HAGGiS Adventures 2020/21 UK/EURO (GBP/EUR)

2020/2021

R U O E SE

D N A L T O C S

(UK) +44 (0)131 557 9393 INFO@HAGGiSADVENTURES.COM (EUR) +353 (0)1672 7651 TOUR@HAGGiSADVENTURES.COM WWW.SHAMROCKERADVENTURES.COM

HAGGISTOURS

Deep Scottish Love Creating Tartan Hearts What We Stand For #1 Wild Is Sexy #2 Paddle Your Own Canoe #3 Do One Thing Well #4 Re-Wilding Makes the Earth Smile #5 Local Is Best #6 Do It With Passion

04 06

Grand-master Guides

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08 10 12 14 16 18

The HAGGiS Passion Projects 22 4 Day Islay Whisky & Music Festival 24 4 Day Puffin Island Hopper 6 Day Shetland Midsummer Solstice 26 6 Epic detestations that don't need a filter

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2 - 10 Day Tours 10 Day Compass Buster 7 Day Coast to Coast 5 Day Hebridean Hopper 5 Day Highland Fling 3 Day Skye High 2 Day Highland Weekender

30 32 34 36 38 40

Accommodation 42 Tour Life

44

Do It For The Memories

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Festivals 48 50 6 Day Up Helly Aa 52 Christmas Tours 54 Hogmanay Tours Day Tours

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Our Green Story

58

TTC Sustainability

60

The Wee Print

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HAGGiS Adventures (EUR) +353 (0)1672 7651 tour@HAGGiSadventures.com (UK) +44 (0)131 557 9393 info@HAGGiSadventures.com 60 High St, Edinburgh, EH1 1TB www.HAGGiSadventures.com HAGGiS Adventures is a member of the family-owned The Travel Corporation (TTC) and is renowned and trusted for its outstanding quality, service, value, reliability and financial stability.

Pty Ltd 18 002 523 340. Please note: all prices are quoted in GBP/EURO.

S # LD

L I W Y TA

A T S # D

AY

# D L I W THIS IS OUR HOME. IT’S OUR BACKYARD, OUR BAR, AND OUR BEDROOM. WE GREW UP JUMPING THROUGH GLENS, LEAPING INTO LOCHS, AND DRINKING DRAMS. OUR LOVES, LESSONS, AND LAUGHS ARE AS WILD AS THIS LAND. THERE IS WILDNESS IN YOU TOO. WE’RE GONNAE SHOW YE.

BRAW TOURS OF SCOTLAND

WHY ARE WE IN

?

BUSINESS IT'S SIMPLE...

We believe that everyone needs a little bit of Scotland in their heart. That wild energy that can be let loose in the wide, open spaces. Living one step at a time and always pausing to appreciate the now. Don’t take life too seriously; we are all only one Scots style piss-take away from being completely grounded.

We aim to create tartan hearts not only in our travellers, but in our fellow Scots too. Our policy of filling spare seats with locals not only makes our trips more authentic, but provides a greater connection between the land and its own people.

The wildness of this unique landscape has been imprinted upon our personalities. That is why it is our responsibility to nurture it. These magnificent places need protection and re-wilding to bring them back to their natural state, so that all the lessons of this land are not forgotten.

Scotland’s landscape may appear natural and untouched but it is lacking a key aspect… trees. The old Caledonian Forest stretched from north to south and east to west; an ecological haven, home to numerous now vanished native species. Today this carpet of green is much smaller, and we aim to help it grow.

Tourism is notorious for impacting the local wilderness and we are mindful of our impact too. By re-wilding Scotland through Trees for Life and passing on the importance of wildness to our passengers we hope to achieve our purpose, and have a positive impact overall.

So take this with you when you leave Scotland. It is our present to you. Hold it dear. Don't take yourself too seriously, give generously, stay wild and protect your own country’s wilderness.

Graeme Ward, MD

We will never ever cancel.

If you find our trips cheaper we will refund twice the difference.

OUR FELLOW SCOTS

If you find the same identical trip cheaper with a competitor we will refund twice the difference.

100% satisfaction guaranteed. If you are in any way dissatisfied with your experience (and you tell us during the trip so we have a chance to rectify it) we will refund the trip price. The Tartan Heart Guarantee.

Student Prices Groups of 4 save 5% Groups of 10 save 10% Multi Trip discounts book more than 1 trip save 5% Past Passenger discount - save 5%

NEW FOR 2020

We’re working with YoungScot.net to offer Scots aged between 18-26 the opportunity to go on tour. Our 'fill spare seats with locals' initiative gives young locals the opportunity to see their country, meet people from around the world and give them an insight into the local travel and tourism world.

6

@wanderintwo

@stephenbridger

@loveandroad

HAGGiStours @readysetjetset

@readysetjetset

@readysetjetset

@androulla_papas

@readysetjetset

@stephenbridger

@readysetjetset

@caitlinjay_

@readysetjetset

@twobirdstravel

@_holly_hucker_

@haggisduncan

@lairdduncan

@martinscottpowell

@thisisleonpower

@jacpen22

@wanderintwo

@shonaghmareigh

@thisisleonpower

@stephenbridger

@yvonne_explores

HAGGiSadventures.com

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WE DON’T CARE MUCH FOR FASHION. WE KEEP IT RAW AND RUGGED LIKE THE SCOTTISH LANDSCAPE. TRENDS WILL COME AND GO, BUT YOU ALWAYS NEED YOUR

WILD SIDE.

Scotland is rough round the edges, and that’s just how we like it.

At HAGGiS we grab Scotland by the horns and take you straight to the heart of its jaw dropping landscapes. We show you the best of its wild side, and help you find yours too.

HAGGiSadventures.com

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PADDLE YOUR #2OWN CANOE

Us Scot’s pride ourselves on doing things differently.

Our routes take you to the must-see sights, but you decide what to do when you get there. We fought for our freedom, so we know the value of yours.

10

@thisisleonpower

WHY

ARE

YOU

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DO ONE THING WELL @thisisleonpower 12

WE’VE ONLY GOT ONE TALENT: UNFORGETTABLE TOURS OF SCOTLAND. THAT'S IT. WE COULD TRY SOMETHING ELSE...

BUT HONESTLY,

HOW COULD IT BE

THIS GOOD? Our guides are Scottish to the core. Working at HAGGiS is not so much a job as a primeval calling – they eat, sleep and breathe it. Their depth of knowledge of the land and its history is unmatched. Why would we play any other game, when we love winning this one?

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#4

RE-WILDING MAKES THE EARTH SMILE At HAGGiS we are committed to re-wilding through our 'Trees for Life' programme. As part of the TTC group of brands, we work closely with the Treadright foundation to encourage sustainable tourism development.

@yvonne_explores 14

SCOTLAND’S WILD LAND IS A FORCE FOR GOOD. IT IS OUR MISSION TO BE ONE TOO. WE WILL TURN YOUR HEART TARTAN, AND TOGETHER WE CAN MAKE THIS WORLD A

HAPPIER

WILDER

PLACE HAGGiSadventures.com

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LOCAL IS BEST We know how to give you an unforgettable Scottish experience. Whatever your tipple, our Highland hospitality will shine. We make sure to keep your spirits high and show you the authentic charm of our beloved country and its people.

@stephenbridger 16

SCOTLAND IS OUR BACKYARD. WE’VE BEEN LEAPING INTO LOCHS, SINGING SONGS AND DRINKING DRAMS FOR AS LONG AS WE CAN REMEMBER...

TRUTH IS, WE KNOW SCOTLAND BETTER THAN ANYONE BUT WE ARE FOREVER FINDING OUT MORE

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DO IT WITH...

PASSION 18

@jamross87

#6

HOW OFTEN ARE YOU TOLD TO ‘DIP YOUR TOE IN’ AND SEE WHAT IT’S LIKE? TOO OFTEN. ON OUR TOURS, ITS HEAD FIRST. STOP CARING. BE DARING. BECAUSE THESE ARE THE STORIES OF YOUR LIFE. We don’t do anything half-hearted. We are the one’s dancing naked through the glen while everyone else is tucked up in bed. Our tours are different from all the other tours of Scotland out there; they are twice as fun.

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THE HAGGiS

PASS I O N

P GRAND-MASTER GUIDES They say it takes 10,000 hours of practice to become an expert in what you do.

That’s a lot of time. This is precisely why we celebrate the elite of our crew, our master-storytellers, our grand-masters of guiding. These guys are the heart and soul of the HAGGiS clan, all clocking over 10,000 hours on the road.

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@hagscot

@haggisduncan

@gill_haggis

@fionas_adventures

@yvonne_explores

@haggis_michael

N All of our Grand-Master Guides bring their individual personalities to our classic tours, and what a bunch of personalities they are. We thought they deserved the opportunity to design something personal to them, so we created the Passion Projects. This is a never-been-done-before opportunity to experience a unique Scottish tour, delivered by a master.

PROJECT @kirk.wordie

@haggisteve

@haggisrich

@iainhaggisadventures

@calum.christie

@carebear960

@dougie.johnston

@gregmacbride

@lairdduncan

@haggis_caitlin

HAGGiSadventures.com

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4 DAY TOUR

THE ISLAY WHISKY MUSIC FESTIVAL

LEE

@jedventures

I love whisky. What I mean is… I really LOVE whisky!

When I’m on the road, I share my love for all things Scottish with people from all over the world; whisky, castles, lochs, glens, history. When I’m not at work, I set off on my own adventures, exploring the hidden gems of Scotland, and discovering new places to shout about to anyone who will listen. One of these very gems is the Isle of Islay; home, not only to some of the world’s finest, peaty whiskies, but to dramatic coastlines and delicious seafood!

Join me for a dram as I combine all my passions, on the spiritual home of Scotland’s smoky single malt. We will raise a glass and say “slàinte” as we experience the culture, music, and ‘water of life’ that this island is famed for!

* 22

ARTISTS ALWAYS SIGN THEIR WORK

THE PICTURESQUE VILLAGE OF LUSS, LOCH LOMOND THE BREATHTAKING 'REST AND BE THANKFUL' VIEWPOINT BEAUTIFUL INVERARAY MYSTERIOUS DUNADD FORT ISLAY WHISKY DISTILLERY TOURS AND TASTINGS TRADITIONAL LIVE MUSIC THE RUGGED LANDSCAPE OF GLENCOE AND THE HIGHLANDS THE COASTAL FISHING TOWN OF OBAN THE LARGEST EQUINE SCULPTURES IN THE WORLD, THE KELPIES 4 DAYS FROM £835/€1009PP* @twobirdstravel

Join us on an epic journey to Islay. Experience the island’s signature smoky whisky, and watch traditional live music at the annual Islay Whisky Festival – Fèis Ìle. Islay is the Queen of the Hebrides, and whisky is just one jewel in her crown. Explore the Mull of Oa peninsula, the Three Distilleries Path and the island’s bonnie beaches. Discover historic sites, learn about island life, and sample the finest single malt straight from the source. Travel through the scenic west coast of Scotland, stopping at Loch Lomond, Oban, and Glencoe. This tour will capture all of your senses.

DAY 1 | EDINBURGH

PORT ELLEN

We depart Edinburgh at 9.00am and travel to the picturesque village of Luss on Loch Lomond. We continue west, stopping at the Rest and Be Thankful viewpoint for photos, and then lunch in beautiful Inveraray on Loch Fyne. The afternoon is spent visiting the ancient Dunadd Fort, before boarding the ferry to Islay and settling in Port Ellen for the night.

DAY 2 | PORT ELLEN After breakfast, we begin the day with a walk on the beach and a visit to the historic Kildalton Cross. Have lunch and a dram at Ardbeg Distillery and continue on the Three Distilleries Path to Lagavulin and Laphroaig. Your efforts will be rewarded with sea views and more whisky! We finish the day back in Port Ellen, where we get in amongst the local whisky festival celebrations. (B)

DAY 3 | PORT ELLEN

NEED TO KNOW Your legendary local HAGGiS Guide

Spend the morning roaming around the rugged Mull of Oa peninsula. Visit the American Monument from WWI and keep an eye out for wildlife in the RSPB Nature Reserve. Explore Bowmore Distillery before free time for lunch and shopping. Our next stop is Port Charlotte to visit the Islay Life Museum, and Bruichladdich Distillery for whisky – and gin! Afterwards, walk along the white sands of Machir Bay, before our last distillery visit at Kilchoman. We return to the hotel and go to dinner in a local restaurant. (B)

3 nights 3* Hotel Accommodation 3 traditional Scottish breakfasts All ferry crossings Whisky distillery tours of Laphroaig and Kilchoman Whisky tastings at Bruichladdich, Ardbeg & Lagavulin Museum of Islay life FR EE T IME Bowmore whisky distillery (pay locally) *Per person price based on twin share accommodation (B: Breakfast)

DAY 4 | PORT ELLEN

EDINBURGH

After boarding the ferry back to the mainland, we continue our adventure along the stunning west coast to the busy port town of Oban for lunch. Afterwards, we journey towards Glencoe; one of Scotland’s atmospheric and awesome landscapes! Soak up the last of the beautiful scenery as we drive south, with a last stop at The Kelpies; two epic steel structures, and the largest equine landmark in the world. We arrive back into Edinburgh at around 7.30pm. (B)

Please note that these tours will run in conjunction with our sister company Highland Explorer Tours.

