9-Night Grand and Gallant Scotland

Day 2

Accommodation

Historic Victorian 4-Star Hotel - Edinburgh, Central Scotland

Check in policies:

Check-in time is after 3:00pm on your day of arrival. Check-out time is before 11:00am.
Discounted car parking is available from a secure APCOA car park located a ten minute walk for the hotel. Bring your car to the front of the hotel to unload your luggage and receive directions to car park.

Daily Itinerary

The Royal Mile, Edinburgh Castle & Holyrood Palace

Today you'll have a full day with a walking tour of Edinburgh, a tour of the Royal Mile, Edinburgh Castle and Holyrood Palace. Should your tour dates include the Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo (August 10th arrival only), you will enjoy an exciting evening at this world-class event with famous Tattoo pipers, fiddlers, and dancers.

Included Unique Activities

Palace Of Holyroodhouse Admission

The Palace of Holyroodhouse is the home of Scottish royal history and is the official residence of King Charles III when he is in Scotland. Admission to the Palace includes the State Apartments, Mary, Queen of Scots' historic chambers, and the ruins of the 12th-century Abbey Church. NOTE: Because the Palace of Holyroodhouse is a working royal palace, sometimes closures can happen at short notice.

Edinburgh Castle Admission

Edinburgh Castle sits on a high, rocky hill with a narrow ridge running east above the Old Town of Edinburgh. There has been a fortification of some kind here for thousands of years. The castle has existed through layers of time and history, and it is indeed magnificent. Edinburgh Castle has highlighted the city’s skyline for 800 years, is a national symbol, and it is Scotland’s most popular site to visit. The castle was a vital possession in Scotland’s historic struggles. The castle houses the Honours (Crown Jewels) of Scotland, the Stone of Destiny, the famous 15th century gun Mons Meg, the One O' Clock Gun and the National War Museum of Scotland. This self guided audio tour is available in eight languages and will take you on a tour around the castle, explains its architecture, and tells its dramatic history.

Included Sightseeing

The Royal Mile, Edinburgh, Central Scotland

On The Map: The Royal Mile is located in Old Town Edinburgh, and runs between Edinburgh Castle & Holyrood Palace.

It has a number of famous historical sites and buildings, as well as an impressive array of shops, restaurants, and pubs. (The Royal Mile is actually more than a mile by 107 yards.) There are several independently named streets that connect, making up the Royal Mile. These are Castlehill, Lawnmarket, High Street, Cannongate, and Abbey Strand. The major attractions on the Royal Mile are Edinburgh Castle, Holyrood Palace, The National Museum of Scotland, and Camera Obscura—Scotland's oldest purpose-built attraction.  

Edinburgh Castle, Central Scotland

On The Map: Edinburgh Castle is located at the top of the Royal Mile, at the west end of Edinburgh's Old Town.

From its lofty position on Castle Rock, the castle dominates the Edinburgh skyline. There has been a fortification of some kind here for thousands of years. The castle has existed through layers of time and history, and it is indeed magnificent. Having etched the city’s skyline for 800 years, the Castle is a national symbol. A vital part in Scotland’s historic struggles, the castle houses the Crown Jewels of Scotland, the Stone of Destiny, the legendary 15th century gun Mons Meg, the One O' Clock Gun, and the National War Museum of Scotland. In addition to guided tours provided by the castle stewards, there is an audio guide tour available that takes you around the castle, explains its architecture, and tells its dramatic history.

Old Town Edinburgh, Central Scotland

Both New Town and Old Town Edinburgh became a World Heritage Site in 1995, listed as such for their architectural and historic importance. In fact, both are an indelible part of Scotland’s story. Edinburgh’s medieval Royal Mile begins at Edinburgh Castle and runs to the Palace of Holyroodhouse. The north is bordered by 18th century New Town, including Princes Street.

Beside Edinburgh’s haunting Castle, Gladstone’s Land on the Royal Mile is one of Old Town’s oldest buildings; it was a cultural hub for more than 500 years. On the second floor, you can try on Georgian fashions. Descend to the first floor, and you’re in the home owned by wealthy spice traders of the 17th century. You’ll see their living space, kitchen, stock room, and the tavern that they ran. The 1620’s Scottish Renaissance wall decorations and ceiling paintings are original. Enjoy the café in the tradition of these last traders, with tea and cake.

