Arrive Saturdays x 5 nights. Staying 2 nts Speyside, 2 nts Aberdeen & 1 nt Central Scotland
"Each year Classic finds refreshing new ideas to complement our brochure, which has proven to be a big help in making Scotland one of our most popular destinations" UK Tour Operator
In 2012, Classic launched its NW Passage programme, which became so popular that it quickly sold out each year. So, for 2025, we have put together a similar offering covering the Grampian Highlands, Royal Deeside & Spey Valley. This package has been organised to provide unique daily experiences. Over the course of 6 days, passengers will have sampled and seen many different and diverse facets of this beautiful and largely unspoilt area, from visiting ancient castles to the nostalgia of a steam train journey through incredible countryside. Wildlife elements give this tour its distinctive feature, including a visit to the Osprey Centre and a magnificent tour along the coastline, with a cruise to see the dolphins.
Recommend to bring both Binoculars and camera for the RSPB Wildlife Centre and for the Dolphin Cruise
Arrive Saturdays x 5 nights. Staying 2 nts Speyside, 2 nts Aberdeen & 1 nt Central Scotland
"Each year Classic finds refreshing new ideas to complement our brochure, which has proven to be a big help in making Scotland one of our most popular destinations" UK Tour Operator
Day 2: Strathspey Steam Railway & Wildlife Centre
A short drive takes you to Aviemore, with free time before enjoying a 50-minute glorious journey on the Strathspey Steam Railway. Based in the heart of the Highlands, the premier heritage railway welcomes you aboard vintage carriages hauled by a lovingly restored steam locomotive as you admire the mountainous Speyside scenery. Disembark the train at Broomhill, where your coach will be waiting to take you on the short journey to RSPB Osprey Centre at Loch Garten. A Wildlife Ranger will provide an update on the Ospreys' activity. At certain times of year, you can see the birds feed their young. There is a whole lot more to see from many other species of birds, and you can take a walk along the marked pathways in the ancient Caledonian pine forests, looking out for the red squirrels.
Day 3: Inverness, Dolphin Cruise & Moray Coast
Departing Grantown, travel northwards to the Highland Capital - Inverness, with free time to explore this thriving and picturesque city, split in two by the River Ness. Then board your cruiser - Dolphin Spirit, at Inverness marina for a 2-hour enchanting wildlife cruise, along the picturesque Moray Firth to the world famous Chanonry Point lighthouse. Enjoy stunning views, local history, and rich wildlife, all delivered through engaging onboard commentary. Get those binoculars at the ready as you head towards popular dolphin watching spots. Learn about the pods of around 190 resident Bottlenose dolphins in an area where they are particularly active. Board your coach before taking the coastal road hugging the Moray Coastline through Nairn, Elgin, Portsoy, with time free in Banff. Turning south, the fertile landscapes of Grampian come into view as the tour continues to our hotel in Aberdeen for the next 2 nights. (150 miles)
Day 4: Balmoral & The Castle Trail
After a hearty Scottish Breakfast, the morning is spent exploring the nearby famous “Castle Trail”. Our first visit is to 16th-century Crathes Castle & Gardens - with turrets and towers, winding staircases, ornate ceilings, 240 hectares of exquisite formal gardens and its resident ghost! The 50-mile castle trail has more castles per acre than anywhere else in the UK - Craigievar, Houghton, Fraser, and Drum Castles, to name a few, and this tour takes you past most of them. Returning to Aberdeen early afternoon with ample time to explore the “Granite City”, Scotland’s 3rd largest city, with its parks, museums (which are free), Cathedral and expansive shopping mall.
Day 5:
Depart Aberdeen, taking the scenic route as we venture into Royal Deeside - much loved by the Royals for its rugged Highland landscapes & peaceful countryside. In the shadows of Lochnagar stands Balmoral Castle, the King's Royal Residence, the favourite residence of the late queen and described by Queen Victoria as “my dear paradise in the Highlands”. Entry included to roam at leisure around the permitted areas of the castle and gardens. Afterwards, continue the scenic drive over the tops at the Spittal of Glenshee before descending into the "Big Tree County" of Perthshire, with free time to explore the popular Victorian town of Pitlochry. Proceeding to your chosen hotel in Central Scotland for your final night's stay.