It was typically Scottish weather when I touched down in Glasgow—grey skies and light drizzle but a warmer temperature that promised to stay with us for the rest of the tour. After picking up my hire car, I embarked on the first leg of the journey, exploring the stunning scenery of Loch Lomond and The Trossachs National Park. Even with intermittent rain, the beauty of this part of Scotland is undeniable. Mountains, lochs, and rolling green hills at every turn create a landscape that is as wild as it is captivating.
Cameron House: A Luxurious Base
Our base for the tour was the exquisite Cameron House Hotel, a five-star lochside retreat nestled in Loch Lomond and The Trossachs. This traditional Scottish hotel offered the perfect blend of luxury and charm, and its stunning location made it an ideal starting point for our adventures each day.
Breakfast at Cameron House was an indulgence in itself. With a vast selection of everything you could imagine, it set the tone for the day. After a relaxed and leisurely breakfast, we gathered for a group photo with all the cars parked outside the hotel, capturing the moment before we embarked on the "Ten Loch Run."
The Ten Loch Run: Highland Adventure
The day’s drive was nothing short of spectacular. The "Ten Loch Run" took us through some of the most breathtaking highland landscapes imaginable. As we wound our way along the scenic route, we made a pit stop at Creggans Inn, where a warm cup of tea or coffee and homemade shortbread were waiting for us—a true taste of Scottish hospitality.
However, the unpredictable Scottish weather decided to mix things up. The ferry we had planned to take from Portavadie to Tarbert was cancelled, likely due to low visibility. Rather than be deterred, our group took out the road maps and plotted alternative routes for the day. I joined some fellow travelers who headed to the Benmore Botanical Gardens, and I’m so glad I did. The gardens, with their towering trees and exotic plants, are an oasis of calm. I opted for a gentle walking route but couldn’t resist continuing up to one of the higher viewpoints, where I was rewarded with a stunning panorama as the rain briefly cleared.
Rest and Be Thankful
On the way back to Cameron House, I made a quick stop at the famous Rest and Be Thankful viewpoint. As the mist lifted, I was able to fully appreciate the sweeping vistas that this iconic spot offers. After soaking in the view, it was time to head back to the hotel for a relaxing evening.
Dinner that night was at Cameron Clubhouse, located at the hotel’s golf course and spa. The food was exceptional, and the company was equally enjoyable (a big thanks to David and Sue for their lovely conversation). After a delicious meal, it was back to the hotel for a well-deserved night’s rest, ready to see what the next day had in store.
The Glencoe Run: A Scenic Farewell
Wednesday morning brought a pleasant surprise—sunshine! After one last leisurely breakfast, I checked out, loaded my bags into the hire car, and set off on the "Glencoe Run." This drive was nothing short of magical. As I navigated winding roads along the lochside, I met the group for a coffee break at the Bridge of Orchy Hotel, where homemade scones with jam and cream, and millionaire shortbread made the stop all the more memorable.
But the highlight of the day was undoubtedly the drive through Glencoe. Surrounded by rugged mountains and deep valleys, the dramatic landscape is awe-inspiring. It’s no wonder there are several pull-off points along the route to stop, take photos, and simply absorb the grandeur of the highlands.
The final stop of the day for me was the Glencoe Visitor Centre, a great place to learn more about the history and nature of this unique area. The traditional 17th-century turf and creel house, along with the resident Highland Coo, added to the charm. After exploring the centre and enjoying a final cup of tea, it was time to say farewell to the group. As they continued their scenic drive, I made my way back to Glasgow to catch my flight home.
Reflections on the Scottish Highlands
This luxury tour of the Scottish Highlands was the perfect balance of adventure, relaxation, and indulgence. The combination of incredible landscapes, elegant accommodations, and warm Scottish hospitality made this trip unforgettable. Whether you're chasing rainbows between lochs or enjoying a fine meal in a traditional hotel, the Scottish Highlands offer a unique and luxurious experience that will stay with you long after you leave.
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