DEPARTURE DETAILS DEPART / 09.00 | RETURN / 19.30 ADULT £849/€1029 | STUDENT £835/€1009

START

FINISH

27 May 2020

30 May 2020

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PUFFIN ISLAND

4 DAY TOUR

*

DUNCAN

@haggisduncan

* 24

ARTISTS ALWAYS SIGN THEIR WORK

@thechaoticscot

I was born and raised on a Scottish Island, so most of my life has been spent by the sea, spotting wildlife, and sampling the freshest seafood. It’s in my blood! In my life before tour guiding, I was employed in the seafood industry, as well as working on research vessels monitoring marine life. I know first-hand the vast array of species which can be found in this part of Scotland, and how amazing it is to encounter them in the wild. The puffins are the superstars on this tour, but we’ll also be looking out for sea eagles, seals and dolphins! At the same time, we’ll be visiting the world-famous Fingal’s Cave on Staffa and the idyllic Isle of Iona. What’s there not to like?

BEAUTIFUL LOCH LOMOND FRESH SCOTTISH SEAFOOD IN OBAN SIX-HOUR WILDLIFE CRUISE TO TRESHNISH ISLES AND WORLD-FAMOUS FINGAL’S CAVE ON STAFFA ISLE OF MULL ISLE OF IONA GLENCOE DEANSTON WHISKY DISTILLERY THE WILD ATLANTIC COASTLINE 4 DAYS FROM £685/€829PP*

@thechaoticscot

The puffins have arrived! Meet the most comical birds in Scotland, on an awesome adventure to the isles of Mull, Iona and Staffa. Experience the beauty of Loch Lomond, photograph the Insta-worthy facades of Tobermory, and try to hide your amazement at Fingal’s Cave. Witness the puffins close-up on our wildlife cruise around Staffa and the Treshnish Isles. Keep an eye out for whales, seals and eagles! Soak up the serenity on Iona, before our last night in Oban. On our final day, we travel across beautiful landscapes, including epic Glencoe, before visiting Deanston Whisky Distillery.

DAY 1 | EDINBURGH

TOBERMORY

DAY 3 | TOBERMORY

OBAN

Leaving Edinburgh at 8.30am, we travel west towards beautiful Loch Lomond. Explore the picturesque village of Luss, and take epic photos at the Rest and Be Thankful viewpoint before free time in Inveraray for lunch.

Discover the ancient Dunadd Fort as we journey to the bustling port town of Oban, where we catch our ferry to Mull. Our home for the next two nights is the colourful fishing village of Tobermory.

Today we journey alongside the mountains of Mull to visit the peaceful Isle of Iona, which is known as the sacred heart of Scotland. Take plenty free time to enjoy lunch, visit Iona Abbey, discover the tropicalstyle beaches, and experience the special feeling which overcomes visitors to the island. Afterwards, we board the ferry back to Oban, to sample fresh seafood and have a drink with the locals on our final night. (B)

DAY 2 | TOBERMORY

DAY 4 | OBAN

After breakfast, we embark on our wildlife cruise to the Treshnish Isles and Staffa. Sit back and listen to your wildlife guide on our water-based journey around the idyllic isles.

Keep a look out for seals, eagles and whales!

We spend two hours on Lunga, where we will visit the large puffin colony that nest in burrows on a beautiful hillside surrounded by wildflowers. Lose yourself in tales of geology and giants as we sail to Staffa to see the famous Fingal’s Cave. Enjoy the epic island views on our return to Tobermory. (B)

We leave Oban and travel through the dramatic and breath-taking landscape that is Glencoe and onto the wild expanse of Rannoch Moor and Rob Roy's old stomping ground. We stop at Deanston Distillery to learn all about single malt production - and sample it straight from the source. Catch a glimpse of the Wallace Monument, while listening to tales of our national hero.

Return to Edinburgh at around 5.30pm after four awesome days. (B)

NEED TO KNOW Your legendary local HAGGiS Guide 3 nights 3* Hotel Accommodation 3 traditional Scottish breakfasts All ferry crossings Puffin tour to Staffa and the Treshnish Isles Deanston Whisky Distillery tour

EDINBURGH

*Per person price based on twin share accommodation (B: Breakfast) Please note that these tours will run in conjunction with our sister company Highland Explorer Tours.

DEPARTURE DETAILS DEPART / 08.30 | RETURN / 17.30 ADULT £699/€849 | STUDENT £685/€829

START

FINISH

05 June 2020

08 June 2020

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6 DAY TOUR

*

SHETLAND MIDSUMMER SOLSTICE We’re off to the wild islands of Shetland to celebrate the Summer Solstice; known by locals as ‘Simmer Dim‘. Experience the midnight sun at Sumburgh Head Lighthouse and Nature Reserve. Keep an eye out for the adorable resident puffins! Learn about the myths, legends and history which surround these epic islands, as we discover mind-blowing ancient sites. Get in amongst Shetland’s Viking heritage on a visit to the Up Helly Aa Exhibition in Lerwick. On our journey home, we’ll visit the awesome Braemar Highland Games Centre.

DAY 1 | EDINBURGH

LERWICK

We depart our capital city of Edinburgh at 8.00am and stop for photos at the iconic Forth Bridge; a UNESCO World Heritage Site. We journey on through the pretty coastal Kingdom of Fife, before stopping at the cute university town of St Andrews. We continue north to the epic clifftop ruins of Dunnottar Castle, before boarding the ferry in Aberdeen for our overnight sailing over the North Sea to the Shetland Islands.

DAY 2 | LERWICK On arrival to Shetland, we explore the main town of Lerwick, before roaming around an Iron Age structure. Discover Scalloway Castle, and then feast upon awardwinning fish and chips for lunch.

Marvel at the insane cliffs of Eshaness, as we return to Lerwick to get ready for a night in the local pubs!

DAY 3 | LERWICK

SIMMER DIM

Today we journey west to the wee islands of Burra and Tronda, before walking along the awesome beach at St Ninian’s Isle. Next, we wander through the incredibly well-preserved prehistoric Jarlshof, before returning to the hotel to spruce ourselves up for the evening ahead. Now for the highlight of our trip - exclusive use of Sumburgh Head Lighthouse! Soak up the stunning views of dramatic cliffs and endless sea, before taking a guided tour, watching live Scottish music and tasting some of the islands’ local specialities.

Experiencing Summer Solstice in such a unique location is something you’ll never forget. (B)

DAY 4 | LERWICK Spend the day exploring the main town of Lerwick, where you can learn about the insane history of the islands at the award-winning Shetland Museum.

You will also have the chance to visit the home of Detective Perez in the BBC Shetland programme, as well as the museum dedicated to the worldfamous Viking fire festival that is Up Helly Aa. (B)

NEED TO KNOW

DAY 5 | LERWICK

ABERDEEN

After breakfast, we go back in time at Tingwall, the site of Shetland's earliest parliament.

Enjoy the last of the island scenery at peaceful Lunna Bay, and then return to Lerwick for lunch before boarding the overnight ferry back to the mainland. (B)

DAY 6 | ABERDEEN

EDINBURGH

Back on mainland Scotland, we journey through Royal Deeside, passing Crathie Kirk; the Royal Family’s place of worship when staying at their Highland residence. We also visit the resting place of John Brown; Queen Victoria’s attendant and close friend - made famous in the movie Mrs. Brown, starring Billy Connolly. Our final stop is the Braemar Highland Games Centre.

The beautiful Duke of Rothesay Highland Games Pavilion is home to the new centre, and covers the interesting history of the annual Highland Games.

We will then make our last scenic drive through the Cairngorms National Park, arriving back into Edinburgh at around 5.30pm.

DEPARTURE DETAILS DEPART / 08.00 | RETURN / 17.30

Your legendary local HAGGiS Guide 2 overnight ferries (twin-share cabin)

ADULT £919/€1115 | STUDENT £905/€1095

3 nights 3* B&B Accommodation

START

FINISH

3 traditional Scottish breakfasts

18 June 2020

23 June 2020

Sumburgh Head Lighthouse tour and Summer Solstice celebrations

*Per person price based on twin share accommodation (B: Breakfast)

Please note that these tours will run in conjunction with our sister company Highland Explorer Tours.

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DUNNOTTAR CASTLE ST ANDREWS – HOME OF GOLF BREATHTAKING SCENERY OF THE SHETLAND ISLES TRADITIONAL LIVE MUSIC CELEBRATE THE SUMMER SOLSTICE AT SUMBURGH HEAD LIGHTHOUSE EXPLORE THE JARLSHOF PREHISTORIC AND NORSE SETTLEMENTS SPOT PUFFINS VISIT THE UP HELLY AA EXHIBITION IN LERWICK ROYAL BRAEMAR HIGHLAND GAMES CENTRE

6 DAYS FROM £905/€1095PP*

*

DOUGIE ARTISTS ALWAYS SIGN THEIR WORK

To say that I LOVE the Shetland Isle’s is an understatement.

Of all the places that I’ve visited in the world, Shetland is by far my favourite place on earth. It's not just my passion - it’s a bit of an obsession! There are world-famous, mind blowing, ancient archaeological sites and stunningly beautiful beaches. You’ll also find rugged coastline and wild countryside, on islands which are known for their traditional music, fire festivals and Viking heritage. Shetland is my favourite Scottish island and I can't wait to share this amazing destination with visitors from across the globe. Join me and my many friends on Shetland, for the trip of a lifetime, to celebrate the ‘simmer dim’ (what Shetlanders call the midsummer twilight) on these remote northerly isles. There’s nothing like experiencing the summer solstice in a special location like Shetland.

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6 EPIC SCOTTISH DESTINATIONS THAT DON’T NEED AN INSTAGRAM FILTER. Off-Kilter definition (adjective & adverb): Not in the usual, expected, or correct condition or state. Unconventional or eccentric.

Well, that pretty much sums us up…

The Off-Kilter blog is that cheeky wee voice of reason, guiding you towards epic experiences in Scotland. Expect local tips, travel inspiration, and shameless blethering. We don’t take ourselves too seriously, unless we’re talking about Scotland; our favourite subject. Our other interests involve awesome scenery, gory history, and Carpool Karaoke (on a bus).

We’re the online travel guide you’ve always wanted, and we have a Scottish accent.

What are ye waiting for? Get stuck in!

Haggisadventures.com/blog 28

ABOUT THE AUTHOR Kay Gillespie Creative Content Writer & former Tour Guide at HAGGiS Adventures.

Scottish travel blogger and adventure lover, Kay loves to travel around Scotland and has visited nearly 50 Scottish Islands. She loves to live up to stereotypes by dying her hair ginger, and regularly consuming haggis and whisky. A Scottish history geek and allaround chatterbox, she can literally talk for Scotland.

Scotland is such a poser. Our wildly beautiful country has the gift of getting better with age and looking damn good from every angle. You cannae beat a selfie with a Scottish backdrop, and filters really aren’t necessary where our scenery is concerned! Regular sunshine is the stuff of myths and legends, but that’s okay because Scotland is most photogenic when it’s atmospheric.

Every Instagram feed needs a wee sprinkle of Scotland, and your camera will love our unique landscapes, moody skies and quaint towns. Get inspired by these epic Scottish destinations!

@55.593

Glencoe

Isle of Skye

Edinburgh

Love a bit of drama? You need to point your camera in the direction of Glencoe. Carved by volcanoes and glaciers, Glencoe is where our scenery really shows off. Waterfalls cascade from misty peaks down into the depths of the glen and its rocky river. Soak up the atmospheric views, refrain from hiding behind your screen/lens for too long, and don’t even try to stop your jaw from dropping.

