Castles and Palaces of the Highlands

This morning, we head west to Banffshire where we find Ballindalloch Castle, a privately owned castle that is a much-loved home and has been continuously lived in by the original family since the 16^th century. The Macpherson-Grants warmly welcome us to their home where we discover the curious castle layout and see generations of family memorabilia and photographs as well as a trove of antique furniture, delicate china and a spectacular collection of 17^th century Spanish paintings. As we head outside, we will also have the chance to wander among the delightful rock and rose gardens. Along the banks of the river are meandering paths and the wider estate is a refuge for a multitude of native wildlife including a healthy population of red squirrels.

After breakfast we travel north and visit Dunrobin Castle - the château-style ancestral home of the Dukes of Sutherland.  The Castle is a wonderful early 19th-century fantasy Castle with a touch of the Loire and a dash of Bavaria.  Below the castle is a magnificent example of a formal nineteenth century garden. The gardens are laid out on terraces which descend to the sea. We have a full day to explore all the highlights of the estate as well as time to enjoy a display of falconry which is included here, offering some excellent photo opportunities of superb birds of prey.

Today we take the short journey to Brodie Castle. Situated in acres of mellow Moray countryside, this blush-coloured castle has been the ancestral home of the Brodie clan for over 400 years. As we explore the Castle, we will see evidence of how the castle has been altered through time from the impenetrable 16^th century guard chamber to the cosy 17^th century wing and the rambling Victorian extension. There is a notable collection of furniture, ceramic and artwork on display, as well as an extensive collection of over 6,000 books.

This afternoon we head to Cawdor Castle, near Nairn. William Shakespeare immortalised Cawdor in Macbeth as the scene of Duncan's murder, however, both the castle and its history are colourful enough without the aid of myth.  A turreted 14th century tower, protected on one side by a gully and on the other by a dry moat, rises majestically from the woods of the Nairn Valley.  The magnificent gardens include vast herbaceous borders, a rose garden, a peony walk and a kitchen garden - there is also a fascinating holly maze and a romantic bluebell woodland walk. Here, we have included a drinks reception with the chatelaine, Lady Cawdor, who will join us to answer questions and share what it is like to live at Cawdor Castle.

This morning we depart the Highlands, returning south to Scone Palace, perched above the River Tay in Perthshire. Its enviable location overlooks the routes northwards to the Highlands and eastwards through Strathmore to the coast. The Grampian Mountains make a dramatic backdrop and across the river you can gaze upon the city of Perth. Scone Palace throughout its history has been the seat of parliaments as well as the crowning place of the Kings of Scots including both Macbeth and Robert the Bruce. Here we will be met by Head Gardener (and occasional presenter on BBC Scotland’s The Beechgrove Garden) Brian Cunningham who will give us a guided tour of the gardens. We can also explore the palace that is home to a fine collection of antiques, painting and extraordinary artefacts as well enjoying a delicious lunch. Later, we continue south to our original joining points.