Overnight Location

Edinburgh, Central Scotland

On The Map: Edinburgh is located on the southern shore of the Firth of Forth and is the capital of Scotland. Situated in Scotland’s Central Belt, the city center is 2 ½ miles southwest of the shoreline of Leith. Situated 332 miles north of London, and 46 miles east of Glasgow, Edinburgh is the bold heart of Scotland that invites exploration.

From ancient Edinburgh Castle, perched on a dormant volcanic plug, to narrow lanes and royal Georgian neighborhoods, this city is enchanting. Walk along the medieval walls. Expect surprising vistas and views of the sea. Discover quirky shops, whisky tasting, world-class restaurants, pub crawls, and friendly talk. Edinburgh is one joyous find after another.    

Day 3

Accommodation

Luxury Countryside Hotel - Pitlochry, Central Scotland

Check in policies:

Check-in time is after 4.00pm on your day of arrival. Check-out time is before 10.30am

Daily Itinerary

St Andrews & Blair Castle

Today your driver will pick you up and take you through the lovely village of St Andrews, followed by a visit to Blair Castle & Gardens. Enjoy included dinner at your 5-star hotel.

Included Unique Activities

Blair Castle & Garden Admission

Blair Castle stands near the village of Blair Atholl in Scotland’s Perthshire. It is the ancestral home of the Clan Murray, and was historically the seat of their chief, the Duke of Atholl. The castle has an extraordinary history, during peace and conflict. Over a period of 750 years, it witnessed politicians, soldiers, agriculturalists, and entrepreneurs. The 30 rooms bring to life Scottish Baronial architecture and interiors. Castle tours have information in every room and welcoming guides on each floor to answer your questions. (The Tullibardine Restaurant and Castle Gardens are closed during the winter season.)

Enroute Sightseeing

Forth Bridge, Queensferry, Central Scotland

This railway bridge, crossing the Forth estuary in Scotland, had the world’s longest spans (541 m) when it opened in 1890. It remains one of the greatest cantilever trussed bridges and continues to carry passengers and freight. Its distinctive industrial aesthetic is the result of a forthright and unadorned display of its structural components. Innovative in style, materials and scale, the Forth Bridge marks an important milestone in bridge design and construction during the period when railways came to dominate long-distance land travel.

St Andrews, Central Scotland

On The Map: St Andrews is located on Scotland's east coast. Dundee is less than 30 minutes to the north, while Edinburgh 1.5 hours to the south.

Poised and well-groomed, St. Andrews is the pilgrimage site for golfers around the world. It is also Scotland’s oldest university town, founded in 1410. The town of St. Andrews is small---only three main streets and an open, airy feel with long stretches of sandy beach on either side of town. There are acres-plus of golf links in every direction. The locals are proud of their town and it has a refined, old-fashioned ambience. Many original buildings have survived, and the castle and cathedral have been rebuilt to preserve their remains. The main streets and cobbled alleys are lined with crooked houses. Medieval churches line up and meet at the ruin of the 12th century cathedral. St. Andrews is a light, seaside resort that feels busier and larger than it is.  More importantly, it is one of the most notable and historic towns in Scotland.  

Overnight Location

Pitlochry, Central Scotland

On The Map: Pitlochry is located in the very heart of Scotland. Cairngorms National Park is very close by to the north, and Edinburgh less than 1.5 hours to the south via the A9 road.

When Queen Victoria fell in love with the Highlands of Scotland, Pitlochry was a quiet village surrounded by the pine-covered hills of the Central Highlands. It became famous when she named it one of the finest resorts in Europe, and visitors began arriving to discover the magic of the Highlands. This vibrant town in the wooded valley of the River Tummel runs along a main street that’s lined with shops and eating places. It bustles with visitors, but relax and go with the flow. Look behind the busy-ness, and you’ll see the charming, Highland Victorian town that is still Pitlochry. Pitlochry is farther from the sea than any other place in Scotland, and it makes a good base for exploring the surrounding scenery, which is spectacular.

Day 4

Accommodation

Luxury Art-Deco Hotel - Inverness, Highlands

Check in policies:

Check-in time is after 3:00pm on your day of arrival. Check-out before 12:00 noon.
Free parking is available on site.

Daily Itinerary

Cairngorms National Park

Spend the day exploring Cairngorms National Park with your guide before experiencing the many whisky flavors at Cardhu Distillery. Dinner is included at your hotel. 