You’ve probably heard this before, but Skye is where magic exists in the everyday. The Cuillin Mountains are lifted straight from Mordor, and the insane coastline needs no added drama. It’s easy to imagine faeries and giants roaming around the waterfalls and rainbows, while Portree Harbour’s vibrant facades and wee fishing boats will brighten your photos on even the greyest of days.

Edinburgh’s stunning skyline has some serious romance to answer for, with enchanting architecture that’ll steal your heart in an instant. Wander the cobbled streets of the UNESCO World Heritage Old Town and New Town, before you ascend an extinct volcano – Arthur’s Seat – to capture the city’s dazzling good looks from above. Time your climb for sunset to give your photos that extra edge.

Glenfinnan

Isle of Harris

Loch Ness

Harry Potter fans cannae contain their excitement at this spellbinding location. The iconic Glenfinnan Viaduct AKA the ‘Harry Potter Bridge’ looks insane in all its multi-arched glory, with a backdrop of mountains to boot. That’s not all you’ll want to photograph, so don’t forget to look the other way at Loch Shiel for a full-on fix of Highland scenery.

Life’s a beach on the Isle of Harris, and this island’s western shores were made to be on camera. The flawless white sand and dreamy turquoise water will have your Insta-mates thinking “WTF?!” when they realise these tropical-style scenes are in fact our own wee slice of Scottish paradise.

Aye, there’s every chance there will be dark clouds and moody mountains in your beach shots, but that just adds to their charm.

This bonnie body of water needs no introduction, for it’s the legendary home of our big beastie – the Loch Ness monster. If you’re looking for a photo with ‘Nessie’, some Photoshop wizardry will be required, but this famous loch is otherwise #nofilter all the way! One of four lochs in the Great Glen, Loch Ness looks absolutely awesome on its own, with dark and mysterious depths, and mountains as far as the eye can see.

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10 DAY TOUR

C O MPASS BUSTER Think you can take 10 days

DAY 3 | LEWIS & HARRIS

ISLE OF SKYE

pub to mountain, from beach

Journey through the stunning isolation of Harris and enjoy a stroll on one of the best white sandy beaches in the world, before we take a ferry over the sea to the Isle of Skye.

to monster, and all the best

DAY 4 | ISLE OF SKYE

of it? Our journey spans from

bits in-between. So be bold, be smart and take our most complete tour of Scotland.

DAY 1 | EDINBURGH

STORNOWAY

We head north through Macbeth country for a stop at Dunkeld, where the Lowlands meet the Highlands. Through the Cairngorms National Park and on to the far north-west for our ferry to the remote Outer Hebrides.

DAY 2 | LEWIS & HARRIS See the wild and rugged Atlantic coastline and visit an island whisky distillery before going back in time at the mysterious Callanish Standing Stones. Explore Gaelic settlements and visit a traditional Hebridean Blackhouse and a local tweed weaver.

LOCH NESS

Spend the day exploring the spectacular Isle of Skye with its myths, legends and faerie stories.

Witness the breathtaking mountains, heartstopping cliffs and rugged coastline and try out McKenzies bakery in Portree for lunch before returning back to the mainland past Eilean Donan Castle - the most photographed castle in Scotland.

DAY 5 | LOCH NESS

ORKNEY

DAY 7 | ORKNEY

LOCH NESS

Look out for killer whales and dolphins as we ferry back to the mainland. We head south through Scotland’s rugged terrain and sparsely populated wilderness and onto Dubrobin fairytale castle.

Our journey takes us past the ruins of Urquhart Castle before we arrive at Loch Ness for a welldeserved party.

DAY 8 | FREE DAY AT LOCH NESS The day is yours. Hunt for Nessie in a canoe, mountain bike along the Great Glen Way, take an exhilarating RIB trip on the loch or hike up a mountain to get amazing views; there’s something for everyone.

DAY 9 | LOCH NESS

Time to head to the most northerly point of the British mainland and take a ferry to Orkney.

Visit the Tomb of the Eagles; a Stone Age burial chamber with an amazing collection of bones and artefacts. Admire views of the charming Italian Chapel built during the Second World War.

OBAN

Today’s your chance to travel on the Jacobite Steam Train (aka ‘Hogwarts Express’) and see the famous Glenfinnan Viaduct featured in Harry Potter. We spend the night in the beautiful coastal town of Oban, try some delicious seafood from the Oban Seafood Hut and traditional ceilidh dancing; HAGGiS style!

DAY 6 | ORKNEY A day of exploration, first Skara Brae, a Stone Age village inhabited between 3,200BC and 2,200BC, and onto the magnificent Ring of Brodgar standing stones.

NEED TO KNOW

DAY 10 | OBAN

EDINBURGH

We take in stunning Glencoe, some of Scotland’s most iconic scenery, and hear the story of the 1692 massacre of the MacDonald Clan. Then onwards to Edinburgh past Doune Castle, setting for Outlander and Game of Thrones.

FR EE T IME Add at the time of booking.

Ride the Jacobite Steam Train £45/€59 Free day at Loch Ness with adventure activity options*

9 nights hostel multi-share accommodation

Traditional Hebridean Blackhouse £5/€6

Your legendary local HAGGiS Guide

Skara Brae Stone Age village £7.50/€9

All transport and ferry crossings

Tomb of the Eagles £7/€8

Island whisky distillery visit

*pay locally

All highlights bolded in itinerary

ADULT £885/€1085 | STUDENT £865/€1059

30

START FINISH

START FINISH

START FINISH

29 Apr 06 May 13 May 20 May 27 May 03 Jun 10 Jun 17 Jun

24 Jun 01 Jul 08 Jul 15 Jul 22 Jul 29 Jul 05 Aug 12 Aug

19 Aug 26 Aug 02 Sep 09 Sep 16 Sep 23 Sep 30 Sep

08 May 15 May 22 May 29 May 05 Jun 12 Jun 19 Jun 26 Jun

03 Jul 10 Jul 17 Jul 24 Jul 31 Jul 07 Aug 14 Aug 21 Aug

28 Aug 04 Sep 11 Sep 18 Sep 25 Sep 02 Oct 09 Oct

ACCO MMO DAT IO N UPG RA D E Hostel Private from £135/€159 Twin room with shared bathroom (min 2 persons) + all inclusions detailed above

DEPARTURE DETAILS DEPART / 08.15 | RETURN / 17.00

STUNNINGLY BEAUTIFUL ISLE OF SKYE CRYSTAL BLUE WATERS OF THE ISLE OF HARRIS SPELLBINDING AND REMOTE ORKNEY ISLAND

10 DAYS FROM £865/€1059PP @yvonne_explores

FR EE TI ME

@readysetjetset

@gill_haggis @thisisleonpower

LOCH

NESS

ADVENTURE ACTIVITIES

@readysetjetset

Fort Augustus sits at the south end of the famous loch in the Great Glen and is ideally situated for adventure. You can take a cruise on the infamous loch to hunt for Nessie, and on the long summer evenings you can hire bikes or hike the trails, with wild deer, birds of prey and ‘hairy coos’ along the way. Or why not get really adventurous and take a RIB trip or canoe on the loch?

HAGGiSadventures.com

| 31

7 DAY TOUR

C OAST O

COAST

From exploring 9000 years of Orkney’s history and monster hunting on Loch Ness to travelling on the ‘Hogwarts Express’ and visiting sites that inspired the hit series Outlander, this trip has something for everyone. One week, one amazing adventure.

32

@yvonne_explores

REMOTE AND RUGGED ORKNEY ISLANDS THE WILD NORTH COAST OF SCOTLAND TRADITIONAL CEILIDH DANCING IN OBAN 7 DAYS FROM £585/€715PP

DAY 1 | EDINBURGH

LOCH NESS

Your adventure starts in Macbeth country, with a visit to Dunkeld Cathedral before stopping at a Highland distillery where you have the chance to sample a wee dram. We travel on to ancient Clava Cairns, inspiration for the hit series Outlander before a stop at eerie Culloden Battlefield. Our journey to Loch Ness takes us past Inverness, known as the capital of the Highlands.

FREE TIME

JACOBITE STEAM TRAIN AKA ' TH E H OGWA R T S E XPR ES S '

DAY 2 | LOCH NESS

ORKNEY

Time to head to the most northerly point of the British mainland and take a ferry to Orkney. Visit the Tomb of the Eagles; a Stone Age burial chamber with an amazing collection of bones and artefacts. Admire views from the charming Italian Chapel built during the Second World War.

DAY 3 | ORKNEY A day of exploration, first Skara Brae, a Stone Age village inhabited between 3,200BC and 2,200BC, before travelling back in time at the magnificent Ring of Brodgar standing stones.

DAY 4 | ORKNEY

LOCH NESS

Look out for killer whales and dolphins as we ferry back to the mainland. Head south through Scotland’s rugged terrain and sparsely populated wildreness and onto Dubrobin fairytale castle. We pass the ruins of Urquhart Castle before arriving at Loch Ness for a well-deserved party!

NEED TO KNOW 6 nights hostel multi-share accommodation Your legendary local HAGGiS Guide All transport and ferry crossings

DAY 5 | FREE DAY AT LOCH NESS

Highland whisky distillery visit

The day is yours! Hunt for Nessie in a canoe, mountain bike along the Great Glen Way, take an exhilarating RIB trip on the loch or hike up a mountain to get amazing views; there’s something for everyone!

All highlights bolded in itinerary FR EE T IME Add at the time of booking.

Ride the Jacobite Steam Train £45/€59 Free day at Loch Ness with adventure activity options* Skara Brae Stone Age village £7.50/€9

DAY 6 | LOCH NESS @thisisleonpower Be a wizard for a day and jump on the Jacobite Steam Train aka 'The Hogwarts Express' featured in a number of Harry Potter movies. The 42-mile long track has been voted the best train journey in the world by Wanderlust magazine readers for several years and offers some seriously dramatic Highland and coastal scenery. A trip highlight not to be missed!

OBAN

Tomb of the Eagles £7/€8

Take the opportunity to travel on the Jacobite Steam Train, aka ‘Hogwarts Express’, before heading to the beautiful coastal town of Oban, fresh seafood galore and the chance to try some traditional ceilidh dancing; HAGGiS style.

*pay locally

DAY 7 | OBAN

START FINISH START FINISH START FINISH

EDINBURGH

We take in stunning Glencoe, some of Scotland’s most iconic scenery and hear the story of the 1692 massacre of the MacDonald Clan. Then onwards past Doune Castle, a setting for Outlander and Game of Thrones, before returning to Edinburgh.

DEPARTURE DETAILS DEPART / 08.30 | RETURN / 17.00 ADULT £599/€735 | STUDENT £585/€715 02 May 09 May 16 May 23 May 30 May 06 Jun 13 Jun 20 Jun

08 May 27 Jun 03 Jul 15 May 04 Jul 10 Jul 22 May 11 Jul 17 Jul 29 May 18 Jul 24 Jul 05 Jun 25 Jul 31 Jul 12 Jun 01 Aug 07 Aug 19 Jun 08 Aug 14 Aug 26 Jun 15 Aug 21 Aug

22 Aug 29 Aug 05 Sep 12 Sep 19 Sep 26 Sep 03 Oct

HAGGiSadventures.com

28 Aug 04 Sep 11 Sep 18 Sep 25 Sep 02 Oct 09 Oct

| 33

5 DAY TOUR

H EB RI DE AN HOPPER

34

@jedventures

@thisisleonpower

ISLE OF SKYE'S AWE-INSPIRING SCENERY THE BEAUTY OF THE ISOLATED OUTER HEBRIDES THE WILD ATLANTIC COASTLINE THE BEAUTY OF THE ISOLATED OUTER HEBRIDES 5ISLE DAYS £409/€499PP OFFROM SKYE’S AWE-INSPIRING SCENERY THE WILD ATLANTIC COASTLINE

@cc_hewton

5 DAYS FROM £259PP

We take you to the magical Isle of Skye, and the remote Western Isles; renowned for their isolation, rugged beauty, and white sand beaches. Explore the depths of Loch Ness and be stunned by mighty Glencoe and its bloody history.

DAY 1 | EDINBURGH

STORNOWAY

We head north through Macbeth country for a stop at Dunkeld, where the Lowlands meet the Highlands. Through the Cairngorms National Park and on to the far north-west for our ferry to the remote Outer Hebrides.

