OKOKUZITHOKOZISA KWE-AIRBNB
Izinto ezingavamile ongazenza e-Scotland
Bhukha izinto ezenziwayo ezingenakulibaleka ezibungazwa abantu bendawo ku-Airbnb.
Okwenziwayo okusezingeni eliphezulu
Whisky and Folklore
Let is start by saying the whisky is optional, drink alternatives are available and the cost of the whisky is not included in the £14. We do this to make the event as inclusive as possible for drinker, non drinker, whisky lovers and whisky sceptics alike. The whisky or drink alternatives can be added on on the day.
We meet just off the iconic Royal Mile at a café/bar called Hot Toddy. We have the entire downstairs area reserved for us, ensuring lots of space for the group. During the course of two hours we will sample four outstanding Single Malt Scotch Whiskies from the four major whisky producing regions of Scotland. We will discus some of the history of Scotland and explore the reasons as to why whisky is now so ingrained as a staple of Scottish culture and we have some great tales from Scotland and the world of whisky to share with you.
Other things to note
This tour departs promptly and we can not wait for guests who are late. Feel free to turn up at Hot Toddy earlier to enjoy some food or drink before the event starts.
People under the age of 18 are not permitted on this tour and exceptions can not be made I'm afraid.
Tea with Naughty Sheep
Feed and stroke gorgeous Herdwick sheep.
Good fun for groups, gorgeous for couples. Over 16s. Romantic trips, aniversaries, birthdays, animal lovers or adventurers in search of the unique and exclusive. Happy sheep and intimate teas means limited places. Private hen parties and Baaad boy brunch by request.
NY Times, Vogue, Forbes
Enjoy a traditional tea in the meadow looking at our panoramic views. Hilarious pet sheep will join you for cuddles and a bit of naughtiness and trying to eat all the wrong things.. After your outdoor home-made afternoon tea, you can photograph your new friends in the meadow or barn and really a special bond of trust . If we have new lambs there might be the chance to give them a bottle of milk too. You will enter the secret world of sheep- a wholesome joy
Animals and hens are unpredictable and untrained . We started as Tea with Lambs- very cute and then they grew up into boisterous baaad boys! Bring a sense of humour and a camera. Please don't film and feed at the same time- they like your full attention and I will ask for some phone-free periods to experience the Mindfulness of your new flock.
The sheep are free to choose to walk away to graze too
I recommend walking from the village to the location, 25 mins but you may drive the rough stone farm track of 1k.
This is an outdoor experience in the Loch Lomond National Park- dress wisely
Isle of Skye Smokehouse Tour & Tasting
Isle of Skye's only commercial smokehouse!
A tour of the uniquely designed smokehouse is inspired to look like a traditional Scottish building called a cleit. A peat roof and stonewalled buildings from the bygone years. (Search on google St. Kilda and Cleit).
Learn how the local alder wood is prepared by hand using an axe and used to fire the smokehouse and to create the smoke. I will talk about the various techniques of hot and cold smoking, wet and dry curing.
Smell the secret 6 spice mix blend used in the current recipe to cure the salmon. Can you guess any of the spices?
Finally the best bit tasting, Sample 5 different canapes.
A twist on a Cullen Skink, Smoked salmon mousse on beetroot and blini, two additional tasting spoons.
Topics covered
Isle of Skye, the only commercial smokehouse
Wild salmon vs farmed salmon
Wood selection, why alder?
Dry and wet curing
Kitchen equipment
Smokehouse design, cleits
The smoking processes such as hot and cold techniques, temperatures ect
My products can be bought locally at:
Aros Centre (Portree)
The Top Shop (Broadford)
An Crubh ( Sleat)
Beths Deli (Balmacara)
Plockton Shores
Heb Shack (Uig)
Pottery by by Lenz Ceramics https://www.lenz-ceramics
Celtic handfasting ceremony
In a beautiful and secret location near Loch Ness with celtic hanging rings and altar where dressed in traditional Scottish dress I will explain this full celtic ritual of handfasting. After the traditional gaelic introduction the rest of the ceremony will be in english and I will join your hands together and you will repeat the old vows of binding from long ago. You will be offered the chance to recite your own vows after this if you wish. After the ceremony you can relax with your loved one and a romantic and decadent Scottish gourmet picnic and drinks complete with fire, rugs, blankets, crockery etc.
