Scotland
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Scotland (11 Days)
Scotland is a beautiful country located in the northern part of the United Kingdom. Known for its stunning natural landscapes, rich history, vibrant culture, and welcoming people, Scotland is a popular destination for travelers from all over the world. One of the most popular attractions in Scotland is Edinburgh, the country’s capital city. With its iconic castle, historic streets, and vibrant arts scene, Edinburgh is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to Scotland.
In addition to Edinburgh, Scotland has a wealth of natural attractions to explore. From the rugged Highlands to the picturesque islands off the west coast, there are countless opportunities for hiking, cycling, and wildlife spotting.
Scotland is also famous for its whisky, and there are numerous distilleries throughout the country where visitors can learn about the distillation process and sample some of the finest single malts in the world.
Other highlights of Scotland include the cosmopolitan city of Glasgow, the ancient university town of St Andrews, and the stunningly beautiful Isle of Skye.
Overall, Scotland offers visitors a unique and unforgettable travel experience, with its rich history, breathtaking landscapes, and warm hospitality.
Day 1
•Arrive Into Edinburgh Airport (EDI)
The best way to get to Edinburgh is by flying directly into its airport, located in the Ingliston area of Edinburg. It has numerous direct flights exists from number of countries. Upon arrival, driver will pick you up and transfer you to a chosen hotel located approximately 15 minutes from the airport
• Hotel Check-in
There is a plethora of the upscale hotels that we recommend.
Cheval The Edinburgh Grand— Superbly located in the centre of Edinburgh and within walking distance of almost all the city’s major attractions, Cheval offers uniquely decorated apartments, available to book for any length of stay. Housed in a restored bank, this grand building on St Andrew Square has a range of apartment types, from studios to three-bedrooms, all with their own kitchen and space for living and dining. Edinburgh Waverley Railway Station is just three minutes’ walk away, and there are endless dining and shopping opportunities in the immediate vicinity.
The Witchery — The Witchery by the Castle has just nine fabulously original and indulgent suites, described as one of the seven wonders of the hotel world by Cosmopolitan magazine. Each has its own unique quirks and charms but, whichever suite you choose, you’ll find oodles of glamour, indulgence, luxury and roll top baths for two! The Witchery Suites occupy just 2 guests in double beds and are not suitable for children.
Prestonfield House— Opulence, theatre and luxury are combined in this unique 5-star hotel in one of Edinburgh’s finest historic buildings. Just five minutes from Edinburgh’s Old Town, James Thomson’s Prestonfield House is Edinburgh’s most exclusive luxury hotel, offering the privacy and seclusion of a country estate right in the heart of Edinburgh. 20 acres of gardens and parkland surround Prestonfield, sheltering guests from the bustle of the city beyond. This unique enclave is a wonderful place to wind down.
Gleneagle Townhouse — Located on St Andrew Square, Gleneagles, the iconic sporting and country estate has arrived in the very heart of Edinburgh’s historic New Town with Gleneagles Townhouse. The iconic building that houses the hotel was originally home to the British Linen Company, which later became the Bank of Scotland. Outstanding architectural features are found throughout the charming urban retreat, with each room uniquely designed to imbue a sense of understated luxury with an appreciative nod to the heritage of the building. The property’s vibrant all-day restaurant is perfect for breakfast, long lazy lunches and spirited dinners. A members’ club, wellness center, two striking bars and a rooftop terrace with extraordinary city views – previously only held by the rooftop statues – complete this Edinburgh gem.
The Balmoral — Although an Edinburgh landmark for more than a century, there’s nothing old-fashioned about this quietly elegant Forte flagship. Luxurious bedrooms, a Michelin-starred restaurant, lavish afternoon teas, relaxing spa and the best service in town add up to a sophisticated 21st-century version of a genuinely grand hotel. The hotel is next door to Edinburgh’s main Waverley station at the eastern end of Princes Street, just a five-minute walk to the National Gallery, shopping and the Old Town.
Nestled within the popular Edinburgh neighbourhood of Stockbridge, The Scran & Scallie presents exceptional pub classics, with a fresh, modern twist. Seasonal menus showcase great Scottish food – or ‘scran’ – with ingredients sourced from the very best local Scottish suppliers.
