Gardens of Western Scotland aboard the Lord of the Glens 10006

Gardens of Western Scotland aboard the Lord of the Glens 10006

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8 Days From

$5175

Gardens of Western Scotland aboard the Lord of the Glens 10006

8 Days Starting and ending in Inverness, Scotland

Visiting: Inverness, Loch Carron, Isle of Mull, Glenfinnan, Fort Augustus, Loch Ness, Cawdor

Tour operator:

Brightwater Holidays

Tour code:

BGLG

Guide Type:

Fully Guided

Physical rating:

Light

Trip Styles:

Cruise, Small Group

From: $5175

NB: Prices correct on 01-Nov-2024 but subject to change.

Tour Overview

Embark on the "Gardens of Western Scotland Cruise 10006" for a captivating journey through some of Scotland's most enchanting gardens. Begin your adventure in Inverness, with a scenic transfer to Kyle of Lochalsh, where you'll board the MV Lord of the Glens. Explore the award-winning Attadale Gardens and the historic Armadale Castle gardens, each offering a unique blend of flora and history. Discover the hidden gem of Lip na Cloiche on Mull, and the medieval Ardchattan Priory Garden with its breathtaking views. Sail through the Caledonian Canal, marvel at Neptune's Staircase, and enjoy the serene beauty of Loch Ness. Conclude your journey with a visit to the iconic Cawdor Castle Gardens, rich in history and vibrant plant life. With expert guides, comfortable accommodations, and delicious meals included, this cruise promises an unforgettable exploration of Scotland's natural and cultural treasures.

Highlights

  • Attadale Gardens, a gem on the shores of Loch Carron, featuring water gardens and a fern collection in a geodesic dome.

  • Explore the woodland gardens of Armadale Castle, with 40 acres of trees, shrubs, and flowers.

  • Visit Lip na Cloiche, a remote garden on the northwest coast of Mull, with stunning views of Loch Tuath and the Isle of Ulva.

  • Discover Ardchattan Priory Garden, originally planted by medieval monks, with views over Loch Etive to Mull and Ben Cruachan.

  • Ascend Neptune’s Staircase, an impressive flight of eight inter-connected locks on the Caledonian Canal.

  • Sail through Loch Ness to Abriachan Garden, the most northerly botanic garden in Britain.

  • Explore Cawdor Castle Gardens, with three distinct gardens and a wealth of flora and fauna.

Itinerary

Expand All

Day 1

Location: Inverness

Accommodation Name: MV Lord of the Glens

Meals Included: Dinner

Travel under own arrangement to Inverness (rail/air connections can be arranged on request). A coach transfer is provided from Inverness Airport (approx. 1300hrs) or Inverness city centre (approx.1430hrs) to Kyle of Lochalsh, where we embark the MV Lord of the Glens. Alternatively, you may travel independently to Kyle, via the scenic railway line from Inverness.

Day 2

Location: Loch Carron

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Today we visit Attadale Gardens, voted RHS Partner Garden of the Year for Scotland in 2023. Attadale is a gem of a garden on the shores of Loch Carron, where the Gulf Stream influenced micro-climate nurtures 20 acres of outstanding water gardens, old rhododendrons, unusual trees and a fern collection in a geodesic dome. The gardens have been skilfully restored by their owner Nick MacPherson as an artist’s garden after the 1980 storm. We continue to the woodland gardens of Armadale Castle, originally laid out by Lord Macdonald in the early 19th century. The gardens boast 40 acres of trees, shrubs and flowers in a peaceful oasis.

Day 3

Location: Isle of Mull

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Today we visit Lip na Cloiche, a remote, hidden garden situated on a steep hillside on the northwest coast of Mull. This densely planted garden has stunning views of Loch Tuath and the Isle of Ulva. There is an eclectic and comprehensive collection of small trees, shrubs and herbaceous plants to be found here, including Chilean and New Zealand rarities. The garden was planned for long-season interest, providing a pattern of good planting ideas all year round. A picturesque burn is planted with primulas, mecanopsis, gunneras and other damp-loving specialities.

