The Ultimate Scottish Adventure

Hop into a taxi at the Edinburgh airport to our charming destination, the 4-star Kimpton Charlotte Square. A stone’s throw from the Old Town, this hotel has incredible views of the Edinburgh skyline.

This afternoon, feel free to explore the area around the hotel or relax and recuperate at the hotel. Our guide will meet you in the bar for pre-dinner drinks and a trip briefing before a delicious welcome dinner at the Angels Share Restaurant. 

Today we'll meet up in the lobby in the morning to begin our exploration of this vibrant and historic city. Together we'll walk along the famous Royal Mile, stopping to admire iconic landmarks like St. Giles’ Cathedral and the iconic Edinburgh Castle. Here we'll visit the castle’s Great Hall, the Royal Palace, St Margaret’s Chapel, and Mons Meg – the six-ton siege gun.

After lunching at a local cafe, we'll venture out to the port of Leith and explore the Royal Yacht Britannia, the late Queen Elizabeth’s floating palace that transported her all over the world. Tour her bedchamber, discover where state functions took place, and check out the kitchens in the heart of this magnificent ship.

Tonight will be at your leisure. Savor one of the many fine eateries the city has to offer or snuggle up and enjoy room service in your room. We'll assist with suggestions and reservations. 

Today we'll head to the fabled Isle of Skye through the rolling hills of Perthshire and into the Highlands, 

Our first stop will be the pretty village of Dunkeld, with its historic cathedral and charming shops laid out along the traditional high street. Don’t miss the Aran Bakery owned by Flora Shedden, a semi-finalist in the Great British Bake Off. 

We'll continue on for lunch at the iconic House of Bruar, with time afterwards to browse its classic Scottish country wear. For over 70 years, the House of Bruar has sold the finest tweeds in Scotland.

As we continue north, the scenery becomes more dramatic by the mile. We'll pause for photos at Eilean Donan Castle before crossing the graceful Skye Bridge, arriving at our country house hotel by late afternoon. 

We'll check into our home on Skye, the Skeabost House Hotel. Skeabost began as a Victorian hunting lodge in 1871. The hotel's views are to die for, as it sits right on the shore of Loch Snizort. We’ll have time to explore before reconvening for dinner at the hotel’s restaurant, set in a charming glass conservatory. 

We'll spend today exploring northern Skye, taking in the Waternish and Trotternish Peninsulas, admiring the beautiful landscapes, and meeting some local crafters who call this region home. 

The Trotternish Peninsula is a rugged masterpiece. Cliffs stretch skyward, and ancient rocks tell tales of ages past. A different kind of beauty unfolds on the tranquil shores of the Waternish Peninsula. Here, gentle bays cradle sandy beaches, and sleepy villages offer a glimpse into Skye's peaceful soul. We'll stop along the way for lunch and refreshments. 

On Waternish, we’ll visit a local tannery to learn the age-old craft of leather making. We'll bear witness to the meticulous process of transforming raw sheepskins into supple, durable leather using time-honored methods passed down through generations. The tannery has a beautiful, original showroom and shop that sells their high-quality items. 

Afterward, we’ll have the opportunity to spend time with an award-winning Scottish landscape artist and photographer based on the Isle of Skye, who draws inspiration from the serene beauty of Scotland's landscapes. We'll learn of her interesting back story and what drew her (and her family) to the island they now call home. Cath's work captures the essence of wide open spaces, vast skies, and the unique colors of the Scottish land and sea.

After a rest, we’ll meet again for our evening meal at the hotel.

Heading back to the Scottish mainland after breakfast, we'll stop at the impossibly quaint fishing village of Plockton. Explore the village or enjoy a coffee at a local cafe on your own as you watch the world go by.

After lunch, we'll take a private tour of Attadale Gardens, the recent winner of the Royal Horticultural Society's best regional garden. Dating back over 250 years, the gardens are constantly being reinvented. Our tour will cover the many highlights, such as the water and Japanese gardens, followed by coffee in the historic house.

Afterward, it’s a short transfer to the capital of the Highlands, Inverness, where we'll check into the Ness Walk Hotel, situated in a peaceful location next to the River Ness. After a rest, we’ll meet for dinner in the dining room.

After breakfast, we'll head north to Dornoch, with some fascinating stops along the way. We'll get to our destination before noon, ready to watch the Chieftain’s Parade – the historic march that traditionally opens the famous Highland Games. These games were first invented to identify the clan's strongest and bravest. Musicians and dancers were also encouraged to showcase their talents as a credit to their clan.

Choose your favorite lunch option from one of the many food stands at the Highland Games. Why not get adventurous and try a few traditional Scottish tastes such as Haggis or Scotch Pies? Spend the afternoon watching the events, admiring the dancers, and enjoying the music at this traditional Scottish day out.

Enjoy a free evening tonight back in Inverness. Try out the buzzing restaurant scene or pop into a nearby Scottish pub for a pint and fish and chips.

It is time to head south. Take in the impressive mountain ranges and epic views as we pass through the Cairngorms National Park. En route to our final hotel, we'll visit the historic Blair Castle, home to Europe’s only private army and where Mary Queen of Scots once stayed. After lunch at Blair Atholl Watermill & Tea Room, if time permits, we'll pop into a local chocolatier, famous for hot chocolate and truffles! The perfect end to the day.

Your final accommodation this evening is the quaint Grandtully Hotel on the banks of the babbling River Tay. It serves incredible food and has a lovely wee bar where you can raise a glass to your vacation and the memories that will linger long after you leave these mystical lands.

Our journey will come to a close today after breakfast as we drop you back to Edinburgh Airport for onward connections, arriving at the airport around noon. Here we'll say our goodbyes with fond Scottish memories in tact. 

Note: Anyone booking an international flight that departs before 3 p.m. today would likely require a private transfer from the hotel at a cost of approximately £300. Transfers should be arranged before traveling to Scotland.