• Walk around Old Town
he Old Town of Edinburgh is the historic heart of Scotland’s capital city and is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the country. The Old Town is located on a hill and is dominated by the iconic Edinburgh Castle at its highest point. The streets of the Old Town are narrow and winding, and are lined with historic buildings, many of which date back to the medieval period. Some of the most famous streets in the Old Town include the Royal Mile, which runs from Edinburgh Castle to the Palace of Holyroodhouse, and Victoria Street, a picturesque curved street lined with colorful shops and restaurants.
The best meals are the ones you don’t have to choose. Everything at Aizle is made in-house, from the nutritious live ferment in the sourdough, to the hand churned butter, to the aquavit and aged kombucha in our cocktails. On the wall there is a board of the latest ingredients that will make up your meal for the evening; you tell the waiting staff which you would prefer to avoid, if any.
Day 2
The original Milk, this trendy café offers an eclectic menu of homemade breakfast and lunch favourites.
• Private Tour of Edinburgh
Your private guide will meet you at the hotel or the Milk café. On the tour you will see amongst others: Edinburgh Castle -the iconic castle sits atop a hill in the heart of the city, and offers stunning views of the surrounding area, The Royal Mile — a historic street that runs from Edinburgh Castle to the Palace of Holyroodhouse. It’s lined with historic buildings, shops, and restaurants, and is a great place to soak up the city’s atmosphere, Arthur’s Seat — the highest point in Edinburgh, St Giles’ Cathedra which is a beautiful example of Gothic architecture and The Old Town with narrow streets, historic buildings, and a wealth of shops, restaurants, and attractions.
A dinky restaurant serving some of the most inventive cooking Edinburgh has to offer. Why go? This isn’t the fashionable part of Leith, not by a long chalk – but keep going because Aurora is well worth it. It started life as a brunch-focused café, and has turned into a slick modern bistro serving locally sourced, seasonal and unprocessed produce.
• Explore the city
Visit the Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh — This beautiful garden is home to a wide variety of plants from all over the world, and is a great place to relax and enjoy nature. Afterwards, spend some time at Princes Street Gardens. This beautiful park is located in the heart of the city and offers stunning views of Edinburgh Castle and the surrounding area.
Visit the Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh — This beautiful garden is home to a wide variety of plants from all over the world, and is a great place to relax and enjoy nature. Afterwards, spend some time at Princes Street Gardens. This beautiful park is located in the heart of the city and offers stunning views of Edinburgh Castle and the surrounding area.
Day 3
Just two minutes from the bustling Royal Mile, Edinburgh Larder is hidden down a side street. But those in the know are always richly rewarded. This cafe sells seasonal, locally sourced and tasty food, with its breakfast menu available until 3pm and featuring all the classics like eggs benedict, porridge and hash browns.
• Pick-up Car Rental
Pick-up prearranged car rental and check out of the hotel.
• Drive to Glasgow
Driving from Edinburgh to Glasgow takes approximately 1 hour, depending on traffic conditions. There are several routes you can take, including the M8 motorway and the A8 road.
Overlooking a Georgian square crowded by townhouses, the Kimpton Blythswood Square Hotel keeps good company. Long one of the most sought-after addresses in the city, it was home to the Royal Scottish Automobile Club, where men in cravats and comic-book moustaches once began the fabled Monte Carlo Rally. The hotel’s latest revelation is the ultra-glamorous, two-bedroom penthouse suite (aka the poshest pad in the city)
Opened in 2014, when it fast established itself as one of the city’s most exciting new restaurants, Ox and Finch is a rare thing on Glasgow’s generally casual dining scene: one of those places you need to book well in advance. Its location on Sauchiehall Street, slightly removed from the increasingly restaurant-dense bustle of the Argyle Street Finnieston ‘strip’, makes for a handy geographical analogy of how confidently it sits apart from the crowd. It looks hip without feeling try-hard. The smart small-plates menu of mainly Scottish provenance packs a punch and never fails to satisfy.
Glasgow is a vibrant city with a rich cultural heritage and a wealth of attractions for tourists to explore. The two museums that we recommend are Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum — This impressive museum houses a diverse collection of art and artifacts, ranging from paintings and sculptures to ancient artifacts and natural history exhibits and The Gallery of Modern Art — This museum features a wide range of contemporary art, including paintings, sculptures, and installations.
