Mixed Fishing and Touring vacation in Scotland
This fishing and touring vacation is ideal for couples, and groups which include non anglers too. We can help plan these bespoke fishing vacations, that mix fishing with sightseeing, touring and other activities. This is the perfect vacation for couples visiting Scotland.
You can fish some of the best rivers and lochs in Scotland and mix in activities such as Outlander Tours, Food Foraging, visits to Whisky (Scotch) Distilleries and rounds of golf on some of Scotland’s best golf courses.
Our staff share a deep rooted passion for Scotland. This tour appeals to couples looking to experience the best of Scotland, whilst enjoying fishing from our portfolio.
You can be assured, that when visiting Scotland with us, you’ll receive a warm welcome and enjoy great hospitality. Scotland is also an incredibly safe destination, free from troubles.
Origins of the name Alba
Alba, it is the Scottish Gaelic name for Scotland. It wasn’t the only reason for naming our company “Alba” fourteen years ago. The letter “a” comes at the top of most directory listings and the text contains only 4 letters….this is pleasing to a Scotsman as it saves on printing costs!
In recent years tourism and fishing activities in Scotland has seen a huge surge. I hear the same from other Scottish tour providers. At Alba, we have welcomed overseas visitors from all over the world for 19 years.
These mixed touring and fishing vacations are increasing in popularity. We call these experiences ‘Hidden Gems of Scotland’. We also sell these tours through a reputable world US travel agency.
These tours are available throughout the year. May, September and October are particularly beautiful, as Scotland is quieter and blessed with some beautiful Autumn light and landscapes bathed in a cacophony of golden colours.
Perfect Vacation for couples
These vacations are perfect for couples (or groups of couples) who are looking for the best of both world/. You can mix fishing with touring and enjoy the less obvious secrets of Scotland (avoiding the tourists) and crowds.
As well as enjoying fishing from a varied and exclusive portfolio, Alba connect guests with unique accommodations. We will take all the hassle away by organizing all the logistics and planning.
Founder Stewart Collingswood knows all about the importance of detail and planning. He said, “I am detail-obsessed, coming from a military upbringing has embedded punctuality and the importance of planning”.
Invested in new vehicles for 2022
“We invested in a top of the Volvo XC90 which is an ideal 7 seat touring vehicle and can tackle anything that the Scottish terrain or weather can throw at it..with heated leather seats throughout and ample space, it’s perfect for small groups of two or three guests. For 4-6 guests, we use a Mercedes people carrier, again with leather seats and ample space and comfort.
For groups of 8 we use both vehicles and this allows us to split the group into fishing and non-fishing activities daily. All Alba vehicles are covered by Hire and Reward insurance.
This is a mandatory insurance required, for companies delivering touring options. It’s expensive for us to have put in place, but gives peace of mind that you are covered. Worryingly, smaller operators run without this type of insurance which is a huge risk to take.”
When driving around Scotland’s magnificent landscapes, a relaxed cruising speed of 50mph allows you to relax and soak up the majestic scenery. Safety and relaxation is Alba’s prime concern.
Your vacation begins with airport pick up
These vacations begin with your guide meeting the group at the airport (in a kilt of course). Usually USA flights arrive in the morning. We take a short drive through Edinburgh to give an overview before dropping guests at the hotel.
You are naturally tired after your flight, so we keep it simple off the first day. Once at your hotel, we’ll have a quick chat through the itinerary. This gives us a chance to factor in any last minute tweaks or special requests. The tour begins on day two after some well-earned rest.
During your vacation in Scotland, we will be your concierge, for any other requests you have.
The rest of the first day of the tour in Edinburgh is set aside to relax and acclimatize. We recommend restaurants that are tried and tested in Edinburgh, such as the Honours
The Scottish Borders – ample touring and fishing
Just a short drive from Edinburgh south into the Scottish Borders, you can enjoy an array of enviable fishing options. The River Tweed offers superb fishing for salmon, sea trout, wild brown trout, and grayling.
This river is world famous river holds some specimen trout and grayling.
Situated between the River Tweed and Edinburgh is a loch with a huge population of Scotland’s fearsome predator, the Pike. This private loch is not fished by the public and holds a very good population of fish averaging 7lb in weight.
Take a look at this clip from a Belgium TV show to enjoy the scenery and fishing. Fishing on this day is from the bank or boat and you can expect a real chance at connecting with a monster. This private exclusive loch has a superb fishing lodge, to enjoy lunch in and you can drive right to the water’s edge in the Volvo for those with limited access. The action is fast and furious and these fish fight hard, watch this guest battle with a medium sized fish – check this clip out
Edinburgh, Scotland’s capital city
Time in Edinburgh is spent between fishing in nearby secret locations to touring this historic old city. Our guides are Scottish and has lived here our whole life, so we know the inside track. There are wonderful sights to see, such as the Castle, Rosslyn Chapel and the Old Town.
Throughout the drive your guide will explain the history of the city. Lunch in the Canny Mans shouldn’t be missed. This traditional pub in the desirable Morningside area of the city is an emporium of antiquities hanging from walls and small booths where you would imagine secret liaisons would take place.
No tourists in here, its a bit away from the centre, but if you want authenticity, to rub shoulder with the locals, and a huge array of fine malt whisky’s and artisan beers, then this hits the spot.
