Hello and welcome to Edinburgh! Touch down in the Scottish capital and be whisked away to Dalhousie Castle, your stately home for the night. This 13th-century stronghold, steeped in 700 years of history, offers a glimpse into Scotland's storied past, with illustrious past guests including Queen Victoria, Sir Walter Scott, and Oliver Cromwell. Wander the medieval passageways, peer into hiding nooks, and descend into the atmospheric dungeon before convening over welcome drinks and a hearty feast in the Orangerie. Clink glasses with your fellow gourmet-loving adventurers and settle in for an evening fit for nobility.

Today's culinary odyssey celebrates that most iconic Scottish delicacy - the mighty haggis! We'll journey to a working sheep farm near lovely Loch Lomond for an exclusive masterclass. Under the tutelage of a certified haggis expert, delve into the quirky history of this "great chieftain o' the puddin' race" before observing the intricate preparation process firsthand. True adventurers will want to sample the real deal during a hearty, two-course lunch (vegetarian, vegan and gluten-free alternatives are available). Afterward, we'll stretch our legs amidst the whimsical Fairy Trail at Balloch Castle before continuing on to the charming coastal town of Oban for the evening. With its fresh-off-the-boat seafood bounty, this harbor hamlet promises the perfect finale to a uniquely Scottish day of deliciousness.

Ahoy, seafood lovers! Today we sail to the Isle of Mull, a rugged jewel in the Hebridean archipelago, home to some of Scotland’s wildest coastal scenery. After ferrying across to Craignure, enjoy a wildlife walk with a local expert, who will guide you in search of the island's elusive residents - from shy otters to majestic white-tailed eagles soaring overhead. Our appetite properly whetted, we'll make our way to vibrant Tobermory to visit the family-run Tobermory Fish Co. 'Mum' will reveal the secrets of their smokehouses before leading a delectable tasting showcasing their sublime smoked specialties. Brimming with ocean-fresh flavors, we'll tuck into a decadent seafood platter picnic boasting sweeping views over the Sound of Mull. With satisfied smiles, we'll sail back to the mainland for an evening at leisure in lovely Oban.

Venture northwards today for an immersion in rewilding at the inspirational Dundreggan Centre. After fortifying yourself with a hearty lunch, lace up your boots for an eye-opening ranger-guided trek across this rejuvenated estate. Discover the incredible impact of tree planting, peatland restoration, and deer management in mitigating climate change and fostering biodiversity. Be prepared for some invigorating uphill stretches on this walk through Scotland's wild heart. As dusk falls, you'll be treated to a celebratory dinner showcasing the finest locally-sourced venison. Then, linger over enchanting Gaelic folktales recounted by a master storyteller, who will give you an introduction to the Gaelic language, and transport you into the mysterious world of Highland legends. 

Today's jaunt whisks you east along the Great Glen, pausing to drink in the vistas of mythic Loch Ness and explore brooding Urquhart Castle's atmospheric ruins. Continuing on, you'll stop in Elgin, where you’ll explore the ruins of Elgin Cathedral, burned to the ground by the Wolf of Badenoch in 1390. Then dive into Elgin's wool heritage at the esteemed Johnstone's cashmere mill. On a guided tour, discover how the surrounding landscapes inspire their lush colors and patterns as experts reveal the meticulous process behind their ultra-luxe garments. Your final stop is the coastal village of Cullen, famed for its eponymous smoked haddock chowder - Cullen Skink. Here, the hotel's chef will regale you with tales of this iconic Scottish dish before a full demonstration utilizing the freshest locally-sourced ingredients. Of course, no culinary lesson is complete without a hearty tasting at tonight's dinner!

Begin your day at the stunning Ballindalloch Castle, home to the MacPherson-Grant family since 1546. You'll be welcomed by none other than the resident laird himself for an intimate tour of this baronial treasure trove. From opulent staterooms to the Queen Mother's favored nooks, uncover the estate's rich royal connections. After strolling the impeccably manicured gardens, retire to the courtyard cafe for a delightfully dainty cream tea luncheon. Suitably fortified, take a short off-road 4x4 ride to the remote home of Ghilli Basan, a legend of the Scottish food scene. With Ghilli as your host, enjoy a gentle stroll in the glen, identifying wild plants and berries that are used for distilling spirits. Back at Ghilli's 300-year-old-barn, cap off the afternoon with a guided whisky tasting. 

Ease into the day exploring the charming village of Grantown-on-Spey at your leisure before an encounter with Scotland's iconic sheepdogs in action. At a rustic farm near Kingussie, witness the incredible bond between man and canine as a skilled shepherd deftly maneuvers his flock across the rugged mountainside with merely a whistle and a command. Then it's off to the warm environs of award-winning cookbook author Wendy Barrie's Edinburgh home for an artisanal edible extravaganza! This passionate advocate of Scotland's finest ethical and sustainable producers will regale you with tales over a tantalizing spread of locally sourced canapés and a nourishing homemade meal. Sated by Wendy's farm-fresh hospitality, you'll complete your journey into the capital's convivial heart, where you will enjoy a free evening exploring this charming city. 

This morning, an expert local guide will usher you into Edinburgh's illustrious heart on an intimate city ramble. Beyond the iconic highlights, you'll be granted an insider's glimpse into the old town's winding wynds and secret nooks steeped in centuries of history. Pause for a decadent refueling at Café Royal, an art-bedecked institution dishing up Scotland's finest farm-fresh fare. The afternoon is yours to roam the cobblestones at leisure before reconvening for a rollicking finale! Over a sumptuous three-course spread, you'll be treated to the rousing revelry of a traditional ceilidh (subject to specific dates). Reeling with new friends to the skirl of bagpipes, you'll experience the infectious warmth and merriment of true Scottish hospitality.

Your epic culinary journey comes to an end today. Should you wish to spend more time exploring Scotland’s myriad of wonders, check out the Atlas Obscura Guide to Scotland for itinerary inspiration. Until our next adventure!