The Highlands Garden Journey: A Four-Day Cultural Escape

Curated by Andrew of Cowderoy Adventures & Alan Robertson of Robertson & Currie

Andrew Cowderoy and Alan Robertson, the minds behind Cowderoy Adventures and Robertson & Currie, respectively, have gently and thoughtfully curated this four-day journey. Alan — the sole force behind the Robertson & Currie name — brings years of experience and a love of slow, meaningful travel by rail, while Andrew offers a connection to land, landscape and luxury, born from his upbringing in the Highlands. This trip is rooted in Scotland’s heritage, gardens, craftsmanship, culture, whisky, and camaraderie. It’s a journey for those who wish to explore at a slower pace—to stop, stop again, and truly absorb the world around them. You’ll travel together as a small group, where laughter and connection come as naturally as the scenery itself.

Day One – Into the Highlands

The journey begins in London, where guests are met by Alan for a relaxed breakfast — a moment to meet one another and ease into the rhythm of the trip. From here, you’ll board a scenic daytime train north through Britain, watching the city slowly give way to wildness, hills and lochs. The train journey is not simply a means of travel but a reintroduction to the luxury of time. Disembarking in the Scottish Highlands, you’ll be welcomed by Andrew and a Land Rover Defender. The drive to your accommodation takes you through the Highland twilight — just enough time to settle into the landscape before a relaxed welcome dinner. Think woodsmoke, fine food served al fresco or beside a fire, laughter and warmth as you decompress from city life and reconnect with nature.

Day Two – Rail to the West, Castles of the North

After breakfast, guests are transferred to Nairn station for the next rail segment with Alan — a meandering, unforgettable train journey to the West Coast through glens and past sea lochs to the dramatic landscape surrounding Attadale. This stretch of line is among the most scenic in the UK and provides time for quiet reflection and open conversation. After a tour of the gardens, you’ll be met again by your Land Rover, taking you overland via winding Highland roads to Inverewe Gardens and then onwards to the majestic Dunrobin Castle — its French château-style turrets rising above the North Sea. Explore the formal gardens, discover the heritage of the Sutherland family, and perhaps experience an intimate falconry display.

Lunch will be enjoyed en route — a locally sourced, slow-dining moment chosen to match the pace and feel of the day. As the sun dips lower, you’ll return to the railway and journey back toward Nairn. A transfer will return you to your accommodation, where a fine Highland dining experience awaits — thoughtfully prepared and reflective of the season.

Day Three – A Day to Follow the Feeling

This day remains intentionally open, shaped by the energy and desires of the group. Whether you wish to rest and enjoy the comforts of your surroundings, or to venture once more into the Highlands, we will adapt. Options may include private tours of yet-unseen gardens, whisky distillery visits, coastal walks or castle explorations. Andrew and Alan will guide the flow of the day — offering expertise and flexibility. In the evening, guests are free to dine independently — whether in small groups, as couples, or on their own. This unstructured evening is yours to enjoy as you please, whether discovering a nearby eatery or remaining in quiet company back at base. This is the one meal not included in the programme — an invitation to follow your instinct and wander.

Day Four – Southbound, with the Highlands Behind You

After a final Highland breakfast, guests will be transferred to a local train station for their return journey south to London. There is no rush — only the continued flow of the journey. The landscapes you’ve come to know will slowly slip by your window, carrying you gently back to modern life, refreshed and reconnected.