Other things to note
This is not a legally binding ceremony and available for lovers, married couples, same sex and mixed sex couples alike.
Skye Collies - working sheepdogs
A small introduction to the Collie demonstration. A chance to meet thedogs as well . A short talk on the history of the area the importance of the working dog over the centuries in different working environments , the evolution of the working dog to what we have today, followed by a demonstration of the working dog , and an opportunity for one from the group to try to work my dogs !
Other things to note
Duration 1 hr
Konke okwenziwayo eduze ne-Scotland
Silver Ring Making Experience
If you have ever wanted to know how silver rings are made then why not take one of my Sterling Silver Ring Making Workshops. At Immeroin Jewellery Workshop in Loch Lomond National Park. I will guide you through the whole process from start to finish, within 3 hours you will have produced your very own handmade ring. With no experience you will make a stunning piece of Jewellery and learn a new skill. If there are no dates showing availability please get in touch as I may be able to accommodate. This is a very personal experience as I only take a maximum of 4 people at a time.
Whisky and Folklore
Let is start by saying the whisky is optional, drink alternatives are available and the cost of the whisky is not included in the £14. We do this to make the event as inclusive as possible for drinker, non drinker, whisky lovers and whisky sceptics alike. The whisky or drink alternatives can be added on on the day.
We meet just off the iconic Royal Mile at a café/bar called Hot Toddy. We have the entire downstairs area reserved for us, ensuring lots of space for the group. During the course of two hours we will sample four outstanding Single Malt Scotch Whiskies from the four major whisky producing regions of Scotland. We will discus some of the history of Scotland and explore the reasons as to why whisky is now so ingrained as a staple of Scottish culture and we have some great tales from Scotland and the world of whisky to share with you.
Other things to note
This tour departs promptly and we can not wait for guests who are late. Feel free to turn up at Hot Toddy earlier to enjoy some food or drink before the event starts.
People under the age of 18 are not permitted on this tour and exceptions can not be made I'm afraid.
Snuggle Special-Needs Sanctuary dogs
You will be welcomed at the Sanctuary by a myriad of barking, happy , tail-wagging special needs dogs. Having gone into the "airlock" [a double safety gate to prevent escapees] before climbing up to the office, the dogs will surround you with wags, wiggles and woofs Once the excitement has settled down a bit you will be able to sit at the picnic tables on the covered decking and have adorable Chihuahuas clambering on your knee, Labradors vying for attention and Gandalf our large Golden Doodledor [ mongrel ] watching the activities from his vantage point on another picnic table. The dogs love all the attention and whilst you are giving them hugs and cuddles I will tell all their stories of how they came to be at the Sanctuary and their special needs and treatments if any. If wanted a short tour of the other animals at the Sanctuary can be included or you can stay on the decking with the dogs and give them a brush or just snuggle with a Chihuahua in your jumper and a Rottie round your neck .
Other things to note
Warm, waterproof clothing and footwear; if doing more than the Dog Cuddle Experience suggest wellies as the fields may be muddy. Please don't have goodies for the animals as you WILL be mugged for them. They can be left at reception for later treats thanks
Atmospheric couple & solo Photoshoot in Edinburgh
*You can check my Insta handle for more photos and ideas*
@vasakos_3vh
**Discounts for Families**
*** All Prices are per person***
( If you are 2 people you need to book for
2 if you are 3 you need to book for 3 etc)
*This applies for private groups as well*
** More time slots available upon request **
Let's create together the mementos of a lifetime experience and have fun along the way!
