Luxury Scotland Grand Tour
customizable itinerary
highlights
price
customizable itinerary
Trip Duration
18 Nights or Customize Your Journey
Places Visited
Edinburgh, Fort William, Inverness, Isle of Skye, Loch Lomond and Trossachs National Park, Loch Ness, Oban, Pitlochry, Scottish Highlands, Speyside
Countries Visited
Scotland
Departure DAtes
Dates are flexible and customizable for private departures.
Explore Scotland on an independent, luxury tour. Begin your vacation in the capital city of Edinburgh to discover its metropolitan offerings amidst thousands of years of history. Continue your adventure through the Scottish Highlands to experience stunning scenery, history, and unique activities. We customize all our travel packages to meet your specific desires.
customizable itinerary
Enjoy the flight from your home country to Edinburgh, Scotland. Looking for an airfare quote? Just let us know. We are happy to provide Premium, Business, and First-Class airfare.
Upon arrival, transfer by car to your well-located 5-star Edinburgh hotel. If you have an early arrival, spend your afternoon at leisure becoming acquainted with this historic and vibrant city (suggestions will be given based on your preferences). This evening, experience an exclusive, completely tailored private whisky tasting. In the upstairs room of a traditional folk pub, you’ll try six whiskies, each paired with a tasting note and an entertaining story from an erudite expert. Stories are a mix of folklore, history, and Scottish humor. End the evening in your luxury 5-star centrally located Edinburgh hotel, your home-away-from-home for the next three nights.
WHAT’S INCLUDED:
Start your day off with a fantastic Scottish breakfast (included daily throughout your trip). This morning, enjoy a private guided 3½-hour tour of Edinburgh. This unique guided walking tour sets out to inform and entertain! Your guide will bring Edinburgh to life for you as you stroll along the narrow streets of the Old Town and into Edinburgh’s elegant Georgian New Town, allowing you to get a sense of Edinburgh moving into a more modern, enlightened, and commercial era. In the afternoon, visit Edinburgh Castle to see the exhibitions, museums, the Honours of Scotland (crown, sceptre and sword), and the gun battery which offers amazing views over the city. Tonight, meet with a local Edinburgh food expert and join a privately led Foodie Tour of Edinburgh.
WHAT’S INCLUDED:
- Breakfast
- Private Tour/Private Guide
- Attraction/Activity
- Accommodation
This morning, your private driver/guide will take you first to see The Kelpies, two 30-metre-high horse-head sculptures representing the lineage of the heavy working horses of Scottish industry and economy. From here you’re off to Stirling Castle, one of the most historically significant castles in all of Scotland. While the castle dates from the early 12th century, it is believed that the present buildings go back as far as 1490. Most often associated with William Wallace (Braveheart) and Robert the Bruce, Stirling remains an architectural masterpiece. This afternoon, visit Deanston Distillery in Doune, where you’ll experience a unique whisky and chocolate tour, perfectly pairing favorite Deanston drams with delicious chocolate produced by a renowned highland chocolatier. If you’re a whisky lover with a sweet tooth, you’re sure to enjoy this fine whisky and chocolate journey, which includes a guided tour of the distillery, and tutored tastings of 4 whiskies and 4 chocolates (including one distillery exclusive). Enjoy a Tasting Dinner (with Wine Pairings if desired) at a Michelin-star restaurant back in Edinburgh.
WHAT’S INCLUDED:
- Breakfast
- Private Tour
- Attractions
- Meal/Tasting
- Accomodation
After checking out of your hotel, you’re off to Oban, known as “The Gateway to the Isles” (and recently named “The Seafood Capital of Scotland”). On your way, stop at Loch Lomond and Trossachs National Park, one of the most popular visitor destinations in Scotland. The National Park is famous for a reason: there’s a breath-taking view practically everywhere you go. Enjoy your time here before continuing to Oban and checking into your charming 4-star accommodation. This evening, perhaps dine at one of the several local seafood restaurants to learn what makes the city famous.
