Almost perfect holiday in Scotland
Scotland | Aug 30 - Sep 13, 2023

Lyn
Lyn S.
East Lansing, MI | Reviewed on Sep 16, 2023

First, our local specialist was Stephen Molloy, not Isabelle. And, if I could have given a 4.8 rather than a 4, I would have. Most of the planning process was excellent, with Stephen responsive to, and patient with, our revisions in itinerary. Perhaps twice I wished for more prompt responses to questions, even if the response was, "I'm going to need a few days to sort that out". Having said that, Stephen helped us come up with an outstanding experience. With only one exception the accommodations were very good to excellent. That exception, the Stirling Highland Hotel, has already been communicated to Stephen.
Our guide, David, that helped us with a hike at Glencoe was wonderful; supportive, knowledgeable, personable, and easily adjusted to our needs.
Scotland is a beautiful and interesting country. We are grateful to have had a glimpse of its history, its highlands and coastline, and its warm and generous people. With Stephen's assistance we planned a trip that allowed us to travel about 700 miles in 15 days. More than once we asked each other whether we could stay in a place for two or three weeks more.
This was truly more wonderful than we imagined. Thank you Stephen for helping us to plan and for checking with us several times to make sure the trip was going well.

Hotel Reviews
ibis Edinburgh Centre South Bridge - Royal Mile
Edinburgh

Wonderful, helpful, pleasant staff. These folks were a pleasure to stay with for a couple days. The lobby, room, and hallways were good, but could use some light maintenance. The bed was great, very comfortable. In all, the accommodations were above average, but nothing extraordinary. The provided breakfast was also good, fresh, well-kept, and nice variety. A little trouble with the coffee machine. Maintenance? Planning? At any rate, staff was patient and attentive in addressing the issue. We would recommend this hotel.

Authenticity & Character
Nothing wrong with it, just nothing distinctive.
Location
In old town Edinburgh, a very short walk to the Royal Mile and Edinburgh Castle. Numerous places to shop and great restaurants.
Staff
Reception staff, housecleaning staff, and breakfast service staff all pleasant and helpful. Really outstanding.
Cleanliness & Comfort
Very good, but perhaps light cleaning or painting in halls.
Loch Eyre House
Portree

Wonderful hosts. Beautiful location. Very pleasant and comfortable room. Nicely prepared and tasty breakfast. We loved this stay. Highly recommended.

Authenticity & Character
Location
A short drive from Portree. Quiet and picturesque.
Staff
Very pleasant and helpful.
Cleanliness & Comfort
Everything was clean, comfortable, and welcoming.
Local specialist: Isabelle Gay