We will meet in front of Tolbooth Kirk in Old Town and walk through time in some of the most captivating Edinburgh Old Town's closes and streets. I will also guide you through some other hidden gems of Edinburgh, which will make your experience and portraits unique and unforgettable.
There are also alternative spots, which can be arranged upon request and further agreement
I will use professional equipment during the photoshoot and advise you on the most flattering poses possible. My artistic touch and editing skills reassure that the outcome is unable to be replicated somewhere else.
This experience is perfect for solo, couples or families who need a professional photoshoot, that you can only find in Edinburgh! A personalised session will be created according to your time preferences and my artistic suggestions.
20-30 photos will be picked & edited by myself and delivered to you in premium quality with in 10 days via link.
Tea with Naughty Sheep
Feed and stroke gorgeous Herdwick sheep.
Good fun for groups, gorgeous for couples. Over 16s. Romantic trips, aniversaries, birthdays, animal lovers or adventurers in search of the unique and exclusive. Happy sheep and intimate teas means limited places. Private hen parties and Baaad boy brunch by request.
NY Times, Vogue, Forbes
Enjoy a traditional tea in the meadow looking at our panoramic views. Hilarious pet sheep will join you for cuddles and a bit of naughtiness and trying to eat all the wrong things.. After your outdoor home-made afternoon tea, you can photograph your new friends in the meadow or barn and really a special bond of trust . If we have new lambs there might be the chance to give them a bottle of milk too. You will enter the secret world of sheep- a wholesome joy
Animals and hens are unpredictable and untrained . We started as Tea with Lambs- very cute and then they grew up into boisterous baaad boys! Bring a sense of humour and a camera. Please don't film and feed at the same time- they like your full attention and I will ask for some phone-free periods to experience the Mindfulness of your new flock.
The sheep are free to choose to walk away to graze too
I recommend walking from the village to the location, 25 mins but you may drive the rough stone farm track of 1k.
This is an outdoor experience in the Loch Lomond National Park- dress wisely
Isle of Skye Smokehouse Tour & Tasting
Isle of Skye's only commercial smokehouse!
A tour of the uniquely designed smokehouse is inspired to look like a traditional Scottish building called a cleit. A peat roof and stonewalled buildings from the bygone years. (Search on google St. Kilda and Cleit).
Learn how the local alder wood is prepared by hand using an axe and used to fire the smokehouse and to create the smoke. I will talk about the various techniques of hot and cold smoking, wet and dry curing.
Smell the secret 6 spice mix blend used in the current recipe to cure the salmon. Can you guess any of the spices?
Finally the best bit tasting, Sample 5 different canapes.
A twist on a Cullen Skink, Smoked salmon mousse on beetroot and blini, two additional tasting spoons.
Topics covered
Isle of Skye, the only commercial smokehouse
Wild salmon vs farmed salmon
Wood selection, why alder?
Dry and wet curing
Kitchen equipment
Smokehouse design, cleits
The smoking processes such as hot and cold techniques, temperatures ect
My products can be bought locally at:
Aros Centre (Portree)
The Top Shop (Broadford)
An Crubh ( Sleat)
Beths Deli (Balmacara)
Plockton Shores
Heb Shack (Uig)
Pottery by by Lenz Ceramics https://www.lenz-ceramics
Celtic handfasting ceremony
In a beautiful and secret location near Loch Ness with celtic hanging rings and altar where dressed in traditional Scottish dress I will explain this full celtic ritual of handfasting. After the traditional gaelic introduction the rest of the ceremony will be in english and I will join your hands together and you will repeat the old vows of binding from long ago. You will be offered the chance to recite your own vows after this if you wish. After the ceremony you can relax with your loved one and a romantic and decadent Scottish gourmet picnic and drinks complete with fire, rugs, blankets, crockery etc.
Other things to note
This is not a legally binding ceremony and available for lovers, married couples, same sex and mixed sex couples alike.