WHAT’S INCLUDED:
- Breakfast
- Transportation
- Accommodation
The morning is yours to explore the seaside town of Oban, situated on the west coast and surrounded by miles of dramatic shores and beautiful countryside. Perhaps take a day trip to some of the surrounding islands, such as Mull, Iona, or Staffa. Or visit Kerrera, the closest island to Oban, and explore the ruins of Gylen Castle, the one-time stronghold of the MacDougalls of Lorne. If you choose to stay in town, there are plenty of small galleries, museums, and independent stores to browse through. Wander along the seafront to the ruined Dunollie Castle and the sandy beaches beyond. This afternoon, visit Oban Distillery, one of Scotland’s oldest sources of Single Malt Scotch Whisky, nested beneath the steep cliff that overlooks Oban. Stop at a local restaurant, pub, or fish and chip shop before returning to your hotel.
WHAT’S INCLUDED:
- Breakfast
- Meal/Tasting
- Accommodation
As you make your way towards Fort William today, we suggest a visit to Glencoe, located just south of Fort William. Known as Scotland’s most famous and scenic glen, the village of Glencoe lies in the steep-sided Glencoe valley, on the edge of Loch Leven in the Scottish Highlands. In the village, the Glencoe Folk Museum occupies 18th-century thatched cottages with displays on local heritage and the bloody Glencoe massacre of 1692. The area is known for waterfalls, trails, red deer, and being a popular filming location. The picturesque landscape has been featured in films such as the James Bond movie “Skyfall,” “Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban,” and “Monty Python and the Holy Grail.” From here continue to Fort William, the “Outdoor Capital of the UK” and the main town in Lochaber. Fort William’s setting is a dramatic one, sitting on the shore of Loch Linnhe and under Britain’s highest mountain, Ben Nevis. Just a few minutes from town is Glen Nevis, one of Scotland’s most picturesque Highland glens that has the River Nevis flowing through it. Check into Inverlochy Castle, your 5-star accommodation for the next two nights.
WHAT’S INCLUDED:
- Breakfast
- Transportation
- Accommodation
After breakfast, you’re off on a personalized outdoor adventure with an exclusive off-road Highland safari. Your expert Safari Ranger will cater your experience to your specific interests, traveling through forests, mountains, and moors on private tracks. Enjoy the magnificent natural wilderness and the breathtaking views that the area has to offer. This afternoon is yours to explore the scenic area around Fort William, the outdoor playground of the Highlands. Perhaps stop to check out Neptune’s Staircase, a staircase lock comprising of eight locks on the Caledonian Canal and the longest staircase lock in Britain. Or explore the ruins of 13th-century Old Inverlochy Castle, located along the banks of the River Lochy. This evening, enjoy an extravagant menu of modern British cuisine with French influences at Inverlochy Castle Hotel in one of the three dining rooms. Each room is decorated with elaborate period furniture which were presented as gifts to Inverlochy Castle from the King of Norway, creating a unique experience in unrivalled surroundings.
WHAT’S INCLUDED:
- Breakfast
- Transportation
- Private Tour
- Meal/Tasting
- Accommodation
After checking out of your hotel, it’s off to the terminal at Mallaig, where you’ll take the ferry “over the sea to Skye” (in the words of the old folk song). If you’ve chosen a self-drive tour, you might make a stop at the Glenfinnan Viaduct on your way to the ferry. Made famous by the “Harry Potter” movies, the Glenfinnan Viaduct spans 1,000 feet, 100 feet above the ground. If you’ve opted for a private driver/guide, opt for taking the Jacobite Steam Train from Fort William to Mallaig, where your private driver/guide will meet you. The train stops en route to Mallaig at the villages of Glenfinnane, Lochailort, Arisaig, and Morar. From Morar you’ll pass the silvery beaches used in the films “Highlander” and “Local Hero.” Board your ferry to Armadale and then continue to Skye, about 45 minutes from the ferry terminal. On the way to your hotel, stop and see the enchanting Fairy Pools, beautifully crystal-clear blue pools on the River Brittle. Check into your superb and well-located 4-star accommodation and enjoy an evening at leisure.