DAY 2 | STORNOWAY

LEWIS & HARRIS

DAY 4 | ISLE OF SKYE

LOCH NESS

Spend the day exploring the spectacular Isle of Skye with its myths, legends and faerie stories. Witness the breath-taking mountains, heart stopping cliffs and rugged coastline, before returning back to the mainland past Eilean Donan Castle - the most photographed castle in Scotland.

DAY 3 | LEWIS & HARRIS

ISLE OF SKYE

Island whisky distillery visit All highlights bolded in itinerary FR EE T IME Add at the time of booking.

Hunt for Nessie on a Loch Ness cruise*

DAY 5 | LOCH NESS

EDINBURGH

Heading south from the Great Glen, we enter mysterious Glencoe and the wilds of Rannoch Moor. Pass Doune Castle that starred in Outlander and Game of Thrones, and historic Stirling before we return to Edinburgh.

CALLANISH STANDING STONES F RE E T IM E

4 nights hostel multi-share accommodation Your legendary local HAGGiS Guide

See the wild and rugged Atlantic coastline and visit an island whisky distillery before going back in time at the mysterious Callanish Standing Stones. Explore Gaelic settlements and visit a traditional Hebridean Blackhouse and a local tweed weaver.

Journey through the stunning isolation of Harris and take a stroll on one of the best white sandy beaches in the world, before we take a ferry over the sea to the Isle of Skye.

NEED TO KNOW

The enormous Neolithic standing stones of Callanish date back more than 4,000 years and are older than Stonehenge. Their meaning remains a mystery. Perhaps an ancient calendar? A site of worship? Who knows? But these are considered to be some of the most impressive and inspiring of any of the ancient stones in Britain, so no wonder they were used as a model for the fictional stone circle Craigh na Dun in Outlander.

Traditional Gearrannan Blackhouse £5/€6 *pay locally

ACCO MMO DAT IO N UPG RA D E Hostel Private from £99/€119 Twin room with shared bathroom (min 2 persons) + all inclusions detailed above

DEPARTURE DETAILS DEPART / 08.15 | RETURN / 17.00 ADULT £419/€515 | STUDENT £409/€499 START FINISH START FINISH START FINISH 29 Apr 06 May 13 May 20 May 27 May 03 Jun 10 Jun 17 Jun

03 May 10 May 17 May 24 May 31 May 07 Jun 14 Jun 21 Jun

24 Jun 28 Jun 01 Jul 05 Jul 08 Jul 12 Jul 15 Jul 19 Jul 22 Jul 26 Jul 29 Jul 02 Aug 05 Aug 09 Aug 12 Aug 16 Aug

19 Aug 26 Aug 02 Sep 09 Sep 16 Sep 23 Sep 30 Sep

HAGGiSadventures.com

23 Aug 30 Aug 06 Sep 13 Sep 20 Sep 27 Sep 04 Oct

| 35

5 DAY TOUR

H IGHLAND F L I N G

36

ISLE OF SKYE’S AWE-INSPIRING SCENERY MONSTER HUNTING ON LEGENDARY LOCH NESS TRADITIONAL CEILIDH DANCING IN OBAN 5 DAYS FROM £389/€479PP

NEED TO KNOW

@thisisleonpower 4 nights hostel multi-share accommodation Your legendary local HAGGiS Guide

A spectacular adventure

All transport and ferry crossings

through the Highlands

All highlights bolded in itinerary

Highland whisky distillery visit

FR EE T IME Add at the time of booking.

and the magical Isle of Skye. Ride the ‘Hogwarts

Ride the Jacobite Steam Train (summer only) £45/€59 Hunt for Nessie on a Loch Ness cruise (summer only)*

@meganbmm

Express’ in summer

*pay locally

months, hear tales of

ACCO MMO DAT IO N UPG RA D E Hostel Private from £65/€75

Scotland’s bloody history

Twin room with shared bathroom (min 2 persons) + all inclusions detailed above

and test your dancing skills at a traditional Scottish ceilidh; that’s a proper Highland fling!

DAY 1 | EDINBURGH

OBAN

Leaving Edinburgh we take in the mighty Wallace Monument and visit a whisky distillery before passing the medieval stronghold of Doune Castle featured in Outlander. On to eerie Glencoe, home to some of Scotland’s most iconic scenery. We spend the night in the coastal town of Oban for fresh seafood and where we dance the night away at a traditional Scottish ceilidh.

DAY 2 | OBAN

ISLE OF SKYE

Passing under the shadow of Ben Nevis, we take in the Glenfinnan Viaduct and the stunning views over Loch Shiel. During the summer, take the chance to travel on the famous Jacobite Steam Train aka ‘Hogwarts Express’ before jumping on a ferry over the sea to the Isle of Skye. (Alternative route for winter, see website for details)

DEPARTURE DETAILS

@torimcarthur

DAY 3 | ISLE OF SKYE

DEPART / 08.30 | RETURN / 17.00 LOCH NESS

Today we gallivant around the stunning Isle of Skye, famous for its castle ruins, awesome scenery and legendary clans. Enjoy the windswept mountains and rugged coastline and try out McKenzies bakery in Portree for lunch before we pass beautiful Eilean Donan Castle on our way to Loch Ness for monster spotting and our home for the night.

DAY 4 | LOCH NESS Journey north to lonely Culloden Battlefield and ancient Clava Cairns, the inspiration for Outlander. Help restore Scotland's natural beauty by planting a tree in the HAGGiS Grove for the Trees for Life charity (summer only, selected departures).

DAY 5 | LOCH NESS

EDINBURGH

Today’s adventure takes us to the heart of Macbeth country, picturesque Dunkeld Cathedral followed by a wonder through the beautiful woodlands and waterfalls of the Hermitage before arriving in Edinburgh.

LOW SEASON ADULT FROM £399/€489 | STUDENT FROM £389/€479 MED SEASON ADULT FROM £409/€499 | STUDENT FROM £399/€489 HIGH SEASON ADULT FROM £419/€515 | STUDENT FROM £409/€499

START FINISH START FINISH START FINISH 02 Jan 06 Jan 13 Jan 20 Jan 27 Jan 03 Feb 10 Feb 17 Feb 24 Feb 02 Mar 09 Mar 16 Mar 23 Mar 30 Mar 06 Apr 13 Apr 20 Apr 27 Apr 04 May 11 May 18 May 25 May 01 Jun 08 Jun

06 Jan 15 Jun 19 Jun 05 Oct 09 Oct 10 Jan 22 Jun 26 Jun 12 Oct 16 Oct 17 Jan 29 Jun 03 Jul 19 Oct 23 Oct 24 Jan 04 Jul 08 Jul 26 Oct 30 Oct 31 Jan 06 Jul 10 Jul 02 Nov 06 Nov 07 Feb 11 Jul 15 Jul 09 Nov 13 Nov 14 Feb 13 Jul 17 Jul 23 Nov 27 Nov 21 Feb 18 Jul 22 Jul 07 Dec 11 Dec 28 Feb 20 Jul 24 Jul 14 Dec 18 Dec 06 Mar 25 Jul 29 Jul 02 Jan* 06 Jan* 13 Mar 27 Jul 31 Jul 04 Jan* 08 Jan* 20 Mar 01 Aug 05 Aug 11 Jan* 15 Jan* 27 Mar 03 Aug 07 Aug 18 Jan* 22 Jan* 03 Apr 08 Aug 12 Aug 25 Jan* 01 Feb* 10 Apr 10 Aug 14 Aug 01 Feb* 05 Feb* 17 Apr 15 Aug 19 Aug 08 Feb* 12 Feb* 24 Apr 17 Aug 21 Aug 15 Feb* 19 Feb* 01 May 22 Aug 26 Aug 22 Feb* 26 Feb* 08 May 24 Aug 28 Aug 01 Mar* 05 Mar* 15 May 31 Aug 04 Sep 08 Mar* 12 Mar* 22 May 07 Sep 11 Sep 15 Mar* 19 Mar* 29 May 14 Sep 18 Sep 22 Mar* 26 Mar* 05 Jun 21 Sep 25 Sep 29 Mar* 02 Apr* 12 Jun 28 Sep 02 Oct

*2021 HAGGiSadventures.com

| 37

3 DAY TOUR

SKYE H I G H

@thisisleonpower

38

STUNNINGLY BEAUTIFUL ISLE OF SKYE RUGGED LANDSCAPE OF GLENCOE MYSTERIOUS LOCH NESS 3 DAYS FROM £209/€259PP

LOW SEASON ADULT FROM £215/€265 | STUDENT FROM £209/€259

@readysetjetset

@gemma_harland

MEDIUM SEASON ADULT FROM £225/€275 | STUDENT FROM £219/€269 HIGH SEASON ADULT FROM £235/€289 | STUDENT FROM £229/€279

The Skye High is a wee gem. Ideal for travellers short on time who want to get the most out of their trip to Scotland. All the best stuff is packed in: lochs, castles ruins, a mysterious island and Nessie hunting.

DAY 1 | EDINBURGH

LOCH NESS

Leaving Edinburgh we journey north to Macbeth country and visit picturesque Dunkeld Cathedral. You have a chance to taste a dram of whisky at a Highland distillery before seeing the ruins of Urquhart Castle. We continue to the banks of Loch Ness where we’ll spend the night and party till the small hours.

NEED TO KNOW 2 nights hostel multi-share accommodation Your legendary local HAGGiS Guide All transport Highland whisky distillery visit All highlights bolded in itinerary FRE E TIM E

DAY 2 | ISLE OF SKYE Spend the day exploring the stunning Isle of Skye with its myths, legends and faerie stories. Witness the breathtaking mountains, heart stopping cliffs and rugged coastline, before returning back to the mainland past Eilean Donan Castle - the most photographed castle in Scotland.

DAY 3 | LOCH NESS

EDINBURGH

Leaving the Great Glen and heading south we stop to marvel at the Glenfinnan Viaduct, famous to all Harry Potter movie fans. We encounter the dramatic mountain scenery of Glencoe, used as a backdrop in the James Bond and Harry Potter movies.

You will hear tales of William Wallace, Rob Roy and clan battles before passing Stirling on our return journey to Edinburgh.

Hunt for Nessie on a Loch Ness cruise (summer only, pay locally) ACCOM M O DAT IO N UPG RA D E Hostel Private from £25/€35 Twin room with shared bathroom (min 2 persons) + all inclusions detailed above

DEPARTURE DETAILS DEPART / 08.30 | RETURN / 17.00 All tours will spend two nights at Loch Ness with the exception of the below.

Tours departing Saturdays from April to September, Wednesdays from May to September and Mondays from 6th July to 24th August will spend one night on the Isle of Skye and one night at Loch Ness.

START FINISH START FINISH START FINISH 02 Jan 03 Jan 10 Jan 17 Jan 24 Jan 31 Jan 07 Feb 14 Feb 21 Feb 28 Feb 02 Mar 06 Mar 09 Mar 13 Mar 16 Mar 20 Mar 23 Mar 27 Mar 30 Mar 03 Apr 06 Apr 08 Apr 10 Apr 11 Apr 13 Apr 17 Apr 20 Apr 24 Apr 27 Apr 01 May 04 May 08 May 11 May 15 May 18 May 22 May 23 May 25 May 27 May 29 May 01 Jun 03 Jun 05 Jun 08 Jun 10 Jun 12 Jun 15 Jun 17 Jun 19 Jun 22 Jun

04 Jan 05 Jan 12 Jan 19 Jan 26 Jan 02 Feb 09 Feb 16 Feb 23 Feb 01 Mar 04 Mar 08 Mar 11 Mar 15 Mar 18 Mar 22 Mar 25 Mar 29 Mar 01 Apr 05 Apr 08 Apr 10 Apr 12 Apr 13 Apr 15 Apr 19 Apr 22 Apr 26 Apr 29 Apr 03 May 06 May 10 May 13 May 17 May 20 May 24 May 25 May 27 May 29 May 31 May 03 Jun 05 Jun 07 Jun 10 Jun 12 Jun 14 Jun 17 Jun 19 Jun 21 Jun 24 Jun

24 Jun 26 Jun 29 Jun 01 Jul 03 Jul 04 Jul 06 Jul 08 Jul 10 Jul 11 Jul 13 Jul 15 Jul 17 Jul 18 Jul 20 Jul 22 Jul 24 Jul 25 Jul 27 Jul 29 Jul 31 Jul 01 Aug 03 Aug 05 Aug 07 Aug 08 Aug 10 Aug 12 Aug 14 Aug 15 Aug 17 Aug 19 Aug 21 Aug 22 Aug 24 Aug 26 Aug 28 Aug 29 Aug 31 Aug 02 Sep 04 Sep 05 Sep 07 Sep 09 Sep 11 Sep 12 Sep 14 Sep 16 Sep 18 Sep 19 Sep

