We leave Edinburgh behind and travel into historic Stirlingshire, the home of the real Braveheart, Sir William Wallace. Look out for the impressive monument to this Scottish freedom fighter overlooking the city of Stirling from its rocky perch on Abbey Mount.
Our first stop will be at 14th Century Doune Castle. It was built for the Regent Albany and has a 100 ft high gatehouse and one of the best-preserved great halls in Scotland. The castle played the part of Winterfell in the pilot of the award-winning TV series Game of Thrones and Castle Leoch in Outlander.
Our journey westwards continues through the Loch Lomond and Trossachs National Park into the dramatic scenery of the Western Highlands, famed for its mountain scenery and shimmering lochs.
From the village of Tyndrum, we make our way through Glen Lochy towards Loch Awe, guarded by picturesque Kilchurn Castle, a ruined 15th-century castle that was the seat of the Campbells of Glenorchy.
Travel through Glen Aray to reach the charming town of Inveraray, where its white-painted houses are reflected in the gentle waters of Loch Fyne. There’s time to enjoy lunch in this scenic location and, if you want, visit Inveraray Jail, where costumed wardens and prisoners bring the history of this 19th-century prison and courtroom to life.
Enjoy the spectacular views of the peaks known as the Arrochar Alps before descending through the dramatic “Rest and Be Thankful” pass to reach the Argyll Forest Park and the shores of Loch Lomond.
Our last stop is in the pretty village of Luss, which boasts a Viking history and fantastic panoramic views over the loch towards Ben Lomond.
After our time by the “Bonnie, Bonnie Banks”, we head eastwards to end our tour in Edinburgh.