WHAT’S INCLUDED:
- Breakfast
- Transportation
- Accommodation
Today is yours to explore The Isle of Skye, the second largest of Scotland’s islands. This 50-mile-long patchwork of velvet moors, jagged mountains, sparkling lochs, and towering sea cliffs is truly a magical isle. The stunning scenery is the main attraction, but when the mist closes in, there are plenty of indoor activities to enjoy, as well. Other highlights for you might include Sligachan, Talisker Distillery on the shores of Loch Harport, Dunvegan Castle (home of the MacLeod clan), the amazing rock formations of the Quiraing, the cliff waterfalls at Kilt Rock, and the Old Man of Storr – an impressive rock pinnacle. Check out one of the local restaurants or pubs before heading back to your hotel for the evening.
WHAT’S INCLUDED:
- Breakfast
- Transportation
- Accommodation
Say goodbye to Skye as you make your way to Inverness this morning. Your first stop is at Eilean Donan Castle, a 13th century castle ruin that will take you on a journey through time and history. Situated on an island at the point where three great sea lochs meet, and surrounded by majestic scenery, it is little wonder that the castle is now one of the most visited and important attractions in the Scottish Highlands. From here, continue to Loch Ness for a 2-hour boat ride. You’ll have an hour to explore the deep, dark mysteries of Loch Ness (Scotland’s largest lake by water volume). You will also have an hour to explore Urquhart Castle’s impressive ruins, which date from the 13th century. Continue to Inverness and check into your beautiful 5-star accommodation.
WHAT’S INCLUDED:
- Breakfast
- Transportation
- Attraction/Activity
- Accommodation
Your private driver/guide will meet you at your hotel this morning to take you around Cairngorms National Park. Rugged mountains, vast moorlands, ancient forests, beautiful rivers and charming towns all contribute to the amazing make up that is the Cairngorms National Park, which covers 1,748 square miles. Its lochs and rivers are amongst the purest in the world, and the main rivers are famous for their salmon fishing. The Park is also home to iconic species such as red squirrels, reindeer, ospreys, eagles, capercaillie, and wildcats. Hundreds of miles of paths and trails are yours to explore. This afternoon, visit one or two of the world-famous Speyside Distilleries. This special treat for the whisky connoisseur includes privileged, behind-the-scenes access to how Scotland’s golden export is made, followed by a tutored nosing and tasting of the most acclaimed expressions. Return to your Inverness hotel for the evening.
WHAT’S INCLUDED:
- Breakfast
- Transportation
- Private Tour/Private Guide
- Meal/Tasting
- Accomodation
Spend an amazing day exploring Inverness-shire. Head north to Dornoch Firth where you’ll see some spectacular scenery and the majestic Dunrobin Castle, seat of the Earl of Sutherland. The castle, which resembles a French château with its towering conical spires, is the largest in the Northern Highlands, with 189 rooms. Head to Moray Firth, where you can do land-based dolphin spotting at areas like Chanonry Point and Burghead, or take a wildlife boat trip, giving you a wonderful chance to see dolphins and other sea life up close. Not quite done whisky tasting? Continue to Glenmorangie for a tour of one of the area’s world-renowned distilleries. Here you will find a warm Highland welcome from the legendary Men of Tain, the skilled craftsmen who ensure that Glenmorangie is made in the same unhurried and uncompromising way it has always been through its long and distinguished history. Return to your welcoming hotel in Inverness.
WHAT’S INCLUDED:
- Breakfast
- Transportation
- Attraction/Activity
- Meal/Tasting
- Accomodation
Crowned by a crenellated castle and lavishly decorated with flowers, Inverness is a thriving city on the banks of the River Ness, with a rich variety of places to visit and things to do both in the city and around. The city itself is small, compact, and easy to get around and the day is yours to explore at leisure. Relive one of Scotland’s most famous battles at Culloden Battlefield, the powerfully emotive and atmospheric battlefield where the 1745 Jacobite Rising came to a tragic end. Visit nearby pre-historic Clava Cairns, a well-preserved Bronze Age cemetery complex of passage graves, ring cairns, kerb cairns and standing stones in a beautiful setting. (“Outlander” fans will recognize Clava Cairn as the portal through which its main characters time travel.) Or, stop at Cawdor Castle, an ancient medieval tower constructed around the legendary holly tree, built and inhabited by the Cawdor family for over 600 years. Spend your last evening in Inverness with live music and traditional dining at one of the traditional local pubs.
