11 Day Scotland's Finest

After pick-up in Glasgow, we tour south for Ayrshire and spend time visiting the ruins of Thomaston Castle near Maybole. Once owned by a nephew of Robert the Bruce, not much has changed at Thomaston since medieval times. This is a land of vast vistas, sweeping coves, and incredible views and we now head for Culzean Castle & Gardens perched on the Ayrshire cliffs for a 2-hour visit. Overnight Glasgow.

After breakfast, we head out to explore the vibrant city of Glasgow. Here, we can visit University of Glasgow, to discover more about the unique architecture and 550 years of history; Glasgow Cathedral from the 12th century; the Necropolis, an old Victorian cemetery, with great views over the city; and George Square. 
We suggest a finish time of 4pm today if an evening of traditional Scottish music is desired. (The Park Bar, Islay Inn, Ben Nevis etc. Weekend preferable). Overnight Glasgow.

Today we take in the colourful history of Stirling. Visit The National Wallace Monument which commemorates Scotland's greatest national hero, Sir William Wallace. Great views of the area can be had from the top. Visit Bannockburn, where Robert Bruce defeated a larger English army in 1314. After lunch we make our way to Stirling castle which sits majestically on top of volcanic rock. Marvel at the recently renovated Renaissance Palace of James V and the Great Hall. Overnight Stirling.

This morning, we tour north through the Queen Elizabeth Forest Park, stopping at Loch Lubnaig to admire the views. We stop at Glencoe, an area famous for its dramatic scenery, bloody history, and mountains formed through violent volcanic eruptions. After lunch, we tour north past the Kintail mountains and visit Eilean Donan Castle, situated in a stunning location where three lochs meet. Overnight nr Skye.

Today is a tour of the Isle of Skye, passing through Broadford and the Cuillin Mountains to the main settlement on the Island, Portree, with colourful houses and traditional harbour. If desired, take a tour of Dunvegan Castle. Later, we explore the north of the island and admire the scenery and views at the Old Man of Storr, Kilt Rock Falls, Lealt Falls and the strange landscape of the Quiraing. Overnight nr Skye.

This morning we head north for Loch Carron as we make our way to Inverness. The journey takes us through the desolate landscape of Achnasheen, dotted with freshwater lochs and heather moorland. Arriving in Inverness, take some time out to wander and have some lunch before we visit nearby Culloden Moor for a tour of the Visitor Centre and Battlefield to learn about the last stand of the 1745 Jacobite Rising. Overnight Inverness.

After breakfast, we head out to explore Loch Ness, Scotland’s deepest loch and of course, home to Nessie. We tour south along the shoreline of the loch with fabulous scenery and picturesque villages along the way. Arriving at the village of Fort Augustus, enjoy a boat cruise on the loch and then some lunch. We make our way to the whisky distillery for an interesting tour and tasting of Scotland’s national drink. Overnight Inverness. 

Today, we explore the Cairngorms National Park, Scotland’s second and largest Park. We visit Carrbridge village, Grantown-on-Spey, and take the 18th century military road across heather-clad hills to Ballater, Crathie and Breamar. After lunch in the area, take a walk/hike at Morrone birkwood nature reserve (1.5-2 hours). Regarded as one of the finest examples of 'downy' birchwoods in the UK and has some wonderful views into the Cairngorms. Overnight in the Highland town of Pitlochry

This morning begins with a visit to Blair Castle & Gardens which have a strategic position on the main route through the central Scottish Highlands. The grounds boast parkland, woodland, sculpted gardens, and mature specimen trees. Later, we visit the charming village of Dunkeld on the banks of the River Tay with its historic Cathedral set amidst magnificent Perthshire scenery. Enjoy an afternoon walk at The Hermitage where Giant Douglas firs tower over the roaring Black Linn waterfall. Overnight in the Highland town of Pitlochry.

This morning we head south and tour through the Kingdom of Fife to explore St Andrews and the East Neuk of Fife. Known worldwide as the home of golf, explore the medieval centre of St Andrews, consisting of narrow alleys and cobbled streets with interesting shops, restaurants, and cafés. You can also view the now ruined Cathedral and St Andrews Castle before we head down the coast to visit the quaint East Neuk fishing villages. Overnight Queensferry.

Take a short walk through South Queensferry’s cobbled street before we head into Edinburgh to explore the some out-lying sites. We begin with a leisurely visit to 15th century Rosslyn Chapel, made famous by Dan Brown's book ‘Da Vinci Code’. Next, we will visit medieval Craigmillar Castle that featured in the Outlander series. Spend the afternoon with a walk down the Royal Mile, with its charming medieval architecture and the opportunity to do any speciality shopping. Tour ends in Edinburgh.