Scotland Tour

Day 1
Transfer Edinburgh airport to the Dalhousie Castle, located just a few miles south of Edinburgh.

This fascinating 13th century fortress is set within acres of wooded parkland on the picturesque banks of the river Esk. From the moment you arrive at Dalhousie Castle, a warm Scottish welcome awaits.

Spend the rest of your day at leisure.

Day 2
Enjoy the morning at leisure in the comfort of your luxury hotel.
You will be collected from Dalhousie Castle and driven with your guide into central Edinburgh for your Edinburgh Essentials tour.
Enjoy a visit to the impressive Edinburgh Castle, with its superb views and dimly lit echoing corridors steeped in legends and history. The castle stands on an extinct volcanic rock overlooking and dominating the City’s skyline. See the castle’s many different architectural styles, reflecting its importance throughout the history of Scotland, with the oldest section dating back to the 12th century. View the Crown Jewels of Scotland and the Stone of Destiny and the Scottish Crown Jewels.

Take a guided stroll down the famous Royal Mile to shop at leisure. Then continue with your guide and see John Knox’s House and visit the 17th Century Palace of Holyrood Palace, home of Mary Queen of Scots from 1561 to 1568 and occupied by Bonnie Prince Charlie in 1745. The scene of many a great historical drama, the palace is now the Queen’s official residence in Scotland. Finally, meet with your coach once more and return to your hotel for supper and a restful night sleep.

Day 3
You will again be collected from Dalhousie Castle this morning and driven North to St Andrews where you local guide will take you on an in-depth tour of St Andrews to include the Cathedral ruins and Castle, the ancient university and original ‘tee-off’ spot. Time permitting, you may wish to visit any number of boutique shops selling crafts and woollens. Enjoy lunch at a local café or hotel before returning to your hotel.

Day 4
Today begins your journey north to the land of the Picts; first to the lovely Scone Palace. Although there are stewards throughout Scone, your guide will be delighted to share her extensive knowledge with you.

Explore this delightful Castle home that is filled with pictures of the family showing life of the Scottish aristocracy today as well as the glorious history of it’s past. The palace holds one of the most splendid porcelain collections. Don’t miss Queen Victoria’s bowling alley! Enjoy brunch here in the castle tea rooms before continuing on with your journey.

Drive through the magnificent Scottish scenery to the distillery of the infamous Dalwhinnie whisky. Enjoy a guided tour here followed by a tasting of a wee dram before continuing on the last leg of your journey up to your hotel in Inverness in time for supper.

Day 5
Your guide will meet you today for an exploration of the historically rich area around Inverness. First; head North over the Moray and Cromarty Firths to the lovely Dunrobin Castle. Enjoy a visit here before continuing on to the pretty pink sandstone town of Dornoch.

Relax over lunch, perhaps overlooking the links golf course and indulge in some wonderful shopping – this is a great place to pick up some examples of the excellent crafts that Scotland has to offer – your guide will be pleased to point you in the right direction and make lunch reservations on your behalf.

Head south once more (if you have not had your fill of whisky yet, visit Glenmorangie Distillery) and back through Inverness to the infamous Battle Fields of Culloden and hear of the battles of Scotland from your enthusiastic guide.

Later this afternoon, return to your hotel for a relaxing evening.

Day 6
Meet your guide this morning and drive south to see Loch Ness and the atmospheric and much-photographed ruin of Urquhart Castle. Capture the mood of the Loch (and perhaps a sighting of Nessie?) before visiting Urquhart Castle. The local town of Drumnadrochit has much to offer the die-hard Nessie enthusiast and your guide can recommend which exhibitions to visit (entrances not included).

Continue your beautifully scenic drive South along Loch-sides and the West Coast of Scotland, through the magnificent Glen Coe valley and on to the Bonnie Banks of Loch Lomond, before finally arriving in Glasgow. We will make this a leisurely and relaxing journey that will show you much of the majestic beauty of Scotland..

Day 7
Rich in heritage, Glasgow boasts much wonderful architecture and was home to Charles Rennie Mackintosh. A great deal of his work can be seen today in the streets of Glasgow and your guide will focus in particular on the sights linked to Rennie Mackintosh such as The Lighthouse, The Glasgow School of Art and House for an Art Lover. In addition today, visit the excellent Burrell Collection.

Later today return to your hotel and enjoy the evening in this vibrant city at your leisure.

Day 8
You will be collected from your hotel by private vehicle and transferred to Glasgow Airport in time for your flight.