The Spirit of Scotland

Welcome to Scotland! Enjoy a private walking tour of Edinburgh with a Local Specialist, as you journey through the cobblestone streets and courtyards to take in the main sights of this wonderful city including a visit to Edinburgh Castle. Later enjoy a visit to The Scotch Whisky Experience where you’ll sip like a true connoisseur, and sample four single malts. 

Recommended Experiences: Private walking tour of Edinburgh, Edinburgh Castle, The Scotch Whisky Experience

Journey to the Highlands today, first stop off at Glamis Castle home of the Earl of Strathmore. There are many stories and legends surrounding this Castle and it’s reputed to be one of the most haunted places in the British Isles. Birthplace of the Queen Mother and famous setting for Shakespear’s Macbeth. Later this evening and once you have settled into your hotel, join a whisky tasting session with a trained connoisseur. You will be introduced to a flight of whiskies comprising four specially selected drams.

Recommended Experiences: Inverness whisky tasting session, Glamis Castle

Spend a full day exploring Speyside, Scotland’s most famous whisky region to sample spirits and learn about the craft of creating this delicious concoction. Visit Benromach Distillery, and Cardhu Distillery, and its most famous whisky, Johnnie Walker Black Label. At Speyside cooperage, join an experienced former cooper on a VIP tour, see and hear first-hand the coopers at work and even try your hand at building on-site miniature barrels. Witness the firing/charring of the casks and end with a dram of 10-year-old single malt whisky. 

Recommended Experiences: Benromach Distillery, Cardhu Distillery & Speyside Cooperage

Travel along the banks of Loch Ness. Stop at Eilean Donan Castle, the stunning 13th-century location where three lochs meet. Take in some of its majestic scenery before crossing the land bridge to the Isle of Skye.

Recommended Experience: Eilean Donan Castle 

Enjoy a leisurely cruise to stunning Rona Harbor, taking in views of iconic Storr and Cullins along the way. Wildlife spotting opportunities are abundant throughout the trip. Rona has a resident seal colony. Enjoy a hearty seafood lunch. This is a truly special place.

Recommended Experiences: Cruise to Rona Harbor & Loch Lomond

Take the ferry to Mallaig, a remote and relaxing location famous for its fishing port. Travel from Mallaig to Fort William taking in the stunning scenery for a grand exploration of lush greenery. All aboard! This afternoon, hop on the Jacobite Steam Train, considered one of the greatest rail trips in the world. As you travel through the stunning countryside, watch for the Glenfinnan Viaduct, well known to Harry Potter fans familiar with the ‘Hogwarts Express.’ Disembark in Fort William and continue to the magnificent Inverlochy Castle.

Recommended Experience: Take the Jacobite Steam Train  

Travel through the valley of Glencoe. Enjoy a cruise on Loch Lomond to see castles and quaint villages. Take in the views and even look out for Nessie. Visit Glengoyne Distillery and delight in Whisky and Chocolate matching. You’ll have two drams, each matched to two hand-made chocolates. The Glengoyle 18-year-old and the 20-year-old are chosen for their flavor and intensity. The chocolates will be every bit as intense – and you’ll notice the flavors of each transform the palate. Then, onto Glasgow for an orientation tour and to take in the sights of St Mungo’s Cathedral and George’s Square.

Recommended Experiences: Blend whisky and chocolate at Glengoyle

Your private chauffeur will take you to the airport, where it’s time to bid farewell to Scotland, as your vacation ends. 

Please Note: If your visit is in August, you might want to attend the spectacular Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo, a not-to-be-missed spectacle with bands, musicians, and other performers from around the world (August 6 to 28 2021).