9-Night The Spirit of Scotland

Day 2

Accommodation

Balmoral Arms - Ballater, North East

Check in policies:

Check in is at 3:00pm on the arrival date. Please let your hotel know if you are likely to arrive after 9:00pm. Check out is by 11:00am.

We do not have parking directly outside our inn however, there is a free car park within a two-minute walk from the property. To load and unload your luggage we allow our guests to park directly outside our inn.

Daily Itinerary

Seaside St Andrews & Perthshire Village of Dunkeld

After breakfast, it's time to board the mini-coach and take to the scenic route. Now the journey begins! We’ll admire the historic fishing villages speckled along the east coast before our first port of call: St Andrews. This small town has a big reputation for world-class golf, as well as a prestigious university – the third oldest in the English-speaking world. Following a spot of lunch, we’ll catch our first glimpse of the otherworldly Cairngorms National Park before settling into our accommodation for the evening.

Overnight Location

Ballater, North East

On The Map: Ballater is located in the northeast of Scotland, on the eastern side of Cairngorms National Park. From the major eastern coastal city of Aberdeen, Ballater is only 40 miles to the east on the A93 road.

Ballater is a delightful Victorian town, founded at the start of the 19th century to accommodate visitors to the nearby Pannanich Wells spa. It subsequently became the site for the railway station that serviced nearby Balmoral Castle (purchased by Queen Victoria in 1852) and Upper Deeside. For about 100 years this station was used by the Royal Family and their guests. The Old Royal Station is now a popular visitor centre - a small museum, but well worth a visit. Much of the royalty of nineteenth century Europe passed through Ballater railway station at one time or another, including the Czar of Russia in 1896. You can step inside a refurbished carriage of Queen Victoria's royal train, go inside her waiting room at the station, and read about the history of Queen Victoria's family and the Aberdeen-Ballater railway line. It is a good place for children of all ages - the younger ones can dress up, and the older ones can listen to the narrations from life-like wax characters. (All children will be interested to see a 19th century loo as well!)  After visiting the exhibits, you can watch a video about Queen Victoria's explorations of the area. The town grew steadily during the Victorian era and contains many fine stone-built buildings within its conservation area.

Day 3

Accommodation

Balmoral Arms - Ballater, North East

Check in policies:

Check in is at 3:00pm on the arrival date. Please let your hotel know if you are likely to arrive after 9:00pm. Check out is by 11:00am.

We do not have parking directly outside our inn however, there is a free car park within a two-minute walk from the property. To load and unload your luggage we allow our guests to park directly outside our inn.

Daily Itinerary

Cairngorms and Crathes Castle

Prepare to travel back to the 16th century this morning as we stop in at stately Crathes Castle. Soaring turrets, intricately painted ceilings and enchanting manicured gardens await at this characteristically Scottish tower house. After an included lunch, we’ll follow in the footsteps of Queen Victoria as we explore the Royal Deeside area – said to have captivated the queen during her 1848 visit. Later, we’ll have the evening at our leisure.

Overnight Location

Ballater, North East

On The Map: Ballater is located in the northeast of Scotland, on the eastern side of Cairngorms National Park. From the major eastern coastal city of Aberdeen, Ballater is only 40 miles to the east on the A93 road.

Ballater is a delightful Victorian town, founded at the start of the 19th century to accommodate visitors to the nearby Pannanich Wells spa. It subsequently became the site for the railway station that serviced nearby Balmoral Castle (purchased by Queen Victoria in 1852) and Upper Deeside. For about 100 years this station was used by the Royal Family and their guests. The Old Royal Station is now a popular visitor centre - a small museum, but well worth a visit. Much of the royalty of nineteenth century Europe passed through Ballater railway station at one time or another, including the Czar of Russia in 1896. You can step inside a refurbished carriage of Queen Victoria's royal train, go inside her waiting room at the station, and read about the history of Queen Victoria's family and the Aberdeen-Ballater railway line. It is a good place for children of all ages - the younger ones can dress up, and the older ones can listen to the narrations from life-like wax characters. (All children will be interested to see a 19th century loo as well!)  After visiting the exhibits, you can watch a video about Queen Victoria's explorations of the area. The town grew steadily during the Victorian era and contains many fine stone-built buildings within its conservation area.

Day 4

Accommodation

4-Star Landmark Luxury - Inverness, Highlands

Check in policies:

Check-in time is after 4:00pm on your day of arrival. Check-out time is before 11:00am.
Free parking is available onsite.
We advise that you make your dinner reservations before checking in by calling +44 1463 237 166 to be certain of availability. We are unable to promise that walk-ins will be guaranteed availability.

Daily Itinerary

Cairngorms National Park

Our day will begin in dramatic fashion this morning as we explore the stunning surrounds of Cairngorms National Park – heading to viewpoints specially chosen by our in-the-know Tour Leader. Then, truly authentic Scottish experiences await. We’ll stop at the open-air Highland Folk Museum, used as the filming location for the TV series Outlander. Following that, we’ll traverse to Inverness, the welcoming capital of the Highlands. And tonight, we’ll come together to share stories of the day’s adventures over an included meal.

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

4-Star Landmark Luxury - Inverness, Highlands

Check in policies:

Check-in time is after 4:00pm on your day of arrival. Check-out time is before 11:00am.
Free parking is available onsite.
We advise that you make your dinner reservations before checking in by calling +44 1463 237 166 to be certain of availability. We are unable to promise that walk-ins will be guaranteed availability.