Isle of Skye Day Tour from Inverness
First we set off from the heart of Inverness with a view of Inverness Castle, and travelling down the mysterious Loch Ness, home of the Loch Ness Monster. You have wonderful views of Urquhart Castle. Stop and “say hello” to Morag, Mhairi and the rest of the Highland Cows in the secret location?
Secondly we discover the emotive and atmospheric Glen Shiel where a Jacobite battle was fought. As we pass through Glen Shiel we will be rewarded with stunning views of the legendary and dramatic peaks of the Five Sisters of Kintail. Just before the Isle of Skye we can take in the world famous 13th century Eilean Donan Castle.
Next we cross onto the isle of Skye to take in some of the most breath-taking scenery and landscapes .Crossing over the beautifully designed Skye Bridge, which opened in 1995. We will then enjoy travelling through the Cuillin Mountain Range and take in the dramatic and ever changing backdrop
Next we visit the picturesque harbour town of Portree, and lunch in one of the amazing Portree restaurants. Finally we continue on to the impressive Old Man of Storr, . Lastly we Return through Kyle of Lochalsh , stopping at Hector's Bothy .
Happy Tours guarantees a fun tour limited to 8 people per tour as this ensures personal attention from your guide making it one of Scotland's best tours
Other things to note
You will be apart of a small group for this tour
Skye Collies - working sheepdogs
A small introduction to the Collie demonstration. A chance to meet thedogs as well . A short talk on the history of the area the importance of the working dog over the centuries in different working environments , the evolution of the working dog to what we have today, followed by a demonstration of the working dog , and an opportunity for one from the group to try to work my dogs !
Other things to note
Duration 1 hr
Small group Harry Potter walking tour
We'll discover the streets and secret alleyways of the Old Town area of Edinburgh, starting at Edinburgh Castle, then we'll wander down to "Diagon Alley" and find the gravestones of "Voldemort" and some other well known names in the Harry Potter series.
We'll also spot "Hogwarts School" of Wizardry and find where the writer found her inspiration from.
Learn about the famous and not so famous cafes where J.K. Rowling began her writing career and finished in the realms of luxury.
The tour will last approximately 1 hour.
However, please allow for an additional 20 minutes if tour runs over depending on group size, photo opportunities and question time.
Other things to note
The tour will be outdoors, whether rain or shine so come prepared to walk around for over an hour. If it is raining, I suggest to wear sturdy shoes - the graveyard can be muddy.
We won't wait if you are late, please arrive 5 mins early. Call me on +44(0)7884558365
*No refunds if late or no show.
Skip the line tour of Edinburgh Castle
This tour includes a little of The Royal Mile and a lot of The Castle. Set aside time after your tour to explore. The price advertised does not include the entrance price to the castle, this is because some people book their own tickets in advance. You can purchase castle tickets directly from us at the start of the tour for your convenience.
We meet on the Royal Mile and start by giving a little background history to Edinburgh and the Castle to help put everything into context. Moving up to the castle esplanade where you will learn about the Edinburgh Military Tattoo and two of the most famous figures from Scottish history; Robert the Bruce and William Wallace.
Entering the Castle we stop by the Argyle Battery where you will learn about the 1 o'clock gun. Moving on we head down to the Hospital Square where we get impressive views from the Western Panorama before heading up towards the castle barracks and prisoner of war camp, all these areas have enthralling stories that only a guide can bring to life.
We then climb to the top of Castle Rock entering the medieval section of Edinburgh Castle. Here we see the oldest building in Edinburgh, St Margaret’s Chapel and Mons Meg, a monstrous canon!
The tour finishes in the Crown Square which is the heart of Edinburgh Castle and I will tell you all about the daring attacks against this iconic fortification.
Underground Beer Tasting
We'll start off with our 1st beer and a tour of our building, a 16th Century prison and courthouse. We have some original features untouched for hundreds of years. We'll make our way down to the hidden vaults under our building, where you'll try a selection of 4 other local beers in the most hidden tasting room in Edinburgh!
