Tour Details
DEPARTURE INFORMATION
Starts any day. January to December
8 days from $10990.00Arrive Edinburgh, Scotland
Welcome to Scotland! You are met on arrival at the Edinburgh airport, and escorted directly to your landmark hotel in the heart of the city, the famed Balmoral.
At the hotel, enjoy a cup of tea with your guide, to review the journey ahead. The remainder of the day is at your leisure.
Edinburgh
Edinburgh is a glorious and historic city – today enjoy an in-depth city tour. Begin with a private tour of Palace of Holyroodhouse, once the home of Mary, Queen of Scots. See the Queen’s official residence and delicate works from the Royal Collection. Next, your guide leads you on a walking tour of the famous Royal Mile, strolling along the cobbled streets, filled with tiny shops, mysteries and the stories of Scotland's great figures of literature.
This afternoon after lunch at a local restaurant, you will visit Edinburgh Castle, home to the Scottish Crown Jewels, the legendary Stone of Destiny and the giant cannon called "Mons Meg." The castle dominates the city’s skyline and offers stunning views of the city and surrounding countryside. (B,L)
Edinburgh to Trossachs & the Isle of Eriska
Today, traverse medieval battlefields, through Stirling, to the Wallace Monument. Travel through Rob Roy country, the Trossachs, then up to Kilchurn Castle and Loch Awe. Stop in the Victorian harbor town of Oban, before reaching the Isle of Eriska, noted for its submerged Crannog fort dating back to the Bronze Age.
The Isle of Eriska is nestled on the eastern side of one of the world's most celebrated rift valleys, and was born from the cataclysmic upheavals 600 million years ago. (B)
Isle of Eriska
This morning, explore this region of western coastline, known for its outstanding natural beauty, on a small boat cruise. See the Corryvreckan whirlpool and look for whales, grey seals, otter and the resident White Tail Sea and Golden Eagles.
Return to your hotel for afternoon tea before enjoying the rest of the day at leisure. (B)
The Isle of Skye
This morning, drive north passing Castle Stalker, and breathtaking Glen Coe, scene of the famous massacre of 1692. Stop at historic Fort William and travel through Glen Nevis, a setting in the movie 'Braveheart.' See the Glen Finnan monument before heading over the sea to reach Skye, and your lodge home for the next three nights.
The Kinloch Lodge sits at the foot of Kinloch Hill on the tranquil shoreline of the sea-loch Na Dal. It is steeped in heritage and history, and exemplifies all the traditions of highland hospitality.
Tour the Isle of Skye, viewing amazing waterfalls and spectacular rock formations. Travelling to the northern tip, you pass through the mighty Cuillin Mountains, and visit the ruins of the haunted MacDonald stronghold. Climb up and explore the spectacular rock formations of the Old Man of Storr. (B,L)
The Isle of Skye
Enjoy a morning hike to spot the wildlife in the stunning Cuillin Mountains, some of the most spectacular and oldest mountain scapes in Britain. Walk the Fairy Glen, alongside a magical crystal clear mountain stream, and beside strange rock formations.
Enjoy the rest of the afternoon relaxing at your hotel.
This evening, indulge in a seven course tasting menu at Marcello Tully Restaurant. (B,D)
The Scottish Highlands
Today, depart Skye and travel to Eilean Donan Castle in the heart of the Highlands. Continue through the mystical lands of Kintail, and colorful Glen Sheil en route to the Great Glen, home to Loch Ness.
In the afternoon, enjoy a boat trip on the mysterious deep blue waters as you hear about the lake’s legend.
Arrive at your hotel this evening. (B)
The Whiskey Trail to Edinburgh & Depart
Today, tour Pitlochry and a visit to The Edradour Distillery, the smallest distillery in Scotland. The traditions of distilling and maturing Scotch Whisky have evolved through the centuries, using crafts passed on from generation to generation.
Also, visit the Dalwhinnie and Dewars distillery before returning to Edinburgh.
Arrive at Edinburgh airport by late afternoon, for your flight home or to another destination. (B)
NOTE: An optional overnight stop-over at famed St. Andrews can be arranged on Day 8.
The Balmoral Hotel, Edinburgh
The Balmoral Hotel is a luxury hotel in the true sense of the word. With its majestic clock tower, the hotel is a unique and contemporary luxury five-star property in the very heart of Edinburgh. While many Edinburgh hotels claim to have Edinburgh's landmarks on their doorstep, few can say their doorstep is a landmark. Located on Princes Street, in Edinburgh's main shopping area and next to Waverley Station, the Balmoral is close to the leading luxury department stores and within walking distance of many Edinburgh attractions. All 168 rooms and 20 suites combine contemporary elegance with the Balmoral's strong sense of history and charm. Each bedroom has its own characteristics borrowed from Scottish heritage, which offers a true refuge in which to relax or escape. A 2015 Travel+Leisure World's Best Hotel
Isle of Eriska Hotel, Spa and Island, Isle of Eriska
The Eriska Hotel, Spa and Island offers luxurious five-star accommodation with a view to match. Guests can enjoy a traditional Scottish breakfast while taking in 300 acres of lush landscapes all from the comfort of well-sized, plush beds. Carefully blending the old with the new, Eriska's designer rooms and luxury suites offer the finest bed linen, rich fabrics, and warm, contemporary décor. The incredibly attentive hotel staff aims to anticipate every need with a wide range of in-room facilities and guest services. Guests can also relax and enjoy a quiet reprieve with their favorite tipple next to the fireplace in the Hotel Lounge.
Kinloch Lodge, Isle of Skye
Charming, cozy and discreetly luxurious Kinloch Lodge is a hotel and restaurant like no other. Kinloch is a truly unique place in a magical setting, nestled at the foot of Kinloch Hill on the tranquil shoreline of the sea-loch Na Dal in Sleat on the wildly romantic Isle of Skye. Recognized internationally, Kinloch was cited as one of the world's top 25 small hotels in Condé Naste Traveler Magazine. Kinloch Lodge is steeped in heritage and history, and exemplifies all the traditions of highland hospitality. Bedrooms, individually decorated in colors and textures chosen to reflect Skye's distinctive landscape, combine exceptional views with character and comfort.
Fonab Castle, Pitlochry
Inspired by the natural splendour, romance and the colours of the Perthshire Highlands which are reflected in the deep, soothing colours and luscious textures throughout the rooms. Think ‘central-casting’ Scottish Baronial Castle and you’ll come up with one of Scotland’s most magnificent and mind-blowing places to stay – Fonab Castle. Opened in 2013, Fonab has already established itself as the premier hotel in the area. Fonab Castle Hotel is unique, luxurious and, above all, an experience. Little wonder that guests have described their stay at the Castle as faultless with one guest describing her stay as a ‘fairy tale’ experience. All rooms have Smart TVs, indulgent hospitality trays and Nespresso coffee machine. Furnishings also include Egyptian Cotton bedding from The White Company, luxury bathrobes and slippers for ultimate comfort. Free wi-fi. Distinctive feature wall decorated with Cole & Sons wallpaper.