DESTINATIONS SCOTND | UK & IREND


55 miles north of Inverness, is a place where mobile phone signals disappear and nature rules


Close by lies Eilean Donan Castle, perched on a


rocky outcrop at the head of Loch Duich – it might look familiar to fans of 1980s time-travelling film Highlander, starring Sean Connery, as many scenes were filmed here. The 13th-century fort played an important role in Jacobean history, and visitors can enjoy a self-guided audio tour around the remarkably restored interior. Our final journey took us into the wilds of Alladale Wilderness Reserve, 55 miles north of Inverness, a place where mobile phone signals disappear and nature rules. Although reserve manager Pieter-Paul Groenhuijsen explained that their conservation work comes first and hospitality second, the Victorian manor house that serves as the lodge for guests boasts six characterful, high-end rooms. The intimate dining experience – a communal table with a buffet-style choice of delicious, locally sourced


Alladale Wilderness Reserve,


food – created a further sense of being cocooned. We spent a glorious day exploring part of the


reserve’s 60 square miles and learning about the ‘rewilding’ programme that is under way. This includes the planting of 30 million trees to replenish the decimated Caledon forest that once covered the entire area, plus an ambitious plan to reintroduce native wolves to this area of Scotland. This environmental focus is sure to be a strong selling point to eco-conscious clients, as well as those looking for a chance to recharge their batteries before heading back – courtesy of the Caledonian Sleeper – to the hustle and bustle of the city and their everyday lives.


BOOK IT


Great Rail Journeys’ seven-day Castles and Wildlife of Scotland escorted tour starts at £1,505 per person including return travel on the Caledonian Sleeper, hotel accommodation, all rail travel and excursions, and selected meals. The final departure this year is on October 6, with more to follow in April, May, June and October 2020. greatrail.com


HOW TO SELL SCOTTISH RAIL TOURS


TW


E Hassle-free: A rail journey offers a chance to sit back and relax – all you have to do is drink in Scotland’s incredible scenery. It’s also possible to request ‘courtesy’ stops in remote locations to take photos.


E Rail romance: It will appeal to nostalgia lovers – there’s a real sense of romance attached to long rail journeys.


E Group travel: Solo travellers will enjoy the sense of community an escorted rail tour offers.


travelweekly.co.uk


26 SEPTEMBER 2019


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