Daily Itinerary

The Cultural Capital of the Highlands

After this morning’s orientation tour, a lesson in Scotch whisky awaits. We’ll uncover the centuries-old legends and complex processes behind turning malted barley into ‘liquid gold’ – sampling a dram or two while we’re at it. Later, the city is your oyster. Visit Inverness Cathedral, explore the charming Victorian Market or simply hunt down a good pub to relax in. What you do this afternoon is completely up to you! For dinner tonight, why not take advantage of the array of local eateries filled with character and delicious Scottish fare

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

Elegant Highland Lodging - Isle of Skye, Islands

Check in policies:

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

Daily Itinerary

Bloody Battle of Culloden & Mythical Loch Ness

Our path will lead us eastwards this morning as we make our way to the atmospheric Culloden Battlefield. Here we’ll immerse ourselves in the fascinating history of the Highlands and gain a unique insight into the battle that took place on this vast moorland. Next, there’s a chance to spot the elusive Nessie in mysterious Loch Ness – binoculars recommended! Following our monster hunt, we’ll pay a visit to the quaint village of Plockton, where painted cottages cluster around a picturesque bay. After strolling the harbour and observing the passing yachts, we’ll continue on to our final destination of the day: the breathtaking Isle of Skye. At our hotel, we’ll share the excitement for tomorrow’s adventures over an included dinner

Overnight Location

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.

Day 7

Accommodation

Elegant Highland Lodging - Isle of Skye, Islands

Check in policies:

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

Daily Itinerary

Sensational Isle of Skye

Sensational landscapes, rare wildlife and imagination-firing history – the Isle of Skye delivers on every level. This is North Highland scenery on a grand scale! We’ll spend the day taking in the island’s unique geology and jaw-dropping scenery – including the extraordinary Quiraing, Kilt Rock and Old Man of Storr. After a full day of exploring, we’ll have the evening free to dine at our leisure or relax in our idyllic surrounds. 

Overnight Location

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.

Day 8

Accommodation

Bayside View Hotel - Isle of Mull, Islands

Check in policies:

Check-in time is after 4.00pm on your day of arrival. Check-out time is before 11.00am.

Daily Itinerary

Ferry to the Isle of Mull

Today we’ll continue our journey through soul-stirring Scottish scenery before taking a short ferry ride over to the breathtaking Isle of Mull (lesser known than the Isle of Skye but no less stunning!). Here, the evening will be yours to spend as you please. 

Overnight Location

Isle of Mull, Islands

On The Map: The Isle of Mull is a large island of the Inner Hebrides, located off the west coast of Scotland. Mull is usually accessed via ferry from the town of Oban, but ferry routes are also available in Lochaline & Kilchoan.

The Isle of Mull has some of the finest scenery and liveliest happenings of all Scotland’s Islands. From the ridges of Ben More, the inky crags of Burg lead to white sand beaches. Pink granite cliffs ring the turquoise waters of the bay…this gorgeous Inner Hebrides Island is close to perfect. It also boasts two striking castles, a narrow-gauge railway, festivals, the nearby sacred island of Iona, plus easy access to Oban. The waters west of Mull provide some of the best whale-watching in Scotland.  And, there are pros who offer whale-watching cruises.  There are also day trips from Oban to Mull, Staffa and Iona by ferry and bus. It’s clear why the Isle of Mull is a magnet for travelers.

Day 9

Accommodation

Bayside View Hotel - Isle of Mull, Islands

Check in policies:

Check-in time is after 4.00pm on your day of arrival. Check-out time is before 11.00am.

Daily Itinerary

Inner Hebrides Island Hopping

The best way to explore the bewitching Hebrides is by island hopping – so today, we’ll do just that. From Mull’s little village of Fionnphort, we’ll set sail to Iona: where a medieval abbey and revered pilgrimage site await us. After returning to our hotel on Mull, we’ll toast to our Scottish journey with a final dinner together.

Overnight Location

Isle of Mull, Islands

On The Map: The Isle of Mull is a large island of the Inner Hebrides, located off the west coast of Scotland. Mull is usually accessed via ferry from the town of Oban, but ferry routes are also available in Lochaline & Kilchoan.

The Isle of Mull has some of the finest scenery and liveliest happenings of all Scotland’s Islands. From the ridges of Ben More, the inky crags of Burg lead to white sand beaches. Pink granite cliffs ring the turquoise waters of the bay…this gorgeous Inner Hebrides Island is close to perfect. It also boasts two striking castles, a narrow-gauge railway, festivals, the nearby sacred island of Iona, plus easy access to Oban. The waters west of Mull provide some of the best whale-watching in Scotland.  And, there are pros who offer whale-watching cruises.  There are also day trips from Oban to Mull, Staffa and Iona by ferry and bus. It’s clear why the Isle of Mull is a magnet for travelers.

Day 10

Daily Itinerary

Stop in Historic Stirling

Back to the mainland we go. It’s been a tour that’s delved deep into Scotland’s heritage, so it’s only right that we finish with a stop in historic Stirling. A drive through the Old Town will bring us to the magnificent hilltop castle, one of Scotland’s most impressive and significant monuments. Here, we’ll spend some time exploring the castle’s many rooms and soaking up the sweeping views from atop the castle walls. What better way to round off our tour before returning to Edinburgh?

You'll be arriving very late in the day to Edinburgh so you will most likely need to add a post night in Edinburgh, depending on flight times. Please ask your Destination Expert for help facilitating this.

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!