Included Unique Activities

Cardhu Distillery Flavor Journey

Cardhu distillery, previously called Cardow, is one of the best-located distilleries in Speyside. It sits high on the hills on the north side of Spey Valley and has delightful views to the south. Though they take their name from the Gaelic for “Black Rock,” the malts of Cardhu are warm and clean tasting. Often described as silky, they are both elegant and approachable. Perfect for toasting, celebrating, and sharing with old and new friends. Join a journey through Cardhu’s fascinating founding by two generations of resolute women. Discover how their inventive nature fueled a quest to capture Speyside in its highly coveted malt, noted for its sensual pour and rich, smooth character. Your full-sensory, field-to-glass tour ends with a tutored whisky tasting in their tasting kitchen. Relax and enjoy the Cumming and Walker family hospitality.

Overnight Location

Inverness, Highlands

On The Map:  Inverness is located on Scotland's central northern coast. The town is accessed via the A9 road from the southeast (Cairngorms National Park), A82 from the southwest (Loch Ness), and A96 from northeast Speyside.

Inverness is the gateway and true capital of the Highlands. It is also one of the Highland’s oldest settlements, and all roads still lead to the Highland’s center. Inverness feels like a compact town, but with 50,000 people it has the vibrant attitude of a lovely city. Let your imagination run wild and take a ghost tour, led by an 18th century ghost, complete with period costume. Expect to hear tales of the city’s past, including ghosts, witches, murders, and spells.

Stroll along the River Ness, or cruise on the Moray Firth, searching out bottlenose dolphins. (It is very peaceful, especially if you’ve just been ghost-hunting.) The River Ness flows through Inverness, and salmon fishermen come during the summer for a fine catch. Inverness Castle is perched high above the city, a gorgeous Victorian built of red sandstone. Just below the castle is the museum and art gallery which runs exhibitions and workshops for kids. The main shopping area fans out from there in three directions, and it includes a lively gathering place where pipers and other musicians gather and make music. 

Day 5

Accommodation

Luxury Art-Deco Hotel - Inverness, Highlands

Check in policies:

Check-in time is after 3:00pm on your day of arrival. Check-out before 12:00 noon.
Free parking is available on site.

Daily Itinerary

Loch Ness Cruise & Urquhart Castle

See the iconic Loch Ness from the best viewpoint - a boat. You'll also visit Urquhart Castle and Culloden Battlefield and have free time in the evening to explore Inverness. 

Included Unique Activities

Inspiration Loch Ness Cruise

Cruise in comfort on Loch Ness. The staff is friendly and helpful. This cruise provides magnificent views of Urquhart Castle, sailing as far as Urquhart Castle near Drumnadrochit, which is approximately halfway down Loch Ness. You'll sail through the deepest part of this famous Loch; if you happen to spot Nessie, be sure to remain very quiet and take pictures!

Urquhart Castle Admission

Once one of Scotland’s largest castles, Urquhart saw conflict during its 500 years as a medieval fortress. Control of the castle passed back and forth between the Scots and English during the Wars of Independence. The power struggles continued, as the Lords of the Isles regularly raided both the castle and glen up until the 1500’s. The last of the government troops garrisoned here during the Jacobite Risings blew up the castle when they left. Urquhart’s iconic ruins remain, offering glimpses into medieval times and the lives of its noble residents. Urquhart is a must-experience.

Culloden Battlefield Visitor Center Admission

Visit the powerfully emotive and atmospheric battlefield where the 1745 Jacobite Rising came to an end. On April 16, 1746, the final Jacobite Rising came to a brutal head in one of the most harrowing battles in British history. Jacobite supporters, seeking to restore the Stuart monarchy to the British thrones, gathered to fight the Duke of Cumberland’s government troops. It was the last pitched battle on British soil and, in less than an hour, around 1,600 men were slain, 1,500 of them Jacobites. The richly researched, stimulating, and sensitive Culloden Visitor Centre, which stands beside the battlefield, features artifacts from both sides of the battle and interactive displays that reveal the background of the conflict.

It is both a monument and a guide to a pivotal day in history. You’ll experience the emotions of the Battle of Culloden in the visitor center’s 360-degree battle immersion theatre, putting you in the heart of the action. See the restored 18th-century Leanach Cottage with its beautiful, thatched roof, crafted using heather from the battlefield itself. Browse their shop for unique mementos of your trip, including jewelry crafted from the flowers of the battlefield, prints of the battlefield, and Culloden whisky.