Glasgow’s Old Town is a historic district of the city that dates back to medieval times. Located just east of the city centre, it’s a fascinating area to explore, with a wealth of historic buildings, museums, and attractions including: The Lighthouse, City Chambers, Barras (local market) y Glasgow Green.
The suburb of Dennistoun just east of Glasgow city centre is fast casting off its roughspun reputation, in part thanks to the likes of Bilson Eleven. Housed in one of the oldest and most iconic tenement buildings in the area, the setting is as relaxed and informal as dining at a friend’s house. The cuisine raises the best of Scottish produce to a new level with boundless passion and respect for the ingredients.
Day 4
• Breakfast in the Hotel and Check out
• Drive to Oban
Oban is a beautiful seaside town located on the west coast of Scotland and famous for Oban Distillery, McCaig’s Tower, and the stunning scenery of the surrounding area Its approximately 93 miles northwest of Glasgow, and the journey takes around two hours.
Classy spot offering fish and shellfish in a contemporary, clean space with fishy art, plus a deli.
Set on the shorefront esplanade, our unique, boutique sea view hotel in Oban is the perfect retreat to escape reality, indulge in luxury accommodation and experience the warm atmosphere of the magnificent Oban hotel. With majestic sea views, drawing room and lounge look out across the water to the island of Kerrera. Guests can relax in our lounge in deep comfortable sofas, next to the warm, elegant fireplace.
Bistro food in cozy French atmosphere, Spanish tapas, handmade Italian pasta, flavours and wines around the world – they bring them near you to Rovaniemi! Roka Kitchen & Winebar is a new hotspot for gastronomic experiences, great wines and cocktails.
Day 5
• Breakfast @ Roxy's Coffee & Tea House
Taste perfectly cooked sausages, fish and black pudding to form your opinion about Roxy’s. Nothing can be better than ordering good pudding and tasty Scones. Great cappuccino, tea or hot chocolate are among the most often ordered drinks at this place.
• Visit Dunollie Castle
Located on the outskirts of Oban, the ruins of Dunollie Castle are a delight to explore. Along with its dramatic views towards the island of Kerrara, the site offers plenty to see and do in its excellent museum. In addition to exploring the ruins, which date back to the 1400s, highlights of a visit to the imposing ruins include the 1745 House, home to a collection of artifacts and displays relating to the MacDougall clan and the local community over the centuries.
• Visit Dunstaffnage Castle
Dunstaffnage Castle, just four miles north of Oban, stands guard on a rock overlooking the entrance to Loch Etive. The three round towers and the walls, in places 10 feet thick, date from the 13th century, when the castle belonged to the Campbell clan, and are among the oldest in Scotland. The residential tower was built in the 17th century, while the cannons on the ramparts were salvaged from a Spanish galleon that sank in Tobermory Bay during the time of the Armada. A few yards farther on, the ruins of a 13th-century chapel deserve special attention as several early Scottish monarchs are said to be buried here alongside members of the Campbell family.
• Lunch @ Oban Seafood Hut
Dunstaffnage Castle, just four miles north of Oban, stands guard on a rock overlooking the entrance to Loch Etive. The three round towers and the walls, in places 10 feet thick, date from the 13th century, when the castle belonged to the Campbell clan, and are among the oldest in Scotland. The residential tower was built in the 17th century, while the cannons on the ramparts were salvaged from a Spanish galleon that sank in Tobermory Bay during the time of the Armada. A few yards farther on, the ruins of a 13th-century chapel deserve special attention as several early Scottish monarchs are said to be buried here alongside members of the Campbell family.
Oban produces a range of single malt Scotch whiskies, which are known for their rich, complex flavors and smoky, peaty notes. The distillery uses only the finest malted barley, water, and yeast, and employs traditional copper stills and wooden washbacks to produce its whisky. Oban is also famous for its distinctive bottle shape, which is modeled on the shape of the stills used in the distillery. The distillery offers tours to visitors, which include a guided tour of the production facilities, a tasting of the whisky, and a visit to the distillery shop. Oban single malt whiskies are highly regarded by whisky enthusiasts around the world and have won numerous awards and accolades over the years.
