Day Tuesday: Foulis Castle & Castle Leod

A guided tour of Foulis Castle awaits this morning, the seat of Clan Munro since the 14th century. The white-washed mansion integrates an old tower, believed to have been built in 1154, and the grounds also feature an 11th-century motte. Upon returning to the house after the 1745 Rising, Sir Harry Munro found much of his beloved home had been destroyed by a fire. The house was rebuilt in a Georgian style and little has changed since, with each Munro member adding to the character of this Scottish treasure.

We continue to another majestic castle, winding our way down the lovely tree-lined avenue to Castle Leod, one of the Highlands best-kept secrets. This beautiful red sandstone castle has been home to the same family for over 500 years and is the seat of Clan Mackenzie. It has stood proudly in the peaceful Scottish countryside during plenty of tumultuous events, from bloody clan battles to the Jacobite Rising of 1745 and more. During our guided tour, look out for the antique maps and furnishings plus the historic portraits of the family, all with their own story to tell. Outside, you can find idyllic parklands, a woodland walk, a pair of Giant Sequoias and a Sweet Chestnut tree planted in 1550 for the mother of Mary, Queen of Scots.

Day Wednesday: Ballindalloch Castle & Glen Moray Distillery

Known as the Pearl of the North, Ballindalloch Castle was built at a time when clan feuds were rife in the area and has been home to the Macpherson-Grant family since 1546. The fairytale fortress, draped in ivy, is one of the most exquisite surviving examples of a traditional Scottish Baronial castle, and there’s plenty of historic artefacts, family memorabilia and fascinating stories to discover during our visit, including 17th-century Spanish paintings and a fine country house library. The gardens were elaborated in 1850 following vast restorations to Ballindalloch and encompass three distinct areas, a rockery, courtyard garden and walled garden, all offering an abundance of flora and fauna.

Our final stop today is Glen Moray Distillery for a guided tour of the Speyside distillery that has been in operation for more than 120 years. We also have the chance to try a wee dram of whisky!

Day Thursday: Culloden Battlefield, Clava Cairns & Cawdor Castle

This morning we discover Culloden Battlefield, scene of the final battle of the 1745-46 Jacobite rising, the short but bloody battle which changed the course of history. We also spend time at the state-of-the-art visitor centre which puts this infamous period of Scottish history into vivid context.

On the way to our next stop, we visit Clava Cairns, one of Scotland’s most historic landmarks. The ancient cemetery is believed to be around 4,000 years old and offers clues into the beliefs of the Bronze Age inhabitants here.

Dating back to the late 14th century, Cawdor Castle is an imposing tower house with later additions built in a Scottish style including crow-stepped gables of local stone. There’s time for lunch here (not included) before we enjoy a guided tour. Still home to the Cawdor family to this day, the castle has evolved over 600 years and has been filled with beautiful furniture, fine portraits, intriguing objects and amazing tapestries. Outside, there is a riot of colour to immerse yourself in.

Day Friday: Departure

We transfer to Edinburgh airport for our return flight home.