With discerning travelers increasingly seeking experiences that are both indulgent and environmentally conscious, Luxury Gold launched a new tour in partnership with VisitScotland that proves luxury and sustainability go hand in hand.  

This exclusive 10-Day journey through Scotland’s breathtaking landscapes and storied cities takes you deep into the heart of this remarkable country, with every step promoting responsible travel and sustainability. 

Take a look at Spectacular Scotland.

Thoughtfully created, with sustainability in mind

“We’re thrilled to bring this new tour to the Luxury Gold portfolio, and it has been very exciting to work on,” says Karen Gower, Senior Travel Experiences Manager for Luxury Gold. “When crafting this 10-Day itinerary, I’ve combined all of the luxurious touches our guests expect from Luxury Gold, with the best that Scotland has to offer. This includes bucket list destinations and experiences, as well as hidden gems that we know our guests will love.  

“But what really makes Spectacular Scotland stand out in our collection is its focus on sustainability. Working in partnership with VisitScotland, this has been at the forefront when sourcing every experience, supplier and even the pace of the itinerary. Guaranteed to leave a lasting impression on guests, our Travel Concierges are chomping at the bit to run this tour as they can see how fantastic it is!” 

Luxury and sustainability at a glance

A special focus on activities that have a positive impact on the environment, including visits to Cairngorms National Park, Glencoe National Nature Reserve, Loch Fleet Nature Reserve and the Hebridean Whale and Dolphin Trust on the Isle of Mull. 

A new MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience developed specially for this tour – a Highland Tartan demonstration. While other itineraries usually only include one MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience, this one has four. 

Mostly 2-night stays, which means a smaller carbon footprint in travel terms, as well as allowing guests more time to support the local economy in one area, avoiding areas where there is a strain on the local community due to visitor numbers. 

Restaurant and hotel suppliers have been sourced with sustainability at the forefront of consideration, such as Michelin-starred Unalome by Graeme Cheevers in Glasgow, where you’ll dine on day 8.  

Developed in partnership with VisitScotland

Created in partnership with VisitScotland, Rona Wallace, Senior Manager, Business Development join us for a Q&A to explain more about the sustainability ethos behind our new Spectacular Scotland journey. 

Why is it important to offer responsible travel options?

“Scotland has welcomed visitors for over 200 years, and we want to ensure tourism provides sustainable economic growth for generations to come.  Responsible travel is entirely possible and by working with organizations like TTC and their Luxury Gold brand, we can demonstrate how it can be achieved in Scotland.   

“The principle of Responsible tourism means slowing down the consumer, allowing them to dwell longer and discover different places away. This in turn delivers more for local communities and allows clients on tours to relax and make those local connections which we know from consumer trends is what they are looking for. This in turn delivers a strong selling tour. Spending a longer time in a destination ultimately leads to less carbon production and benefits the hotels too.” 

Do you believe luxury and sustainability in travel can go and-in-hand?

“Definitely.  High quality immersive experiences benefit local businesses and communities, and many of our 5-star accommodation providers take responsible tourism very seriously – they are committed to climate action, social inclusion and giving back to their local communities, using an abundance of local food and drink in their offering while delivering on the expectations of luxury clients.”   

What do you hope our guests learn about Scotland that they may have not already known?

“That memorable experiences go way beyond the standard bucket list – by working closely with the Luxury Gold team and our knowledge of Scotland businesses we’re able to suggest experiences that are unique to Scotland and will live long in the memory.”   

Which experiences on the tour are you particularly excited about?

“It’s a hard choice, as all offer their own unique experience which clients will find memorable, and at times unexpected.  The VIP Visit with Lord Bruce of Broomhall House will be a highlight, but my ultimate favorite has to be the MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Highland Tartan Demonstration.  I am sure the clients for Luxury Gold will have some serious fun here, whilst learning about one of Scotland’s ancient industries.”  

What does the future hold for responsible tourism in Scotland?

