staffa & Iona
11 Sep
Gardens of the Far North
10 Jul
Islay and Jura
14 Sep
Scotland’s Northern Edge
11 Jul
Highlights of Orkney & Shetland
14 Sep
Arran, Scotland in Miniature
13 Jul
Grand Tour of the Outer Hebrides (B-S)
15 Sep
Islay and Jura
13 Jul
Stornoway, Skye & the Summer Isles
16 Sep
Grand Tour of the Outer Hebrides (B-S)
14 Jul
Aberdeenshire: Scotland’s Larder
18 Sep
Private Gardens of Caithness & Sutherland
20 Jul
Whisky Tasting on Islay and Jura
18 Sep
Grand Tour of the Outer Hebrides (B-S)
21 Jul
Arran, Scotland in Miniature
21 Sep
Highland Wildlife Safari
24 Jul
Knitting in the Shetland Isles
24 Sep
Highlights of Orkney & Shetland
27 Jul
Scenic Scottish Railways
25 Sep
August Grand Tour of the Inner Hebrides
1 Aug
Shetland and its Outer Isles
1 Aug
In the Footsteps of the Picts
7 Aug
Oberammergau and the Austrian Tyrol
10 Aug
Oberammergau and the Austrian Tyrol
12 Aug
A Classic Scottish Steam Break
13 Aug
Mull, Staffa & Iona
14 Aug
Gardens of Dumfries and Galloway
16 Aug
Highlights of Orkney and Shetland
17 Aug
A Grand Tour of Scotland
22 Aug
Arran, Scotland in Miniature
24 Aug
Undiscovered Orkney
24 Aug
Coll & Tiree
25 Aug
Grand Tour of the Outer Hebrides (B-S)
25 Aug
Scotland’s Northern Edge
27 Aug
An Archaeologist’s View of Orkney and Shetland
31 Aug
October A Taste of Argyll
3 Oct
The V&A Museum, Dundee
4 Oct
A Grand Tour of the Outer Hebrides - 5 days
6 Oct
A Classic Scottish Steam Break
9 Oct
Autumn Tints of Perthshire
11 Oct
Autumn Tints of Arran
19 Oct
Logan Botanic Gardens
To book your Brightwater holiday, call our travel experts today: 01334 766461 After you have enjoyed browsing these pages at your leisure and you’re ready to treat yourself with a place on one of our tours, just get in touch and we will do the rest. For further details on any of our holidays, including full day-by-day itineraries, what’s included and full booking conditions, please just head to our website www.brightwaterholidays.com.
Here to create your dream holiday... 63
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SPECIALIST Journeys A collection of some of the world’s finest niche tour operators, we truly put the special in Specialist Journeys. With trips both designed and led by experts, these aren’t just holidays - they are unique and memorable travel experiences.
Culture 2020/2021
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