Private Tours

Discover the hidden gems of Highland history and nature through one of my specially created itineraries. Rather than concentrating on the road — or missing out on a distillery whisky tasting — let me take care of the driving and planning, so you can relax and enjoy a truly memorable experience.

Whether it’s an artisan distillery where every aspect of production is hands-on, or once-important fortresses now shaped by the passage of time, there is so much to discover off the beaten path.

While I offer a small selection of carefully planned itineraries, detailed below, I’m more than happy to create a bespoke experience tailored to your interests and requirements. I look forward to welcoming you to the Highlands.

From Loch Fleet to Dornoch: Castles, Falconry and Highland Life

Loch Fleet, Ancient Skelbo Castle, Falconry at Dunrobin Castle and the Charming Highland town of Dornoch

This scenic Highland day unfolds along the coast, where wildlife, history, and pageantry come together.

Your journey takes you first to Loch Fleet Nature Reserve, a beautiful stretch of tidal flats and dunes known for its rich wildlife, including seals, ospreys, and migratory birds. Close by lie the atmospheric ruins of Skelbo Castle, a 13th-century stronghold linked to Margaret, the Maid of Norway. Her death in 1290 set off Scotland’s succession crisis, and the ruined tower still stands as a silent witness to that turning point in history.

From the coast, we continue to the turreted elegance of Dunrobin Castle, one of the Highlands’ most striking stately homes. Its fairytale architecture and formal gardens overlook the Moray Firth, creating a truly memorable setting. When timed correctly, the visit includes the dramatic falconry display, with birds of prey soaring against the castle skyline.

The day concludes in the historic town of Dornoch, where there’s time to stroll, visit the cathedral, browse local shops, or simply enjoy the relaxed Highland atmosphere.

A day shaped by open skies, coastal light, and moments of quiet drama—where nature, history, and Highland spectacle leave a lasting impression long after the journey ends.

From Tomatin to Loch Ness: Distilleries, Castles and Highland Towns

Iconic Tomatin Distillery near Inverness, Dramatic Urquart Castle on the Shores of Loch Ness, Medieval Town of Beauly

A classic Highland journey blending whisky craftsmanship, ancient strongholds, and the timeless mystery of Loch Ness.

We begin at Tomatin Distillery, set high in the Monadhliath Mountains, where pure Highland waters shape one of Scotland’s most respected single malts. Founded in 1897, Tomatin’s story is one of tradition and quiet resilience. Join a guided tour followed by a relaxed tasting, offering insight into the distilling process and its distinctive flavours.

Next, we travel to the striking ruins of Castle Urquhart, overlooking the dark waters of Loch Ness. Once one of Scotland’s largest castles, it played a key role in centuries of clan conflict and royal intrigue. Exploring the ruins and gazing across the loch, it’s easy to see why history and legend are so deeply entwined here.

Our final stop is the picturesque village of Beauly, rich in Highland character. You may wish to visit Beauly Priory, founded in 1230 and associated with Mary, Queen of Scots, before enjoying the village’s relaxed atmosphere and independent shops.

A well-balanced Highland experience—combining flavour, folklore, and unforgettable landscapes—designed to be enjoyed at an unhurried pace.

Balblair Distillery, Dornoch and the Ancient Stones of Easter Ross

Majestic Views over Kyle of Sutherland, Historic Balblair Distillery, Dornoch, Pictish Cadboll Stone and Mermaid of the North

A relaxed Highland journey blending elevated views, historic whisky, and folklore-rich coastal villages.

Our day begins at Struie Hill, a quiet local viewpoint high above the Dornoch Firth, offering sweeping panoramas where the scenery speaks for itself and crowds are rarely found.

From here, we follow winding Highland roads to Balblair Distillery, one of Scotland’s oldest working distilleries. A full tour and tasting offers insight into traditional Highland whisky-making, with time to explore the cask-filled warehouses and sample drams shaped by history and craft.

We then continue to the elegant seaside town of Dornoch, where there is time to wander its charming streets, browse independent shops, or simply enjoy the fresh coastal air.

Our journey carries on to the remarkable Cadboll Stone, an extraordinary Pictish carving that offers a rare connection to Scotland’s ancient past. Here, we raise a small dram in quiet tribute before following the coast to Balintore, where folklore and heritage meet at the striking Mermaid of the North and Salmon Sculpture, symbols of the area’s deep relationship with sea and story.

An unhurried and characterful day—rich in views, flavour, and legend—crafted for travellers who enjoy discovering the Highlands just beyond the obvious paths.