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Legends of Scotland
Uncover Scotland's mystical allure on the Highlands, Lochs & Castles expedition. Traverse Edinburgh's historic streets, crowned by its hilltop castle, guided by local experts. Delve into the Highlands' tranquility, sampling single malts at traditional distilleries. Glide across Loch Ness, seeking the enigmatic Nessie's secrets, then explore the ancient ruins of the Isle of Skye. Retreat each evening to premium hotels, where Scottish warmth meets modern comfort. Embark on a journey of legend and discovery.
Unrivaled Travel Experiences: Legends of Scotland
Day One Arrival: The Adventure Begins - Edinburgh
Overnight: The Kimpton Charlotte Square Hotel
For your added comfort, a Meet and Greet assistant will welcome you upon your arrival at the airport. They'll be waiting for you outside of customs, holding a sign with your name on it. Your assistant will help to co-ordinate meeting up with your private driver at the airport, and accompany you to your hotel for check-in.
A Welcome Package will be provided and will include any relevant documents or tickets required for your trip.
Day Two: Along Cobblestone Streets - Edinburgh
Overnight: The Kimpton Charlotte Square Hotel
Depart on foot for a half-day private guided walking tour through Scotland’s hilly capital, Edinburgh, founded over 1,200 years ago. You'll also explore New Town, co-listed with the Old Town as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, which features the famous Princes Street with its ornate 200-foot-high Scott Monument, along with historic Georgian and neo-classical architecture. Stroll the renowned Royal Mile in Old Town, book-ended by the 12th-century Edinburgh Castle at one end, and the 16th-century Holyrood Palace at the other, residence of the British monarch in Scotland. Spot the prominent St Giles’ Cathedral, a religious focal point for nearly 900 years. Pass the National Museum of Scotland and learn of the city’s hidden subterranean passages running below street level. Visit the iconic Edinburgh Castle, perched on Castle Rock with an imposing stance upon the historic old town below. Stroll the courtyard and learn about the historic royal residence from the outside before leaving your guide while you visit the inside of the castle, where you can see the lavish interiors, and even the Crown Jewels.
Day Three: Quintessential Castles - Edinburgh
Overnight: The Kimpton Charlotte Square Hotel
Set out with your private guide and transportation to Stirling, home of the impressive Stirling Castle. Its location rivals even Edinburgh Castle's for sheer magnificence as it sits on its high volcanic rock, visible for many miles in every direction. A visit here is a worthy addition you may want to include in your experience today. You have the vehicle for the day so be sure to make time to visit some of the other interesting sites in this beautiful town: Mar's Wark, King's Knot, the Old Bridge, Cambuskenneth Abbey, Menstrie Castle, Dunblane Cathedral, Doune Castle (filming location for Winterfell in Game of Thrones), and of course the Pineapple - a bizarre structure in the midst of one of the many beautiful gardens. Return back to your Edinburgh hotel by early evening.
Day Four: A Change of Scenery - Edinburgh to Pitlochry
Overnight: Fonab Castle Hotel
Depart by train from Edinburgh to Pitlochry. Approximate travel time is 1.5 hours. A private driver and vehicle will be provided for transfers to and from the train stations.
Day Five: A Sight to Behold - Pitlochry
Overnight: Fonab Castle Hotel
Set out on a private guided tour of Pitlochry. First, visit stunning Blair Castle and its gardens and grounds, the ancient seat of the Dukes and Earls of Atholl. Dating back to the 13th century, see over 700 years of Atholl family history brought to life within exquisite 18th century interiors. The castle enjoys one of Scotland’s finest settings in the heart of Highland Perthshire. South of Pitlochry, you'll head to the Tay Forest Park near Dunkeld to enjoy nature's beauty, setting out on the Hermitage & Braan Walk, a 1.5-mile woodland trail with picturesque follies and lovely waterfalls, along with Douglas fir trees, some of the tallest in Britain. In the afternoon, visit Blair Atholl Distillery set in open moorland south of the town, in the foothills of the Grampian mountains. Blair Athol’s ancient source of water – the Allt Dour – flows through the grounds from the slopes of Ben Vrackie, contributing to the whisky’s, mellow quality and smooth finish.