Included Sightseeing

Loch Ness, Highlands

On The Map: Loch Ness is a long stretch of freshwater, extending 23 miles southwest of Inverness.

Loch Ness holds more water than all the lakes and reservoirs in the U.K. combined. During the Ice Age, glaciers deepened a trench halfway through Scotland, creating a long glen of steep, forested mountains and mysterious lochs. Castles and forts abound here, bearing witness to the Great Glen’s strategic importance. There is, of course, the elusive Loch Ness monster who still attracts scientific interest. Loch Ness is almost 1,000 feet deep and has unusually dark water, owing to the high peat content of the surrounding soil. This is an immensely atmospheric loch, surrounded by mountains, castles, abbey ruins, and several enchanting villages. The fame of Loch Ness is well-deserved.

Overnight Location

Inverness, Highlands

On The Map:  Inverness is located on Scotland's central northern coast. The town is accessed via the A9 road from the southeast (Cairngorms National Park), A82 from the southwest (Loch Ness), and A96 from northeast Speyside.

Inverness is the gateway and true capital of the Highlands. It is also one of the Highland’s oldest settlements, and all roads still lead to the Highland’s center. Inverness feels like a compact town, but with 50,000 people it has the vibrant attitude of a lovely city. Let your imagination run wild and take a ghost tour, led by an 18th century ghost, complete with period costume. Expect to hear tales of the city’s past, including ghosts, witches, murders, and spells.

Stroll along the River Ness, or cruise on the Moray Firth, searching out bottlenose dolphins. (It is very peaceful, especially if you’ve just been ghost-hunting.) The River Ness flows through Inverness, and salmon fishermen come during the summer for a fine catch. Inverness Castle is perched high above the city, a gorgeous Victorian built of red sandstone. Just below the castle is the museum and art gallery which runs exhibitions and workshops for kids. The main shopping area fans out from there in three directions, and it includes a lively gathering place where pipers and other musicians gather and make music. 

Day 6

Accommodation

Highland Riverview Hotel - Fort William, Highlands

Check in policies:

Check-in time is after 3.00pm on your day of arrival. Check-out time is before 11.00am.

Limited guest car parking is available within the grounds, and just along the road at the West End roundabout, there is a large municipal car park.

Daily Itinerary

Isle of Skye

Today you'll visit the famous Isle of Skye and Eilean Donan Castle en-route to Fort William. Dinner included at your hotel.

Included Unique Activities

Eilean Donan Castle Admission

Eilean Donan is globally recognized as one of Scotland’s most iconic images. Situated on an island at the point where three great sea lochs meet, and surrounded by majestic scenery, the castle is a must-see in the Scottish Highlands. Although inhabited since the 6th century, the first fortified castle was built in the mid-13th century and stood guard over the lands of Kintail. Since then, at least four different versions of the castle have been built and rebuilt during the tides of Scotland’s feudal history. Partially destroyed in a Jacobite uprising in 1719, Eilean Donan lay in ruins for 200 years until Lieutenant Colonel John MacRae-Gilstrap bought the island in 1911. He restored the castle to its original glory. After 20 years of hard work, the castle was re-opened in 1932. Four generations of the MacRae family, from the past to the present, are still the Constables of Eilean Donan Castle. You can explore almost every part of the castle and take a journey through history. Many people feel that Eilean Donan is the most beautiful castle in Scotland, and you’ll be able to decide for yourself. The castle has a visitor center plus a café and gift shop.

Enroute Sightseeing

Isle of Skye, Islands

On The Map: The Isle of Skye is a large island located off the west coast of Scotland. Skye is accessed via a land bridge (A87 road) from Kyle of Lochalsh on the mainland, or by ferry from Mallaig.

 “Cloud Island” is the name Norse settlers gave to the Isle of Skye. It is fitting. A 50-mile-long banquet of velvet moors, jagged mountains, shimmering lochs, and towering sea cliffs produce stunning scenery. If the weather turns, there are plenty of castles, crafting museums, cozy pubs, and restaurants to enjoy. Along with Edinburgh and Loch Ness, Skye is one of the places in Scotland that people enjoy visiting the most. Skye is where Bonnie Prince Charlie spent his final days in Scotland in 1746.

A wild geological past has produced some of Britain’s most dramatic scenery. From rugged Northern Skye to the ice-sculpted peaks of the Cuillins, the island is blessed with many lochs. The traveler is never more than five miles from the ocean. Skye is everything we think that the Highlands are: Wild, fierce, and mesmerizing.

