Higlands & Islands of Scotland

Aston Martin “On Tour” programmes offes current owners and enthusiasts the opportunity to drive through the some of the world’s most spectacular scenery and enjoy wonderful hospitality in the company of like minded people.

In Setpember 2011 the Aston Martin events team visited the 'Highlands and Islands of Scotland' in the most recent On Tour event.  Keeping a brief diary as they went, you can read about some of the highlights they experienced in an exciting few days, driving some of the most picturesque driving roads in Europe.

Day One

The tour began at the Aston Martin Headquarters in Gaydon, Warwickshire. After a welcome speech by Markus Kramer, Aston Martin Global Marketing Director; the couples had a private tour of the Aston Martin production facility. Each couple was issued their “On Tour” road book which outlined our itinerary, road routes and key activities throughout the week.

Following a buffet lunch and photographs around a beautiful Stratus white One-77, we all made our way Northwards towards Yorkshire. Our venue for the first night was Wood Hall, a country house hotel with panoramic views across the valley. Our suitcases were transported ahead of us and were in our rooms ready for our arrival.

We were welcomed with a champagne reception followed by a private hosted dinner in the exclusive Vavasour Room. It was here that we introduced ourselves to each other.

Day Two

After breakfast, we were given a daily briefing to discuss the driving route for the day and the recommended stops and local attractions on the journey, one of which was the Aysgarth Falls.

Departing from Wood Hall, we made our way out of Yorkshire across the Dales and headed further North into Scotland.

We had the unique opportunity to visit the Bridge of Weir factory for an exclusive tour of the facility which produces the leather for Aston Martin cars. We were also given a “book mark” in the same colour leather as our own car’s interior trim.

Arriving at Cameron House, which is located on the banks of Loch Lomond, we all enjoyed a relaxed informal dinner and use of the leisure facilities. Once again, our cases were in our rooms along with an etched glass candle, scented with Wild Gorse (an aroma traditionally associated with Scotland). This was a gift from Arran Aromatics who are Scotland’s leading manufacturer of luxury toiletries, lifestyle products and gifts.

Day Three

After our daily driver's briefing, we headed north from Loch Lomond for a lunch stop at Inverlocky Castle, one of Scotland’s finest hotels, nestling at the base of Ben Nevis. After an opportunity to shop at Spean Bridge Mill for souvenirs of Scotland, we headed off further north towards Loch Torridon.

Our hotel for the next two nights was the Torridon which was booked exclusively for On Tour guests. We were greeted with a friendly welcome from the owners and a roaring log fire.

The hotel is set on the edge of the Loch within 58 acres of parkland, one of the most spectacular and idyllic locations in Scotland.

One of the highlights of the day was a whisky tasting “Masterclass” held in the hotel bar, followed by a hosted dinner in the restaurant.

Day Four

We were awakened by the sound of highland bagpipes – no alarms were required! Following our daily briefing, we made our way towards the Isle of Skye experiencing truly breathtaking and panoramic views that epitomise the Scottish Highlands and Islands.

Heading towards the north end of the Island, we stopped at the world renowned Three Chimneys Restaurant for lunch. Here we were treated to a truly gourmet three course meal which featured such dishes as Pan Fried Wild River Esk Salmon, Baked Lanark Blue Cheescake and pot Roast Crown of Dunmanglass Grouse as main courses. However, many of us were tempted by the Seafood Platter!

A relaxing evening followed at the Torridon and allthough we had eaten a spectacular lunch, we were all tempted by the honey roast ham followed by apple crumble, ice cream and custard for supper!

Day Five

With our bags safely on route to the next destination and our daily briefing duly attended, we began our final days drive south driving along the banks of Loch Ness, (no sightings of Nessie!), stopping for lunch at The Lovat in Fort Augustus.

Arriving at Gleneagles, we were met by one of our hosts fully resplendent in a traditional kilt. For our final dinner together, the hosts and most of our guests dressed for the occasion – kilts for the men and tartan sashes for the ladies.

Our gala dinner was a “Tribute to Burns” and included a piper and an “Address to a Haggis”. The haggis was enjoyed by all, many having seconds!Les and Nicki, our Aston Martin ‘On Tour’ team, gave a comical overview of the week, featuring some pictures that will not be seen again! Markus Kramer, Aston Martin’s Marketing Director, had flown up to Scotland especially to give a final farewell and say goodbye to us all.