Crown Jewels: Scottish Castles & Scenic Wonders

When

May - October

Price

From $10,260 pp excl. flights

How long

9 nights ideal length

Ideal For

Cultural & Historical

Overview

Embark on a journey through Scotland’s rich history and stunning landscapes. Discover the picturesque fishing villages of East Neuk, where historic harbors and a scenic coastline set the scene for exploration. Uncover the 600-year legacy of Glamis Castle, explore the haunting ruins of Dunnottar, and wander the beautiful gardens of Balmoral. Experience the myths surrounding Loch Ness and marvel at the breathtaking Eilean Donan Castle. Travel through Glencoe’s dramatic landscape, along Loch Lomond’s serene shores, and visit the medieval Doune Castle. Throughout your adventure, enjoy luxurious stays in castles and hotels, carefully selected and tailored by your Destination Expert for an unforgettable experience.

Highlights

  • Explore East Neuk’s fishing villages, historic harbors, and coastal views.
  • Delve into Glamis’ 600-year history, Dunnottar’s ruins, and Balmoral’s gardens.
  • Uncover the legends of Loch Ness and visit the picturesque Eilean Donan Castle.
  • Discover the dramatic history of Glencoe, Loch Lomond’s shores, and Doune Castle.
  • Enjoy luxurious stays in castles and hotels, thoughtfully curated by your Destination Expert.

Itinerary Summary

Day
Place
Day 1

The Adventure Begins

  • Private Airport Meet & Greet
  • Scotland Welcome Package
  • Self-Guided Exploration of Royal Mile

Day 2

A Sight To Behold

  • Private Edinburgh City Tour with Edinburgh Castle (4 hrs.)

Day 3

Hidden Gems

  • Private Transfer from Edinburgh to St Andrews via East Neuk’s Fishing Villages: Crail, Anstruther, and St Monans (8 hrs.)

Day 4

Quintessential Castles

  • Private Transfer from St. Andrews to Aberdeen via Dundee, Glamis Castle, Dunnottar Castle, and Stonehaven (10 hrs.)

Day 5

Fairytale Castles and Royal Realms

  • Private Coastal Trail Tour (8 hrs.)

Day 6

Winding the Wind-Swept Shorelines

  • Private Transfer from Aberdeen to Inverness via Spey Valley, Glenfiddich and Cooperage Distilleries, and Cawdor Castle (9 hrs.)

Day 7

A Journey Back in Time

  • Private Tour to Eilean Donan Castle and Isle of Skye (10 hrs.)

Day 8

A Dazzling Drive

  • Private Transfer from Inverness to Loch Lomond via Glencoe Valley, Loch Lomond & Luss (9 hrs.)

Day 9

Bon Voyage

  • Private Transfer from Loch Lomond to Glasgow (1 hr.)

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Detailed Itinerary

Day 1

Edinburgh

Here we Go!

Upon arrival at the airport, a Meet & Greet assistant will welcome you outside customs and assist in coordinating with your private driver for a seamless transfer to your hotel. You will also receive a Scotland Welcome Package with all relevant documents and tickets for your trip. Enjoy some leisure time to independently explore Edinburgh's Royal Mile, the bustling heart of the city's Old Town. Spanning from Edinburgh Castle to Holyrood Palace, this iconic street is lined with shops, eateries, historic landmarks, and museums, offering a perfect introduction to Scotland's capital.

Day 2

Edinburgh

A Sight To Behold

With your private guide, embark on a half-day walking tour through Edinburgh, beginning with the renowned Royal Mile. Explore the UNESCO-listed Old and New Towns, with landmarks like the Scott Monument, St. Giles' Cathedral, and Edinburgh Castle. Learn about the city's vibrant history and hidden subterranean passages. Visit Edinburgh Castle's royal interiors and the Crown Jewels. Afterward, enjoy an Edinburgh Gin Distillery tour, where you'll explore the botanical roots of their signature blends before tasting a selection of expertly crafted gins.

Day 3

Edinburgh, St Andrews

Hidden Gems

Travel through the picturesque fishing villages of the East Neuk of Fife, including Crail, Anstruther, and St. Monans, where time seems to stand still. These charming coastal towns offer serene beauty, with traditional cottages and peaceful harbors. Explore the stunning beaches, local museums, and nature trails. The surrounding areas also feature some of the best golf courses and coastal walks, perfect for those looking to immerse themselves in Scotland’s scenic coastline.