Along with learning about the beers from an expert guide and the history of brewing in Edinburgh, participants will get to see the secret rooms hidden in the old prison, as well as stories of prisoners who were held here, the dark and grimy history of Auld Reekie, and how beer shaped the way we live our lives today.
Other things to note
Please be aware that the vault is accessed via about 20 steps- there is no lift/ramp access to the lower level.
Check-in with reception staff at The Hostel above
Learn how to throw pottery on a wheel
First be welcomed with a good Scottish tea and biscuit!
Let me then talk you through some basics of technique and watch a demonstration of how to throw a pot. Including, centering, opening and wall building.
You can make two pots, the first I will talk you through step by step as a group, the second is a free throw (or I can just talk you through again if you prefer). I will glaze both and we will aim for at least one good pot. Sometimes folk find it tricky and end up with one good and one wonky, or 2 wonky or 2 good. Keep your expectations low if its your first time throwing, you wont manage a vase on your first time ever. Unfortunately we can’t get a handle on to make a mug in the 2 hours as they are 2 wet, but you could happily aim to go for a handless beaker’s to drink from.
I use a neutral colour food safe glaze.
I will trim your pot bases for you the next day and mark your name and date on the band glaze and fire when dried.
I can post your pot on to you for a small extra postage fee of £5, or you can collect them when ready.
The focus will be on fun : - ) and experience, getting your hands messy and making something functional and beautiful to take home as a special memory.
Top tips - hair band or clip for long hair, short nails are useful and watches/ rings etc best popped into your bag. Aprons are provided.
Find a hidden Glen in Scotland's woods
We'll embark upon a journey whereby we get you to a mystical place, where we'll delve deep into forrest, enjoying the song of the birds and the gushing sound of the gorge underneath us, walk along the gorge, looking down at the amazing waterfalls and taking pictures of it.
Then we will get to an ancient "staircase", where we need to climb down, using the ropes alongside the "stairs" and once we get to the bottom, we'll gaze upon an amazing gorge between the rocks covered with moss, crystal clear water, cold as ice, but a place looking like a haunted scenery out a fairy tale.
This is Finnich Glen, that locals thought of being a place of the devils, an isolated and remote looking area, that gives you the chills and excitement in the same time.
No wonder this place has been used as a scenery for the Outlander movie.
For those brave ones, who want to get further into the glen, you can roll up your pants and get into the water (warning: extremely cold) and walk along and see an amazingly mesmerising world in front of you.
Other things to note
A good head for heights is necessary as it involves climbing down some slippery stairs, holding onto some ropes and rocks
Amazing Edinburgh Photo Shoot Tour
*This isn't a private shoot. There's a max. 4 guests per session. Please book for the exact number of guests ie. a couple is 2 guests.
For private, select Private Group.
For larger groups, contact me*
We meet at Grassmarket Square, where we can get the introductions out of the way before we start exploring the Old Town!
As we walk & talk, I will capture photos of you, giving posing tips, as well as interesting facts about the city & suggestions for places to check out during your stay!
Sites include the Vennel Steps, colourful Victoria Street, Greyfriar's Bobby, the medieval Royal Mile with it's hidden closes and wynds that are easily missed by most travellers. Plus various stops along the way!
We will visit iconic places & more quaint, hidden parts of the city that truly capture it's essence.
Within 2-3 days, I'll send 30 beautifully edited photos to your email that you can use for your social media or as beautiful memories in your home.
This experience is great for solo travellers, friends, couples and anyone wanting to ditch the awkward selfie stick! It is also a fantastic way to see the more hidden and lesser known parts of Edinburgh in a short period of time and meet other travellers!
Please note- I run this experience in all weather conditions. Rain and snow make Edinburgh look even more stunning in photographs so please dress accordingly.
@edinburgh_photoshoots