Day 4

Location: Glenfinnan

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

After breakfast we visit Ardchattan Priory Garden which was originally planted by medieval monks and affords breathtaking views over Loch Etive to Mull and Ben Cruachan. Highlights here include herbaceous borders, roses, a rockery, ornamental trees and a wild flower garden. After sailing through Loch Linnhe we travel to Glenfinnan where the 18m-high monument provides a poignant reminder of the clansmen who gave their lives to the Jacobite cause.

Day 5

Location: Fort Augustus

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

After breakfast we ascend Neptune’s Staircase, an impressive flight of eight inter-connected locks that lifts the vessel 103 feet above sea level to Banavie. We then sail through peaceful Loch Lochy and Loch Oich and various man-made sections of the Caledonian Canal, which was started in 1803 to plans produced by Thomas Telford following survey work by James Watt thirty years earlier. By the time the canal finally opened in 1822 it had taken 17 years and cost £840,000, but instead of the 20 foot depth in Telford’s plans, when it initially opened the canal was only 14 feet deep, too shallow for many of the increasingly large ships being built at the time. A second phase of construction was then undertaken between 1844 and 1847 and what emerged from this was the canal originally proposed by Telford. The irony was that by the time the canal was finally complete, steam ships could make the passage around Scotland much more easily than the sailing ships in whose era it was designed. We moor overnight in Fort Augustus.

Day 6

Location: Loch Ness

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

A scenic sail of Loch Ness leads us to Abriachan Garden, a uniquely beautiful woodland garden with a fantastic mix of native and exotic plantings, and the most northerly botanic garden in Britain. The garden also affords views across Loch Ness.

Day 7

Location: Cawdor

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Our final visit is Cawdor Castle Gardens, forever immortalised in Shakespeare’s ‘Macbeth.’ The castle boasts three very different gardens, each with their own unique history and appearance. Displaying a wealth of flora and fauna, the gardens at Cawdor Castle are ever changing with the seasons. The gardens include large herbaceous borders, collections of rhododendrons and azaleas, whole borders full of lilies and galtonias, flowering trees and shrubs, archways of rambling roses and laburnum, spring bulbs and contemporary sculptures.

Day 8

Location: Inverness

Meals Included: Breakfast

Following breakfast we disembark. A coach transfer is provided to Inverness city centre (approx. 0930hrs) and Inverness Airport (approx. 1000hrs). Alternatively, you may return home independently – extensions are also available on request.

What's Included

  • Expert Guide Lecturer

    An expert guide lecturer is included in the tour to provide insights and knowledge throughout the journey.

  • Professional Tour Manager

    A professional tour manager is included to ensure the smooth running of the tour.

  • Accommodation

    Accommodation is included as part of the tour package.

  • Local travel aboard a private air-conditioned coach

    Local travel is provided aboard a private air-conditioned coach for comfort and convenience.

  • Meals as per the itinerary, wine and tea or coffee with dinner

    Meals are included as per the itinerary, along with wine and tea or coffee with dinner.

  • All taxes & gratuities

    All taxes and gratuities are included in the tour package.

  • Field notes

    Field notes are provided to enhance the learning experience during the tour.

What's Not Included

  • Travel to Inverness

    Travel to Inverness is not included and must be arranged independently.

  • Extensions

    Extensions to the tour are available on request but are not included in the standard package.

Mode of Transport

Transportation includes a private air-conditioned coach for local travel and scenic sailing aboard the MV Lord of the Glens, with transfers available from Inverness Airport or city centre.

Accommodation

Accommodation is provided aboard the MV Lord of the Glens, offering a comfortable and scenic stay as you cruise through the picturesque landscapes of Western Scotland.

Check out our Q&As

  • What type of transportation is provided during the tour?

    Local travel is provided aboard a private air-conditioned coach.

  • Are meals included in the tour package?

    Yes, meals are included as per the itinerary, along with wine and tea or coffee with dinner.

  • Is there a guide or tour manager available during the tour?

    Yes, the tour includes an expert guide lecturer and a professional tour manager.

  • What is the first garden we will visit on the tour?

    The first garden visit is to Attadale Gardens, which is located on the shores of Loch Carron.

  • What is unique about the garden at Lip na Cloiche?

    Lip na Cloiche is a remote, hidden garden situated on a steep hillside with stunning views and a collection of Chilean and New Zealand plant rarities.

  • What historical feature will we see at Glenfinnan?

