This tour is based in Dunoon, the main resort on Scotland’s lovely Cowal Peninsula. We spend a day on the beautiful Isle of Bute including a visit to the magnificent Mount Stuart and Inveraray Castle. We complete this lovely holiday by enjoying the wonderful scenery, flora and fauna as we enjoy a relaxing cruise on Loch Lomond and a wander around the Benmore Botanic Garden.
Saturday: After collection from your local pick up point we drive to our overnight hotel in Preston, where we break our journey to Scotland.
Sunday: We continue our journey north after breakfast, taking the ferry from Gourock to Dunoon, arriving at our hotel in time for dinner.
Monday: This morning we take the ‘wee’ ferry to the Isle of Bute. Here, we visit Mount Stuart, a neo-gothic house set in 300 acres of landscaped gardens and woodland. We explore this lavish mansion before enjoying a scenic tour of the island, with free time in Rothesay before catching the ferry back to Colintraive.
Tuesday: Our day begins with a guided tour of Inveraray Castle & Gardens. This is one of Scotland’s finest stately homes with plenty to see. In the afternoon we travel to Loch Lomond for a cruise, discovering the northern fjord-like end and sailing over the deepest part of the Loch in the shadow of Ben Lomond. After the cruise, we visit the pretty village of Luss before returning to our hotel.
Wednesday: This morning we visit the enchanting Benmore Botanic Garden, This 120-acre mountainside location is home to plants from regions including the Himalaya’s, China and Japan, we explore the Victorian Fernery, Bhutanese and Chilean Pavilions, the Redwood Avenue, and many other stunning feature gardens. Benmore is also noted for 300 species of rhododendron that create a spectacular display during spring and early summer. The rest of the afternoon is at leisure in Dunoon.
Thursday: Bidding a fond farewell, we depart the hotel to catch the ferry from Dunoon back to Gourock as we begin our journey home retracing our steps back to East Anglia.
The Esplanade Hotel is situated on the West Bay Promenade of Dunoon, perfect for those who like to escape from the hustle and bustle, it is a traditional hotel in an ideal location to relax & unwind with the beach right outside. Bedrooms have been refurbished and are equipped with a TV, hairdryer, and tea/coffee making facilities. The hotel has a lift, a well-stocked bar and an airy dining room serving local and Scottish fare which has views overlooking the River Clyde.