“There’s a lot of desire amongst tourism businesses to do the right thing for sustainable growth.  Public sector agencies are working in partnership with the private sector to co-ordinate our strategic plans and activity – as a country we’re the right size to deliver on this – small enough to have personal relationships across different sectors, but large enough to make meaningful change.  There’s still a long way to go, but we’re definitely on the right path.  We also want to share our learnings with other destinations and together we can make a difference.” 

You may also enjoy reading: 12 Most Beautiful Places In Scotland You Need To Visit This Year

Spectacular Scotland – a peek at the itinerary

Your luxurious journey through Scotland begins with two nights in its charming capital Edinburgh. Explore iconic landmarks such as St Giles’ Cathedral and Edinburgh Castle, savor seasonal Scottish produce and foraged herbs at the renowned Wedgwood Restaurant on the Royal Mile, and meet the owners on this MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience. 

A VIP visit with Lord Bruce, a descendant of Robert the Bruce, at Broomhall House in St Andrews takes you into the heart of Scottish nobility, and the breathtaking Cairngorms National Park unveils Scotland in all its natural beauty. Take a private tour of Balmoral Castle and estate and visit the historic battleground of Culloden, take a golf lesson on the championship course, and spot sea otter nests and seals at the serene Loch Fleet Nature Reserve. 

Near Dornoch immerse yourself in Scottish heritage with Highland Tartan demonstration, before exploring the breathtaking Glencoe valley with a ranger, both MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experiences. The next day sample the finest whiskies at the Tobermory Distillery on the picturesque Isle of Mull or round off your day with a visit to the Hebridean Whale and Dolphin Trust, a MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience. Your journey concludes in Glasgow with a Michelin-starred lunch at Unalome by Graeme Cheever and two nights in the acclaimed Cameron House Hotel. Personalize your final day with a relaxing champagne cruise or another equally exciting activity, ensuring a memorable finale to this remarkable experience. 

Discover the full itinerary here.

For the ultimate combination of luxury and sustainability, secure your place on Spectacular Scotland, for departures in 2026. 

You may know it as the ancient land of the Incas, but much of the culture and heritage of Peru – arguably South America’s top bucket-list destination – is shrouded in mystery. One way to tap into the rest of Peruvian history and culture is to stay at one of the country’s most authentic lodges, hotels that wear their conservation of tradition as a badge of honor. 

Two of the most committed properties are Inkaterra Machu Picchu Pueblo, near the Incan citadel of the same name (the epicentre of Peruvian history), and Palacio del Inka in Cusco. Guests on Luxury Gold’s in-depth Treasures of the Incas tour will get the chance to stay a leisurely two nights at each property, each stay a chance to really get under the skin of Peruvian culture. Atmospheric and filled with local detail, each property aims to conserve Peruvian history and educate their guests on how people lived, then and now. Here’s what you can expect from a stay.

The walkway at Inkaterra Machu Picchu Pueblo

Finding the Lost City

Inkaterra’s founders championed ecotourism long before it was a travel buzzword. Starting with a lodge in the Amazon rainforest, José Koechlin von Stein then opened the brand’s Machu Picchu property in the 1990s, determined to hire local people, assess and protect local wildlife and biodiversity, and create a captivating experience for guests visiting the Incan citadel.

The feeling of stepping back in time starts on arrival. Styled like a traditional Andean mountain village of 83 casitas, the hotel is tucked into 12.3 acres of pristine cloud forest. Rooms with private terraces and plunge pools have little touches such as fireplaces, cotton robes and Andean slippers crafted from recycled materials. In the authentic Unu Spa (meaning “water” in the native Quechua language), only 100% natural ingredients are used; Andean species including mint, eucalyptus and orchids are used to tap into traditional cures and therapies used throughout Peruvian history. After a day seeing the archaeological site, you can retreat to the Andean Sauna, a small, thatched mound heated by warmed river stones and infused with eucalyptus. 

