A Highland Fling
A rugged landscape of moors and mountains characterises Northern Scotland. The Highlands have been shaped by forces of nature for thousands of years, creating a unique environment of deep glens, glittering lochs and expansive golden coastline.
This is a world of legend and tradition, a chance to leave the hustle and bustle of modern life behind. Days are spent fly fishing in streams, dolphin watching on the sea and enjoying the warm caress of an after-dinner whiskey as the fire gently glows.
Where to stay
Set in Scotland’s Southern Highlands and needing little introduction, Gleneagles is a mere 45-minute drive from Edinburgh and provides guests with a whole host of activities to partake in amongst the stunning scenery. Famous throughout the world as one of golf’s premium destinations, lovers of the game can enjoy three championship courses, one of which has hosted the Ryder Cup. Other options include salmon fishing in the Tee, 4×4 off roading, falconry, shooting and wild horse riding.
For something even grander, we love Inverlochy Castle, perched in the foothills of Ben Nevis since the late 1800s. Guests are greeted by an impressive reception area, displaying crystal chandeliers and a ceiling that wouldn’t have looked out of place in Renaissance Italy. Uniquely, hotel guests are encouraged to dine at the same time, promoting social interaction and leading to tales of great Highland adventure.
Where to eat
Despite its wild nature, the Highlands aren’t short of fine dining options. One of our favourite spots is Killiecrankie House, a fine dining restaurant located in the Cairngorms National Park in Perthshire. A delightful tasting menu awaits, showcasing innovative Scottish cuisine that celebrates the country’s cultural and gastronomic history.
What to do
Whatever takes your fancy in this accessible wilderness, Blend Group can organise a trip that takes in the best of the region. Stay in a remote Scottish farmhouse, enclosed by enchanted woodlands and rivers home to beautiful salmon and rainbow trout. The fresh catch is cooked for dinner by a private in-house chef, as you relax after an afternoon of hiking or horseback riding.
If field sports are a passion, talk to us about taking on the challenge of the ‘Macnab’ and join an expert guide to chase the thrill of catching a salmon on the fly, shooting a brace of grouse and taking on a stag, all between dawn and dusk of the same day.
Surrounded by wild water, treat yourself to river-tubing, kayaking, white water rafting or paddle boarding and of course, no trip to the Highlands is complete without indulging in a spot of local whisky tasting. Among our favourite tipples are the 12-year-old Balvenie DoubleWood, the peaty 16-year-old Lagavulin and the smoky Ledaig 1996 which has been aged for 19 years on the Isle of Mull.
How about Edinburgh as well?
Why not make your trip a city and countryside escape by starting or ending your trip in Scotland’s picturesque capital, Edinburgh? See our Insight on The Dunstane House for some Edinburgh inspiration and a look at one of the city’s finest hotel establishments. We also love The Balmoral, shrouded in history and class.
At Blend Group we are specialists in curating bespoke experiences for our high-net-worth clients. If you’d like to enquire into a luxury Highlands adventure, we’d love to hear from you here.
