Majestic Scotland

Madainn mhath! While your Gaelic may be a little rusty, your visit to Glasgow will be anything but. After checking in, resist the urge to recover from your journey and hit its edgy streets on your own exploration of the sights. Keep a brolly at hand so Glasgow’s notoriously unpredictable mochie doesn’t put a damp end to your sightseeing. And even if it does, there’s a cozy pub on every corner to warm your heart with a little local whisky. You’ll meet your Travel Director and fellow travelers later for a glimpse into what lies ahead, then spend a free evening perhaps with a wee dram or two at a favorite local.

Kick-start your day with a lesson in Glasgow’s industrial past and modern revival that have given the city its characteristic gallus strut. Your orientation tour of the city will include views of Glasgow Cathedral and George Square where many of Scotland’s famous sons are immortalized in stone. Enjoy views of the People's Palace, the Winter Gardens and the River Clyde, which for over 200 years was the center of shipbuilding.

Channel your inner Highlander next, embarking on a journey north to the banks of Loch Lomond, where a cruise past Rob Roy's cave could be on the cards should you choose to join this Optional Experience. Continue through the 'Glen of Weeping' to see the volcanic ruins and precipitous mountains of Glencoe. Take a moment to remember the MacDonald clansmen who were massacred in 1692 fighting relentlessly for their beliefs. After Fort William, see the Commando Memorial and the Ben Nevis Mountain Range. Head to the heart of the Highlands and your home for the next two nights, where dinner is served at your hotel.

History buffs, get ready – first up is the dramatic Culloden Battlefield, where Scotland’s fate was sealed in one epic showdown. Then it’s time to roll past the legendary Loch Ness. Monster sightings? Optional. Epic scenery? Guaranteed. Cameras at the ready as you pass Eilean Donan Castle – it’s basically Scotland’s cover girl. From there, it’s over the sea to the magical Isle of Skye, where a laid-back lunch stop gives time to soak up those wild island vibes. The day wraps with a scenic drive through Highland beauty before arriving back at the hotel for a hearty dinner and a comfy night in.

Robert Burns once wrote of his beloved hills of the Highlands. Your scenic drive through its mystical landscapes will leave you similarly inspired as you venture to picturesque Pitlochry on the banks of the Tummel. There’s time to explore this salmon fishing center on your own or perhaps join an Optional Experience to Blair Castle, home of the Duke of Atholl and Europe's last remaining private army. The fairways and greens of St. Andrews, the birthplace of golf, beckon and you’ll have an opportunity to snap a selfie against the backdrop of the famous 18th green. Continue to Edinburgh – the Scottish capital with a mystical air combining ancient heritage with the verve of a modern city. Time your visit to coincide with the rousing The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo with tickets included on certain departures.

The Georgian New Town, Palace of Holyroodhouse, the Royal Mile and Edinburgh Castle all wait to be viewed in the company of your Local Guide, so grab your camera and prepare for a memorable sightseeing tour revealing all the highlights of Auld Reekie. You’ll have plenty of time to explore on your own or consider joining a Choice Experience of an in-depth tour of Edinburgh Castle.

Tuck into a hearty Scottish breakfast with tattie scones and all the trimmings. You’ll want one final reminder of your epic encounter with Scotland before preparing to return home. Say a fond bye for now to new friends, closing the curtain on a memorable journey through Scotland.