Scotland Highlights
When
May - September
Price
From $4,072 pp excl. flights
How long
8 nights ideal length
Ideal For
Food & Wine
Adventure & Outdoor
Overview
Embark on an unforgettable journey through Scotland’s historic gems, from Edinburgh to Glasgow, with expert guides unveiling the captivating stories behind each landmark. Visit iconic castles like Edinburgh, Stirling, and Eilean Donan, delving into Scotland’s royal past. Cruise across Loch Ness, keeping a lookout for the elusive creature said to inhabit its depths. Experience Scotland’s whisky culture with a thrilling evening spent exploring Scotch’s mysteries, guided by passionate experts. Savor Scotland’s rich culinary scene, with every dining experience curated by your Destination Expert, ensuring a perfect taste of local flavors in each city. This is a trip where history, adventure, and fine whisky come together in a journey through Scotland’s soul.
Highlights
- Embark on a guided tour of Edinburgh, Stirling, and Eilean Donan Castles, uncovering local secrets and history.
- Walk the charming streets of Edinburgh and Glasgow with expert guides, immersing yourself in the rich narratives of each city.
- Take a cruise on Loch Ness, hoping to spot the famous mythical creature lurking beneath the waters.
- Enjoy a special evening learning about the fascinating world of Scotch whisky, guided by passionate single cask experts.
- Indulge in Scotland's vibrant food culture, with dining experiences carefully curated by your Destination Expert in every city.
Itinerary Summary
Here we Go!
- Private Airport Transfer with Meet & Greet
- Scotland Welcome Package
- Self-Guided Exploration of the Royal Mile
Explore with an Expert
- Private Edinburgh Walking Tour with Edinburgh Castle (4 hrs.)
- Edinburgh Gin Distillery Tour & Tasting (75 mins.)
A Journey Back in Time
- Small Group Tour to The Kelpies, Loch Lomond & Stirling Castle (9 hrs.)
Onward and Upward
- Private Transfer to Train Station - Train - 3.5 hrs.
- Private Transfer from Train Station
- Shared Tour to Urquhart Castle & Loch Ness Cruise (3 hrs.)
- Edinburgh to Inverness Onward and Upward • Private Transfer to Train Station - Train - (3.5 hrs.) • Private Transfer from Train Station • Shared Tour to Urquhart Castle & Loch Ness Cruise (3 hrs.) • Twilight Tales and Whisky Tasting
Winding the Wind-Swept Shorelines
- Small Group Tour to Eilean Donan Castle & Isle of Skye (12 hrs.)
The Journey Continues…
- Private Transfer to Train Station - Train - (3.5 hrs.)
- Private Transfer from Train Station
- Clydeside Distillery Tour & Tasting (1 hr.)
- Self-Guided Visit to The Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum
Sights and Insights
- Private Central Glasgow Walking Tour (4 hrs.)
- Glasgow Sights and Insights • Private Central Glasgow Walking Tour (4 hrs.) • Afternoon Tea at The Willow Tea Rooms
Until Next Time…
- Private Airport Transfer
Detailed Itinerary
Day 1
Edinburgh
Here We Go!
Upon your arrival at the airport, a Meet and Greet assistant will be there to greet you, holding a sign with your name. The assistant will help coordinate your meet-up with your private driver and accompany you to your hotel for check-in.
You’ll receive a Welcome Package containing all relevant documents and tickets for your journey.
Spend some time exploring Edinburgh’s Royal Mile on your own, a series of cobblestone streets stretching from Edinburgh Castle to Holyrood Palace. With its mix of eateries, souvenir shops, and historical landmarks, the Royal Mile offers a variety of experiences. Your trip documents will include a guide for self-discovery along this iconic path.
Day 2
Edinburgh
Explore with an Expert
After meeting your private guide, enjoy a half-day walking tour through Edinburgh. You’ll explore both the Old and New Town, learning about the rich history and remarkable architecture of the city. Visit the famous Princes Street, the Scott Monument, and St Giles' Cathedral. Take time to admire Edinburgh Castle and its impressive Crown Jewels.
Experience a gin tasting at the Edinburgh Gin Distillery, delving into the history of gin and sampling their finest blends.
Day 3
Edinburgh
A Journey Back in Time
Set off on a full-day tour to Loch Lomond and Stirling Castle, exploring Scotland’s natural beauty and historic sites. Stop at the Kelpies monument, an iconic steel structure symbolizing horse power. Journey through the Trossachs National Park and visit Stirling Castle, a key historical site. Optional visits to the Wallace Monument are available.
Day 4
Edinburgh, Inverness
Onward and Upward
Depart Edinburgh by train, en route to Inverness, taking in the stunning Scottish landscapes on the 3.5-hour journey. Once in Inverness, enjoy a coach and boat tour to Loch Ness, complete with a visit to the historic Urquhart Castle. End the day with a whisky-tasting experience, discovering the rich flavors and stories of Scotland's famed drink.
Day 5
Inverness
Winding the Wind-Swept Shorelines
Embark on a full-day small-group tour of Scotland's most scenic locations. Visit the Isle of Skye, where you’ll marvel at the 13th-century Eilean Donan Castle. Explore the landscapes surrounding Loch Ness, and make stops along the way to enjoy the beauty of the Red Cuillin Hills and Bla Bhein.
Day 6
Inverness , Glasgow
The Journey Continues...
After a scenic 3.5-hour train ride to Glasgow, discover the city’s artistic flair and whisky heritage. Explore the Clydeside Distillery, enjoying a whisky-tasting experience while learning about Glasgow’s industrial history. You can also visit The Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum, home to notable masterpieces.
Day 7
Glasgow
Sights and Insights
Your private guide will take you on a walking tour of Glasgow, highlighting its vibrant districts and Victorian architecture. Visit the Buchanan Street, Glasgow City Chambers, and the 19th-century Theater Royal. Explore Merchant Square, and learn about the works of famed architect Charles Rennie Mackintosh.
Enjoy a traditional afternoon tea at The Willow Tea Rooms, designed by Mackintosh, where you can savor sandwiches, scones, and pastries.
Day 8
Glasgow
Until Next Time...
Meet your private driver for an airport transfer, concluding your Scottish adventure.
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.