Kyle of Lochalsh, Highlands

On The Map: The Kyle of Lochalsh is a town on the northwest coast of Scotland, 80 miles west of Inverness, and 75 miles northwest of Fort William, opposite the village of Kyleakin on the Isle of Skye. 

This town is the most prominent gateway to the famed Isle of Skye. The center of Kyle is made up of an attractive group of white-washed buildings. The welcoming town has a good harbor and marina. The picturesque village of Plockton is located nearby on the sheltered bay of Loch Carron. The Five Sisters of Kintail, Scotland’s highest waterfall, is an exceptional sight, while walks on nearby Glen Shiel are lovely. This location is steeped in Jacobite history.

Overnight Location

Fort William, Highlands

On The Map: Fort William sits at the head of Loch Linnhe, and the foot of the Great Glen and snow-peaked Ben Nevis. The major A82 road runs through town connecting it with Glasgow to the south & Inverness to the northeast.

Fort William got its name from the original fort built here in 1650 to keep the Highland clans in order. It's a convenient touring base for the Northwest of Scotland, and a popular hub for walkers, mountaineers, and scenery lovers of every type. Its appeal is not that of a destination town, but rather its location to some of the most stunning natural beauty in Scotland. Ben Nevis, Scotland’s highest, and most rugged is the most obvious draw, but it's certainly not all. The West Highland Museum on Cameron Square exhibits the 18th century “Secret Portrait of Prince Charles.” This was done when all paintings of Stuarts were completed in obscure swirls so the viewer didn’t get into trouble for having any connection, at all, to the Stuart side of the Royal family. Just northeast of town is the acclaimed “Treasures of the Earth,” one of Europe’s finest collections of crystals and gemstones. The “Underwater Center,” on the banks of Loch Linnhe, is the world’s leading diving instruction and training center. Also north of town are the impressive ruins of Inverlochy Castle.

Day 7

Accommodation

Highland Riverview Hotel - Fort William, Highlands

Check in policies:

Check-in time is after 3.00pm on your day of arrival. Check-out time is before 11.00am.

Limited guest car parking is available within the grounds, and just along the road at the West End roundabout, there is a large municipal car park.

Daily Itinerary

Harry Potter Steam Train

Today you'll ride on the iconic Harry Potter Jacobite Steam Train* and visit Ben Nevis Mountain and Steall Waterfall. You'll be free to explore Fort William at your leisure this evening.

*Due to extremely high demand and limited capacity, this experience is subject to availability and may be substituted with the traditional train that travels the same Highland route

Included Unique Activities

Jacobite Steam Train aka Hogwarts Express Roundtrip

Often called one of the world’s greatest railway journeys, this 84-mile round trip takes you through some of Britain’s most stunning and iconic landscapes. Starting near Ben Nevis, the route passes Arisaig—Britain’s most westerly mainland station—and skirts Loch Morar, the country’s deepest freshwater loch.

A highlight for movie fans is the 21-arched Glenfinnan Viaduct, made famous by the Harry Potter films, where Harry and Ron famously flew their car alongside the train. The journey continues through Glenfinnan, Lochailort, Arisaig, Morar, and ends in Mallaig, with views of silvery beaches featured in Highlander and Local Hero.

NOTE: on rare occasion the steam train may not be allowed to run due to bans imposed by Network Rail. On these occasions, your train will be hauled by a diesel engine.

Overnight Location

Fort William, Highlands

On The Map: Fort William sits at the head of Loch Linnhe, and the foot of the Great Glen and snow-peaked Ben Nevis. The major A82 road runs through town connecting it with Glasgow to the south & Inverness to the northeast.

Fort William got its name from the original fort built here in 1650 to keep the Highland clans in order. It's a convenient touring base for the Northwest of Scotland, and a popular hub for walkers, mountaineers, and scenery lovers of every type. Its appeal is not that of a destination town, but rather its location to some of the most stunning natural beauty in Scotland. Ben Nevis, Scotland’s highest, and most rugged is the most obvious draw, but it's certainly not all. The West Highland Museum on Cameron Square exhibits the 18th century “Secret Portrait of Prince Charles.” This was done when all paintings of Stuarts were completed in obscure swirls so the viewer didn’t get into trouble for having any connection, at all, to the Stuart side of the Royal family. Just northeast of town is the acclaimed “Treasures of the Earth,” one of Europe’s finest collections of crystals and gemstones. The “Underwater Center,” on the banks of Loch Linnhe, is the world’s leading diving instruction and training center. Also north of town are the impressive ruins of Inverlochy Castle.