26 Jun 28 Jun 31 Jun 03 Jul 05 Jul 06 Jul 08 Jul 10 Jul 12 Jul 13 Jul 15 Jul 17 Jul 19 Jul 20 Jul 22 Jul 24 Jul 26 Jul 27 Jul 29 Jul 31 Jul 02 Aug 03 Aug 05 Aug 07 Aug 09 Aug 10 Aug 12 Aug 14 Aug 16 Aug 17 Aug 19 Aug 21 Aug 23 Aug 24 Aug 26 Aug 28 Aug 30 Aug 31 Aug 02 Sep 04 Sep 06 Sep 07 Sep 09 Sep 11 Sep 13 Sep 14 Sep 16 Sep 18 Sep 20 Sep 21 Sep

21 Sep 23 Sep 25 Sep 28 Sep 30 Sep 02 Oct 05 Oct 09 Oct 12 Oct 16 Oct 19 Oct 23 Oct 26 Oct 30 Oct 02 Nov 06 Nov 09 Nov 13 Nov 20 Nov 23 Nov 27 Nov 30 Nov 07 Dec 11 Dec 14 Dec 18 Dec 21 Dec 27 Dec 28 Dec 02 Jan* 04 Jan* 08 Jan* 15 Jan* 22 Jan* 29 Jan* 05 Feb* 12 Feb* 19 Feb* 26 Feb* 01 Mar* 05 Mar* 08 Mar* 12 Mar* 15 Mar* 19 Mar* 22 Mar* 26 Mar* 29 Mar*

23 Sep 25 Sep 27 Sep 30 Sep 02 Oct 04 Oct 07 Oct 11 Oct 14 Oct 18 Oct 21 Oct 25 Oct 28 Oct 01 Nov 04 Nov 08 Oct 11 Nov 15 Nov 22 Nov 25 Nov 29 Nov 02 Dec 09 Dec 13 Dec 16 Dec 20 Dec 23 Dec 29 Dec 30 Dec 04 Jan* 06 Jan* 10 Jan* 17 Jan* 24 Jan* 31 Jan* 07 Feb* 14 Feb* 21 Feb* 28 Feb* 03 Mar* 07 Mar* 10 Mar* 14 Mar* 17 Mar* 21 Mar* 24 Mar* 28 Mar* 31 Mar*

*2021 HAGGiSadventures.com

| 39

2 DAY TOUR

H IGHLAND WEEKENDER

VISIT A HIGHLAND WHISKY DISTILLERY MARVEL AT STUNNING GLENCOE OVERNIGHT ON THE BANKS OF LOCH NESS 2 DAYS FROM £145/€179PP @thisisleonpower

40

@jedventures

LOCH NESS CRUISE @transient_ellie

@thisisleonpower

The ultimate weekend trip to the Scottish Highlands. Spend two action-packed days exploring the heart of Scotland with its flowing rivers, ruined castles and cathedrals, mysterious Loch Ness, and famous movie sets. Sample a wee dram of

People can't describe it. The feeling on that loch is just strange. Is it because it's enormous? Or because of the monster? Join the Loch Ness Cruise and find out for yourself. There's sonar and underwater imaging systems to hunt out the beast and an on board bar for those who don't believe in it. Cruise duration approx 1 hr.

NEED TO KNOW

our national drink at a whisky distillery, travel back in time at

1 night hostel multi-share accommodation

the mysterious Clava Cairns, and learn the real history which

All transport

Your legendary local HAGGiS Guide Highland whisky distillery visit

inspired Outlander at Culloden Battlefield.

All highlights bolded in itinerary FR EE T IME

DAY 1 | EDINBURGH

LOCH NESS

We leave Scotland's capital behind at 8.30am and head north to explore the forests and salmonpacked rivers of Perthshire, stopping at Dunkeld with its mighty cathedral in the heart of Macbeth country. Then we have a chance to sample Scotland's national drink, a wee dram of whisky at a Highland distillery. We visit Clava Cairns and Culloden Battlefield made famous by the hit series Outlander. We spend the night on the banks of Loch Ness where you’ll have a chance to go monster hunting on a 1-hour cruise before partying the night away at Morag's Lodge Hostel.

DAY 2 | LOCH NESS

EDINBURGH

In the morning we head south and travel through some of the most iconic Highland landscapes to mysterious and haunting Glencoe also known as the ‘Weeping Glen’. Stunningly beautiful, it has been the backdrop in movies including Harry Potter and Skyfall. We cross the wilds of Rannoch Moor towards the Lowlands and on past Doune Castle that starred in Outlander and Game of Thrones. As we pass historic Stirling, your Guide will speak passionately about both William Wallace and Rob Roy MacGregor, undoubtedly two of Scotland’s most heroic figures, before we arrive back in Edinburgh.

Hunt for Nessie on a Loch Ness cruise (pay locally)

DEPARTURE DETAILS DEPART / 08.30 | RETURN / 17.00 ADULT £149/€185 | STUDENT £145/€179 START FINISH START FINISH START FINISH 02 May 09 May 16 May 23 May 30 May 06 Jun 13 Jun 20 Jun

03 May 10 May 17 May 24 May 31 May 07 Jun 14 Jun 21 Jun

27 Jun 04 Jul 11 Jul 18 Jul 25 Jul 01 Aug 8 Aug 15 Aug

28 Jun 05 Jul 12 Jul 19 Jul 26 Jul 02 Aug 09 Aug 16 Aug

22 Aug 29 Aug 05 Sep 12 Sep 19 Sep 26 Sep 03 Oct

HAGGiSadventures.com

23 Aug 30 Aug 06 Sep 13 Sep 20 Sep 27 Sep 04 Oct

| 41

42

LODGE

MORAG’S

@stephenbridger

@stephenbridger

@stephenbridger

No stress, your accommodation on tour is always booked in the best hostels available. And every location comes with its own story, adventuring through Scottish past and present.

@candiceejaynee

Morag’s Lodge - Loch Ness Hidden away in the trees, overlooking the banks of Loch Ness, lies the hostel that has everything you need for a great stay: cosy beds, en-suite bathrooms and the best power showers around. But it’s the hostel’s award-winning Highland hospitality that guarantees an unforgettable experience. Every night of the week there’s something to keep you entertained, between the tartan toga parties and the infamous pub quiz, you won't have time to get homesick.

HAGGiSadventures.com

| 43

#TOURLIFE

by Kay Gillespie HAGGiSadventures.com/blog

What happens on tour stays on tour. Where’s the fun in that? Tour stories tug at our tartan heartstrings, and make us laugh out loud. These are the defining moments of your Scottish adventure, and we dinnae want you to forget them. Tour life is your best life. If you know, you know. If you don’t… its time to find out.

44

Deep Scottish Love

Cheesy sing-alongs on the bus

It can hit you like a lightning bolt at any time. Don’t try to fight it. The trigger might be the epic scenery, the sound of Scottish music, or feeling at home in a place you’ve never been before. It might just be the hairy coo casually posing by the roadside. Don’t underestimate the power of Deep Scottish Love. It will stay with you forever.

We’re all friends here, and no one is too cool – or tone deaf – for some group karaoke.

Who wouldn’t want to belt out “and I would walk 500 miles…” on an epic road-trip through the Highlands and Islands? You know your toes will be tapping! Oh, and don’t even pretend you don’t know all the words to Backstreet Boys – I Want it that Way.

Trying new things

Four seasons in one day

Sampling local food and drink is a rite of passage on your travels in Scotland. If you don’t know what it’s made of, it’s best not to ask. Just know this 1) Whisky is awesome, unless you have too much. Windy roads and hangovers do not mix. 2) Irn Bru is the fizzy, ginger cure to your hangover – just don’t tell your dentist. 3) Haggis is delicious.

“The weather in Scotland is awesome all the time”, said no one… ever. It wouldn’t be an authentic Scottish experience without some ‘liquid sunshine’. There’s nothing better than walking into a refreshing stream of diagonal rain with a can of Irn Bru in your hand and a smile on your face. The Highlands look ever better in atmospheric weather, and windswept selfies are totally cool.

E Forgetting what your guide just said

Group photos with Scottish props

Your guide has set the time on a wee toy clock at the front of the bus, but you’ll still ask what time you need to be back, and then forget as soon as they tell you. Latecomers beware: you will be heckled by your tour buddies and our Guides are known to issue embarrassing forfeits. Don’t say we didn’t tell you!

Posing for photos can be totes awkward: we’ve all been forced into staged family portraits, or sent into school photo day with a dodgy haircut. Group shots on tour are a whole different story! Sometimes all you need is a Scotland flag, Nessie hat, and your tour besties roaring like Vikings to release your inner supermodel.

Awesome stories and terrible jokes

Carnage at the ceilidh

Our grand-master Guides come fully loaded with random facts, Scottish chat, and jokes so bad, they’re actually good. Prepare for an uncensored version of Scotland’s insane history – plus a few wee pranks for good measure. They’ll have you laughing, crying, and dipping your face in a river. Eternal youth, anyone?

Fun, sweat, and tears (of laughter): that’s a ceilidh in a nutshell. This traditional Scottish party is like a high-intensity work-out to live Scottish music – with lots of twirling, standing on toes, and dancing in the wrong direction.

Letting loose at Morag’s Lodge Hidden behind the trees on a hillside near Loch Ness, sits a legendary Highland hostel called Morag’s Lodge. It may look like a peaceful retreat, but don’t be fooled – this is where the party’s at! Photographs have captured evidence of wild scenes with painted faces, tartan togas and roleplay chat-up lines. That’s just the Pub Quiz.

Making friends for life Blossoming bromances and new BFFs. It all begins with shy smiles and polite chatter across the aisle on the bus. Before you know it, you’re dancing on top of whisky barrels after five deep and meaningful chats, and a game of ‘never have I ever’. You form a special bond with the people you meet when you’re travelling, especially when everyone is feeling the #DeepScottishLove.

@crispywebb9797

@glographics

@wanderintwo HAGGiSadventures.com

| 45

DOING IT FOR THE MEMORIES...

@jedventures

...NOT FOR

‘THE GRAM’ 46

tsrest tjeu ysteo @readiS

We know our tours are e pic. But don’t just take our word for it ! See what our p assengers have been saying…

@mickaelabeth / Australia

G

HAG @kaela.mill

s / London

@passionb ac

kpackers /

Sri Lanka &

India

1 Day Loch Ness Hunter

Listened to that wee voice in my head telling me to go on an adventure to Scotland.....

3 Day Easter

in Scotland

tour

I was not disappointed

I can see w hy Nessie d oesn't wan leave t to Probably m y fa on tour. Sat here until th vourite place e sun went sharing stor in, ies enjoying goo with good company, d food, goo d these view wine and w s weren't b ell, ad either.

3 Day Skye

High tour

@linsdaymariemeehan / Canada

tralia

@tamara_ jacquelyn / Aus

10 Day Compass Buster tour Scotland has my entire heart and so do these absolute legends I’ve never had so much fun with a group of peop le that so quickly went from strangers to friends. I don’t think I’ve ever been so happ y to have lost so much sleep. Here’s to danc ing in the streets, shots, and finding Nessie!

r

5 Day Hebridean Hopper tou

, but holy moly The Atlantic Ocean is cold rself you e don Scotland, you’ve out ottishlove” psc dee s # ture ven sad ggi #ha

HAGGiSadventures.com

| 47

Here we, here we, here we goooooo...

Celebrating the festive season in Scotland has got to be on your bucket-list. Whether its observing an ancient Viking festival on a remote island or bringing in the New Year at Edinburgh’s Hogmanay festival, we guarantee an unforgettable experience.

There's a reason our festival tours are world famous, it really doesn’t get much better than this.

