Classic Scotland: Edinburgh to the Highlands
Description
Summary
Description
Embark on an unforgettable multi-day tour through Scotland's rich history and breathtaking landscapes. From the historic streets of Edinburgh to the serene shores of Loch Lomond, this tour offers a perfect blend of cultural exploration and natural beauty. Enjoy guided tours of iconic castles, scenic train rides, and leisurely walks through picturesque villages. Each day is packed with unique experiences, culminating in a whisky tasting at a renowned distillery. With comfortable accommodations and expert guides, this tour promises an immersive and memorable Scottish adventure.
Included
All breakfasts, one lunch, two dinners and one whisky tasting included.
We use a private air-conditioned vehicle for all transfers and excursions.
For this Scottish adventure, we stay in a trio of hotels, two in the city and one in the Pitlochry countryside.
Edinburgh: Radisson Blu, Edinburgh City Centre (nights 1-2)
Spend the first two nights at Radisson Blu, which occupies a prime address in the Royal Mile. The four-star property has 238 rooms, which are modern in style and come with rain showers. The hotel is also home to the Itchycoo Bar & Kitchen, which serves Scottish dishes created with local ingredients. There is also a health club with an indoor pool, sauna, steam room and gym.
Dunblane: DoubleTree by Hilton Dunblane Hydro (nights 3-5)
Taking over what was a Victorian health spa resort, this DoubleTree by Hilton has a long history of hospitality. The traditional rooms have views over the Perthshire countryside, plus there’s The Kailyard by Nick Nairn restaurant, which serves farm-to-fork dishes. The hotel also has an indoor pool, sauna, steam room and fitness room.
Pitlochry: Atholl Palace Hotel (nights 6-7)
The Atholl Palace has classic Scottish countryside elegance with traditional rooms decorated with original features. The property also has award-winning gardens and, should you wish to treat yourself, a spa. There’s also plenty of food and drink options, including the Verandah Restaurant, which serves Scottish produce with views over the Tummel Valley, and the Stags Head Bar, where you can enjoy malt whiskies and their own Atholl Palace Gin.
Tour Leader throughout
Entry into Rosslyn Chapel, Midhope Castle, Stirling Castle, Bannockburn, Doune Castle, Crannog Centre, Highland Games Museum, Lochnagar Distillery and tasting
Loch Lomond boat ride
Steam train ride
Daily Itinerary
Day 1 – Day 1: Welcome to Edinburgh
Day 1: Welcome to Edinburgh
Your adventure begins in the historic city of Edinburgh. Meet your tour leader at 4pm at the hotel reception for a welcome briefing, followed by a delightful dinner at the hotel. If you arrive early, explore the New Town's art galleries or indulge in some shopping on Princes Street. Accommodation: Radisson Blu, Edinburgh City Centre (or similar).
Day 2 – Day 2: Exploring Edinburgh
Day 2: Exploring Edinburgh
Start your day with a visit to the iconic Edinburgh Castle, followed by a tour of the Palace of Holyroodhouse. Wander through the bustling Royal Mile and, for those up for a challenge, ascend Arthur's Seat for breathtaking views of the city. Accommodation: Radisson Blu, Edinburgh City Centre (or similar).
Day 3 – Day 3: From Rosslyn Chapel to Dunblane
- Dunblane
- More
Begin with a guided tour of the 15th-century Rosslyn Chapel, then visit Midhope Castle, known to Outlander fans as Lallybroch. Enjoy a scenic steam train ride on the Heritage Bo'ness and Kinneil Railway before transferring to our hotel in Dunblane. Accommodation: DoubleTree by Hilton Dunblane Hydro (or similar).
Day 4 – Day 4: Historic Stirling
- Stirling
- Dunblane
- More
Explore Stirling Castle, then visit the Stirling Old Bridge, the site of Sir William Wallace's victory. Continue to the Battle of Bannockburn site for a glimpse into Scotland's fight for independence. Accommodation: DoubleTree by Hilton Dunblane Hydro (or similar).
Day 5 – Day 5: Scenic Loch Lomond
- Dunblane
- More
Travel through Trossachs National Park to Loch Lomond for a relaxing boat trip. After lunch, enjoy a serene walk along the loch's shores before returning to Dunblane for the evening. Accommodation: DoubleTree by Hilton Dunblane Hydro (or similar).
Day 6 – Day 6: Castles and Crannogs
Day 6: Castles and Crannogs
Visit Doune Castle, then stop at Trossachs Woollen Mill for some shopping and a coffee. After lunch, explore the Scottish Crannog Centre on Loch Tay before transferring to Pitlochry. Accommodation: Atholl Palace Hotel (or similar).
Day 7 – Day 7: Braemar and Balmoral
Day 7: Braemar and Balmoral
Explore Braemar village and visit the Highland Games Museum. Take a leisurely walk to the Balmoral estate and enjoy a whisky tasting at the Royal Lochnagar Distillery. Return to Pitlochry for a farewell dinner. Accommodation: Atholl Palace Hotel (or similar).
Day 8 – Day 8: Farewell Edinburgh
Day 8: Farewell Edinburgh
Our journey concludes as we transfer back to Edinburgh, arriving by midday. Consider extending your stay to explore more of the capital's attractions.
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