Day 4

St Andrews, Aberdeen

Quintessential Castles

Journey through Dundee to Glamis Castle, the ancestral home of the Earls of Strathmore for over 600 years. Continue to V&A Dundee, where Scotland’s cultural heritage is celebrated in modern design. Then, head to Stonehaven to explore the impressive ruins of Dunnottar Castle, perched dramatically on a cliff overlooking the North Sea. Discover the rich history of this fortress, which has hosted figures like William Wallace, Mary Queen of Scots, and King Charles II.

Day 5

Aberdeen

Fairytale Castles and Royal Realms

Take a scenic drive along Aberdeen’s 165-mile Coastal Trail. Your private guide will show you stunning cliff-tops, serene coves, and breathtaking beaches, providing ample opportunities to spot local wildlife. The route includes visits to picturesque harbors and lighthouses, making this an idyllic experience for those who appreciate natural beauty and historical charm.

Day 6

Aberdeen, Inverness

Winding the Wind-Swept Shorelines

Your day starts with a journey through the Spey Valley, known for its renowned whisky distilleries. Visit Glenfiddich, Strathisla, and Macallan to learn about the whisky-making process and sample the local spirits. Continue on to Cawdor Castle, famously linked to Shakespeare’s “Macbeth,” where you can explore the medieval tower and manicured gardens, all set against the backdrop of the stunning Scottish Highlands.

Day 7

Inverness

A Journey Back in Time

Travel to the Isle of Skye for a full-day tour, where you'll experience dramatic mountain landscapes and picturesque seascapes. Visit the iconic Eilean Donan Castle, one of the most photographed castles in Scotland. Enjoy the rugged beauty of the island, with stops at Glen Suardal, the Red Cuillin Hills, and the stunning Loch Slappin. Keep an eye out for wildlife, including sheep and cattle that roam freely across the roads. Return via Loch Ness for a photo stop before heading back to Inverness.

Day 8

Inverness, Loch Lomond

A Dazzling Drive

After check-out, meet your private driver-guide for a full-day transfer to Loch Lomond. Enjoy scenic views along the way through Glencoe Valley, known for its historical significance. Visit the quaint village of Luss and take in views of Ben Lomond, Scotland’s most iconic mountain. The drive takes you through Loch Lomond & The Trossachs National Park, where you'll experience some of Scotland’s finest natural beauty.

Day 9

Loch Lomond, Glasgow

Bon Voyage

Meet your private driver for a transfer to Glasgow. You will be dropped off at your departure point, completing your unforgettable Scottish adventure with a seamless and comfortable journey.

More Information

Made to Order

  • Choose from a range of places to stay, from impeccable five-star hotels to equally outstanding boutique ones.
  • Tailor your trip to include a wide variety of activities, from the must-see’s to the lesser-known, local experiences, and even the exclusive ones you may not know about.
  • With no fixed dates or set schedules, you can explore on your terms.
  • Whether you’re celebrating one of life’s big moments or looking to fulfill a personal journey, we always work with you to ensure we’re creating a trip-of-a-lifetime.

What’s Included

  • A fully customized itinerary based on your interests and schedule
  • 24/7 in-destination support from our local office
  • All accommodation stays, tours and transfers for scheduled activities are covered, unless otherwise listed in the itinerary
  • A private driver for tours and transfers (in some countries our local private guides also act as your driver - your Destination Expert will discuss with you if applicable)
  • Local private guides or shared tours that take you through your itinerary highlights and experiences, your final itinerary will confirm the type of tour
  • A greeting at the airport or at your accommodation from one of our representatives – your expert will confirm your meet and greet location with you
  • Breakfast each morning at your hotel, plus any meals indicated in the itinerary
  • One suitcase and one carry-on per person for trip transfers

What’s not Included

  • Your international airfare – please do let your expert know if you’d like to receive pricing from our Air Team
  • Travel insurance, which we offer and can be purchased after you’ve booked your tour
  • Visas (unless noted)
  • Tips for services and experiences
  • Lunches, dinners and drinks (alcoholic and non-alcoholic), unless specified in the itinerary
  • Excess baggage charges, and where applicable, baggage not included in your fare
  • Personal charges such as laundry, phone calls, SIM cards or room service
  • Early check-in or late check-out from hotels (unless otherwise specified)
  • Additional sightseeing, activities and experiences outside of your itinerary
  • Optional enhancements like room or flight upgrades, or local camera or video fees
  • Passport fees, immunization costs, and local departure taxes (when applicable)

Protect your travel

  • We recommend travel protection. Between missed connections, lost or delayed luggage, or medical emergencies, you want some peace of mind that your travel investment is well protected.
  • No matter who you buy from, please consider purchasing a travel protection plan before you travel.

9 days starting from $10,260 per person

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