Dubai, United Arab Emirates; February 8, 2010: Scotland's capital is firmly on the luxury style map. The most prestigious of all Scottish shopping destinations, Edinburgh is home to some of the world's most exclusive department stores, fashion boutiques and flagship stores. And now a taste of this shopping luxury is available at Edinburgh's most prestigious hotel, The Rocco Forte Collection's The Balmoral, which has teamed up with other iconic Scottish brands to offer guests an exclusive shopping break experience.

The Balmoral has partnered with Hamilton & Inches, one of the UK's leading luxury goods companies which holds a Royal Warrant as silversmiths to the Queen, as well as renowned Johnstons Cashmere and Jenners, Scotland's oldest and best-known department store.

After complimentary beverages in the stylish Balmoral lounge area, guests will be welcomed into an upgraded executive room or suite where a bespoke Hamilton & Inches silver bookmark gift awaits, complete with a personalised initial of the guest's choice. Then, unwrap a beautifully soft scarf or gloves from Johnstons Cashmere before visiting the nearby Grand old lady of Princes Street, Jenners, for a personalised shopping experience and styling session, with a complimentary drink.

 And for those staying in one of The Balmoral's suites, a private and behind the scenes tour of Hamilton & Inches jewellery and silver workshops can also be arranged.

The Balmoral's general manager, Ivan Artolli, explains:
“Edinburgh is an emerging luxury shopping destination, becoming popular for Scots and tourists alike. We wanted to offer our guests the opportunity to explore this side of the city and experience a truly stylish shopping break.

“And, of course, we have our award-winning Concierge Team who can arrange appointments at many of the top designer stores as well as picking up key shopping items for guests.”

In Edinburgh, while many hotels claim to have Edinburgh's landmarks on their doorstep, few can say their doorstep is a landmark. And The Balmoral, is just that. Located on Princes Street, the internationally acclaimed hotel is in the heart of the Capital's main shopping area and ideally located to explore the city's famous sights and sounds.

The luxury shopping package starts from £415 per room per night and includes full Scottish breakfast, welcome beverages at The Balmoral, room gifts and Jenners personal shopping experience. This offer is valid until 30 April 2010.

Direct flights from the UAE to Glasgow International are available from Emirates Airline, with private hotel transfers available upon request.  Transfer time is approximately 45 minutes by car. Flights from the UAE to Edinburgh are available from Etihad Airways, British Airways, Virgin Atlantic, Air France and KLM with stop-offs in London or Manchester. 

For bookings contact the Central Reservations number:  +44 (0) 870 460 7040, or email reservations.balmoral@roccofortecollection.com.