Day 8

Accommodation

4-Star Victorian Hotel - Stirling, Central Scotland

Check in policies:

Check-in time is after 3:00pm on your day of arrival. Check-out before 11:00am.

There is parking available at The Stirling Highland Hotel although charges may apply.

Daily Itinerary

Loch Lomond National Park

Today you will discover the breathtaking beauty of Loch Lomond & The Trossachs National Park, a haven of stunning landscapes and diverse wildlife. Begin your adventure with a tranquil cruise on Loch Lomond, the largest freshwater loch in Great Britain. As you glide through its shimmering waters, enjoy panoramic views of lush forests, rolling hills, and majestic peaks. Spot local wildlife and explore the picturesque villages and historic sites along the loch’s shores. Spend your evening at leisure in Stirling, a historic city known as the "Gateway to the Highlands." 

Included Unique Activities

Loch Lomond Circular Cruise from Luss

Enjoy a leisurely 90-minute circular cruise around the loch’s island jewels and explore the historic Lomond landscape. While doing so, you’ll hear some live commentary on the marauding Vikings upon feuding clans. Watch for wildlife… This is your chance to see deer, sea eagles, osprey, and even wallabies while you enjoy tea or coffee with Scottish shortbread. Your cruise departs from Luss Pier and has live commentary about the islands, local clans, and the Highland Boundary fault line. Wonderful!

Suggested Sightseeing

Loch Lomond & Trossachs National Park, Central Scotland

On The Map: Loch Lomond is located in Central Scotland, approximately 20 miles northwest of Glasgow. The main A82 road runs along the west shore of the lake en route to Fort William and beyond to Inverness. Loch Lomond and the Trossachs, comprising 720 square miles, became Scotland’s first National Park in 2002. Originally made famous by the novels of Sir Walter Scott in the early 1800’s, the Trossachs have been enjoyed as the “Highlands in Miniature” by travelers since that time. For two centuries, people have come here to walk, climb, cycle and sail, to breathe fresh clean air, and immerse themselves in the wonder of nature. The landscape ranges from the uplands of Breadalbane to the sea lochs of Argyll. Included within its area is the whole of Scotland's largest loch, Loch Lomond. The northern end of the loch is deep and narrow, with mountains on either side, including Ben Lomond. The southern half of the loch is more pastoral and home to many islands. The surrounding mountainous areas include 21 ‘Munros’ (individual mountains over 3000ft); 20 ‘Corbetts’ (individual mountains over 2,500ft); and two forest parks. For the very best of the Trossachs, consider the route of the Duke’s Pass from Aberfoyle to Loch Katrine.

Luss, Loch Lomond, Central Scotland

On The Map: The lovely village of Luss is 10 miles south of Tarbet on the western shore of Loch Lomond. It is 80 miles west of Edinburgh and 34 miles north of Glasgow. Luss is within Loch Lomond and Trossachs National Park, just off the main road to the West Highlands.

Luss is picture-postcard lovely. The lanes are filled with quaint cottages built by the local laird in the 19th century for his estate workers. Stop and admire the amazing views of Loch Lomond. The beach is a nice place to slow down and have a picnic.

Overnight Location

Stirling, Central Scotland

On The Map: Stirling is located in Central Scotland, less than 45 minutes on the M80/A80 from Glasgow to the southwest and 1 hour on the M9 motorway from Edinburgh to the southeast.

Stirling is a taste of both the Lowlands and the Highlands. It is packed with castles and tales of people who are larger than life, and it is blessed with awe-inspiring natural beauty. “Hold Stirling and you control the entire country…” This simple strategy has ensured that a castle, or some sort of fortification, has existed here in Scotland since prehistoric times. Stirling is associated with King Arthur, and some believe it was the locale for Camelot.

In recorded history, we know that Alexander I dedicated a chapel here. Below the impressive Stirling Castle, Old Town Stirling is protected by 16th century walls built to keep Mary, Queen of Scots, safe from Henry VIII. And, it was here that the infant James VI was crowned in 1567. This area was also home to Rob Roy, whose exploits still echo through the Highlands. There is something about Stirling that feels like a fairy tale. Its sense of time is similar to Edinburgh, but the hustle and bustle is turned down. With its winding cobblestone streets, and the old town clinging to the slopes beneath the castle, you can feel the layers of time and heroism. Take a quiet walk in the moonlight on Stirling’s magic streets.  It’s an experience to be savored.