Day Six: Onward and Upward - Pitlochry to Inverness
Overnight: The Kingsmills Hotel
Meet your private driver and vehicle for a train station transfer. Depart by train from Pitlochry to Inverness. Approximate travel time is two hours.
Make your way to Clansman Harbor on the outskirts of Inverness, where you'll board an inspiring 1-hour shared cruise, sailing the deepest waters of Loch Ness, the best way to experience this legendary Loch. On your voyage, you'll view the ancient ruins of Urquhart and hear all about the myths and legends of the Loch.
Day Seven: From Sea to Sky - Inverness
Overnight: The Kingsmills Hotel
As a small group of no more than 16 participants, head out on a full day adventure through some of Scotland’s most iconic scenery. Driving along the shores of Loch Ness, you'll stop at the village of Invermoriston, where you can take in the serene views, see a delightful ruined bridge, and keep an eye out for 'Nessie', legendary creature said to take refuge in the depths of the loch below. Your journey then winds past the Five Sisters, a stunning range of mountains that dominates the surrounding landscape. You’ll then arrive to the Isle of Skye, making a stop so to admire the picturesque beauty of the 13th century ruins of Eilean Donan Castle - easily recognized as one of the most iconic sights in the country. There will be time for an optional visit of the castle on its separate tidal island, though admission (if desired) is payable on the spot. Your experience on the Isle of Skye will have you brought along the stunningly beautiful road through Glen Suardal, see the iconic Red Cuillin Hills, and enjoy views of Bla Bhein - often considered Scotland’s prettiest mountain. The road then drops to hug the banks of Loch Slappin where you’ll be able to stop and enjoy some beach combing, before your journey takes a steep climb over Strathaird to reach the little community of Elgol, offering superb views of the Black Cuillin Hills and the stunning seascapes towards Rum and other small isles. Return to Inverness via the scenic Black Isle, with views over the Moray Firth.
Day Eight: In Good Spirits - Inverness
Overnight: The Kingsmills Hotel
Embark on an exploration of Speyside, Scotland's captivating whisky hub. Departing from Inverness, you'll journey through Moray and the scenic Moray Firth coastline until you reach Glen Moray Distillery. Take a tour to uncover whisky production secrets and savor the golden spirit. In Elgin, enjoy free time for sightseeing, shopping, and local cuisine. Visit Elgin Cathedral or shop for souvenirs at Gordon and Macphail. Heading south along the Spey River, you'll encounter distilleries reflecting the industry's heritage. At Cardhu Distillery, founded by Helen Cumming, taste the significance of Johnnie Walker Black Label. Capture the Speyside Cooperage and Cairngorm mountain views before returning to Inverness.
Day Nine: On the Road Again - Inverness to Glasgow
Overnight: Dakota Hotel Glasgow
Depart by train from Inverness to Glasgow. Approximate travel time is 3.5 hours.
Discover why Glasgow is one of the liveliest and most cosmopolitan destinations in Europe. Meet your private guide and depart on foot for a half-day walking tour through Scotland's largest city, discovering highlights of the city reborn as a center of style and vitality, set against a backdrop of outstanding Victorian architecture. Built in a grid, the city is divided roughly into three districts: the Financial district, the Retail and Theater district, and Merchant City - the latter two being where you'll primarily spend your time strolling. See the elegant Glasgow City Chambers, discover the upmarket Buchanan Street, and pass the 19th-century Theater Royal, home of the Scottish Opera. Discover the 18th and 19th-century mercantile buildings tethered to Merchant Square, now a trendy hub for bars and restaurants, and spot the historic Tolbooth Steeple and clock-tower which dominates Glasgow Cross, a relic from 1625. Keep your eye out for the splendor of Scotland's best-known architect Charles Rennie Mackintosh, whose style adorns many unique attractions throughout Glasgow.
Day Ten: Bon Voyage - Glasgow
Overnight: Fly Home
Bid farewell to Scotland as you meet your private driver for a transfer to the airport and your flight home.
