You’ll start your grand Scottish adventure with the Secrets of the Royal Mile walking tour and revel in the stories and charm of Edinburgh’s UNESCO World Heritage Old Town. Your Local Specialist will lead you down cobbled streets, winding closes and into hidden courtyards en route to Edinburgh Castle. There, you’ll see the Crown Jewels of Scotland and St. Margaret’s Chapel. Tonight, enjoy a welcome dinner at your hotel.
Board the Royal Yacht Britannia, the former seafaring residence of Queen Elizabeth II, and step into a world of royal history as you explore the State Apartments, crew’s quarters and elegant decks. Then continue to the Johnnie Walker Experience for a journey through flavor, Scottish traditions and culture, complete with interactive projections, live performances and specially crafted cocktails. Non-alcoholic beverages are also available. Later, travel to the Highlands before this evening’s dinner at Old Manse of Blair.
Venture north and pause at the Scottish Crannog Center on Loch Tay to learn how Iron Age communities once lived in loch-dwelling crannogs. Then take a detour literally off the beaten path at Highland Safaris. Join a kilted ranger for a 4x4 safari of majestic scenery. Look out for wildlife such as red squirrel, deer and golden eagles before stopping in a bothy for a dram of local whisky, a bite of shortbread and stories. Then, onwards to enjoy dinner back in your hotel.
Travel through the Highlands to Dundreggan for a MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience, where a rewilding expert shares how native species such as the red squirrel and beaver are being reintroduced and how efforts are underway to restore the ancient Caledonian pine forest. Continue to see Eilean Donan Castle, one of the country’s most photographed strongholds, dramatically set where three sea lochs meet. Then cross to the Isle of Skye, as the scenery shifts from mainland glens to expansive coastal views. Along the way, take in the island’s rugged charm, from sweeping shorelines to the first glimpses of the Cuillin mountains. This evening, settle into your hotel and enjoy dinner before a restful night on the island.
Get ready for a day spent outdoors as you explore the main attractions on the magical, mystical Isle of Skye. Known for its incredible natural formations like the pinnacles of the Old Man of Storr and Kilt Rock.
Today you’ll visit Armadale Castle and Gardens, exploring the ruins of the historic seat of the MacDonalds of Sleat set among 40 acres of manicured grounds and woodlands. Sail back to the mainland with views of the Cuillin Mountains before continuing to Glenfinnan Monument, which marks the raising of the Jacobite standard in 1745. Later, travel south to your lochside hotel on Loch Lomond, where dinner is served this evening.
Experience the serenity of Loch Lomond on a relaxing cruise. Take in views of towering Ben Lomond and stately homes as you glide to Inchmurrin Island and see the ancient ruins of Lennox Castle, once a shelter for Robert the Bruce. After, continue to Glasgow for afternoon tea at the Willow Tea Rooms. Refreshed, journey through the world of street art in Scotland’s largest city. Join a Local Expert to explore hidden alleys, buildings and walls adorned with striking murals, each telling a story and reflecting Glasgow’s creative spirit. Later, return to Edinburgh for the evening.
Transfer to the airport for your return journey home.