• Stroll along Corran Esplanade
Reminiscent of the seaside towns usually associated with England, Oban prospered during Victorian times as well-heeled travelers descended on its inns and guesthouses, drawn by train from Glasgow and other points across Scotland to partake in its fresh air and pleasant setting. Not much has changed along the esplanade, which is still lined with shops, hotels, cafés, and restaurants.
• Dinner @ Hawthorn Restaurant
Passionate about using fresh, seasonal and local produce, Hawthorn Restaurant is an absolute treasure. From the outside it looks like a small white cottage, but the interior is chic and modern, with a bare stone wall and wooden furniture. The menu has a huge variety. Start off with home hot-smoked salmon with maple crème fraiche, cucumber and caper relish, follow with slow-cooked pork belly with isle of mull scallops, rosti potato, salsa verde and finish with vanilla and peanut butter cheesecake for a really fantastic meal.
Day 6
• Breakfast in the Hotel & Check-Out
scenic journey that passes through the Highlands and along the coast on the way to Mallaig, where you will take a ferry to Armadale on Skye. The journey takes approximately 2.5-3 hours.
• Visit Castle Stalker
Castle Stalker, located a scenic drive away 25 miles north of Oban, occupies a romantic setting on a small island in Loch Linnhe. Built in the 14th century as the home of the Stewarts of Appin, it was later used by James IV as a hunting lodge — hence the name, which is Gaelic for hunter — and was restored in the 1960s. It’s also well-known among comedy fans for its roll in the cult Monty Python and the Holy Grail movie.
• View “Harry Potter Train”
Glenfinnan attracts many thousands of visitors from around the world to experience the stunning scenery but also the special atmosphere. The famous Glenfinnan viaduct carries the railway to Glenfinnan Station across a 1,000 ft span, 100 ft above the ground. The filming of the second and third Harry Potter books, Harry Potter and the Chambers of Secrets and Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban took place in this area with the Hogwarts Express calling at Glenfinnan!
Since 1989, Crannog has built a reputation for serving top-quality seafood. With a unique combination of mouth-watering fresh food, a stunning waterside setting and a relaxed atmosphere, it has become a favorite for great food in Lochaber. Crannog’s chefs source quality produce from Scotland’s abundant larder, including our speciality, fresh Loch Linnhe prawns. You can even watch the local fishing boats from the restaurant windows as they bring home the catch of the day.
• Take Ferry
The CalMac ferry takes you from Mallaig to Armadale (or vice versa) in about 30 minutes.
A stunning hotel in Portree, on the famous Isle of Skye, enjoys some of the finest and most spectacular views from any hotel in Scotland. From the moment you arrive, you cannot fail to appreciate the Highland setting of this hotel; set within fifteen acres of mature private grounds overlooking Portree Bay, having magnificent views over the Sound of Raasay to the Cuillin mountain range
The name ‘scorrybreac’ translates from Scottish Gaelic as ‘speckled rock’, which perfectly describes the dark and stoney cliffs along the bay from where this restaurant is situated. Set in a beautiful location above the harbour in Portree, Scorrybreac delivers a fine dining experience like no other. Enjoy modern Scottish cuisine with a French twist made with the finest seasonal produce and irresistible local meats, such as venison. You’ll be in for an elegant and sophisticated evening topped-off perfectly with a fantastic selection of L’art du vin wine and Scottish single malt whiskies.
Day 7
Don’t forget to take picnic basket with you
• Visit Old Man of Stoor
One of the most photographed landscapes on the Isle of Skye, the Old Man of Storr should be at the top of your list. Easily accessible from the town of Portree, it takes a wee bit of hiking to get up to the best viewpoints, but it is absolutely worth it.
• Visit Rubha Nam Barthairean
Brother’s Point is the Isle of Skye’s hidden treasure. It is a short hike to some of the most stunning scenery on the Isle of Skye. Very few people visit this place, making it a much better experience for those “in the know.”
• Visit Quiraing
The Quiraing is one of the Isle of Skye’s most photographed landscapes. You can get a great view of the Quiraing right from the car park but for those who want to go a little farther, there is a terrific 4.5-mile hike that will give you even better views.
• Lunch @ Old School Restaurant
The Old School has an undeniable charm and a great ambience that goes a long way towards explaining its undoubted popularity. This is superior comfort food served in a relaxed and friendly environment by a husband-and-wife team who, if their restaurant is any guide, are rightly comfortable in their own skins.