Day 9

Accommodation

Serene Woodland Retreat - Livingston, Central Scotland

Check in policies:

Check-in time is after 3:00pm on your day of arrival. Check-out time is before 11:00am.

Daily Itinerary

Stirling Castle & The Kelpies

In the morning, explore the halls of Stirling Castle, the childhood home of Mary Queen of Scots and one of Scotland's most magnificent stone castles. Later, enjoy a farewell dinner with your fellow travelers at an elegant countryside hotel just outside Edinburgh. After dinner, visit the world's largest equine statues, the Kelpies. These awe-inspiring, shape-shifting creatures from Scottish legend will captivate you with their remarkable engineering—and as night falls, watch them come alive, illuminated by dazzling lights that enhance their magical presence.

Included Unique Activities

Stirling Castle Admission

Perched on a rocky crag above the town, today you will visit magnificent Stirling Castle. This castle is one of the finest examples of Renaissance architecture in Scotland. Stirling occupied a key position in Scotland’s battle for independence. Seven battlefields can be seen from the castle, and the 220-foot Wallace Monument at Abbey Craig is a memorial to William Wallace’s defeat of the British in 1297 at Stirling Bridge. (Wallace is the Scottish hero upon whom the movie “Braveheart” is based.) Generations of Scotland’s royalty gathered at Stirling Castle to revel in its impressive buildings, superb sculptures, fine craftsmanship, and beautiful gardens. You have the opportunity to do that, too. Highlights include The Great Hall, Chapel Royal, Regimental Museum of the Argyll & Sutherland Highlanders, The Great Kitchens, and the Tapestry Studio. 

Suggested Sightseeing

Stirling, Central Scotland

On The Map: Stirling is located in Central Scotland, less than 45 minutes on the M80/A80 from Glasgow to the southwest and 1 hour on the M9 motorway from Edinburgh to the southeast.

Stirling is a taste of both the Lowlands and the Highlands. It is packed with castles and tales of people who are larger than life, and it is blessed with awe-inspiring natural beauty. “Hold Stirling and you control the entire country…” This simple strategy has ensured that a castle, or some sort of fortification, has existed here in Scotland since prehistoric times. Stirling is associated with King Arthur, and some believe it was the locale for Camelot.

In recorded history, we know that Alexander I dedicated a chapel here. Below the impressive Stirling Castle, Old Town Stirling is protected by 16th century walls built to keep Mary, Queen of Scots, safe from Henry VIII. And, it was here that the infant James VI was crowned in 1567. This area was also home to Rob Roy, whose exploits still echo through the Highlands. There is something about Stirling that feels like a fairy tale. Its sense of time is similar to Edinburgh, but the hustle and bustle is turned down. With its winding cobblestone streets, and the old town clinging to the slopes beneath the castle, you can feel the layers of time and heroism. Take a quiet walk in the moonlight on Stirling’s magic streets.  It’s an experience to be savored.

Overnight Location

Livingston, Central Scotland

On The Map: Livingston is situated in the Almond Valley, just 15 miles west of Edinburgh, and 30 miles east of Glasgow.

Founded in 1962, Livingston is the fourth of five so-called 'New Towns' in Scotland, in part created to ease over-crowding in Glasgow. Scotland's 'Silicon Glen', hi-tech industry flourished and helped the growth of the town until the 1990s. In recent times the town has grown as a result of the spectacular economic growth of Edinburgh (just 15 miles away). At the heart of town lies The Centre - a massive shopping centre, which is one of the largest in Scotland. Luxury brand labels are available at discounted prices at the nearby the Livingston Designer Outlet Centre. Livingston is not all brand-new, and takes its name from the existing Livingston Village, which dates from the 100s. Livingston Village Kirk (pictured) was constructed in 1732, and the famous Livingston Inn also dates from the 1700s.

Day 10

Daily Itinerary

Depart from Edinburgh

After breakfast, check out from your hotel and enjoy a stress-free transfer to Edinburgh Airport for your flight home.

Depart From

Depart from Edinburgh Airport, Central Scotland

Return to Edinburgh Airport 3 hours prior to your flight's scheduled departure. This will allow ample time to check in for your flight home.

Edinburgh is a small airport, but offers a surprisingly large array of shops and restaurants. If you have some time on your hands after check-in and security, you won't be bored!