Day 1: Edinburgh
Join your Travel Director for dinner at a local restaurant. On select departures, you’ll also have the chance to attend The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo—a vibrant showcase of pipes, drums, dance, and display, set against the illuminated backdrop of Edinburgh Castle.
Day 2: Edinburgh
Accompanied by a Local Expert, explore the city’s highlights. In the Old Town, visit the Palace of Holyroodhouse, the official Scottish residence of the King. Drive along Princes Street to see the ornate Scott Memorial, and then admire the neoclassical Georgian facades of the 18th-century New Town. Ascend the Royal Mile to Edinburgh Castle, home to Mons Meg and Scotland’s Crown Jewels. The rest of the day is yours to enjoy; consider visiting the art treasures in the National Gallery.
Day 3: To St. Andrews and the Highland Capital of Inverness
Cross the Firth of Forth into Fife and head to St. Andrews, passing the Old Course, the birthplace of golf since the 15th century. Enjoy free time to explore—perhaps take a stroll to West Sands Beach, famous for the ‘Chariots of Fire’ scene, or visit St. Andrews University, where Kate Middleton met her Prince Charming. Stop at Atholl Palace and Gardens for a delightful cream tea, retaining many Victorian features. Continue through Blair Atholl, passing the Grampian Mountains on your way to the sparkling Spey Valley.
Day 4: Culloden, Loch Ness, and onto Thurso
Keep an eye out for the Loch Ness monster during a scenic drive along the legendary lake. Visit Culloden Battlefield, where Bonnie Prince Charlie’s Jacobite army was defeated in 1746, and explore the Culloden Visitor Center. Then, with Insight Choice, discover the fishing port of Wick. Opt to visit the Old Pulteney Distillery for a tasting of its award-winning whiskies, or participate in a MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience at the Wick Heritage Museum to learn about this once-thriving fishing community.
Day 5: A Day in the Orkney Islands
Begin your day with a ferry ride to the picturesque Orkney Islands, known for their breathtaking countryside and tranquil lifestyle. Your Travel Director will guide you to the 5000-year-old village of Skara Brae, the old Norse Town of Kirkwall, the enigmatic Ring of Brodgar, and the small chapel built by Italian prisoners during World War II.
Day 6: Over the Sea to Skye
Travel through stunning landscapes along the northern coast, featuring white sandy beaches and misty valleys, lochs, and rushing streams. Then it’s ‘Over the Sea to Skye,’ the largest and most beautiful of the Inner Hebrides. On your way to Broadford, hear the romantic tales of Flora MacDonald’s rescue of Bonnie Prince Charlie and marvel at the dramatic Cuillin Hills.
Day 7: Through the Scottish Highlands to Glencoe
This morning, explore the stunning island at your leisure before crossing to the Kyle of Lochalsh. Stop for a photo at the remote Eilean Donan Castle, which reflects beautifully in its loch under clear skies. Continue to the WWII Commando Memorial for panoramic views of Ben Nevis, Britain’s highest mountain, before enjoying the breathtaking scenery en route to the Valley of Glencoe. Join a ranger for a MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience, learning about the conservation of this rare ecosystem and efforts to reintroduce lost indigenous species. In the evening, savour fresh Scottish ingredients and wine while dining with newfound friends, and don’t be surprised if you find yourself ‘Toasting to the Lassies’ or singing 'Auld Lang Syne' by the end of the night.
Day 8: Along the Bonnie Banks of Loch Lomond to Glasgow
Spend time at the serene Loch Lomond, known as the ‘Queen of Scottish Lochs’ by Sir Walter Scott and the largest in Great Britain. Consider enjoying the tranquility with an optional cruise before heading to Glasgow. An orientation drive through the city will showcase its grand public buildings, including George Square and St. Mungo’s Cathedral. The afternoon is yours to explore at your leisure.
Day 9: Depart Glasgow
Today, bid farewell to your journey through Scotland’s countryside as you transfer to the airport.
