The Highland Games are a Scottish tradition that dates to the 11th century. In modern times, on weekends from May to September, kilt-wearing contestants compete in unusual sports such as the caber toss, in which contestants throw a nearly 20-foot-long, 175-pound wooden pole. Peregrine Adventures is offering a 14-day/13-night tour that begins Aug. 22, 2018, and includes a day at the Games and the chance to try your hand at some of the tests of strength. The tour, which begins in Glasgow and ends in Edinburgh, also samples a broad swath of Scottish culture, starting with a walking food tour in Glasgow. There’s also a chance to watch a game of shinty, a rugged sport that originated in the sixth century as training for warriors. A scenic trip on the Jacobite Steam Train and a ferry ride will lead to explorations of the Isle of Skye. Also on tap: visits to the Glen Ord Whisky Distillery, a kilt shop and a ceilidh gathering for some traditional Scottish dancing. The small-group trip is priced from $4,895 per person, double occupancy, which doesn’t include international airfare. Info: 855-832-4859, http://tinyurl.com/ycfoevfw
Thanksgiving travel
Want to hit the road for Thanksgiving rather than stuff yourself with turkey at home? The folks at DK Eyewitness Travel, known for their lovely guidebooks, have put together a list of nine destinations they think would be perfect for the holiday. Santa Fe, N.M., tops the roster, and they say its unique Southwest cuisine can have you trading your traditional Thanksgiving turkey for basted turkey with green chile pinon stuffing, pumpkin pasta and jalapeno chorizo dressing. Also making the list are Reykjavík, Iceland; Manuel Antonio National Park, Costa Rica; Munich; Toronto; Hawaii; Seattle; San Diego; and Vail, Colo. Read about why you should consider them for Thanksgiving at http://tinyurl.com/y9czrxol.
Romance in the Rockies
If you’ve been dreaming of a Colorado Rocky Mountain high, the state’s tourism folks have you covered with a new list of 10 High Altitude Honeymoons and Romantic Colorado Getaways. The selection includes lodgings at high altitudes that come with lofty views — and price tags to match. Sitting at the highest elevation — 12,000 feet — is the Tempter House at Telluride Ski Resort. It sleeps just two and will set you back $7,500 for an overnight package. For large groups, the Game Creek Chalet sits at 10,500 feet overlooking Vail Village. It sleeps 10, and can be had for $1,800 a night. For an additional charge you can also have a private chef do the cooking. Check out all 10 lodgings at http://tinyurl.com/ycjtp3up.
Phil Marty is a freelance reporter.