Rustic interiors at the Inkaterra Machu Picchu lodge

On top of this, Inkaterra Cafe is working on reclaiming Peru’s pre-Hispanic cuisines, and the property has a programme to rescue the country’s beloved Spectacled Bears (that’s Paddington to you and me). Working with the Peruvian National Institute of Natural Resources (INRENA), Inkaterra hotel group works to rehabilitate some of these bears – South America’s only bear species – who have been negatively impacted by human communities, and release them into the wild. They can also be sighted occasionally in the countryside around the Machu Picchu lodge.

Excursions to Machu Picchu itself are a must-do, of course; but other excursions include getting to know the local orchids (Inkaterra has a garden of some 372 species. Local festivals like August’s Pachamama are marked by shaman-led ceremonies where guests are encouraged to join in.

We also think you’ll like: Embrace The Spirituality of The Incas in Peru’s Sacred Valley

A historic courtyard at Palacio del Inka, Cusco

Palace of the Incas

The traditional feel starts with the facade of this 500-year-old building, a listed landmark which was once the home of Francisco Pizarro, Peru’s first Spanish governor. It also sits across from Cusco’s Qoricancha (Temple of the Sun), built around the year 1200. Decor here is more focused on Peru’s Spanish-colonial history, from gilded columns, polished antique furniture, valuable mirrors and vases decorating rooms and halls to lavish painted tiling above beds, arches and courtyards in the architecture. Opulent oil paintings are collected from the Cusqueña Art School, prominent in Peruvian history. Request a suite in the Casona de los Cuatro Bustos area of the building to stay in what was once the 15th-century residence.

But the Spirit Spa here puts the hotel firmly in the Peruvian Andes, with indigenous treatments dating back hundreds of years. From a grape-skin bath that takes advantage of the antioxidants in the fruit to an Inca-style mud wrap, they range from rustic to deluxe (the gold-leaf-infused Temple of the Sun treatment). Parts of an ancient Incan wall also run through the hotel’s Rumi Bar – ask staff for the full history. Daily guided tours of the Palacio can enlighten you as to the historic significance of each part of the building and grounds.

The restaurant at Palacio del Inka

In terms of food, Inti Raymi restaurant is a whirlwind through Peruvian culinary history, from zingy ceviche to grilled alpaca, and Pisco sours served in terracotta tumblers with an array of local botanical seasonings. One real highlight is the hotel’s own Pisco sour masterclass, where expert mixologists will talk you through the local spirit, made from fermented grape juice, and how it interweaves with Peruvian history, as well as how to mix the perfect pour.

Even the Palacio’s location puts you right at the heart of the Sacred Valley’s history, with the colonial architecture of Plaza de Armas all around, and shops selling traditional handicrafts to take home (the hotel concierge can point you in the right direction). The city’s cathedral, its Inka Museum and Saqsaywaman archaeological site should all be on your to-do list.

We also think you’ll like: Inside the home and studio of Peru’s most famous sculptor, Victor Delfin

Have you ever wondered how luxury travel can mean responsible travel? Welcome to a Luxury Gold journey. Through our MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experiences, with your Luxury Gold journey you can make a positive impact on the planet, its people and wildlife, and the communities you visit.

Our MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experiences were developed in 2020, in consultation with travel industry experts and set within the framework of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (UN SDGs) In our How We Tread Right sustainability strategy we set out the goal of including at least one of these experiences on 50% of Luxury Gold journeys by 2025.

We’re pleased to say that we are way ahead of target, with these exclusive immersive experiences now available on 100% of Luxury Gold itineraries, as detailed in our latest Impact Report. We’ve put together a selection of our MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experiences to show you want we are talking about.

Enjoy MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® history with Marta in Italy

When you meet Marta, a fourth-generation weaver preserving this ancient craft in Umbria Italy, you’ll be amazed at her dedication and passion. You’ll also be enjoying one of the first ever MAKE TRAVEL MATTER®Experiences that came into existence for The Travel Corporations family of brands. With meaningful experiences always part of the offer, guests enjoyed meeting Marta so much it was an inspiration behind formalizing the experiences.

