Best of Scotland
from Edinburgh
The serene Isle of Skye, perfectly photogenic castles and the grand cities of Edinburgh, St. Andrews and Glasgow beckon. Your experience of Scotland is enhanced with visits to a traditional whisky distillery and breathtaking views of the beautiful Cuillin Mountains and Scottish Highlands.
Arrive Edinburgh (2 nights)
Welcome to Bonnie Scotland! Courtesy transfers from Edinburgh International Airport (EDI) operate at 09:00 hrs, 11:30 hrs and 14:00 hrs. After check-in to your hotel in Edinburgh you have time to relax or start exploring this fascinating capital city. Later join your Tour Director and travelling companions for a welcome drink and typical Scottish pub meal.
Hotel: Novotel City Centre Hotel, Edinburgh (or similar)
Edinburgh Sightseeing
Your guided morning sightseeing tour includes a visit to impressive Edinburgh Castle perched high on a volcanic rock. During our visit you’ll see the Scottish Crown Jewels, "Mons Meg”, a 15th Century cannon and St Margaret’s Chapel, the oldest building in Edinburgh. You will also see the Royal Mile, the 18th century New Town with its classical facades, the new Scottish Parliament building and Princes Street with the ornate Scott Memorial. During the Edinburgh Festival, included tickets to the dazzling Edinburgh Tattoo are provided. This evening, why not enjoy a Scottish night out.
Day Three
Edinburgh – St Andrews - Scottish Highlands (2 nights)
Hotel: Four Seasons/Highlands Hotel, Aviemore (or similar)
Isle of Skye Excursion
We head westwards following the "road to the Isles" to Mallaig where we catch the ferry "over the sea to Skye". Visit the Clan Donald Centre and the Museum of the Isles. Listen to romantic tales of Flora MacDonald and her daring rescue of Bonnie Prince Charlie as you enjoy the beauty of the Cuillin Hills. Later return to the mainland for views of iconic Eilean Donan Castle. We end the day with a drive along the banks of Loch Ness. Keep a close watch just in case you know who make an appearance!
Scottish Highlands - Glen Coe - Glasgow (2 nights)
Drive past Fort William and have views of Britain’s highest peak, Ben Nevis. The stunning scenery of Glen Coe has a tragic tale to tell, as it was here in 1692 that Campbell soldiers slaughtered 40 Macdonalds who had been their hosts. This infamous act remains controversial to this very day. We will pass close to the Clan Memorial where each year, on the 13th February, the Clan Donald Society of Edinburgh arranges an annual wreath laying ceremony attended by Clansmen from across the world along with local people. Desolate Rannoch Moor is next before we descend into the little village of Tyndrum. A drive along the "bonnie, bonnie" banks of Loch Lomond will bring us to Glasgow, Scotland’s second city. This afternoon visit St Mungo's Cathedral, dedicated to the Patron Saint and founder of the City. Your orientation tour will also include magnificent George Square and the River Clyde, once the heart of the ship-building industry.
Day Seven
Homeward Bound
This morning after breakfast it is time to bid farewell to your Tour Director and new-found friends as this tour of Bonnie Scotland comes to an end. Return home with many happy memories. Transfers are available to Glasgow International Airport (GLA) at 07:00 hrs and 09:00 hrs.