Scenic Waterways Of Scotland

Itinerary

Itinerary

Day 1: We travel north and make our way to the lovely Foxfields Country Hotel, in the heart of the Ribble Valley, with time to freshen up before dinner.

Day 2: After breakfast this morning, we continue our journey to Scotland. We arrive at our wonderful hotel set in the stunning UNESCO World Heritage Site of New Lanark and enjoy a delicious dinner this evening.

Day 3:  Our day begins with a scenic ferry crossing from Wemyss Bay to Rothesay on the Isle of Bute. One for Scotland’s most beautiful islands, where grand Victorian architecture meets sweeping Scottish coastlines. On arrival we embark on a scenic tour of this coastal haven making a stop enroute at Mount Stuart where thousands of years of history form the backdrop to one of Britain’s great houses. A masterpiece of Victorian Neo-Gothic design, the house is packed with incredible architecture, lavish art collections and world-first innovations including the first indoor heated swimming pool. After our visit we continue our circular panoramic tour allowing time to take in the stunning views of the Isle of Arran, from the red-sand cove of Scalpsie Bay and the mile-long golden beach at Ettrick Bay.

Day 4:  After breakfast we take the short ferry crossing across the River Clyde to Dunoon on the Cowal Peninsula; one of Scotland’s best-kept secrets with its awe-inspiring natural beauty and undulating  landscapes.  Our day here begins with a visit to Benmore Botanic Gardens. Spanning over 120 acres and nestled in the dramatic mountainous landscape, walk along Redwood Avenue beneath the canopy of over 50 colossal Giant Sequoias, marvel at the Victorian Fernery and explore the impressive global plant collection with species from the Himalayas, China, Japan and the Americas. After our visit we trace the peaceful, tree-lined shores of Loch Eck and follow the route to the tip of Loch Fyne, Scotland’s largest sea loch, before climbing the dramatic peaks of the Arrochar Alps and arriving at the bonnie shores of Loch Lomond.

Day 5: We travel to Falkirk this morning for a fascinating ride on the Falkirk Wheel, the world’s only rotating boat lift. Built to commemorate the Millennium, this iconic feat of modern engineering seamlessly connects the Forth and Clyde Canal with the Union Canal 35 metres above. After our boat ride, we learn about the story behind the project with an interactive experience at the visitor centre. Continuing our journey east we pause at the iconic Kelpies, to view the breathtaking steel sculptures that pay homage to Scotland’s Industrial past, before arriving in South Queensferry for our sightseeing cruise on the Forth of Firth estuary. Our 90-minute cruise passes beneath Edinburgh’s spectacular Three Bridges as we enjoy sweeping panoramas of the capital’s skyline and take in the ancient beauty of Inchcolm Island.

Day 6: After enjoying our last hearty Scottish breakfast, we begin our journey home making an overnight stop at the Mercure York Fairfield Manor Hotel.

Day 7: We continue our journey home after breakfast this morning.

New Lanark Mill Hotel

Mount Stuart

Accommodation

New Lanark Mill Hotel, Lanark

The New Lanark Mill Hotel is located within the UNESCO World Heritage Site of New Lanark, a small 18th century village set in sublime Scottish landscapes near the falls of Clyde. Today, the mill buildings, school and workers’ homes have been converted into shops, museums and the New Lanark Mill Hotel. The rooms and the rooftop garden both offer stunning views of the river and the surrounding Conservation Area and the restaurant overlooks the beautiful River Clyde.

All rooms are en-suite with TV, tea & coffee making facilities and a hairdryer. Leisure facilities include an indoor swimming pool, gym, sauna and steam room. The hotel has a lift.