An Essential Journey Through Scotland
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 a captivating journey through Scotland, from the historic streets of Edinburgh to the vibrant city of Glasgow. Explore iconic castles such as Edinburgh, Stirling, and Eilean Donan, uncovering tales of royalty, legend, and battlefield heroics. Cruise the legendary Loch Ness and try your luck spotting its mysterious resident. Immerse yourself in Scotland’s world-renowned whisky culture with expert-led tastings and behind-the-scenes experiences. Along the way, delight in the country’s rich culinary offerings, carefully curated by your Destination Expert to showcase authentic local flavors. This journey blends history, adventure, and indulgence, offering an unforgettable taste of Scotland’s heart and soul.
Highlights
- Discover the storied halls of Edinburgh, Stirling, and Eilean Donan Castles with expert guides revealing local history and hidden tales.
- Stroll the picturesque streets of Edinburgh and Glasgow, immersing yourself in each city’s unique stories and architecture.
- Cruise the legendary Loch Ness, keeping watch for the elusive and mythical monster.
- Experience an evening dedicated to Scotch whisky, guided by knowledgeable experts and sampling select single cask varieties.
- Savor Scotland’s culinary delights, with meals thoughtfully curated by your Destination Expert to showcase authentic local flavors.
Itinerary Summary
Edinburgh: Your Scottish Adventure Begins
- Private Airport Transfer with Meet & Greet
- Scotland Welcome Package with itinerary and travel essentials
- Self-Guided Exploration of the Royal Mile, discovering shops, historic landmarks, and hidden gems
Edinburgh: Discover the City’s Treasures
- Enjoy a private 4-hour walking tour through Edinburgh, including a guided visit to Edinburgh Castle.
- Experience the Edinburgh Gin Distillery with a 75-minute tour and tasting, exploring the botanicals behind their signature blends.
Scotland’s Iconic Sights & Landscapes
- Full-day small-group tour from Edinburgh (9 hrs) *Marvel at the Kelpies, towering horse-head sculptures celebrating Scotland’s industrial heritage
- Take in the serene beauty of Loch Lomond and its surrounding hills
- Explore Stirling Castle, uncovering centuries of royal history and architectural splendor
- Enjoy expert guidance throughout the journey, with insights into Scotland’s culture and landscapes
Edinburgh to Inverness: Highlands and Legends
- Private transfer to Edinburgh Train Station and scenic 3.5-hour train journey to Inverness
- Private transfer from Inverness Train Station to your accommodation
- Shared 3-hour tour of Urquhart Castle with a Loch Ness cruise
- Evening experience of local stories and a whisky tasting session
Inverness: Highlands and Coastal Wonders
- Full-Day Small Group Tour to Eilean Donan Castle and the Isle of Skye (12 hrs)
Inverness to Glasgow: Scenic Routes & City Sights
- Private transfer to the train station and 3.5-hour train journey to Glasgow
- Private transfer from the train station to your accommodation
- Clydeside Distillery tour with tasting session (1 hr)
- Self-guided exploration of the Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum
Glasgow: Culture and Charm
- Private 4-hour walking tour of central Glasgow, exploring historic streets, landmarks, and hidden gems
- Enjoy a traditional Afternoon Tea at the iconic Willow Tea Rooms
Glasgow: Farewell and Departure
- Private transfer from your hotel to the airport for a seamless departure
Detailed Itinerary
Day 1
Edinburgh
Your Scottish Adventure Begins
Upon arrival, a Meet & Greet assistant will welcome you at the airport, holding a personalized sign. They will coordinate with your private driver and escort you to your hotel for a seamless check-in experience.
Receive a Welcome Package with all essential travel documents and tickets for your trip.
Take some time to explore Edinburgh’s Royal Mile independently—a charming stretch of cobblestone streets connecting Edinburgh Castle to Holyrood Palace. Lined with eateries, shops, and historic landmarks, the Royal Mile provides a rich mix of experiences. Your package includes a guide to help you navigate and discover this iconic thoroughfare at your own pace.
Day 2
Edinburgh
Discover the City’s Treasures
After meeting your private guide, embark on a half-day walking tour through Edinburgh, exploring both the historic Old Town and elegant New Town. Stroll along Princes Street, marvel at the Scott Monument, and visit St Giles’ Cathedral, soaking in the city’s rich history and architectural splendor. Discover Edinburgh Castle, including its storied interiors and the Crown Jewels.
Conclude your experience with a guided tasting at the Edinburgh Gin Distillery, learning about the craft of gin and sampling a selection of their signature blends.
