Driving Tour - Scotland

Our Tartan Trail will commence in the heart of the breathtaking Scottish countryside. Members will be greeted by the world­ famous bonnie banks of Loch Lomond as they descend upon the exceptional keep of the 5-star Cameron House, host to some of the finest facilities and picturesque scenes available across the highlands. The hotel's view of Scotland's gateway landscape with the flawless lowlands, against the majestic mountains is the perfect opening setting to introduce what is to come throughout the tour. Members will be free to venture into either the relaxation of the hotel's luxury spa and health facilities, or continue into the enticing bars or even enjoy a cinematic experience in the hotel's 29 seat private cinema.The first night will reach its summit with a private dining experience in the hotels Georgian Restaurant, where an exquisite dinner will accompany an opening toast.

Expected driving time: 03hrs 30mins
Expected driving distance: 127 miles

After being awoken to the spectacular highlands and a sumptuous breakfast, our driving route will begin. We will immediately join the stunning 'rest and be thankful' pass, running adjacent to Loch Lomond, driving north for 23 miles at the feet of glorious mountain peaks, while taking in our first taste of the iconic Scottish roads. Further on we will meet the beautiful Loch Linnhe, taking us upwards to Fort William and to the foot hills of the notorious 1,345-metre-tall Ben Nevis, where our second accommodation is nestled. Steeped with rich landscape and history, Inverlochy Castle will host our second night.

The 5-star country hotel is famous for its comfort, with the late Queen Victoria's diary saying that she 'never saw such a lovelier or more romantic spot'. However, the hotels recent opening of 'Seasgair', Gaelic for warm and comfortable, has added another jewel to the hotel's crown. We will dine privately in the already renowned restaurant, under the 5-course menu of two Michelin star chef Michel Roux Jr, concluding a compelling first leg to our journey in luxurious style.

Expected driving time: 04hrs 15mins
Expected driving distance: 159 miles

On day three we will head deeper into the mountains of Scotland, only after enjoying our first full Scottish breakfast of the tour. Along our second driving day we come across the most glorious valleys and peaks that Scotland has to offer. Immediately we will head northwards on the Great Glen Way, a 79-mile path of panoramic lochs etched in Scottish folklore where the mythical Loch Ness monster is supposedly hiding. However, 24 miles in we will sway west and into the attraction of the 9-mile Glen Sheil famed for its steep mountains formed in the footsteps of the Five Sisters, embracing the different landscapes and views on offer. Further on, we continue upwards into the peaks of the Kintail mountain range, twisting and winding to sweeping view points of the upper Loch Torridon composed by the dramatic backdrop of the three Torridon peaks. We then head back east towards our night three
 
destination, the exclusive Achnagairn castle. Sat just outside oflnverness, Scotland's most northerly city, guests will be left to explore the vast opportunities that the privacy of the castle has to offer amongst the scenic atmosphere of Scotland's Highlands.

Expected driving time: 04hrs 30mins
Expected driving distance: 187 miles

Members will have the option of a rest day on the fourth day, or the opportunity to delve into the paths of the world renowned NC500.

The optional driving group will depart on a 187-mile journey after breakfast. Driving towards the west coast of the NC500 the group will explore some quiet and open roads, firstly venturing between the dominant mountain ranges of Ben Wyris and Bein Daarg towering over 1,000 metres, until reaching the secluded coastal village of Ullapool. Home to some of the greatest stretches of beach and bays in Britain, the sweeping roads follow alongside. Along the coast, members will also pass the haunted Ardvreck Castle. Its tale originates from the castles first ruling family, and is said to be haunted by ghosts of a tall man dressed in grey and a young girl, linked to the MacCleod family. After a quick pit stop just shy of the Kylesku Bridge, members will get the opportunity to pass over what is perhaps the most attractive driving bridge in Britain, used in a number of car adverts and TV shows, it will certainly be recognisable. The bridge offers an opportunity to capture a memorable moment of the most northerly point of our Tartan Trail.
Heading back south east, the brash and rocky terrain of Loch Laxford passing into Loch Shin along the open A839 and into the A836 completely juxtaposes the glorious colours of the coastal section earlier in today's journey. The final stretch will involve coming onto the notorious A9, driving through the Black Isle peninsula and Scottish towns, before returning to Achnagairn castle in plenty of time for a gala dinner with locally sourced ingredients paired with fine wine on the fourth night.

Other members not participating in today's drive, will have the day to explore the local attraction of Inverness and the highlands. Inverness offers a cultural experience, where the 19th century cathedral and the indoor Victorian market are impressive features of the city's history. Alternatively, slightly south of our accommodation is Loch Ness, cruises are available to explore the mythical loch. Or even, the Black Isle's north of our accommodation, is a renowned area for wildlife viewing. Dolphins are often visible during scenic boat tours. Or of course, there is the option to stay put and enjoy the comfort of the Achnagairn castles' grounds, and get involved in leisurely activities, before everyone rejoins for the evening gala dinner.

Expected driving time: 04hrs 00mins
Expected driving distance: 153 miles

On our final driving day, we will head south towards our final accommodation, Gleneagles. Starting from Inverness, the route spans into the Cairngorms National Park. The parks scenery and landforms make for a beautiful last drive. The greenery of the rolling hills, the gentle elegance of the moorlands and glens, embedded in the rarity of Caledonian forests; show the parks natural beauty. In the heart of the park, we will pass the gates of the historic Balmoral castle before venturing out and onto the final stretch of our drive reaching Gleneagles.

The charming country estate, turned into one of the world's leading boutique hotels will treat us to a spectacular ending. Members will be free to immerse themselves in the numerous facilities on site. The hotel is famously known for its three championship standard golf courses designed by the great Jack Nicklaus. One of which, The PGA Centenary Golf Couse, was host to the 2014 Ryder Cup. The hotel also boasts a world leading spa facility, with a beauty lodge also available to residents. The grounds are equally as impressive, hosting a shooting and fielding school, tree climbing and zip wire courses, tennis courts, and the mews area, home to many different animals.

The evening will see us rejoin for a celebratory dinner to toast goodbye to our Tartan Trail.