Scotland's Highlands, Islands and Cities (13 Days)
Description
Summary
Description
Embark on a captivating 13-day journey through the enchanting landscapes of Scotland, where history and natural beauty intertwine. From the vibrant streets of Edinburgh to the serene shores of the Isle of Skye, this multi-day tour offers an immersive experience of Scotland's rich heritage and breathtaking scenery. Explore ancient castles, historic battlefields, and picturesque islands, while enjoying the warmth of Scottish hospitality. With guided tours, cultural experiences, and leisure time to explore at your own pace, this tour promises an unforgettable adventure through the heart of Scotland. Whether you're a history enthusiast, nature lover, or simply seeking a unique travel experience, this tour offers something for everyone. Join us for an epic journey across Scotland's highlands, islands, and cities, and create memories that will last a lifetime.
Included
5 Dinner (D)
12 Breakfast (B)
1 Lunch (L)
An expert Travel Director and professional Driver
Kinlochard: Join your hosts, the Wood family at their 15th-century farm on the shores of Loch Ard for a home-cooked Scottish lunch, amidst tales of Rob Roy and a few foot-tapping ceilidh tunes.
Pitlochry: Warm your heart with a little Scottish whisky at a traditional distillery in the Scottish Highlands.
Edinburgh: Explore the city with your Local Specialist as you travel along Princes Street to see the Scott Memorial, the neoclassical Adam facades of New Town and the official Scottish residence of the King, Palace of Holyroodhouse.
Jedburgh: See the impressive 12th-century Jedburgh Abbey that dominates the centre of town.
Melrose: View the historic ruins of Melrose Abbey and appreciate its many carved decorative details.
St. Andrews: Visit the university town where the famous beach scene from 'Chariots of Fire' was filmed and see the golf course where the sport was created.
Glamis: Visit Glamis Castle, and appreciate the building's illustrious history and picturesque setting.
Inverness: At the exciting Culloden Visitor Centre, discover why the Battle of Culloden lasted only an hour yet changed the Highland way of life forever.
Golspie: Explore the grand castle and admire its magnificent gardens during your visit of Dunrobin Castle.
Orkney Islands: Cruise to the windswept Orkney Islands. Come face-to-face with relics spanning human history, from pagan stone circles to reminders of wartime tragedy.
Scottish Highlands: Admire picturesque lochs and glens as you travel through the Scottish Highlands.
Eilean Donan: Stop for a photo of this gorgeous castle.
Glenfinnan Viaduct: See the Glenfinnan Viaduct, along which the Hogwart's Express once crossed in the Harry Potter series.
Isle of Mull: Explore the Scottish Highlands in depth as you travel to the Isles of Mull and Iona. Visit the Reilig Odhrain, sacred burial ground of 48 Scottish Kings.
Glasgow: See the grand public buildings of Glasgow, including George Square.
Glencoe: Drive through this Highland village on Loch Leven.
Stirling: Visit Stirling and see its castle, once the seat of Scottish royalty.
Glasgow: From wind powered murals to historic sites, tenements to the Clyde - discover the real impact of climate change on Glasgow, and learn more about Scotland's role in the climate crisis on this fun and educative guided tour. Your visit directly supports United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities.
Explore Edinburgh
Discover Dundee, Orkney Islands, Glasgow and Stirling
Visit Edinburgh Castle, Glamis Castle, Pulteney Distillery in Wick, the battlefield and Visitor Centre of Culloden, Dunrobin Castle in Golspie, John O'Groats, The Italian Chapel and Skara Brae on Orkney Islands, Ullapool, Isle of Skye, Isle of Mull, Isle of Iona, St. Mungo's Cathedral in Glasgow and Stirling Castle
View Jedburgh Abbey, the 18th green at St. Andrews, Eilean Donan Castle and Glencoe
See Loch Ness, Loch Lomond and the Battlefield at Bannockburn
Tickets for the Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo are included on departures that coincide with performance dates
An expert Travel Director and professional Driver
Cherry-picked hotels, all tried and trusted
All porterage and restaurant gratuities
All hotel tips, charges and local taxes
Breakfast daily and up to half of your evening meals
Must-see sightseeing and surprise extras
Audio headsets for flexible sightseeing
Return ferry to the Orkney Isles
Ferry from the Isle of Skye to Mallaig
Return ferry to the Isle of Mull and Iona
Optional Experiences and free time
On occasion, hotels of similar standard and location may be utilised.
Luxury air-conditioned coach with Wi-Fi in most countries or alternative transportation (such as rail journeys)
Voco Haymarket, Novotel Centre, Delta by Marriott
Apex City Quay, Leonardo Aberdeen
Columba
Pentland
Kings Arms
Royal
Leonardo Royal Glasgow, Hilton Garden Inn City Centre
Destinations
Oban
Inverness
Stirling
Glasgow
Dundee
EdinburghMap
Attractions
Ring of BrodgarDaily Itinerary
Day 1 – Day 1: Edinburgh
- Edinburgh - Arrival day
- More
Begin your enchanting journey in the heart of Scotland's capital, Edinburgh. Known affectionately as Auld Reekie, this city is a tapestry of history and culture. As you wander through its winding streets, you'll be captivated by its charm. In the evening, gather with fellow travelers and your Travel Director for a delightful dinner, setting the stage for an unforgettable adventure through Scotland's breathtaking landscapes.