A recipient of a TreadRight Foundation grant, Marta’s workshop, the Laboratorio Giuditta Brozzetti, specializes in the medieval Umbrian tradition of loom-weaving. Your visit here supports UN SDGs 5 & 11 – Gender Equality and Sustainable Cities & Communities. The workshop, a highlight of our Ultimate Italy Luxury Gold journey, also actively empowers women and girls through its education and training programs. Through their safeguarding of the unique patterns they’re contributing to the protection of Umbria’s cultural heritage.

Discover the journey: Ultimate Italy

Read more: How We’re Setting the Gold Standard for Sustainable Luxury Travel

Discover a world of sustainable dining at Sweden’s Fotografiskia Restaurant

Phot credit: @fotografiska.food on Instagram

Some MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experiences are simply delicious – pair fine dining with helping the planet and what’s not to love.

At the Fotografiska Museum Restaurant in Stockholm, Sweden, savor a delectable and innovative dinner crafted with sustainability in mind. In fact, this establishment holds the prestigious Michelin Sustainability Emblem. Every step of the culinary process is carefully thought out with sustainability in mind, and even the aprons have a part to play – made from an absorbent cotton fabric, when heated they release the CO2 back for use in the bistro’s hydroponic plant garden. Through this dining experience Fotografiska aims to encourage a more mindful and eco-friendly world. Prepare to be dazzled, while also doing your part – this experience supports UN SDG 12 – Responsible Consumption & Production.

Try this on: Timeless Scandinavia

Read more: Alternative dining and CO2 absorbing aprons: welcome to Fotografiska

Save the Kiwi in New Zealand

Get up close and personal with wildlife as you go behind the scenes at a Kiwi hatchery in Rotorua. Meet the National bird of New Zealand, hear why its endangered and see first-hand the efforts to restore the population. The hatchery has expanded to become the world’s biggest and most effective facility for hatching kiwis. By successfully incubating and hatching brown kiwi eggs, it has significantly contributed to the North Island kiwi population. In support of UN SDG 15 – Life on Land, this MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience helps to fund the Hatchery and directly contribute to kiwi conservation.

Discover this on: The Long White Cloud

Bookmark for later: This New Zealand Forest Retreat Combines 5-Star Luxury with Sustainability

Reveal nature’s glitz in St Moritz, Switzerland

A highlight of the Swiss Alps, St. Moritz is renowned as a playground for the rich and famous, with its opulent ski resorts, upscale shopping and gourmet dining. This Alpine paradise offers a sophisticated blend of breathtaking natural beauty and high-end amenities, making it a premier destination for those seeking an exclusive and indulgent escape.

Guests on a Luxury Gold journey have the opportunity to step away from the glitz and glamor whilst in Switzerland. Meet a local nature guide and choose between a hike or a conservation talk to learn the work they do in raising awareness and preserving the natural environment, in this most picturesque of landscapes. This experience supports UN SDG 15 – Life on Land.

Take the tour: Majestic Switzerland

You may also enjoy reading: Dine, Sleep, Do: How to spend a chic 24 hours in St. Moritz

Embrace South Africa’s past and future

From the iconic Table Mountain in Cape Town to wildlife-rich Kruger National Park, South Africa boasts stunning landscapes, vibrant cultures, sensational cuisine and a complex history. To get deep into the country’s fascinating past, and meet its future, guests will enjoy a visit to the Amy Foundation, during their visit to Robben Island.

On this MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience you’ll see how the lives of vulnerable young people are being transformed through a variety of empowering programmes. This experience furthers UN SDGs 4 & 10 – Quality Education & Reduced Inequalities, both through its actions, and through eduction and awareness.