Day 3
Edinburgh
Scotland’s Iconic Sights & Landscapes
Embark on a full-day adventure to Loch Lomond and Stirling Castle, immersing yourself in Scotland’s breathtaking landscapes and rich history. Begin with a stop at the Kelpies, iconic steel sculptures celebrating Scotland’s equine heritage. Travel through the scenic Trossachs National Park before arriving at Stirling Castle, a fortress steeped in centuries of royal and military history. Optional visits to the nearby Wallace Monument can also be included for those wishing to explore further.
Day 4
Edinburgh, Inverness
Highlands and Legends
Board the train from Edinburgh and journey north to Inverness, soaking in the breathtaking Scottish Highlands along the 3.5-hour ride. Upon arrival, embark on a combined coach and boat tour to the legendary Loch Ness, including a visit to the historic Urquhart Castle. Conclude the day with a whisky-tasting session, savoring Scotland’s iconic spirits while learning about their heritage and craftsmanship.
Day 5
Inverness
Highlands and Coastal Wonders
Set out on a full-day small-group tour showcasing Scotland’s breathtaking scenery. Discover the iconic Eilean Donan Castle on the Isle of Skye, explore the legendary Loch Ness, and take in the striking vistas of the Red Cuillin Hills and Bla Bhein along the way.
Day 6
Inverness , Glasgow
Scenic Routes & City Sights
After a picturesque 3.5-hour train journey to Glasgow, immerse yourself in the city’s vibrant arts and whisky culture. Tour the Clydeside Distillery, savoring a tasting while learning about Glasgow’s industrial past. Then, explore The Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum, showcasing an impressive collection of art and historical exhibits.
Day 7
Glasgow
Culture and Charm
Join your private guide for a walking tour of Glasgow, exploring its lively neighborhoods and striking Victorian architecture. Highlights include Buchanan Street, Glasgow City Chambers, the historic Theater Royal, and Merchant Square. Learn about the legendary architect Charles Rennie Mackintosh as you stroll through the city.
Conclude the tour with a traditional afternoon tea at The Willow Tea Rooms, Mackintosh’s iconic design, enjoying sandwiches, scones, and pastries in an elegant setting.
Day 8
Glasgow
Farewell and Departure
Connect with your private driver for a seamless transfer to the airport, marking the end of your memorable Scottish journey.
More Information
Custom Curated
- Select from an exceptional collection of accommodations, ranging from world-class five-star hotels to charming and distinctive boutique stays.
- Curate your journey with a thoughtfully balanced mix of iconic landmarks, hidden gems, authentic local encounters, and rare, invitation-only experiences.
- Embrace the freedom of a fully flexible itinerary—travel when you want, how you want, with no rigid dates or schedules.
- Whether marking a milestone or pursuing a deeply personal adventure, we collaborate closely with you to craft a truly once-in-a-lifetime travel experience.
Included
- A tailor-made itinerary thoughtfully designed around your interests, pace, and preferred travel dates
- Round-the-clock, in-destination support from our trusted local team
- Accommodations, guided tours, and transfers for all scheduled experiences, unless otherwise noted in your personalized itinerary
- A private driver for all tours and transfer where applicable, your guide may also serve as your driver, as advised by your Destination Expert
- Expert-led private or small-group tours that bring your destination to life; your final itinerary will outline the exact format
- A warm welcome on arrival, whether at the airport or your accommodation, by one of our local representatives, as confirmed by your Destination Expert
- Daily breakfast at your hotel, along with any additional meals detailed in your itinerary
- One suitcase and one carry-on per person for trip transfers
Not Included
- Travel insurance, available for purchase once your tour is confirmed
- Visa fees, unless otherwise specified in your itinerary
- Gratuities for guides, drivers, and service providers
- Meals and beverages not listed in your itinerary, including lunches, dinners, and both alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks
- Charges for excess baggage or any luggage not included in your ticketed fare
- Personal expenses such as laundry, phone usage, SIM cards, or in-room dining
- Early check-in or late check-out at hotels, unless specifically noted in your itinerary
- Additional sightseeing, activities, and experiences not included in your confirmed itinerary
- Optional enhance Optional enhancements such as upgraded rooms or flights, or local camera and video permit fees
- Passport application fees, immunization costs, and local departure taxes where applicable
Safeguard Your Journey
- We strongly recommend travel protection to safeguard your plans. From missed connections and delayed luggage to unexpected medical emergencies, it offers peace of mind and coverage for the unexpected.
- Regardless of where you choose to purchase it, we encourage securing a travel protection plan before your departure to help protect your investment and your experience.