Highlands and Speyside – The Best of Scotland  

The Scottish Highlands Inverness and surroundings are a land of breathtaking beauty, where towering mountains, mysterious lochs, and rolling glens create a landscape like no other. Steeped in legend and history, this region is a dream destination for travellers seeking rugged wilderness, rich culture, and outdoor adventure.  

From the mist-covered peaks of Ben Nevis—the highest mountain in the UK—to the tranquil shores of Loch Ness, famed for its elusive monster, the Highlands is a place where nature reigns supreme and every corner reveals a new story. 

Journey through the iconic Glen Coe, where dramatic, steep-sided valleys evoke both awe and a sense of serenity or take in the panoramic views along the North Coast 500, one of the world’s most scenic road trips.  

The Highlands’ remote beauty makes it perfect for hiking, cycling, and wildlife watching.  

Keep an eye out for red deer, golden eagles, and even otters along the rugged coastline. For those seeking an extra thrill, the Highlands offer opportunities for kayaking, mountain climbing, and wild swimming in crystal-clear lochs. 

But the Highlands are more than just dramatic scenery—they are also the heartland of Scotland’s cultural heritage.  

Explore ancient castles like Eilean Donan or Dunrobin, wander through the eerie ruins of Urquhart Castle on the shores of Loch Ness, or delve into the region’s turbulent past at the Culloden Battlefield.  

The Highland towns and villages, from the bustling Inverness to the quaint fishing village of Ullapool, offer a warm welcome and a chance to experience traditional Scottish hospitality. 

Indulge in the local cuisine, with dishes like hearty venison stew, freshly caught seafood, and traditional haggis, best enjoyed in a cosy pub by a roaring fire.  

No trip to the Highlands is complete without sampling the region’s world-famous whiskies.  

Visit one of the many distilleries along the Highland Whisky Trail and discover the unique flavours that reflect the rugged, untamed spirit of this land. 

Whether you’re drawn by the promise of adventure, the allure of ancient legends, or simply the desire to reconnect with nature, the Scottish Highlands provide a truly unforgettable escape.  

Here, in a land where time seems to slow down, you’ll find yourself immersed in the wild beauty and timeless charm that define the very essence of Scotland. 

Nestled along the banks of the River Spey and surrounded by the stunning landscapes of the Scottish Highlands, Speyside is a region rich in natural beauty and even richer in flavour.  

Famous worldwide as the heart of Scotland’s whisky production, this picturesque corner of the country is home to over half of Scotland’s distilleries, making it a must-visit for whisky enthusiasts and curious travellers alike. 

Speyside’s whisky heritage is woven into the fabric of its identity.  

Here, the Speyside Whisky Trail leads you through historic distilleries such as Glenfiddich, Macallan, and Glenlivet, where centuries-old craftsmanship and traditional techniques are still practiced to create some of the world’s finest single malts.  

Each distillery has its own character and unique flavour profile, offering visitors a chance to taste and discover the subtle differences that make Speyside whiskies so special.  

Tours, tastings, and masterclasses provide a behind-the-scenes look at the art of whisky-making, set against the backdrop of rolling hills, lush valleys, and meandering rivers. 

But Speyside is not just for whisky lovers. Its picturesque landscape is ideal for outdoor adventures and leisurely explorations.  

Hike through the enchanting forests of the Cairngorms National Park, where ancient pines and dramatic mountains create an awe-inspiring setting.  

Take a tranquil riverside walk along the Spey, one of Scotland’s longest and fastest-flowing rivers, which is famed for its salmon fishing.  

Or, for a touch of romance, visit Ballindalloch Castle, known as the “Pearl of the North,” with its beautiful gardens and scenic surroundings. 

History and culture are deeply rooted in Speyside’s small towns and villages.  

Explore the quaint streets of Aberlour, where you’ll find charming shops, cosy cafes, and a world-renowned shortbread bakery.  

Stop by the historic village of Craigellachie and cross the iconic cast-iron Telford Bridge, which offers a perfect photo opportunity with sweeping views of the River Spey.  

From Elgin’s majestic cathedral ruins to the atmospheric Knockando Woolmill, one of Scotland’s oldest working woollen mills, there’s a story to be uncovered around every corner. 

Speyside offers a quintessentially Scottish experience, blending timeless traditions, breathtaking scenery, and warm hospitality.  

