August 2027 – Midweek

 

A Highland Midweek getaway with Birding Ecosse and the Grant Arms Hotel.

Monday 02 to Thursday 05 August 2027

*** 4 Spaces Available ***

And

Monday 16 to Thursday 19 August 2027

*** 4 Spaces Available***

 

Monday – Arrival Day

The magnificent Grant Arms Hotel, Grantown on Spey

Arriving on Monday afternoon why not treat yourself to a couple of “local brews” in the hotels stunning Capercaillie bar, prior to you enjoying your evening meal in the beautiful dining room.

Tuesday

It’s Guga Time!

Although most of the Auks will have left their nesting ledges, for me the stars of the show are still well and truly at home.

On this trip out to RSPB Troup head we will see the many stages of a Gannets plumage, from the fluffy “teddy bear” to the sleek dark grey plumaged “Guga” with white spots, to the pristine gleaming white adults.  Get to see these birds up close and detailed, it really is a great trip.

Of course we still have great chances of late Guillemot’s and Razorbills and the “Kittiwaaaaking” kittiwakes plus the added bonus of possible Bottle Nosed Dolphins and Minke Whales!

After the Gannets we take a drive along the beautiful Moray Coastline looking for Migrating Ospreys and perhaps even some early winter Waders making their return some still in their smart breeding plumage.

(NB – If the sailing to Troup Head cancels due to weather we will spend the day exploring the beautiful Moray Coast)

Accessibility: There is a short set of step to navigate to get onto the Seacat prior to and at the end of the trip – not suitable for people with mobility issues.

Wednesday

Highland Birds

This is a “must do” trip when you visit the Highland of Scotland!  The day starts off with a visit to a traditional Black Grouse Lek, and at the same time the “Go Back Go Back Go Back” calls of its Red Cousin fill the air.

Red Grouse

Next we head off in search of the charismatic Crested Tit and perhaps Dippers

We finish the day in a what has to be one of the most beautiful valleys in Scotland, and it is here we will search for two of the “Big Ones” they are White Tailed and Golden Eagles.  This area is probably the most productive sites in this part of Scotland to see these iconic birds, and the reason they are here?  Herds of Red Deer roam the hillside, Britain largest land mammal is very common as its it smaller relative the Roe Deer, we may even stumble across the secretive Sika deer.  Mountain Hare, Brown Hare, Feral Goats and Red squirrel are also often encountered.

Great Birds, great Scenery and fantastic experiences it really is a day not to be missed.

Pick up 0800 – Drop off 1630

Accessibility: No accessibility issues on this tour.

 

Thursday

Little Grebe (Dabchick)

Give yourself a treat!  Enjoy a long lie before you head down for your last breakfast, sit back and enjoy the memories of the past two full days birding in the glorious Scottish Highlands, and start planning your next trip North!

A fantastic break for just £660 per person

So what is included?

3 nights Full board (Dinner, Bed and breakfast).

2 Full days Birding.

Delicious, packed Lunch on Birding Days

Tea/Coffee morning and afternoon on Birding Days

All transport on outings

All guiding fees.

Complimentary Checklist

Use of binoculars if required.

What’s not included:

Transport to and from Hotel

Drinks at hotel

Personal insurance

Travel Insurance (Recommended)

Items of a personal nature

Interested?  Then please feel free to contact Birding Ecosse for more information or to book your place.