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HAGGiSadventures.com

| 49

6 DAY TOUR

WITNESS THE JAW-DROPPING VIKING PARADE AND LONGBOAT BURNING PARTY TILL DAWN WITH THE LOCALS

UP HELLY AA

GET HIGH ON THE SHETLAND ISLANDS’ BREATHTAKING SCENERY MARVEL AT JARLSHOFF – SHETLAND’S FINEST PREHISTORIC SITE ENJOY TRADITIONAL MUSIC SESSIONS IN THE LOCAL PUBS FALL IN LOVE WITH DEESIDE AND ROYAL BRAEMAR WALK ON THE OLD GOLF COURSE IN ST ANDREWS, ‘HOME OF GOLF’ TAKE IN THE DRAMATIC RUINS OF DUNNOTTAR CASTLE

WITNESS THE JAW-DROPPING VIKING PARADE AND LONGBOAT BURNING PARTY TILL DAWN WITH THE LOCALS GET HIGH ON THE SHETLAND ISLANDS’ BREATHTAKING SCENERY MARVEL AT JARLSHOFF – SHETLAND’S FINEST PREHISTORIC SITE ENJOY TRADITIONAL MUSIC SESSIONS IN THE LOCAL PUBS FALL IN LOVE WITH DEESIDE AND ROYAL BRAEMAR WALK ON THE OLD GOLF COURSE IN ST ANDREWS, ‘HOME OF GOLF’ TAKE IN THE DRAMATIC RUINS OF DUNNOTTAR CASTLE 6 DAYS FROM £709/€869PP

50

DAY 1 | EDINBURGH

Few have heard of it, let alone been. Our destination is Shetland in the far north of Scotland, where one of the most incredible festivals in Europe is held. On the last Tuesday of January, the town of Lerwick goes more than a little mad.

Up Helly Aa is a lot more than a sub-arctic bonfire and booze-up. It’s a superb spectacle, a celebration of Shetland’s history and a triumphant demonstration of the islanders’ skills and spirit. Fifty helmeted Vikings and a burning Norse galley.

Unmissable.

NEED TO KNOW 5 nights accommodation Your legendary local HAGGiS Guide All transport and ferry crossings Accommodation: 3 nights hostel multi-share and 2 overnight ferry 4 bed cabin

DEPARTURE DETAILS START / 24 Jan 2021 DEPART / 08.30 | RETURN / 17.00

LERWICK

We leave the capital at 8.30am and head north to St. Andrews – the ‘Home of Golf'. This town boasts one of the world’s oldest (Englishspeaking) Universities – which also happens to be where lovebirds Prince William and Catherine Middleton first hooked up. It's then further up the east coast to see the dramatically located Dunnottar Castle, which was once a hiding place for the Scottish Crown Jewels in the 17th century’s political turmoil. These castle ruins are picture perfect, so make sure your camera is charged.

We continue to Aberdeen, the ‘Granite City’, where we begin the adventure as we board the ferry and embark upon our voyage on the North Sea. Head to the bar for a drink to try to find your sea legs and get to know your fellow passengers.

This overnight journey, via Kirkwall in Orkney, will arrive in Lerwick the next morning, so you will have a lot of time to get to know your HAGGiS Clan.

DAY 2 | SHETLAND We start off with exploring Clickimin Broch – an impressive ruin of a round house found only in Scotland. Next, we move to Scalloway, the original capital of Shetland with its mighty castle and breathe in some fresh sea air when we spend time at the stunning beach at St Ninian's Isle.

From here we head to Jarlshoff - one of Shetland's finest prehistoric sites with 4,000 years of human settlement history. We then sample the island's southern scenery and sit amongst the huge bird population within the Nature Reserve of Sumburgh Head. There'll undoubtedly be some revelling in town with the locals in preparation for tomorrow’s festivities.

DAY 3 | UP HELLY AA The big day dawns. In the morning there's the Viking procession and a chance to have your picture taken beside this year’s 'Jarl' (Chief Viking). In the afternoon you have time to explore Lerwick and a chance to get warmed up with a dance. And then the evening kicks off with the Junior Jarl Squad procession, which is the youngster’s version of the full-blown affair. Get ready, it’s going to get hot as the streets get filled with a thousand ‘guizers’ (local performers aka the ferocious-looking Viking Squads) carrying their fiery torches. Now the festival reaches a crescendo as a full-size replica Viking longship is dragged across the streets to be ceremonially burnt. After you’ve had your fill of this phenomenal sight, it’s time to party in the local pubs.

DAY 4 | SHETLAND The next morning (or at the end of the night, depending on how much fun you have.) we will join the ‘guizers’ again as they sing away their hangovers. They’ve got a great repertoire, so get ready to sing along.

We then venture north to Hillswick, rich in geology and archaeology, and blow away the cobwebs visiting Eshaness and its awe-inspiring coastline. The spectacular cliffs you can admire are leftovers of what used to be a volcano. Now that the fresh sea air has whetted your appetite, it’s time to head to Brae to try some world famous fish and chips, before heading back for another night in Lerwick.

DAY 5 | SHETLAND

ABERDEEN

After a leisurely breakfast, we venture north taking in the ancient Tingwall Parliament and explore the silent and secluded Lunna area on the east coast – a perfect area to clear your head after all the previous shenanigans. On the way back we will have a couple of fantastic selfie spots and our Guide will recount stories connected to this area.

A return to Lerwick allows free time for lastminute souvenir shopping or a visit to the Shetland Museum. Sadly, we need to bid farewell to rugged Shetland and board an overnight ferry back to mainland Scotland.

DAY 6 | ABERDEEN

EDINBURGH

Back on the mainland. We travel through spectacular Aberdeenshire, which alone is home to over 300 castles. We head to Royal Deeside in the heart of the Cairngorms National Park. This part of Scotland was Queen Victoria's favourite, she liked it so much that she decided Balmoral Castle would become her summer residence in Scotland. Since then, it's been visited by all the Royals.

We will follow in the footsteps of the Royal Family and pass Crathie Kirk, their place of worship when at their Highland residence. We also visit the resting place of John Brown, ghillie to Queen Victoria and made famous in the movie Mrs Brown starring Billy Connolly. We then make our way through the spectacular mountains on the way back to Edinburgh. After an epic 6 days of gallivanting in Shetland and hanging around with the Vikings, it’s time to say good bye to your friends. We arrive in to Edinburgh at approximately 5pm. This might just be the most memorable trip you will ever make.

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5 DAY TOUR

MEGA HIGHLAND CHRISTMAS 5 DAYS FROM £549/€669PP

AWE-INSPIRING ISLE OF SKYE RUGGED LANDSCAPE OF GLENCOE MYSTERIOUS LOCH NESS @stephenbridger

Imagine a Highland setting for Christmas, with lochs, Your legendary local HAGGiS Guide

glens and snow-capped mountains. Then add a traditional Christmas dinner followed by a ceilidh (Scottish party).

All transport around Scotland 4 nights accommodation Mulled wine on arrival to the Royal Highland Hotel Christmas Eve buffet dinner 4 breakfasts (2 full Scottish) and 2 packed lunches Traditional Christmas dinner with wine Traditional Scottish ceilidh All highlights bolded in itinerary

DEPARTURE DETAILS DEPART / HAGGiS Adventures,

Edinburgh. 8:45am RETURN / HAGGiS Adventures,

Edinburgh. 5pm (approx.)

Accommodation: 2 nights hotel twin/triple share, 2 nights hostel dorm. *Per person price based on multi/twin/triple share.

(B: Breakfast | L: Lunch | D: Dinner).

ADULT FROM £549/€669

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START

FINISH

23 Dec 2019 23 Dec 2020

27 Dec 2019 27 Dec 2020

DAY 1 | EDINBURGH

LOCH NESS

Hear bloody tales of Stirling Castle and William Wallace, see dramatic Glencoe and admire snowy views of Ben Nevis. By the time we arrive at the banks of Loch Ness, our home for the night you’ll be wellacquainted with Scotland’s charms.

DAY 2 | LOCH NESS

INVERNESS

DAY 4 | INVERNESS

LOCH NESS

Begin the day with some history at lonely Culloden Battlefield and monster hunting on Loch Ness. Then we have a Morag’s Lodge Highland party if you’re up for it. (B, L)

@siobhan_ke11y

The voyage to the mystical Isle of Skye passes Eilean Donan Castle, one of the most photographed castles in Scotland before exploring the beautiful ‘Misty Isle’.

Overnight at the Royal Highland Hotel, Inverness. (B, D) DAY 3 | INVERNESS

Explore the snow-capped mountains and rugged Highlands before returning to a warm Victorian hotel for a massive Christmas dinner. Dance the food off with a traditional Scottish ceilidh. Sounds fun, aye? (B, L, D)

DAY 5 | LOCH NESS

EDINBURGH

Travel through the snowy Cairngorms National Park and have the snowball fight of your life (snow permitting!) We stop at the impressive Dunkeld Cathedral before arriving in Edinburgh early evening. (B)

3 DAY TOUR

ROYAL HIGHLAND CHRISTMAS 3 DAYS FROM £409/€499PP

EXPLORE INVERNESS IN THE HIGHLANDS TRADITIONAL SCOTTISH CEILIDH NIGHT DISCOVER LOCH NESS AND GLENCOE

An unforgettable Christmas in the stunning Scottish Highlands. Scottish hospitality, rugged mountains, gorgeous lochs and glens. What more could you ask for?

DAY 1 | EDINBURGH

INVERNESS

Travel past Stirling Castle and hear stories of Scottish legends like William Wallace, before stopping at dramatic Glencoe and taking in the banks of Loch Ness. Our home for the next two nights is the Royal Highland Hotel in Inverness. (D)

All transport around Scotland 2 nights hotel accommodation Mulled wine on arrival to the Royal Highland Hotel Christmas Eve buffet dinner Two full Scottish breakfasts and packed lunches Traditional Christmas dinner with wine Traditional Scottish ceilidh All highlights bolded in itinerary

DAY 2 | INVERNESS

Christmas Day will never be the same again.

We explore the snow-capped mountains and rugged Highlands before returning to the warm Victorian hotel for a massive Christmas dinner and traditional Scottish ceilidh; HAGGiS style. (B, L, D) DAY 3 | INVERNESS

Your legendary local HAGGiS Guide

EDINBURGH

Visit eerie Culloden Battlefield before travelling through the snowy Cairngorms National Park. We’ll stop at the impressive Dunkeld Cathedral before crossing the Forth Road Bridge and making our way back to Edinburgh. (B, L)

DEPARTURE DETAILS DEPART / HAGGiS Adventures,

Edinburgh. 8:45am RETURN / HAGGiS Adventures,

Edinburgh. 5pm (approx.)

Accommodation: 2 nights hotel twin/triple share. *Per person price based on twin/triple share.

(B: Breakfast | L: Lunch | D: Dinner).

ADULT FROM £409/€499 START

FINISH

24 Dec 2019 24 Dec 2020

26 Dec 2019 26 Dec 2020

HAGGiSadventures.com

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HOGMANAY Scotland is THE place to see in the New Year. Enjoy three fantastic days of celebrations, with top bands, amazing performances and fantastic crowds.

@stephenbridger

TORCH LIGHT PROCESSION

HOGMANAY STREET PARTY

LOONY DOOK

30th DECEMBER 2019 & 2020

31st DECEMBER 2019 & 2020

1st JANUARY 2020 & 2021

The city is illuminated by the golden, orange glow of the torch bearers as they snake their way along the streets finishing up at Holyrood Park for the firework display. Whether you decide to take part in the parade itself or simply spectate, this evening event is one that will leave you feeling all warm and fuzzy inside. It’s the perfect build up for our legendary HAGGiS ceilidh!

Revellers from all corners of the Globe head to the streets of Edinburgh to bring in the New Year 'Scottish Style'.

Multiple street party stages and screens cover the live bands, DJ's and traditional Scottish music throughout the evening.

Fireworks are let off on the hour from 9pm culminating in the ground-rumbling, heart-thumping, eye-popping finale at midnight.

Not many people choose to swim in the sea on New Year’s Day in Scotland (it’s a wee bit chilly) but for those mad enough to take the plunge, the appropriately named ‘Loony Dook’ is just the thing.

Fancy dress is a must as you follow the parade along the length of South Queensferry High Street before braving the freezing waters. This has to be one of our favourite events.

NB: Add a torch ticket at the time of booking.

NB: Street Party tickets included as part of the tour package.

NB: Add your Loony Dook ticket at the time of booking.

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5 DAY TOUR

7 DAY TOUR

EDINBURGH HOGMANAY

HIGHLANDS HOGMANAY

5 DAYS FROM £459/€559PP

BEST NEW YEAR’S PARTY IN THE WORLD EDINBURGH’S WINTER FESTIVAL STUNNING SCOTTISH HIGHLANDS @stephenbridger

7 DAYS FROM £549/€669PP

BREATHTAKING ISLE OF SKYE MONSTER HUNTING ON LOCH NESS EDINBURGH’S HOGMANAY CELEBRATIONS @stephenbridger

This Hogmanay package is bulging with all

A legendary three day Skye High trip to the

the things that makes HAGGiS the wild child

Highlands and four amazing days in Edinburgh

of Scottish adventures. Stunning city and

for the Hogmanay celebrations. New Year will

awesome guides = guaranteed good times.

never be the same again.