For unforgettable dinner table conversation, you’ll also join Christo Brand, a former prison guard of Nelson Mandela, for lunch at the Amy Foundation. A global icon of peace and equality, Nelson Mandela dedicated his life to fighting against apartheid in South Africa, and few knew him better than Christo.

 Discover this on: Spectacular South Africa

 Read about this special relationship in depth: Meet Christo Brand, former prison guard to Nelson Mandela

Sip French wine, in harmony with nature

Photo credit: @chateaulacoste on Instagram

Described as a ‘futuristic wine producer,’ a visit to Château La Coste in Puy-Sainte-Réparade, France will tantalize more than just the taste buds. In 2009, the wines of Château La Coste were labeled “Organic Agriculture”, a label which recognizes respect for the land as well as the methods, in perfect harmony with nature. The estate is also a showcase for the most fascinating sculptures and modern art installations.

On this MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience you’ll sample the estate’s organic wines, learn all about their viticulture and visit their one-of-a-kind contemporary wine cellar. Your tasting experience supports SDG 12: Responsible Consumption and Production.

Take a sustainable sip on: Ultimate Southern France

Bookmark for later: Sophisticated and Stylish: why Southern France is Unmissable

Join the Warrior Women in Canada

Jasper National Park in the Canadian Rockies is a pristine wilderness paradise renowned for its majestic glaciers, turquoise lakes and abundant wildlife. Here you will meet the First Nations Warrior Women, to discover the history of the lands since time immemorial.

Share an evening by the fireside on this exceptional Luxury Gold journey. Over a home cooked barbecue dinner share in storytelling, drumming and songs and immerse yourselves in Indigenous culture. The experience addresses SDG: 10 by reducing inequalities for minorities or underrepresented people.

Meet the Warrior Women on: Majesty of the Rockies

For an in depth read: Uncovering Indigenous history with Canada’s Warrior Women

Enjoy the flutter of wings at Parque das Aves in Brazil

Photo credit: @parque_das_aves on Instagram

Nearby the thundering Iguassu Falls on the Brazilian side, we invite you to join a MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience at the colorful Parque das Aves or Bird Park. An integrated conservation center for birds of the Atlantic Forest and is home to 120 species of birds, including hummingbirds, hawks, toucans and parrots. Through your visit you are contributing to supporting the future of these species, and enhancing UN SDG 15 – Life on Land.

See the birds for yourself: Classic South America

You may also enjoy reading: Step inside Peru’s blissful Inkaterra Machu Picchu Pueblo Hotel

Our Impact Report at a glance

Protecting our planet, its people and wildlife has always been at the heart of our journeys. And we’ve made some big commitments as part of our 5-year sustainability strategy How We Tread Right, across climate action, sustainable food production, responsible consumption, diversity, equity and inclusion, and animal welfare.

Today we’ve released our third annual Impact Report, so you can see how we’re progressing against our goals and how we are making a difference. Here’s some of our progress at a glance:

Goal 1 – Achieve Net Zero by 2050: Invested $1,880,553 from our Carbon Fund in 13 decarbonization projects and said ‘no to more stuff’ – replacing branded merchandise with donations to nature-based solutions – preventing 6.5 million car-driven miles worth of carbon emissions from entering the atmosphere annually.

Goal 4 – Increase use of local and organic products in our supply chain by 2025: Offered one local dining experience on 100% of our itineraries, where key ingredients are sourced within a 30–50-mile radius.

Goal 6 – Eliminate as many unnecessary single-use plastics from our operations and itineraries: Removed all single-use plastics related to Covid-19 measures from our operations + worked with supplies to utilise water tanks to refill reusable water bottles.

Goal 7 – Include at least one MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience on 50% of our itineraries by 2025: We have at least one MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience on 100% of itineraries, with 36 in total across the collection.

Goal 10 – Complete 30,000 volunteer hours by 2025: Our teams completed 10,862 volunteer hours in 2023 – helping us reach 83% of our goal.