We leave Edinburgh this morning and make our way to a wee viewpoint that has a way of catching people’s attention: The Forth Bridges Viewpoint.
1890. 1964. 2017. Those are the years these three bridges were opened and – despite their differences – they oddly complement each other. History spanning three centuries, it’s a great spot for a wee break.
We continue north into Scotland’s first national park: Loch Lomond & The Trossachs, often referred to as ‘the birthplace of Scottish tourism’.
It’s renowned for its stunning landscapes and diverse wildlife… but what makes this park so special? You’ll find things a little more unique to Scotland, such as standing stones and burial cairns, land trodden by the Jacobites and Bonnie Prince Charlie during the Jacobite uprisings of the 18th century, ancient woodlands, upland moors – land that is a sanctuary for red deer and golden eagles, ospreys and otters.
So, make sure you keep your eyes peeled as we cruise through this landscape on our ways to the shores of Loch Katrine. This 13km-long freshwater loch is more than just beautiful, it’s served as the main freshwater supply for the city of Glasgow for over 150 years.
And old Katrine doesn’t mind a bit of attention, either. Outlander fans may recognise it from season 2, episode 13 when it was used during a scene in which Roger and Brianna have a wee picnic.
Famous writer Sir Walter Scott once looked upon the loch and was so inspired, he wrote his famed poem Lady of the Lake. That was back in 1810… but we see firsthand how it continues to inspire people to this day… you included perhaps?
We have plenty of time here at the loch to grab a bite to eat and explore – but how you explore is up to you! We’ll bring you to Trossachs Pier where you have a couple of options.
Perhaps you’ll hire a bike from Katrine Wheelz and cycle along the scenic banks of Loch Katrine*. The private road you’ll journey along is almost traffic free, giving you the chance to fully relax and embrace the beautiful views around you.
If cycling’s not your thing, you can jump on the Sir Walter Scott Steamship cruise. Sit back and relax as someone else does the heavy lifting, while you simply enjoy the views and the commentary from the captain as you sail the waters. With a licensed bar onboard, maybe now is the time for a wee snack… or something a bit stronger.
Then, of course, there are your good old-fashioned feet. And if you fancy ditching the machinery and taking a simple stroll along the loch, then go where your feet take you!
After some fresh air and yummy food, we jump back on the bus and take you to the doors of Glenturret Distillery, Scotland’s oldest working distillery, dating back to 1763. You’re not the only ones to have been drawn to its doors – famous writers like Robert ‘Rabbie’ Burns once visited, Prime Ministers and Princes too.
And now it’s your turn. You’ll be treated to a tour of the facility and a sampling of Glenturret’s delectable range. What is it that you taste? Toffee apple? Citrus? Giner? Freshly cut oak? Caramel?
Freshly buzzed, we make our way back down south to the city of Edinburgh where we arrive in the early evening.
