The Spirit of Scotland

Welcome to Scotland! Enjoy a private guided walking tour of Edinburgh with a Local Specialist. Journey through the cobblestone streets and courtyards and take in the main sights of this wonderful city on this MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience that includes a visit to Edinburgh Castle. Later, visit Scotland’s premier new attraction, The Johnnie Walker Experience on Princes Street. Explore the secrets behind the country’s most popular whisky across eight dramatic floors – This is whisky like you’ve never experienced it before. 

Travel 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 Shakespeare’s Macbeth. Next, visit the award-winning Highland Chocolatier, for a unique and sweet afternoon break. 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. 

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.  

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. 

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 – watch out for dolphins and look out for Rona’s resident seal colony.  Once you arrive at the harbor, enjoy a hearty seafood lunch in truly special surroundings before going ashore to explore the Island. This is a truly special place. 

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 for a unique dining experience 

After traveling through the valley of Glencoe, enjoy a cruise on Loch Lomond to see castles and quaint villages. At Glengoyne Distillery, delight in some whisky and chocolate matching. Notice the flavors transforming the palate as you taste chocolates every bit as intense as the eighteen and twenty year-old whiskies you’ll sample. Continue to Glasgow for an orientation tour of the city and to take in the sights of St Mungo’s Cathedral and George’s Square. 

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 4 to August 26, 2023)