Killiehuntly Farmhouse is a relaxed, stylish and spiritually uplifting place to stay. Set in the Cairngorms National park, and close to an array of touring and fishing options. At night you can sit out under the stars and enjoy the bonfire with a dram. You can relax in the sauna, or talk a walk in the beautiful surroundings and soak up the views, and fresh air.
Newtonmore gateway to the west coast
From Newtonmore, you can enjoy epic scenery en route to the West Coast. After a superb lunch at the Loch Leven Seafood cafe, you continue on up through the iconic Glencoe. You can enjoy an array of the freshest sea produce here under the canopy of the Pap of Glencoe looking over the sea loch. The food is simple, fresh and downright delicious. Recent guests from Colorado commented “the best seafood they had eaten anywhere in the world!” praise indeed.
Glencoe is a beautiful glen (valley) formed by glaciers and shrouded by dramatic mountains and scenery.
It was the setting for many Scottish movies such as Highlander, Braveheart and the Outlander series. Glencoe is beautiful and we know the best spots for photos and view points (the Volvo XC90 helps here) Lunch at the award winning Clachaig Inn, voted recently as one of Britains top ten pubs.
The views from your table as you enjoy lunch are stunning. Plenty of local artisan beers to try and good honest tasty food.
Castle accommodation in Argyll
There are few castles in Scotland as good as Barcaldine. This charming castle, built in 1609 by Black Duncan Campbell. Many guests rate Barcaldine as one of the most unique and charming accommodations they have ever stayed in.
Professional photographs of your tour included
Everywhere on this tour is a photographers dream. We capture your whole trip with candid photography using a Nikon D850 and prime lenses. The images from your trip are shared on dropbox. We carry high quality binoculars as well, there are frequent sightings of otters and deer.
If you fancy trying to catch a salmon, its worth a day on the River Orchy. There’s also Loch Awe, aptly named in size and scenery. Alba guides holds powerboat certificates so we can hire a small boat and explore the hidden graveyard on a remote island with Knights templar gravestones, a beach for lunch and surrounded by wonderful pike fishing.
But there are also less obvious spots for a refreshment, such as the recently refurbished ‘Old Inn’ located overlooking Castle Stalker. A converted barn, with a wood fire in the corner, subdued lighting and warm friendly staff. Locals gather here to enjoy superb quality steaks, seafood and artisan beers.
There is the option on these tours to take a few days extra to tour Skye, one of the jewels of Scotland. En route to the bridge to Skye you can stop at the iconic Eilean Donan Castle, fully restored 13th century castle used in many Scottish movies, such as Highlander.
The Isle of Skye
Having visited Skye over a hundred times, MD of Alba Stewart Collingswood summarised his highlights as follows “The constant magical views of the Cuillin Mountains as you drive around this Island underpin everything. Whether viewed from Elgol or Sligachan bridge, they are beautiful. The drive to Neist point and scenery there again not to be missed. It’s hard to get anywhere quickly, because your always tempted to stop and take photos.
I always image a Tolkien novel when visiting the Quiraing and Old man of Stohr in the North of Skye and then there’s the shore fishing for pollack and salmon rivers. Numerous craft shops, museums and charming people. The Three Chimneys restaurant and accommodation are not to be missed. I could go on!” Collingswood has compiled a list of photographic hot spots for guests which include over 30 locations in Skye.
West Coast, Caledonian Canal, Inverness
After a few days enjoying The Isle of Skye and the west coast, you journey north up the Great Glen following the Caledonian Canal towards Inverness. A chance to spot Nessie, and a visit the Caledonian Canal and learn about its construction and how it offered employment to the Highlanders following the clearances. A marvel of engineering masterminded by Thomas Telford. It runs 60 miles and connects the west to the east coast of Scotland.
While in Inverness there’s a wealth of opportunity here, to travel north and fish some of the finest trout lochs in Scotland and enjoy sport on numerous salmon rivers like the Beauly or Alness. Loch Eye in May in truly one of Scotland’s finest trout lochs, free rising wild brown trout and a stunning loch side bothy for lunch.
Our experienced wildlife guide can tour the Highlands to see Red Deer, Pine Martins, Ospreys, Red Squirrels and Otters.
There are many opportunities throughout the tour to take in a Scottish distillery, Dalwhinnie, Glenmorangie and the smallest in Scotland Edradour are all easily reached.
Summary of this unique vacation in Scotland
In summary if you are looking experience everything that is wonderful about Scotland, this is the vacation for you. This tour is ideal for couples who want to mix fishing and touring.
We will take away the hassle and organise the whole package. We have 19 years experience delivering these vacations. Take a look at our Google reviews and Tripadvisor. Here is a review from a recent customer, who enjoyed a tour throughout Scotland with. his wife Dee.
For more details of the hidden gems tours, please make an enquiry visit this page or
[ttbase_callout button_url=”/contact/” button_text=”Make an Enquiry” button_style=”style-2″ button_icon_left=”chevron-circle-left”]Call us on (UK +44 7734 810 706 / USA TOLL FREE 800-972-0408) or email an enquiry to start planning your fishing experience.[/ttbase_callout]
