Scotland: A Classic Scottish Steam Break - Stirling Highland Hotel 798

Scotland: A Classic Scottish Steam Break - Stirling Highland Hotel 798

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4 Days From

$1295

$1254

Scotland: A Classic Scottish Steam Break - Stirling Highland Hotel 798

4 Days Starting in Falkirk, Scotland and ending in Callander, Scotland

Visiting: Falkirk, Fort William, Loch Lomond, Loch Katrine

Tour operator:

Brightwater Holidays

Tour code:

BSTH

Guide Type:

Fully Guided

Group size:

6 - 25

Physical rating:

Gentle

Age range:

1-99

Special diets catered:

Vegetarians, Vegans, Meat, Please contact Brightwater with any specific dietary requirements

Tour operated in:

English
From: $1295 $1254 Tourhub's Big Adventure Sale: -$41

NB: Prices correct on 11-Nov-2024 but subject to change.

This tour is no longer available, please see similar tours below or send an enquiry

Tour Overview

Embark on a captivating journey through the heart of Scotland with the "Classic Scottish Steam Break" tour. Experience the marvel of the Falkirk Wheel, the world's first rotating boat lift, and enjoy a scenic ascent to the Union Canal. Relive the golden age of rail travel aboard the Jacobite steam train, traversing the breathtaking landscapes from Fort William to Mallaig. Cruise the serene waters of Loch Lomond and Loch Katrine, and explore the historic Inveraray Castle. Stay in comfort at the Stirling Highland Hotel, nestled in the historic city of Stirling. This tour offers a unique blend of history, stunning landscapes, and classic steam travel, all under the guidance of a professional tour manager. Enjoy comfortable coach travel, meals as per the itinerary, and all outlined visits, making this a truly unforgettable Scottish adventure.

Highlights

  • Taking a spin on the Falkirk Wheel boat lift

  • Stunning views on the Jacobite steam train

  • Cruise the Firth of Clyde aboard the PS Waverley

  • A captivating sailing on Loch Katrine on the steamship Sir Walter Scott

  • Journey over the Glenfinnan Viaduct overlooking Loch Shiel

  • Explore Inveraray Castle, the seat of the Duke of Argyll

  • Experience the 'Rest and Be Thankful' mountain pass

  • Discover the scenic beauty of The Trossachs

Places You'll See

Scotland: A Classic Scottish Steam Break - Stirling Highland Hotel 798

Scotland: A Classic Scottish Steam Break - Stirling Highland Hotel 798

Scotland: A Classic Scottish Steam Break - Stirling Highland Hotel 798

Scotland: A Classic Scottish Steam Break - Stirling Highland Hotel 798

Itinerary

Expand All

Day 1

Location: Falkirk

Accommodation: Hotel

Accommodation Name: Stirling Highland Hotel

Meals Included: Dinner

We depart from our designated pick-up points (Aberdeen, Stonehaven, Forfar, Dundee, Perth, Edinburgh) and travel to the Falkirk Wheel, the world’s first rotating boat lift. We enjoy spectacular scenery as the wheel makes its ascent to join the Union Canal 35m above. We sail along the canal and under the Antonine Wall, the Romans’ most northern frontier, and explore the visitor centre. We continue to our hotel for dinner.

Day 2

Location: Fort William

Accommodation: Hotel, Hotel

Accommodation Name: Stirling Highland Hotel

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner

Today is long but rewarding as we journey back in time aboard the Jacobite steam train and experience one of the most spectacular railway journeys in the world, the Fort William to Mallaig line. From the slopes of Ben Nevis, the line runs through rugged mountains, past sea and inland lochs and on to the shores of the Atlantic at Mallaig. The route also takes us over the Glenfinnan Viaduct overlooking Loch Shiel, where Bonnie Prince Charlie raised his standard in 1745. We enjoy some free time in Mallaig before returning on the Jacobite to Fort William. We then return by coach to our hotel in time for dinner.

Day 3

Location: Loch Lomond

Accommodation: Hotel

Accommodation Name: Stirling Highland Hotel

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner

Today following breakfast we head for Tarbet on the banks of Loch Lomond, Britain’s largest inland body of water, and depart on a 60-minute ‘Northern Highlights Cruise’ with full commentary. As we cross to the far side of the loch we hear the story of ‘Rob Roy’ MacGregor who was born by Loch Katrine in the 17th century and lived at Inversnaid here on the banks of Loch Lomond. After fighting in the Jacobite Rising he became a respected cattleman but defaulted on a loan and was branded an outlaw – legends abound of his secret prison and hiding place in local caves.
We then cross the mountain pass known as the ‘Rest and Be Thankful’ and descend to the shores of Loch Fyne, a long fjord-like sea loch.
This afternoon we visit Inveraray Castle, which has been the seat of the Duke of Argyll, chief of the Clan Campbell, since the 17th century. The house is a mostly mid-18th century neo-Gothic design. Designers who worked on the house include Sir Matthew Digby Wyatt and Robert Adam; the interior includes a number of neoclassical rooms created for the 5th Duke by Robert Mylne.

Day 4

Location: Loch Katrine

Meals Included: Breakfast

Following breakfast we check out of the hotel and depart for our cruise on Loch Katrine, the tranquil freshwater loch which serves as Glasgow’s water supply. Sit back and relax on board the steamship Sir Walter Scott as we glide across the water and savour the famed charms of The Trossachs, a highly scenic area of lochs, hills and woods.

What's Included

  • Accommodation

    Accommodation is included as part of the tour package.

  • Services of a professional tour manager

    The services of a professional tour manager are included to enhance your travel experience.

  • Comfortable coach travel throughout

    Comfortable coach travel is provided throughout the tour.

  • Meals as per the itinerary

    Meals are included as per the itinerary.

  • All visits as outlined in the itinerary

    All visits as outlined in the itinerary are included in the tour package.

What's Not Included

Mode of Transport

Travel in comfort throughout the tour with coach transportation, allowing you to enjoy the scenic beauty of Scotland. Experience the iconic Jacobite steam train journey and cruise on the PS Waverley and steamship Sir Walter Scott for a unique travel experience.

Accommodation

Enjoy a comfortable stay at the Stirling Highland Hotel, located in the heart of historic Stirling. This charming hotel offers a perfect blend of modern amenities and traditional Scottish hospitality, ensuring a relaxing and memorable experience during your tour.

Check out our Q&As

  • What unique experience does the tour offer on the first day?

    On the first day, the tour offers a unique experience of taking a ride on the Falkirk Wheel, the world's first rotating boat lift, and sailing along the Union Canal under the Antonine Wall.

  • What is special about the Jacobite steam train journey on the second day?

    The Jacobite steam train journey on the second day is special because it is considered one of the most spectacular railway journeys in the world, running from Fort William to Mallaig through rugged mountains and over the iconic Glenfinnan Viaduct.

  • What historical figure is associated with Loch Lomond, visited on the third day?

    The historical figure associated with Loch Lomond is 'Rob Roy' MacGregor, who was born by Loch Katrine and lived at Inversnaid on the banks of Loch Lomond.

  • What can participants expect during the cruise on Loch Katrine on the fourth day?

    During the cruise on Loch Katrine on the fourth day, participants can expect a relaxing journey on the steamship Sir Walter Scott, enjoying the scenic beauty of The Trossachs, an area known for its lochs, hills, and woods.

  • 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.

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Friday - Monday

May 23, 2025 - May 26, 2025
$1295 $1254

Tourhub's Big Adventure Sale: -$41

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  • 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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