Whether you’re sampling the “water of life” at one of its famed distilleries, soaking in the serenity of its natural beauty, or uncovering the region’s rich history, a visit to Speyside promises a journey full of unforgettable moments and flavours. 

Your Accommodation: 

Inverness

Set in the heart of the Scottish Highlands, this historic dates back to 1785.

It’s abundance of charm and warmth of hospitality has won many awards.

Since the 18th century the Hotel has been offering accommodation to travellers from all over the world.

Today, this 4-star hotel in Inverness offers guests a luxurious stay complete with access to spa and conference facilities.

With a rich and diverse heritage the Hotel is the perfect retreat for leisure holidays and corporate events in the heart of the Scottish Highlands.

Delivering a first-class service to all guests, make your visit to Inverness extra-special.

Just a stone’s throw away from Inverness city centre, you can relax and rewind in our stylish rooms. Choose your perfect type of room from our beautiful selection. Each combines the perfect mix of classic and contemporary features

Take great pride in our culinary offerings. As such, we have two exceptional in-house restaurants to cater to every taste, showcase the finest Scottish produce, offering lunch and à la carte dinner services.

And if you would like to relax in our welcome environment a bit longer into the evening hosts Inverness’ best stocked Whisky Bar.

With it’s very own indoor pool to hand, as well as a fully equipped gym. There’s never been a better time to indulge in deep rest and relaxation.

Equipped with the very best in R&R, our luxurious spa and specially trained therapists and masseuses are dedicated to ensuring your health and well-being. With a wide variety of spa packages, such as natural Italian therapies, there’s something for even the most seasoned spa-goer.

They take responsibility for environmental and social sustainability very seriously. Partnering with Green Tourism, the globally recognised certification programme.

A grand Victorian mansion set in ornate terraced gardens and commanding views of the beautiful Spey Valley below.

Speyside

The Hotel is a 19th century Baronial mansion, lovingly restored by the family who bought the business back in 2012, it is a boutique hotel focused primarily on the provision of warm, friendly and consistently professional service.

Offering a cocktail bar, whisky snug and a la carte restaurant, providing the guests with a unique experience in the very heart of Speyside, an area renowned for breathtaking landscapes, internationally recognised whisky brands, authentic villages and towns and a hub of historical breadth.

There are sixteen en-suite rooms, ranging from cosy singles to eloquently styled king and super-size doubles.

Every room has tea and coffee-making facilities, a flat-screen television, free Wi-Fi and an en-suite bathroom or shower stocked with complimentary toiletries.

The a la carte restaurant open to both in-house and non-resident guests, offers everyday dining to the highest quality with an ethos centred on locally sourced, seasonal and sustainable produce used in dishes that celebrate traditional Scottish fayre and international cuisines alike.

The two bars, however, are pure Highlands: stocked with over five hundred single malt whiskies, including, for the connoisseur, a 1940 Macallan and a 1953 Glen Grant, and with beers from the micro-breweries hereabouts such as Spey Valley, WindSwept and Speyside Craft Brewery.

Whatever your reason for visiting Speyside – whether you’re here to relax and enjoy the scenery, sightsee the castles and take the ‘Whisky Trail’, walk the mountains, play some golf, enjoy a romantic weekend away, celebrate a special occasion – we invite you to join us and let us make your stay all that you could wish for.

Activities included in Package: 

Inverness

Inverness Food and Drink Tour – Embark on a culinary adventure through the historic streets of Inverness with our small-group food tour. Led by a knowledgeable local guide, you’ll explore the rich tapestry of Highland flavours and beverages. Indulge in iconic Scottish dishes like Haggis and Cullen Skink, complemented by the tastes of locally produced beer and a whisky tasting. Even meet a local or two!

As you savour the Highland produce, immerse yourself in the city’s history and culture. Your guide will share fascinating insights into Inverness’s landmarks, including the picturesque River Ness and the majestic Inverness Castle. Join us for a gastronomic journey that combines the best of Scottish cuisine with the beauty of this historic city.

Glen Affric, Culloden & Clava Cairns – 7,000 years ago, Scotland was covered in rainforests. But climatic conditions and human activity transformed the country into a mix of mighty castles, bare mountains, and reputable cities. Yet, there’s a place that’s almost unchanged. A small region that hid away and conserved the ancient wilderness.