DAY 1 - 3 | EDINBURGH

DAY 1 | EDINBURGH

Check in to your hostel and meet your Guide and trip mates. In the evening, it’s time to get the Hogmanay festivities started in Edinburgh’s famous pubs.

@stephenbridger

Your legendary local HAGGiS Guide 4 nights city centre accommodation Aussie and Kiwi New Year celebrations Hogmanay Street Party Ticket Day trip to the Highlands Exclusive HAGGiS ceilidh night Transfer to Loony Dook F R E E TI ME Chill out or join an optional activity Add at the time of booking.

Carry a torch in the Torchlight Procession £14/€17 Swim ticket for the Loony Dook £13/€16

DEPARTURE DETAILS 29 DEC 2019 / 29 DEC 2020 START / Edinburgh. Check-in 3pm END / Edinburgh. Check-out 10am Accommodation: 4 nights hostel multishare. *Per person price is based on multi-share accommodation.

ADULT FROM £459/€559 START

FINISH

29 Dec 2019 29 Dec 2020

2 Jan 2020 2 Jan 2021

Your legendary local HAGGiS Guide 3 day Skye High Tour 6 nights hostel accommodation Aussie and Kiwi New Year celebrations

DAY 2 | HIGHLAND DAY TOUR

Hogmanay Street Party Ticket

Get a real taste of the Highlands when we travel north for the day before returning to Edinburgh just in time for the Torchlight Procession and the exclusive HAGGiS ceilidh!

Exclusive HAGGiS ceilidh night HAGGiS walking tour of Edinburgh FR EE T IME

We kick off the day with Aussie and Kiwi New Year and enjoy the buzzing city before the best party of them all, the Edinburgh’s Hogmanay Street Party.

DAY 4 | EDINBURGH

It’s time to cure your hangover with some crisp sea air! Watch or if you dare, join the Loony Dookers swim in the freezing waters of the Firth of Forth then enjoy Edinburgh’s Winter Festival.

DAY 5 | EDINBURGH

Check out of your hostel in the morning and hug your new friends’ goodbye. Before you leave, be sure to breathe in the last of that fine Scottish air before you head off on your travels.

DAY 4 | EDINBURGH

Join a walking tour led by your local HAGGiS Guide through the city centre and get ready for the magical Torchlight Procession before grabbing your partner for the legendary HAGGiS ceilidh.

Chill out or join an optional activity Add at the time of booking.

DAY 3 | EDINBURGH

LOCH NESS

Travel through some of the most iconic Highland scenery. Check the 3 day Skye High itinerary on p38 for full details.

Carry a torch in the Torchlight Procession £14/€17 Transfer to watch the Loony Dook £30/€37 Swim ticket for the Loony Dook £13/€16

DEPARTURE DETAILS 27 DEC 2019 / 27 DEC 2020 START / HAGGiS Adventures,

Edinburgh, 8.30am END / Edinburgh. Check-out 10am 29 DEC 2019 / 29 DEC 2020 START / Edinburgh Hostel,

Check-in, 3pm END / HAGGiS Adventures.

Edinburgh, 5pm (approx.)

Accommodation: 6 nights hostel multishare. *Per person price is based on multi-share accommodation.

ADULT FROM £549/€669 START

FINISH

27 Dec 2019 29 Dec 2019 27 Dec 2020 29 Dec 2020

2 Jan 2020 4 Jan 2020 2 Jan 2021 4 Jan 2021

DAY 5 | EDINBURGH

We kick off the day with Aussie and Kiwi New Year and enjoy the buzzing city before the best party of them all, the Edinburgh’s Hogmanay Street Party.

DAY 6 | EDINBURGH

Feeling brave? Take a dip in the freezing waters of the Firth of Forth at the Loony Dook. The evening is free to explore the city, enjoy the Winter Festival and check out some of the local pubs.

DAY 7 | EDINBURGH

It’s time to check out of your hostel and bid farewell to your new friends.

NB: 29 Dec tour starts with Hogmanay celebrations followed by a 3 day tour of the Highlands.

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DAY TOURS CHECK OUT OUR DAY TOURS AT...

M O C .

S E R U T N E V HAGGISAD LOCH NESS

GLENCOE

DUNKELD

DOUNE

FALKLAND STIRLING EDIN BURG H

BAMBURGH ALNWICK

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SCOTTISH HEROES ON FILM FROM £39/€47

Linlithgow Palace, Bannockburn & the Wallace Monument

LOCH NESS HUNTER

FROM £45/€54

Loch Ness, Glencoe & The Highlands

CASTLES & BROOMSTICKS

FROM £42/€51

Alnwick Castle & The Borders

WHISKY, WARRIORS & WATERFALLS

FROM £42/€51

Whisky Distillery, The Hermitage & Dunkeld Cathedral

OUTLANDER TRAIL

FROM £46/€56

Doune Castle, Midhope Castle, Falkland & Culross

LOCHS, CASTLES & KELPIES

FROM £38/€46

Stirling Castle, Loch Lomond & The Kelpies HAGGiSadventures.com

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HAGGiS CARES

Scotland’s scenery is very special to us, and we want future generations to experience all its awesome, untamed beauty. Sustainable tourism

is so important, and we dinnae take it lightly! Whether it’s behind the

scenes in our office, or out on the road, we always strive to minimise the impact of our operations – and protect Scotland’s wild side.

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HAGGiSadventures.com

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CONTIKI Unforgettable experiences & lifelong memories

BUSABOUT Create your own adventure

HAGGiS ADVENTURES Braw tours of Scotland

SHAMROCKER ADVENTURES Epic tours of Ireland

CHOOSE YOUR ADVENTURE When you travel with us, you’re welcomed into our family – The Travel Corporation. These are the guys who have taught us everything we know; they’ve shown us that passion is everything, sustainability is key, incredible service is what sets you apart, and that every trip and every travel experience should be nothing less than extraordinary.

The best thing about our family? The fact that our sister brands let you experience the world in the same way we do; with wide eyes, youthful optimism, and the knowledge that travel is an experience best shared with friends. If you haven’t found the perfect trip with HAGGiS or Shamrocker Adventures, one, if not several, of our unique and award winning sister brands are sure to be a match to your travel type.

AFTER SOMETHING ELSE? VISIT OUR FRIENDS AT:

U BY UNIWORLD For the young and young at heart

The Romans called Scotland ‘Caledonia’ meaning ‘Wooded Heights’ but today less than 1% of Scotland’s native woodland remains. Since 2011, HAGGiS Adventures has teamed up with ‘Trees for Life’, a Scottish charity dedicated to restoring 600 square miles of self-sustaining, Caledonian forest with the aim of helping Scotland ‘stay wild’. Under our ‘Stay Wild’ project we have raised thousands of pounds in support of ‘Trees for Life’ and our customers have planted hundreds of trees in our dedicated ‘HAGGiS Grove’.

Find out more at: HAGGiSadventures.com/about-us/green-story

#MAKE

TRAVTEERL MAT

Travel is an incredible gift. It has the ability to open our eyes, our hearts and our minds to the unique cultures and spellbinding beauty of the natural world.

But with this gift comes a responsibility – to protect the world as we know it. At TreadRight, our mission is clear; to have a positive impact on the people and communities we visit, to help protect wild and marine life, and to care for the planet we all call home.

To learn more about all Treadright’s past and current projects, visit TreadRight.org.

Coach travel has been proven to reduce congestion and create less CO2 pollution than any other form of transport. Our coach fleet is among the most efficient in Europe.

HAGGiS and Shamrocker Adventures as part of The Travel Corporation, is proud to commit to using environmentally friendly paper for the body of our brochures. This brochure is printed on paper that has been sourced from sustainably managed forests.

HAGGiS Adventures, as part of The Travel Corporation, run a zero tolerance policy on single use plastic in all offices, globally.

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THE WEE PRINT TERMS AND CONDITIONS Once the Operators, as detailed in Clause 8 below, (hereinafter referred to as “the Operator”), confirm your booking, a contract is made between you and the Operator under the terms and conditions set out below. Your statutory rights are not affected. In a booking with more than one passenger the ‘lead passenger’ will be deemed to have accepted the terms and conditions on behalf of all passengers within the booking. The ‘lead passenger’ is the passenger who makes the booking on behalf of all passengers in a multi-passenger booking and is named in the ‘lead passenger’ field within the booking. Within these Booking Conditions, “you” and “your” means all persons named on the booking (including anyone who is added at a later date).

1. BOOKING / ACCEPTANCE 1.1 The Operator accepts a booking on the understanding that a deposit or full payment has been collected and held either by the Operator directly or by an authorised Travel Agent on the Operator’s behalf. Bookings made via the Operators’ own websites are considered as made with the Operator directly.

1.2 On confirmation of your booking, subject to availability and at the Operator’s discretion, the Operator will reserve your place(s) on your selected product(s) “tour(s)”. It is your (or on bookings involving more than one person, the lead passenger’s) responsibility, as the customer, to check the accuracy of your booking including your travel dates. A contract is only made between you and the Operator upon your booking being confirmed and accepted through written communication thereof to either you or your authorised Travel Agent (hereinafter referred to as “confirmation”).

1.3 On confirmation of your booking, a Booking Statement confirming ‘Full Payment’ and an e-ticket will be sent to either you or your Travel Agent for fully paid bookings. A Booking Statement indicating the amount paid and an e-ticket will be sent, for bookings where only a deposit or lesser amount has been paid.

1.4 In order to reserve your tour: 1.4a) Tours costing 200 GBP/ 240 EUR, or less: full payment must be made at time of booking. 1.4b) Tours costing more than 200 GBP/ 240 EUR,: a non-refundable flexi-deposit of 50 GBP/ 75 EUR, per person per tour is required, but if the booking is made within 45 days of the nominated departure date the full amount payable must be made at the time of booking. This payment is in addition to any deposit required by your Travel Agent. The deposit is accepted as a first instalment of the total tour price by the Operator only once the booking has been confirmed in writing by the Operator or your travel agent. The deposit is accepted as a first instalment of the total tour price by the Operator only once the booking has been confirmed in writing by the Operator or your travel agent. Deposit option is not available on HAGGiS Up Helly Aa Viking Fire Festival and Passion Project tours where full payment is required at the time of booking.

1.4c) The outstanding balance of the tour price must be paid by no later than 45 days prior to the scheduled, nominated or confirmed tour departure date or the payment date specified in any promotion, which shall be by the due date stated on the confirmation issued to you. Whilst every endeavor will be made to remind you of the payment due dates, it is your responsibility to make this payment in full by the due date. If payment is not made to the Operator or to your authorised Travel Agent (for Agent bookings) by the due date, the Operator will assume that you have cancelled your tour and cancellation charges in accordance with clause 8 below will be levied by the Operator 1.4d) Booking Statements confirming ‘Full Payment’ will not be issued until full payment has been received by the Operator or authorised Travel Agent. 1.5 In the case of bookings made within 45 days of tour departure, the full cost of the tour will be payable immediately at time of booking.

1.6 The Operator reserves the right to cancel the booking and apply cancellation charges should full payment not be received within the above specified periods.

1.7 If you wish to book to travel at student prices, you must have an ISIC, ITIC or ISE student ID card or a Student Flights ID Card, valid at time of and for the duration of your travels with the Operator. Photocopies or confirmations of purchase will not be accepted.

2. CANCELLATION & CHANGES 2.1 Cancellation of your booking must be in writing to either the Operator (for direct or website bookings) or the authorised Agent through which your booking was made. If your booking was made through an authorised Agent, all amendments and cancellations must be made directly through the Agent and not with the Operator (the Agent may also levy cancellation charges in addition to those noted below - please check with the Agent at time of booking). When written notification has been received by the Operator, a fee will be levied to cover the costs incurred. The amount of the cancellation fee will be dependent on the number of days prior to the departure date of the tour (not including the day of departure or the day of notification).

