Scottish Island Gardens

The Scottish Islands are a joy to explore with their colourful gardens on display throughout the seasons. This island-hopping experience features two of Scotland's most opulent properties in Bute and Inveraray as well as the unique Achamore Gardens.

Holiday Inclusions
* Dinner, Bed & Breakfast
* Door-to-Door Service
* Coach travel throughout
* Return ferry crossings
* Porterage
* Excursions as listedIsle of Bute
We make the beautiful drive over the Kyles of Bute to catch the short crossing from Colintraive to the Isle of Bute (ferry fare included). Enjoy some time free in the Victorian seaside town of Rothesay, the island's capital. We also visit Mount Stuart, a 19th century neo-gothic mansion with extravagant interiors and more than 300 acres of landscaped gardens with a wide selection of native and exotic flora. The woodland walks lead to a private beach with views across the Fifth of Clyde.

Inveraray Castle
We tour along The Holy Loch and Loch Fyne to the ancient maritime port of Inverary, with included entry to Inveraray Castle & Gardens. The Castle is home to the Duke of Argyll and played an important role in the shaping of Scotland through the ages. The garden covers 16 acres, and the remaining land is park and woodland, extending to 180 hectares, forming one of the most important designed landscapes in Scotland.

Isle of Gigha
We hop on the ferry to cross Loch Fyne at Portavadie, continuing south from Tarbert along the Mull of Kintyre coastline to catch the short ferry crossing over to the unspoilt Isle of Gigha - just 7 miles long and 1 mile wide, with sandy beaches, clear green seas and an increasing popular of 165. We include entry to Achamore Gardens, boasting 50 acres of natural woodland, large walled garden and pond area with many rare and exotic plants. A soup and sandwich lunch will be provided, before we re-trace our steps back to Dunoon (ferry fares included).Esplanade Hotel, Dunoon
The Esplanade Hotel has been recently refurbished and has a good location in the quieter West Bay side of Dunoon, just a five-minute walk from the centre and offering unparalleled views down the Firth. Facilities include a restaurant and bar. WiFi is available. All bedrooms are en-suite and feature a hairdryer, flatscreen TV, telephone and tea/coffee making facilities. This hotel has a lift, however, there are steps to negotiate throughout the building.