Helen guided us through 3 days of fun exploration. Her knowledge was simply amazing, highlighting the fascinating and sometimes brutal history, as well as the stunning natural and architectural beauty of this magnificent country. Oh, and of course, some terrific old pubs and unforgettable Whisky distilleries. Helen “walked and talked” us through from past to present, with an energy and enthusiasm that was quite contagious, while at the same time maintaining a sense of fun and taking care of us.
We saw Stirling Castle, sat on the thrones and walked around the battlements. Then it was on to Balquhidder in Loch Lomond, staying on in a gorgeous Bed and Breakfast at the Trossachs National Park. The hosts were simply lovely, and we all shared a Sherry or two around the fire while it snowed outside. The next day was all about the scenery and Jacobite history. We drove through Glencoe with stunning snow capped mountains, and went to the Visitors Centre where we learnt the history of the massacre of Glencoe as well as the Scottish Mountain Rescue Service.
From there we crossed the Corran Ferry and up the windy roads to Glenfinnan where we took photos of the monument where bonny Prince Charlie raised the Jacobite standard in 1745. We gazed in wonder at the beautiful Loch Shiel as the sun went low in the sky, and took in the fabulous views of the Glenfinnan railway viaduct now famous in the Harry Potter films. We stretched our legs along the way at the Caledonian Canal near Fort William as the sun was setting, enjoying a welcome hot chocolate in the cafe before heading on to our accommodation in Newtonmore for the night in a gorgeous old pub. Typical warm Scottish hospitality, yummy meal and a few ales before a comfy nights sleep.
The next day we were up early to go to the famous Dalwhinnie distillery, the highest distillery in Scotland. It was a rather cool minus 7 degrees when we arrived, however it looked amazing surrounded by frost and snow. Not too many tourists at this time of year either which made it even more personalised. Helen knew we had an interest in the Royal family, so she arranged an unplanned detour on the way back to have a look at Glamis Castle. Her insight and depth of knowledge of the Royals really added to the
experience. We stopped off at ancient St Andrews for a final hit of history on the way home, and shared some fish and chips before heading back to Edinburgh.
We can’t thank Helen enough for sharing this magic part of the world with us, and highly recommend her as a professional, personable, informative and fun tour guide. We would be confident that you will come away with a new appreciation of her beloved Scotland.