They call it Glen Affric. 145 square kilometres of forest canopies, rivers, stags, and snow-crested mountains.

On this tour, you take the single-track lanes through a Caledonian pine forest to one of the best walks in the region.

But that’s not all, you also get a chance to learn about the last battle fought on British soil at Culloden and discover a Bronze Age tomb at Clava Cairns.

Loch Ness Experience – No one can resist the mythical Loch Ness: its beauty evokes a sense of wonder, while its monstrous depths are legendary.

And on this tour, you explore all of it. You can enjoy incredible views from a cruise, learn about the historic ruins of Urquhart Castle, and experience the less frequented south roads of the loch.

Even if the monster doesn’t show up, we can assure you that your guide will bring this loch to life with intriguing tales and history.

Torridon, Applecross & Eilean Donan Castle – Let Scotland’s finest mountains take your breath away. Ramble over the highest road pass. And discover the history of the wildest part of the Highlands.

On this tour, you’ll rub your eyes in disbelief at the postcard-perfect villages, delve deep into the gory past of Eilean Donan Castle, and catch a glimpse of some of Europe’s most spectacular landscapes.

Join this tour if you want something that’s epic and off the beaten path.

Speyside

Dufftown Distilleries Discovery – Get off the tourist track! Discover the Malt Whisky Capital of the World – with a local!

The Dufftown Distilleries Discovery is a relaxed walking tour around the past and present distillery sites of Dufftown. Drink in the history and your surroundings while providing you with samples from the distilleries. Please note this tour does not go inside any of the distilleries, however, all tours include some awesome shortbread!

Historical sites – Speyside offers lots of opportunities for sightseeing. Just along the Spey stands Thomas Telford’s pioneering Craigellachie Bridge, built in 1814 of cast iron and supported by castellated stone turrets, it’s truly a gem of the nation’s industrial heritage hiding away here in the Highlands. As is the nearby Knockando Woolmill, which dates back to 1754 and is the oldest district working mill in Northern Europe.

A couple of miles south, and a couple of hundred years back in time, discover the sixteenth-century Ballindalloch Castle, built in the classic Scots baronial style and still the family seat of the MacPherson Grant family. Or simply take a stroll around Aberlour and visit the many independent cafes, delicatessens, arts and crafts and gift shops the village has to offer. Do not forget to visit the Walker’s Shortbread store and purchase your shortbread fresh from the bakery.

Optional Activities:

Inverness

Far North £ 80 – is the perfect way to visit the most northerly point on the British mainland! See Loch Fleet, explore Dunrobin Castle and enjoy stunning scenery on this one-day tour from Inverness; the capital of the Highlands. During this tour, we will visit Stone Age and Iron Age sites.

Lochs, Waterfalls and Rewilding Experience £ 100 – Experience nature in the Scottish Highlands on this unforgettable day tour of Scotland.

Explore Loch Ness and marvel at Plodda Falls and the Falls of Foyers.

Discover the inspiring work of Trees for Life, a rewilding charity dedicated to restoring Scotland’s natural landscapes. Immerse yourself in nature, learn about wildlife, and enjoy stunning scenery!

Distilleries Discovery with Food Pairing for Connoisseurs £ 175 – You will visit all 9 Dufftown distillery sites: Pittyvaich, Dufftown, Mortlach, Glendullan, Parkmore, Glenfiddich, Balvenie, Kininvie and Convalmore.

Samples from each distillery will be provided as well as from independent bottlers allowing you to compare different bottlings from the Dufftown distilleries.

During the tour, we pair the whiskies with some delicious local delicacies.

Speyside

Foraging £ 100 – From Chanterelles to Hedgehogs to Porcini, there is an abundance of mushroom varieties in the area. If mushrooms are not your thing Speyside also has berries galore! Bilberries, cranberries, raspberries, blackberries, gooseberries, elderberries and more!

So why not come and spend a morning or afternoon foraging? Whatever you forage you keep!

We can also help you create some great dishes. We have world-class game from the local butcher and fresh seafood from local fish merchants which we can combine with our treasures to create a locally sourced meal. Not to mention zero carbon footprint!!

Foraging is obviously seasonal so we can’t guarantee what we will find but we will find something for you to enjoy, even your time outdoors and taking in the scenery.