Edinburgh, Loch Ness and the Highlands

After a swift journey by high-speed train from London to Edinburgh, settle into your city-centre hotel for your two-night stay in Scotland.

This afternoon, explore the history and architecture of Edinburgh's medieval Royal Mile. For centuries, this famous thoroughfare was the hub of life in Edinburgh.

A gentle stroll along any part of this historic street will take you in the footsteps of Robert Burns, Sir Walter Scott and a host of colourful Scottish characters.

The highlight is Edinburgh Castle which sits on a crag and provides a striking backdrop to Edinburgh's skyline.

During your visit discover dramatic tales of siege, warfare, dark deeds and intrigue. Visit the Royal Apartments to view the stunning Scottish Crown Jewels then see Mons Meg (a giant cannon) and St Margaret's Chapel, the oldest building in Edinburgh.

There are also spectacular views of Edinburgh to enjoy from the battlements.

A short stroll from the castle, you'll find the popular Scotch Whisky Experience. It tells the story of Scotland's national drink and the traditions behind whisky making.

Edinburgh has lots of quality restaurants to choose from, with many specialising in Scottish fish and seafood. Look out for popular "pre-theatre" menus to enjoy good food at significant savings if you eat early.

Visit our Scotland Travel Tips page for helpful planning information. 

The Loch Ness Monster - fact or fiction? We'll find out on this superb tour through the glorious Scottish Highlands.

From Edinburgh, our journey northwards starts with a drive to Stirling, with its dramatically sited castle overlooking the surrounding countryside.

The journey continues through Rob Roy Macgregor Country to reach desolate Rannoch Moor, one of the last true wildernesses in Europe.

Haunting Glen Coe is next. Known as the "Glen of Weeping", due to the infamous massacre of 1692. Forty of the resident MacDonald clan were massacred in cold blood by the Campbells for not forswearing the Jacobite cause. They say you can still hear their cries!

We'll spend time at Loch Ness, where you can experience a monster-spotting cruise on the loch or simply enjoy a relaxing break.

Tour through the picturesque Cairngorms National Park then, after travelling through the Grampian Mountains, make a stop in Pitlochry for refreshments.

We'll return to Edinburgh by early evening after a fantastic day of discovery and maybe, just maybe………..

Please note this excursion may be operated in reverse.

Today, enjoy an open-top bus tour of Edinburgh to explore the city at your own pace. Hop-off to visit the places that interest you, then catch the next bus to continue your tour.

Discover the New Town with its grand squares and sweeping crescents that feature some of the finest examples of Georgian architecture in Europe.

There are dark tales to be told of executions and two of Edinburgh's most infamous citizens, Burke and Hare, as you tour through the Grassmarket.

Hear the tale of Greyfriar's Bobby and see the statue of the little Skye terrier after touring the new Quartermile area.

At the foot of the Royal Mile sits the iconic Scottish Parliament building and the Palace of Holyroodhouse, HM The King's official residence in Scotland.

Finally, there are beautiful views of Arthur's Seat and Holyrood Park to enjoy as we make our way back to the city centre.

If you fancy some retail therapy, you'll find designer-label shopping aplenty in fashionable George Street, whilst grand Princes Street offers shopping with unique views.

Try Friendly Stockbridge or Victoria Street, just off the Royal Mile, if you're looking for antiques or a quirky souvenir.

All too soon, it's time to head to Waverley Station to board your comfortable train for the return journey to London. Haste ye back!