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Folklore and History: Loch Ness is perhaps the most famous lake in the world, known for its elusive resident, the Loch Ness Monster, affectionately called Nessie or Beastie. According to local lore, Nessie has been sighted for centuries, with tales dating back to the 6th century. Besides Nessie, the lake has a history steeped in Celtic and Pictish culture, with ancient ruins and mysterious standing stones dotting its shores.

Unique Adventures: For travellers seeking a secluded retreat, consider a weekly stay at the utterly divine Aldourie Castle on the shores of Loch Ness, a private stately mansion with exclusive access to the lake. Enjoy a delicious picnic cruise in your own charter yacht to search for Nessie or head to a Speyside pool to cast for trout and salmon. Though Scottish Lairds are celebrated by Hollywood as bloodthirsty monsters, our guests can lunch with a charming, urbane and fascinating Laird in his historic mansion- he does a mean apple pie, but is otherwise benign. This is a house that is never usually open to the public and guests get privileged access to a lifestyle even rare in Britain nowadays.

Folklore and History: Loch Lomond, nestled in Scotland’s picturesque Trossachs National Park, is renowned for its stunning natural beauty. Surrounded by rolling hills, lush forests, and charming villages, the loch offers breathtaking vistas that inspire awe and tranquillity. This idyllic setting is steeped in legend, notably associated with the haunting song “The Bonnie Banks o’ Loch Lomond.” The ballad tells of two spirits, one living and one departed, echoing ancient Celtic beliefs in the afterlife and the enduring bond with the loch’s land and waters. Its lyrical tale continues to captivate, adding to the lore and allure of Loch Lomond.

Unique Adventures: Experience the luxurious Cameron House, a five-star resort on Loch Lomond’s southern shores, offering private lodges and suites with panoramic lake views. Guests can enjoy exclusive access to the resort’s private marina for yacht cruises, play golf at the prestigious Carrick Golf Course, and relax with spa treatments overlooking the serene waters. Visit the charming village of Luss, where guests can immerse themselves in traditional Scottish culture. For a unique adventure, try your hand at off-road driving in a 4×4 Land Rover. Navigate through rugged terrains and experience the thrill of conquering the wild Scottish landscape under expert guidance. Now, if a sheep gives you driving tips, you might want to take the scenic route instead!

Folklore and History: Loch Leven, is renowned steeped in mystical folklore. Legend has it that the waters of Loch Leven hold ancient secrets and are guarded by spirits of the Celtic past. The lake gained historical prominence as the site where Mary, Queen of Scots, was imprisoned on an island castle in 1567. Today, the haunting ruins of Loch Leven Castle stand as a poignant testament to its turbulent past, echoing with tales of intrigue and captivity.

Unique Adventures: For travellers seeking an exclusive retreat amidst Scotland’s mystical landscape, consider visiting St. Andrews. Stay at the Old Course Hotel, where luxury accommodations overlook the renowned Old Course. Enjoy award-winning dining at the Road Hole Restaurant, a rejuvenating spa, and exclusive access to top golf courses. Known as the “Home of Golf,” St. Andrews blends history, culture, and coastal scenery. It was at St. Andrews that Prince William met Kate—so you never know who you might run into! Book a private boat tour to Loch Leven’s Island castle ruins, or fly-fish for brown trout. Whether exploring history, enjoying outdoor activities, or soaking in serene beauty, Loch Leven and St. Andrews offer unforgettable Scottish experiences.

Folklore and History: The Lakes of Killarney—Lough Leane, Muckross Lake, and Upper and Lower Lake—are steeped in Irish mythology. One enchanting legend tells of Cliodhna, a fairy princess who fell in love with a mortal man. She would visit him by crossing Lough Leane on a white horse, but their love story ended tragically when her jealous kin cast a spell to prevent her from leaving the fairy realm. Locals say her spectral image can still be seen emerging from the lake’s depths on misty mornings.

Unique Adventures: Unique Adventures: Stay at the picturesque Killarney Park Hotel, nestled near Muckross Lake. Set out through a mountain pass in a horse and carriage to Lord Brandon’s Cottage where a sumptuous picnic awaits. Then by private boat down the lake to the Muckross Estate, our expert guide will show you the hidden flora and fauna. Guests can indulge in private boat tours across the serene waters, horseback riding adventures through the enchanting Killarney National Park, rounds of golf at the prestigious Killarney Golf & Fishing Club and engaging guided tours that unveil the captivating local legends and folklore of the area. For the Downton Abbey experience why not take the only private stately home on the Killarney lakeshore, complete with staff, for a week.  We can arrange tee times at Ballybunion and Waterville for the golfers, a private cruise to Skellig Michael for the Star Wars fans, and a local falconer can bring you on a hawk walk through the wooded estate.

Folklore and History: Lough Derg’s name has grim origins tied to King Eochaidh Mac Luachta, whose fort overlooked the lake. When the wicked bard Aithirné the Importunate demanded the king’s only eye as payment for his performance, Eochaidh, wanting to avoid conflict, complied and tore out his eye. As he washed the blood from his face, the lake turned red, leading him to declare it “Loch Dergdheirc,” meaning “the lake of the bloody eye.”

Unique Adventures: We offer amazing bespoke adventures tailored to discerning travellers, including private yacht cruises to explore the lake’s islands, lunch with a traditional harpist to entertain you in a private medieval castle, or a Georgian country house experience, complete with croquet on the lawn and cucumber sandwiches. Discover Ballyfin, the most lavish Regency mansion in Ireland, set on 614 acres of stunning natural beauty, featuring hidden grottos and enchanting gardens waiting to be explored. Here, you can also star in your own episode of Bridgerton with Ballyfin’s Costume Experience, donning exquisite costumes from the Lyric Opera Company while enjoying a splendid evening filled with a fine banquet and entertainment – where drama is always on the menu!

Folklore and History: Nestled in the Connemara region of County Galway, is a hidden gem known for its glistening tides and lofty summits. One of its intriguing features is the legend of the Glimmer Man, a mysterious lake monster said to inhabit its depths, adding to its mystical allure. Local tales describe the Glimmer Man as a shimmering figure, often seen gliding just beneath the water’s surface, with an otherworldly glow that captures the imagination. Some say he appears during misty mornings, his presence a sign of good fortune for those lucky enough to catch a glimpse. If he offers to take you for a swim, it’s probably best to politely decline!

Unique Adventures: For a luxurious stay near Lough Na Fooey, consider Ashford Castle in nearby Cong, County Mayo. This world-renowned castle hotel offers opulent accommodations and a range of exclusive activities. Guests can enjoy kayaking and paddleboarding on Lough Corrib, hiking in the beautiful Connemara landscape, and indulging in traditional Irish music sessions in nearby villages. We can also arrange charming and interesting local guides who will highlight the rich natural and cultural heritage of Connemara, creating a memorable and enriching experience for guests. Our friend in the valley is Joe whose family have farmed there for nearly 1,000 years.  Meet his sheepdogs and watch in wonder as he whistles commands to them.  Cuddle a lamb and check out sheep shearing skills.  Joe’s sheep and dogs were featured in the movie Marley and Me and Calista Flockhart loved this mountain hideout. Nearby are a couple of outstanding food trucks, well worth a deviation  for lunch – The Misunderstood Heron, and Snappy Snappy. But we’ll save them for a future when we tell you about foraging, oysters and abalone.