    At Glenfinnan, we will see the 18m-high monument that serves as a reminder of the clansmen who gave their lives to the Jacobite cause.

  • What is Neptune's Staircase?

    Neptune's Staircase is an impressive flight of eight inter-connected locks that lifts the vessel 103 feet above sea level to Banavie.

  • What can we expect to see at Cawdor Castle Gardens?

    Cawdor Castle Gardens feature three different gardens with a variety of flora and fauna, including herbaceous borders, rhododendrons, azaleas, and contemporary sculptures.

  • Will I receive more details of the holiday before I travel?

    You will receive detailed joining instructions around 10 days prior to you departure, but you are of course welcome to contact us at any time should you have any queries.

  • What facilities do your coaches have?

    Generally, our coaches have reclining seats, air-conditioning and toilets, however this cannot always be guaranteed as sometimes we have to use smaller vehicles. Toilets are recommended for emergency use only and regular comfort stops will be made throughout your holiday while travelling around.

  • Do I have to go on the included excursions?

    Absolutely not. You are more than welcome to spend the day at your hotel or exploring independently should you wish. All we ask is that you inform your Tour Manager, so they are not left waiting for you to join the group.

  • Is there time to relax?

    Although our itineraries may seem jam-packed, boasting access to some of the most exclusive sites across the UK and beyond, a Brightwater Holiday is just that: a holiday. Each trip will counter in more than enough free-time for you to explore places at your own leisure. And with most nights and the majority of meals being included in our tour prices, you can relax in hand-picked accommodation.

  • Do I need to be an expert?

    Absolutely not! Although some of our tours are specifically focused on one thing, all you need to enjoy a Brightwater holiday is interest and bags of enthusiasm! Even on our most specialist tours, we take travellers from all skill levels, from experts to beginners.

  • How fit or active do I need to be for one of your holidays?

    You need to be able to get on and off the coach unassisted, and most – but not all – coaches have a kneel facility that lowers the front step for ease of boarding

  • Do you have self-drive holidays?

    Yes, we do – tailored to your exact requirements!

  • What’s the luggage allowance on your coaches?

    There’s no fixed limit, but we generally say one large suitcase to go in the luggage compartment and a smaller bag that you can take onto the coach with you. For flight-inclusive holidays, we include a luggage allowance of at least 20kg.

  • Where are your departure points?

    UK garden holidays generally depart from London, with additional pick-ups depending on the route of the coach, while holidays to Scotland depart from Glasgow, Edinburgh and Perth, with Dundee, Inverness and Aberdeen sometimes included. All Eurostar holidays depart from London St. Pancras and flight-inclusive holidays depart from one or more of the main London airports, with regional flights .

  • What about the company that will be kept?

    For single travellers, those with a companion or even those travelling in a larger group, you'll find that the signature of any Brightwater Holiday is the company. You won't ever be travelling with a group of strangers, instead, you'll find yourself surrounded by like-minded people with a strong shared interest who will soon become your firm friends.

  • What is a Brightwater Holiday?

    Bursting with enthralling, educational and enlightening itineraries, a Brightwater Holiday, by its very nature, is packed with bucket-list-worthy destinations, behind the scenes passes and expert-led experiences. From creating bespoke quality garden and special interest tours for groups and individuals alike, we have made it our business to make our guests' travel dreams come true.

  • Why is there a single supplement?

    Unfortunately, single room supplements are charges that are often imposed on us as a company when we book rooms for group holidays. However, most hotels do charge less for single occupancy, and we always pass this saving on to our solo travellers in the form of a modest single supplement.

  • How much are your optional excursions?

    Prices start from as little as £20, but please contact our friendly team for questions about specific itineraries or excursions.

  • Can I pre-book my coach seats?

    Yes, you can. In the case of front seats, guests with limited mobility are given priority. Please get in touch with our friendly team to discuss any requirements you may have.

  • How to get there? Easy!

    With a Brightwater Holiday, the journey is just as important as the destination and we make getting you to your tour start point easy. From organising group flights and individual travel plans, to offering accessible local departure and pick-up points, we go out of our way to ensure that your journey is as convenient and hassle-free as it can be.

  • Do I need to have travel insurance?

