Castles and Wildlife of Scotland

K Thorp

You spend a lot of time on a coach. First hotel was ok but some of the staff were rude to our party and unhelpful. Felt more could have been fitted in and the timings better planned. On the plus side the Wildlife reserve was great to visit.

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Helen

We were disappointed by the total lack of space in the Caledonian Sleeper and it was impossible to sleep with the constant rocking and rattle. Our Tour Operator was first class and the places we visited were excellent, but the Tulloch Castle Hotel was in great need of a facelift in the rooms. There was no lift and, although the staff were happy to help by taking cases, etc., up the many flights of stairs, it would be impossible for anyone who was not fit and this should be pointed out when booking. The meals were fantastic. However, the welcoming was in fact rude and out of order! The Alledale Reserve was great, but, unfortunately, there were insufficient rooms for everyone to stay in the main house, so we, with two other couples were transported to one of the lodges, which entailed being picked up each morning, returned after our excursions and then picked up in the evening for our meal. We were extremely disappointed at being separated from the remainder of the group and the question should be asked when booking if clients are happy to be separated or if they would prefer to be in the main house. Once again, the food was delicious and the staff most informative and helpful.

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Kenneth Owen

Overall an enjoyable different experience. Caledonian Sleeper an experience but very cramped, unsuitable top bunk access or descent for older generation. Positive sleep not forthcoming on this train so elected to return over two days at end of tour at own expense. Food for breakfast on sleeper tick box request and don't forget to tick for milk for morning tea!. Adequate not inspiring. Boat trip saw no dolphins. Totally hit and miss. Free time in Inverness pe Tulloch Hotel journey fine. Hotel had atmosphere being an ancient castle turned into hotel.No lift so lots of stairs for fitness. Food fine in our view. Kyle rail Line to Lochalsh its scenic best and trip to Skye bridge and Eilean Donan castle. Long coach trip back but scenic different route. Dunrobin Castle and grounds with our good weather was most enjoyable. Alledale Wilderness Centre accommodation and food and 4x4 trek with rangers was just excellent and the principle reason for taking tour. Excellent service, beautiful lodge atmosphere and food. The trek was excellent with well informed passionate commentary explanations from principle ranger. Due to poor sleeper and additional 4 hours in Inverness again following Battlefield tour (which we did not do) we took train to Edinburgh, stayed overnigh, and train next day to London. The tour was in total worthwhile. Weather turned out extermely well. However it is suggested that changes be made to itinerary and travel in day to Edinburgh, then Inverness and likewise return with appropriate overnight stays. First Class of course both ways. Potentially reconsider the boat trip, although again a different aspect for the tour enjoyed with good weather. Alladale though just superb and a third night here would be icing on the cake.

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Gloria

Highlights of the trip Alladale, low point Serco Caledonian Sleeper. The whole tour can benefit from a local guide. Too many free time waiting for the coach. Annie local guide on Cruise for Dolphins watching was very good. Ennis McNeil , local guide is very good.

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Judith

Th scenery is stunning and the stay at the wildlife conservation site was excellent. However the train to and from Inverness was very uncomfortable and not suitable for older travellers. There was too much coach travel for me. A longer stay at alladale would have been wonderful?

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A Dancer

Superb, apart from the cold, decaying and unwelcoming Tulloch Hotel. Not a good experience being eighty years old on the top floor with no room phone or intercom. No photos or videos taken

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