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
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
- International airfare - if you'd like assistance, your Destination Expert can connect you with our dedicated Air Team for pricing
- 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.