Day 2 – Day 2: Edinburgh
- Edinburgh
- More
Immerse yourself in the rich history of Edinburgh with a guided tour led by a Local Specialist. Discover the grandeur of the Palace of Holyroodhouse and the modern architecture of the Scottish Parliament Building. Stroll along the iconic Royal Mile and ascend to Edinburgh Castle, perched majestically on Castle Rock. Explore the elegant New Town with its Gothic facades, and enjoy the rest of the day at your leisure. If your visit coincides with the Edinburgh Tattoo, tickets are included for this spectacular event.
Day 3 – Day 3: Jedburgh and Melrose
- Jedburgh
- Melrose
- Edinburgh
- More
Embark on a scenic journey to the historic ruins of Jedburgh Abbey, a 12th-century Augustinian site. Continue to Melrose Abbey, where the heart of Robert the Bruce is said to rest. As you return to Edinburgh, soak in the lush landscapes along the Tweed River, a perfect backdrop for reflection and relaxation.
Day 4 – Day 4: St. Andrews and Dundee
- Glamis
- Dundee
- More
Cross the Firth of Forth to St. Andrews, the birthplace of golf, and admire its ancient university and renowned golf course. Continue to Glamis Castle, steeped in royal history and Shakespearean lore. Explore its opulent interiors and gardens before heading to Dundee, a city celebrated for its design innovation and culinary heritage, including the original home of marmalade.
Day 5 – Day 5: Dundee to Inverness
- Inverness
- More
Travel through the rugged beauty of the Cairngorms Mountains to the historic site of Culloden, where the Jacobite army faced its final defeat. Explore the Visitor Centre and battlefield before continuing to Inverness, the cultural heart of the Scottish Highlands, where you'll spend the night.
Day 6 – Day 6: Inverness to Thurso
Day 6: Inverness to Thurso
Begin your day with a visit to the legendary Loch Ness, home to the elusive Nessie. Continue to the fairy-tale-like Dunrobin Castle, with its Versailles-inspired gardens. Dive into the local culture with a whisky tasting at a nearby distillery. Conclude your day in Thurso, where you'll enjoy a delightful dinner and overnight stay.
Day 7 – Day 7: Thurso to Orkney Islands
Day 7: Thurso to Orkney Islands
- Ring of Brodgar
- More
Set sail from John o' Groats to the Orkney Islands, where you'll explore the Italian Chapel, a poignant reminder of wartime history. Marvel at the prehistoric Ring of Brodgar and the ancient village of Skara Brae. Capture the beauty of Kirkwall Cathedral before returning to Thurso for a relaxing evening.
Day 8 – Day 8: Thurso to Isle of Skye
Day 8: Thurso to Isle of Skye
Journey along the dramatic north-west coast to Ullapool, a picturesque town on Loch Broom. Visit the iconic Eilean Donan Castle, set on a tiny island where three sea lochs meet. Continue to the Isle of Skye, where you'll enjoy a cozy overnight stay and a delectable dinner.
Day 9 – Day 9: Isle of Skye to Oban
- Oban
- More
Return to the mainland, passing the famous Glenfinnan Viaduct, known from the Harry Potter films. Continue through Fort William, the gateway to Ben Nevis, before arriving in Oban, where you'll settle in for a two-night stay in this charming coastal town.
Day 10 – Day 10: Oban to Isle of Mull and Iona
- Oban
- More
Sail from Oban to the Isle of Mull, where you'll traverse the scenic countryside to reach Iona. Visit the historic Iona Abbey, once a center of Gaelic monastic life, and view the ancient burial site of Rèilig Odhrain. Return to Oban for a restful evening.
Day 11 – Day 11: Oban to Glasgow
- Glasgow
- More
Travel south to Glasgow, reflecting on the poignant history of the MacDonald clansmen at the 'Glen of Weeping'. In Glasgow, join an expert guide for a MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience, uncovering the city's sustainable initiatives. Enjoy the vibrant atmosphere of Scotland's largest city.
Day 12 – Day 12: Glasgow to Stirling
- Stirling
- Glasgow
- More
Visit Bannockburn, the site of a pivotal battle in Scottish history, before exploring the majestic Stirling Castle. Delve into the stories of Scottish royalty and the fortress's strategic significance. Later, enjoy a Be My Guest experience with the Wood family at their historic farm, surrounded by tales of Rob Roy. Return to Glasgow for a leisurely evening.
Day 13 – Day 13: Departure from Glasgow
- Glasgow - Departure day
- More
As your extraordinary journey through Scotland's highlands, islands, and cities concludes, bid farewell to your travel companions and Travel Director. Depart with cherished memories of Scotland's captivating landscapes and rich heritage.
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