    Travel insurance is required for all overseas holidays and is also strongly recommended for UK holidays – primarily to protect yourself against cancellation charges should you be unable to travel.

Reviews of this operator

Trusted Customer  

Brightwater Holidays offers great value

28-Nov-2019

I would highly recommend Brightwater Holidays. It offers excellent service and value for money. This was my first tour as I normally arrange holidays myself, but this tour - which was to the gardens of Kent and Sussex - was a very pleasant change of pace.

Feefo Trusted Reviews
Brightwater Holidays Customer  

My experience with Brightwater Holidays

08-Aug-2019

The tour was well managed, the sites visited were all interesting and linked to the theme of the Picts and their place in history, the hotel was comfortable and the coach journeys were well paced. I have been with Brightwater before and will certainly travel with them again

Feefo Trusted Reviews
Alan Hawkes (Google Reviewer)  

We were on the Tour...

28-Aug-2022

We were on the Tour of the Outer Hebrides. We had a great experience, in no small part due to the excellence of the tour manager and driver.

Brightwater Holidays Custome  

Wonderful experience with brilliant information

31-Jul-2019

The most important factor was an amazing guide in Alastair Walker whose knowledge and care for clients was fantastic. The whole trips are superbly organised

Feefo Trusted Reviews
David MacLennan (Google Reviewer)  

Noted a comment on taking...

23-Aug-2023

Noted a comment on taking coaches on A814 by a local person who didn't know the facts: When the A82 was blocked and the POLICE divert you onto that road you do as instructed not what a you know are tight roads but they only way to your destination as intructed by officials. We know this route is not suitable for large vehicles but the driver does as instructed by someone in authority.

Eric Webb (Google Reviewer)  

Recent (September 2023) Scottish holiday...

07-Oct-2023

Recent (September 2023) Scottish holiday not so good. Various 'issues' to do with scheduling and organisation. I'm happy to report however that - after an interval - a letter expressing disappointment brought a full response - including a generous refund. So - with fingers slightly crossed - we'll be booking with Brightwater again in due course.

Kevin Barrett (Google Reviewer)  

The recent tour in Northumberland...

30-Sep-2023

The recent tour in Northumberland turned out to be a shambles. Our South London driver took us to Newcastle, but no guide to meet us. Next day still no guide and the bus driver attempted to salvage the tour the best he could despite having no knowledge of the attractions. Fortunately one of the passengers Googled the tides for Holy Island. No holiday guide ever showed up. Coach and hotel were fine. Do these people only offer self guided tours? Take Shearings next time.

ALEXANDRA MCQUEEN (Google Reviewer)  

Been trying to get a...

17-Oct-2023

Been trying to get a reply from them for over a week. Booked Xmas tour, confirmation said pick up subject to numbers, they never said anything when booking and theyve been paid in full. Would not recommend!

Dp Green (Google Reviewer)  

I had heard this company...

20-Feb-2024

I had heard this company was a nightmare to deal with, but thought I'd give it a go. Signed up for a tour, then emailed them about how to pay off the balance. No response to 3 emails. I've never encountered a tour company that ignored questions on how to pay off a balance. Looked into other reviews and found many complaints about cancelled tours and refusals to refund deposits.

Kieran Thompson (Google Reviewer)  

Two of your tour busses...

26-Jul-2021

Two of your tour busses used the A814 from Garelochhead to Arrochar on 24th July 2021. This route is not suitable for large vehicles and your drivers should not have taken the huge coaches that way. There are clear signs at both ends of the road indicating it is not suitable for HGV's. Our car had to go off into the soft verge to allow your coaches to pass. Please amend your routes to avoid this road in future.

1 Select your preferred date

Monday - Monday

May 12, 2025 - May 19, 2025
$5175
Prices last published on 31-Oct-2024

Book with Confidence

  • Transfer as credit to Future Tours

    Brightwater Holidays allows you to transfer existing payments to a future tour to avoid cancellation fees if you can't travel and inform brightwater holidays, 25 days before departure.

  • Low Deposit

    Brightwater Holidays requires a minimum deposit of 15% or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 70 days before departure.

  • Cancellation Policy

    We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of brightwater holidays charges.

    At 40 days before tour starts: Forfeit 50% of booking price.

    At 7 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.

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