WHAT’S INCLUDED:
- Breakfast
- Transportation
- Accomodation
After breakfast, you’re off by way of the Cairngorms to picturesque Pitlochry and Fonab Castle, your 5-star hotel and spa for the next two evenings. Pitlochry, nestled amongst the stunning scenery of Highland Perthshire, is an excellent base for exploring. Queen Victoria certainly enjoyed the location, because she’s said to have been one of the earliest vacationers to have discovered the beauty of this hillside town. Check into your hotel and perhaps take advantage of the spa facilities this afternoon, or one of their delicious dining options for your evening meal.
WHAT’S INCLUDED:
- Breakfast
- Transportation
- Accomodation
This morning, we suggest starting at nearby Queen’s View, overlooking Loch Tummel to the mountain of Schiehallion. As part of Tay Forest Park, from here you may embark on one of several walking trails throughout the peaceful surrounding woodlands of Allean Forest or explore the tranquil trails through the majestic trees surrounding Loch Dunmore in Faskally. You have your choice today of visiting Blair Athol, where you’ll embark on a tour of the distillery complete with tutored whisky tastings, or Blair Castle, the ancestral home of Clan Murray.
WHAT’S INCLUDED:
- Breakfast
- Transportation
- Meal/Tasting
- Accomodation
As you make your way back to Edinburgh today, stop at Scone Palace, one of Scotland’s most important stately homes which has been the seat of multiple parliaments and the crowning place of the Kings of Scots, including Robert the Bruce. The Palace houses an outstanding collection of antiques, paintings and rare artefacts. Scone’s grounds are renowned throughout the world, making the stately home one of the most popular tourist attractions in both Perthshire and Scotland. Complete the circular route around Scotland by finishing in Edinburgh, where you’ll check into your super 5-star Edinburgh hotel. The afternoon is yours to explore. Perhaps enjoy dinner at a traditional Scottish Pub for an evening of live music and warm hospitality.
WHAT’S INCLUDED:
- Breakfast
- Transportation
- Attraction/Activity
- Accomodation
This morning you’ll visit the Palace of Holyroodhouse, the Queen’s official residence in Scotland, standing at the end of Edinburgh’s Royal Mile against the spectacular backdrop of Arthur’s Seat. During your half-day tour, explore the State Apartments, the romantic ruins of the 12th-century Holyrood Abbey and remarkable royal gardens, all with a complimentary audio tour. Today, the State Apartments are used regularly by The Queen for State ceremonies and official entertaining. (Visits unavailable if the Queen is in residence.) Enjoy your evening in the exciting city of Edinburgh!
WHAT’S INCLUDED:
- Breakfast
- Attraction/Activity
- Accomodation
From your Edinburgh hotel, your private driver/guide will meet you this morning and take you to Melrose with the opportunity to explore its great Border Abbey. The Abbey was founded by the Cistercians in the 12th Century, and the burial place of Robert the Bruce’s heart, brought back from the crusades in Moorish Spain. Alternatively, visit the stunning 15th century Rosslyn Chapel, immortalized in Dan Brown’s “Da Vinci Code,” where you can find out more about the myths and legends surrounding the whereabouts of the “Holy Grail.” This afternoon, view a Sheepdog Demonstration at a nearby working sheep farm and be awed by the skill and training of how the sheep are kept inline by these highly trained working dogs. Return to Edinburgh and enjoy your final evening in beautiful Scotland.
WHAT’S INCLUDED:
- Breakfast
- Private Tour/Private Guide
- Attraction/Activity
- Accomodation
Enjoy your final Scottish breakfast before checking out of your accommodation and transferring to Edinburgh Airport. Carry your memories of Scotland with you as you board your flight home.
WHAT’S INCLUDED:
- Breakfast
- Airport Transfer
highlights
- 4- and 5-Star Accommodations
- Expert Private Driver Guided Day Tours
- Private Walking Tour, Edinburgh
- Loch Ness Boat Trip and Castle Visit
- Sheepdog Demonstration
- Whisky Tours and Tastings
- Castle Admissions
- Unique Personalized Experiences
- Michelin Star Dining
- Foodie Tour
price
Please inquire for pricing
What’s Included:
- Breakfast
- Ground Transportation
- Accommodation
- Attractions
- Private Tours