In Search of Bluebells in the Trossachs

The much-loved bluebell has held a treasured place in the hearts of British people for many centuries. An inspiration to poets and writers, the delicate bluebell transforms woodland floors across the country into a delicate sea of blue in the dappled shade of ancient trees. As the days start to lengthen and the weather warms up, this brand-new tour promises to capture the full glory of these nodding, violet-blue flowers in the glades of the Trossachs. Staying at the popular Winnock Hotel, come and explore the area in search of bluebells combined with some wonderful loch cruising

A Carpet of Bluebells is a wonderful sight with flowering time late April - May. Please do bear in mind sightings are not guaranteed as the weather can affect flowering times.

Departure points to suit you...
Crusader Holidays uses an interchange system, taking place at either Beaconsfield Services (M40), South Mimms Services (M25/A1M) or Thurrock Services (M25).

Here you may have to change to your holiday coach and we are renowned for ensuring that this is smooth and efficient.

The holiday coaches typically depart from Beaconsfield Services at 11.15, Thurrock Services at around 09.30 and South Mimms Services at 10.30. Some customers find it more convenient to join direct at the interchange, please let is know when booking if this is the case.

*Due to increased operational costs, from Monday 16th October 2023 Dover, Folkestone, Canterbury & Ashford joining points will be subject to a £25.00 per person supplement on all 2024 UK Tours.

NOTE: Pick up points are a guide so please refer to your holiday confirmation for specific locations as details are subject to change.In Search of Bluebells in The Trossachs
DAY 1 - After joining your holiday coach, it's a big drive drive northwards with suitable stops for lunch and refreshments. Arrive at your hotel in Drymen this evening, ready for your first evening meal together. DBB

DAYS 2 - 4 At leisure in Winnock Hotel, Drymen with three included excursions and two evenings' live entertainment (including Scottish themed) in the hotel

INCLUDED EXCURSIONS
Loch Katrine Cruise with light lunch
Travel into the Trossachs National Park via Aberfoyle to lovely Loch Katrine with its many charms and rich heritage where the hunt begins for the 'carpets of blue'. Join a leisurely 2-hour relaxing cruise as you watch the natural wonder of the beautiful countryside gently slip by from the deck of your boat. The cruise takes in the best that this stunning loch has to offer - from the atmospheric Ben Venue and Ellen's Isle to the historic site of Queen Victoria's Royal Cottage, the cruise instils the beauty and heritage of the Trossachs perfectly. The cruise is operated by the recently restored SS Walter Scott Steamship. Afterwards enjoy a light soup and sandwich lunch at the Steamship Cafe before heading off to Callander, a pretty town on the River Teith, often described as the Gateway to the Highlands

Loch Lomond & Inchcailloch
Take to the water again today as you head to the bonnie banks of Loch Lomond for your next Scottish adventure. The mesmerising loch lies in the heart of the Loch Lomond & The Trossachs National Park, where you'll be surrounded by charming villages, rolling countryside and hills as you enjoy a wonderful, relaxing cruise passing secret islands and exploring the loch narrows. Make a stop (90 minutes) at the enchanting island of Inchcailloch, an extraordinary place, arguably perhaps the most beautiful location within the National Park. The island is just 0.19 square miles in size and in Spring is covered in a thick blanket of bluebells. A packed lunch is included for you today. NB the ground is uneven with some gradual inclines but the trails are well maintained and there are some picnic tables.Later there will be time to explore Luss, the pretty conservation village situated on the western shore of the loch. With its prim, identical sandstone and slate cottages and its narrow sandy, pebbly strand, the village became the setting for the successful TV soap High Road

Kilbryde Castle
Kilbryde Castle, near Dunblane in Central Scotland, has been home to the Campbell family since 1659. It is situated on the side of a gorge which the river Ardoch flows through encircling the castle on three sides. The castle was rebuilt in the 1870's by the present owner's great, great grandfather in the style of the period. The gardens were created from the 1970's onwards by Sir Colin and Lady Campbell. You will be welcomed on arrival by Sir James Campbell (and/or his wife, Carola) who will introduce you to Kilbryde Castle followed by tea, coffee and home-baking. Afterwards you can explore the house and grounds in search of bluebells

DAY 5 - After breakfast, return homewards, arriving back at your local joining points early to mid-evening

Tour Highlights
- Hotel for 4 nights with breakfast and dinner- Porterage included- Tea /coffee after dinner- Included excursions and entrances as stated- 2-hour cruise on Loch Katrine- Soup & sandwich lunch at Loch Katrine- Loch Lomond Cruise with visit to Inchcailloch- Packed lunch on Loch Lomond day- Visit to Kilbridge Castle and grounds with tea/coffee and home-baking- Evening entertainment for 2 nightsWinnock Hotel, Drymen
Situated on the pretty village green in the conservation village of Drymen, the family-run 3* Winnock Hotel is situated just 4 miles from Loch Lomond. It offers excellent customer service, cosy log fires and hearty Scottish cuisine. There is a traditional bar area with an extensive range of speciality malt whiskies. All 74 en-suite bedrooms come with TV, hairdryer and drinks facilities. There is no lift but ground floor rooms are available. (NB Dinner is served in the Capercaille Room on tables of 8)

Hotels
• Winnock Hotel (Loch Lomond) - View Information