This summer, our Dnipro Kids shared a little adventure that will be remembered for years to come. It was a three-day trip to the beautiful Scottish Highlands filled with laughter, exploration, and togetherness.
For the children, summer holidays aren’t just a break from school, they’re a chance to explore new places with friends they love. This year’s destination promised not only sightseeing and fun, but also space to relax, connect, and create lasting memories.
Day 1 – Wildlife Encounters and a Warm Welcome
Our adventure began early, with the excitement building as we boarded a big coach for the journey north.
Our first stop was the Highland Wildlife Park in Kingussie. Surrounded by the stunning Cairngorms, the children were captivated by incredible animals; polar bears, tigers, playful monkeys, and more. Every enclosure sparked curiosity, and every new discovery brought smiles.
From there, we travelled to our home for the next two nights, the Coylumbridge Hotel, just outside Aviemore. Nestled in the woods, it offered the perfect setting to rest and reconnect with nature. The children loved the soft play zone, games room, and swimming pool, while the adults enjoyed the calm, welcoming atmosphere.
That evening, over a shared dinner, the air buzzed with chatter about the animals they’d met and the adventures still to come.
Day 2 – A Journey Through Time
The next morning, the children woke early, eager to make the most of the playground, swimming pool, and peaceful riverside walks before the day’s outing.
Our plan was a trip back in time aboard the Strathspey Railway, a vintage steam train journey through some of the Highlands’ most scenic landscapes. Before departure, we enjoyed lunch and a wander around Aviemore, soaking in the charm of the small town.
Once on board the train, the children coloured maps, completed puzzles, and gazed out at rolling hills and forests. The gentle rhythm of the carriage encouraged conversation, quiet reflection, and wide-eyed wonder.
That evening, after a buffet dinner back at the hotel, the children played, swam, and laughed together until bedtime – happy and content after a day packed with memories!
Day 3 – A Grand Finale
The final day began with breakfast (and even a quick swim for some early risers) before setting off for the Landmark Forest Adventure Park, a favourite among the children and a perfect finale to our trip.
From racing down flume slides in rubber rafts, bouncing on giant trampolines, and driving safari-style mini jeeps, to exploring the butterfly house and lush indoor gardens, every child found their own special moment of joy.
After burgers for lunch, there was still time for more adventures before we began our return to Edinburgh. The coach ride home was filled with happy chatter, photo-sharing, and the first of many “Remember when…” stories.
More Than Just a Trip
As one child put it: “I want to come back here every summer!”
Our trips mean so much. They take us to places where the children can play freely and safely, connect through shared joy, and experience the beauty of Scotland, just as they once did in Ukraine. These moments of normality and happiness are more than memories; they are steps toward healing.
We are deeply grateful to everyone whose generosity made this journey possible. Thanks to your kindness, we returned to Edinburgh not just with photographs, but with something even more precious: joy, connection, and hope.
Please visit our donations page to help our charity provide new special memories for the children:https://dniprokids.com/donate-now/