2.2 Flexi-Deposit: If you need to cancel for whatever reason, where written confirmation is received by the Operator from you or your authorised Agent at least 45 days notice prior to your confirmed or nominated departure date, your deposit value will remain as a credit on your booking available to use against another trip. One deposit amount can be credited per trip. Deposits cannot be combined or applied to existing bookings. No refund of the deposit will be applicable. Where the new trip departure is within the 2020 operating season (defined as the period covering all scheduled departures), this must be confirmed in writing to the Operator minimum 45 days prior to the new departure date. One date change per person per tour is permitted without incurring an administration fee from the Operator. All changes are subject to availability. Flexi-deposit option is not available on HAGGiS Up Helly Aa and Passion Project tours. All changes are subject to availability.

2.3 Cancellation of individual passengers from a multiple booking where a group discount applies (e.g. ‘Mates’ Rates’ discount) will mean that the discount applied at the time of booking will be forfeited, due to the qualifying criteria no longer being met. If the cancellation results in the qualifying criteria no longer being met, then the total price payable for the remaining passengers on the booking will be adjusted, and any forfeited discount will be reclaimed through deduction in calculating any refund due to the cancelling passengers. The following cancellation policies apply: HAGGiS & Shamrocker Adventures The below cancellations fees are levied from periods of notice given prior to confirmed/nominate departure date as % of the total trip fare.

2.4 PRODUCT

CANCELLATIONS OUTSIDE 45 DAYS

CANCELLATIONS FROM 45 DAYS UNTIL FULL FEE THRESHOLD

FULL FEE THRESHOLD

HAGGiS & Shamrocker Adventures standard trips

Flexi-Deposit (2.2)

45-15 full days prior to departure -25% fee

14 days or less - 100% fee

HAGGiS & Shamrocker Adventures Festivals, Events & Passion Project tours (2.5)

25% fee

45-22 full days prior to departure -50% fee

21 days or less - 100% fee

HAGGiS Adventures Day Tours

No fee

No fee

24 hrs prior to departure or less – 100% fee

clause 2) will incur an administration fee of 25 GBP/ 30 EUR per person per tour, subject to availability and charges in lieu of clauses 2.10 or 2.11 where the new departure date / tour must be immediately nominated. These changes may result in the loss of any special discounts applied to the originally booked Tours and are in addition to any fees that may be levied by your Travel Agent.

2.8 Tour changes to one of a lower value or seasonality will result in the loss of any special discounts applied to the originally booked tour and will be subject to an administration fee equivalent to the cancellation fee on the original Tour booked.

2.9 Tour changes to one of higher value or seasonality will require the difference in price to be paid. This may also result in the loss of any special discounts applied to the originally booked Tours.

2.10 If the reason for your cancellation is covered under your insurance policy, you may be able to make a claim under that policy.

2.11 No name changes are permitted.

2.12 If you paid a Student price on booking, you will be required to prove this entitlement at check-in for each departure by exhibiting a valid ISIC, ISE or ITIC student card or Student Flights ID Card. Should you not be able to do this, you will be charged the difference between the full tour price and the student discounted price in addition to an administration fee of 25 GBP/ 30 EUR. 2.13 By booking a trip that includes Multi-share accommodation, you acknowledge that the Operator and / or its representatives is unable to confirm same gender room allocation.

3. LOCAL TOURS & EXCURSIONS 3.1 You may have the opportunity to purchase local tours or excursions from the Guides / On-Board Guides/Check-in Staff. These local tours and excursions are run by local Operators and you will be subject to their terms and conditions.

3.2 Local tours and excursions purchased via Guides/On-Board Guides/Check in Staff are nonrefundable. It is your responsibility to meet the tour at the designated departure point and time. Travel on local tours and excursions will only be permitted on presentation of the official Guides/On-Board Guides/ Check in Staff issued voucher to the named local Operator.

3.3 Local tour and Excursion vouchers that are lost or stolen cannot be replaced.

3.4 Please note that prices printed in brochures are correct at the time of print and maybe subject to change.

4. CHANGES BY THE OPERATOR 4.1 Prices in brochure and website are based on costs and exchange rates at August 1, 2019. Should these costs change it may be necessary to make a surcharge on the price of your tour. Should the total tour price increase by more than 8% you will have the right to cancel within 7 days of notification without penalty.

4.2 No surcharge in respect of costs or currency fluctuations will be made once payment of the deposit for your tour has been received. This guarantee excludes fuel surcharges and does not apply to any taxes, charges or levies imposed by any Government or their Agencies. In exchange for these guarantees, no refund will be made if costs are reduced. The surcharge will only be made where the increase in cost will affect the price of the tour by more than 2%.

4.3 The Operator reserves the right to vary, modify or cancel any itinerary, either part or wholly. If this is necessary, they will substitute alternative arrangements of comparable value, or at the Operator’s discretion provide a full or partial refund.

4.4 If access to any country or area is prohibited for reasons of force majeure (i.e. circumstances such as political unrest, war or threat of war, riots, civil strife, closure of airports or ports, industrial disputes, terrorist activity, natural and nuclear disasters, fire, epidemic or health risk, Acts of God, adverse weather conditions or other similar events beyond the Operator’s control) the Operator reserves the right to amend or alter the product, or fully or partially withdraw the programme. If the Operator cannot offer suitable substitute services, you will be entitled to a refund (less reasonable expenses incurred by the Operator in respect of your booking). The amount of the refund will be calculated pro-rata based on used portion of the tour.

4.5 The Operator reserves the right to alter or substitute the type of vehicle mentioned in the brochure or websites.

5. DISPUTE PROCEDURES 5.1 If you have a complaint in respect of any Operator, you should inform the Operator’s Representative at the time. Any complaint that cannot be resolved by the Operator’s Representative should be submitted in writing within 28 days of the incident to The Customer Services Manager, HAGGiS Adventures, 60 High Street, EH1 1TB Edinburgh, United Kingdom or Shamrocker Adventures, Four Courts Hostel, 15-17 Merchants Quay, Dublin 8 Ireland so that your complaint can be passed to and then investigated by the Operator. The Operators will not consider complaints after the 28 day period from the end date of your tour.

5.2 The contract and all matters arising in respect hereof shall be subject to Scottish Law unless the Operator agrees otherwise in writing.

5.3 If any provision of this contract is held invalid or unenforceable by any court of competent jurisdiction, that provision shall be deemed to be re-written to give effect to the same purpose within the permitted limits of the law. The validity and enforceability of the other provisions shall not be affected.

5.4 If you are unsuccessful in any legal action instituted against the Operator, you agree to pay all of the Operator’s costs associated to any such legal action, including but not limited to attorney / client costs.

6. CONTRACTING PARTIES 6.1 The booking conditions detailed herein contain the entire contract between you and the Operator. No representation, term, warranty or condition can be expressed or implied by reference to any other writing, advertisement or conversation.

This contract may only be varied by a duly authorised officer or Director of the Operator in writing.

6.2 Your contract is with the Operator. At any time, and at the Operator’s complete discretion, the Operator may nominate to you in writing any other company or person to have the benefit of some or all of those provisions of this contract, which the Operator may then specify, as if you had agreed the provisions concerned directly with that company or person in the first place as well as agreeing them with the Operator. The Operator may at its complete discretion assign all or any rights and liabilities arising under or by virtue of this or any other contract with you.

6.3 All bookings with other Operators and service providers are subject to their terms and conditions and limitations of liability. Please note that some of these limit or exclude liability in respect of death, personal injury, delay and loss or damage to baggage. Whilst the Operator cannot accept any responsibility for any loss as a result of such actions or as a result of any act or omission of any such third parties, the Operator will give reasonable assistance in helping to resolve any reasonable dispute.

6.4 Many accommodation arrangements referred to in this brochure are provided independently and directly by third party providers (unless stated otherwise). Any such contracts undertaken are made directly between you and the third party accommodation provider. They are subject to the terms and conditions, and limitations of liability, imposed by the individual accommodation provider. All such arrangements are made independently of the Operator, regardless of any help and assistance, which the Operator may provide in securing such arrangements.

6.5 Please note that no airline or carrier depicted or recommended in this brochure by virtue of their endorsement of this brochure represents themselves either as contracting with any legal relationship with any such purchaser.

6.6 Every effort is made to ensure brochure accuracy at the time of going to print, however the Operator cannot be held responsible for printing and typographical errors, or errors arising from unforeseen circumstances.

7. VALIDITY The programmes, products and tours advertised on the website and brochure are valid from the operating season pertaining to each Operator as specified in the brochure and the Operator’s website, unless stated to the contrary. These Terms and Conditions supersede all previous Terms and Conditions issued and are valid for all reservations made on or after 1 August 2019, until replaced.

8. OPERATING COMPANIES 8.1a) HAGGIS Adventures are operated by Radical Travel Group Limited, Registered in Scotland No. 136334 8.1b) Shamrocker Adventures are Registered in Ireland No. 281604. 8.1c) A selection of local Operators provide additional services across tours advertised in this brochure. For a full set of details and their respective terms and conditions please refer to haggisadventures.com.

* Upgrades and Add Ons do not qualify for a deposit payment and attract a 0% fee if cancelled with their connected product outside 45 days. ** For trips that do not qualify for a deposit option when booked more than 45 days prior to the confirmed / nominated departure date, any cancellation outside 45 days will levy the same fee as per cancellations from 45 days until the full fee threshold.

2.5 Festivals, Special Events including Tattoo & Highland Games Tours, Passion Project and Add On Products: (Special conditions apply to non-standard products). Please refer to table 2.4 for updated terms and conditions relating to these products.

2.6 Private Group / Bespoke Tour - specific cancellation fees apply to each Tour, the Operator will inform you of these prior to payment. A non-refundable deposit will be required at time of booking to cover any accommodation, third party supplier, meal and attraction costs. Where bookings include entrance fees to attractions, accommodation, involve accommodation upgrades or specific accommodation requests any cancellation fees incurred by the Operator will be passed on to you in addition to the standard Private Group / Group Tours refund policy.

9. DATA PROTECTION STATEMENT Please be assured that we have measures in place to protect the personal booking information held by us. This information will be passed on to the principal and to the relevant suppliers of your travel arrangements. The information may also be provided to public authorities such as customs or immigration if required by them, or as required by law.

Certain information may also be passed on to security or credit checking companies. We will only pass your information on to persons responsible for your travel arrangements. This applies to any sensitive information that you give to us such as details of any disabilities, or dietary/religious requirements. (If we cannot pass this information to the relevant suppliers we will be unable to provide your booking. In making this booking, you consent to this information being passed on to the relevant persons). Where the data might be passed on for marketing purposes, you have the right to opt out of future marketing. You also have a right of access to data held which can be obtained by writing to Radical Travel Group Limited, Atholl Exchange, 6 Canning Street, Edinburgh EH3 8EG and Shamrocker Adventures, Four Courts Hostel, 15-17 Merchant Quay, Dublin 8. Further detail and our full Privacy Policy can be found on our website. Please see HAGGiSAdventures.com or ShamrockerAdventures.com.

GENERAL 2.7 Any changes of departure date or tour within 45 days of departure but prior to the full fee threshold (as defined in

10. TERMS AND CONDITIONS For a full expanded list of our Terms and Conditions please see HAGGiSAdventures.com or ShamrockerAdventures.com.

Active Outdoor Pursuits | Alyssa Michelle | Caitlin Jay | Candice Jayne | Christopher Webb | Courtney Neilson | Elle Allan | Emily Ryan | Gemma Harland | Gloria Atanmo | Haley Plotkin | Heidi Ahvenainen | Jackie Noronha | Jamie Ross | Jed Buencillo | Katelyn Hawkinss | Kay Gillespie | Kenny Lam | VisitScotland | Liam Powe | Megan McCrystal | Michelle Morgan | Noel Mare | Paul Tomkins | VisitScotland | Phoebe Greenacre | Sarim Mahtab | Selea Hewton | Shetland Amenity Trust | Siobhan Drew | Skye Class | Stephen Bridger Photography | Steven Sinclair | Story Travelers | The Glass Passage | Tori McArthur | Two Birds Travel | Wander in Two HAGGiSadventures.com

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HAGGISTOURS

HAGGiS Adventures (EUR) +353 (0)1672 7651 tour@HAGGiSadventures.com (UK) +44 (0)131 557 9393 info@HAGGiSadventures.com 60 High St, Edinburgh, EH1 1TB www.HAGGiSadventures.com HAGGiS Adventures is a member of the family-owned The Travel Corporation (TTC) and is renowned and trusted for its outstanding quality, service, value, reliability and financial stability.

Pty Ltd 18 002 523 340. Please note: all prices are quoted in GBP/EURO.

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