The oldest working distillery on the Isle of Skye, set on the shores of Loch Harport in the village of Carbost. Visit them for a tour of the Distillery, see 5 copper pot stills and the traditional worm tubs that make Talisker so unique, then take a look at the casks in the warehouse where the Angel’s Share is lost to evaporation during maturation. Have a taste of our award winning Talisker Single Malt Scotch Whisky.
- Nestled on the shores of Loch Dunvegan with the dramatic backdrop of the Duirinish peninsula of Skye, lies the iconic Three Chimneys Restaurant.
They pride themselves in sourcing the highest quality produce from Skye and bringing this to the guests dining table. Head Chef, Scott Davies has forged lasting relationships with suppliers to find unique and local products that allow their dishes to speak for themselves.
Day 8
• Breakfast in the Hotel & Check-Out
• Drive to Inverness
The journey takes approximately 2-2.5 hours which passes through Kyle of Lochalsh, Loch Ness, and Fort Augustus
Emily’s Byre serves delicious, genuine Indian food, specializing in ‘The Northern Frontier’ cuisine. The Scottish have been influenced by Indian cuisine and spices for centuries, with recipes brought back by soldiers in the Scottish regiment. You will have a real good time in this relaxed and rustic restaurant and cozy bar, housed in an old byre (cowshed).
• Visit Urquhart Castle
On the banks of Loch Ness stands Urquhart Castle, an ancient fortress. While it’s mostly in ruins, it’s supposedly one of the best places to spot Nessie. There is a full-sized trebuchet siege engine, a pier for boat tours of the loch and an excellent visitor centre.
Foyers Lodge offers luxury accommodation on the picturesque shores of Loch Ness in the Scottish Highlands. Originally built in the 1800s and recently lovingly restored, this beautiful boutique hotel boasts stylish interiors, beautifully kept grounds and unrivalled views of Loch Ness and the magnificent surrounding landscape. Listed in The Times and Sunday Times top places to stay 2021 as well as the Top 50 Boutique Hotels list 2021 and 2022.
• Dinner @ Hotel
After a busy day of travel thru the stunning natural landscape and many hidden gems you can relax, unwind and soak up the view across the loch from their stylish Dining Room.
Day 9
• Breakfast in the Hotel
• Visit Inverness Castle & Old City
The best way to see Inverness Castle is to walk along the River Ness, which provides several picture-worthy angles. Strolling along the banks, as people have been doing since before St Columba preached here in 565CE, is a great way to explore the heart of the city.
Located in the capital of the Highlands, Inverness, this beautifully renovated Georgian mansion house has stunning views over the River Ness and is only a few minutes’ walk from Inverness Castle and city centre. They serve fresh tasting food that is inspired by flavours from around the world, with fine local ingredients at their heart
It isn’t easy to select one distillery to recommend, simply because there are so many excellent options on offer. However, Glenmorangie is an excellent choice. It has three different tours and experiences, and a visit can potentially be combined with a day trip to Dornoch, Tain and the Seaboard Villages. Just be careful not to have too many wee drams on your visit.
Consistently recommended by locals as one of the best restaurants in the area, Café 1 really practices what it preaches in terms of sustainable, local produce. Taking inspiration from such big names as Blue Hill in New York, the restaurant rears its own herds to provide the menu’s Hebridean lamb and Highland beef, usually served with a simple order of chips (thick-cut fries) and rich garlic butter. The tiny bar at the front has a great view of the castle
Day 10
• Breakfast in the Hotel & Check-Out
• Drive to Edinburgh
The distance between the two cities is approximately 156 miles (251 km), and the driving time is around 3 hours via A98 which is slightly longer but more scenic route
Killiecrankie House is a fine dining restaurant with rooms located at the gates of the Cairngorms National Park. We serve a tasting menu of innovative Scottish cuisine that celebrates the cultural and gastronomic bounty of the country.
• Visit Stirling Castle
One of the largest and most important castles in Scotland, both historically and architecturally. Before the union with England, Stirling Castle was also one of the most used of the many Scottish royal residences, very much a palace as well as a fortress.
• Hotel Check-in
Chef Sean Clark delivers modern European and Scottish cuisine using fresh locally sourced produce and a flair and attention to detail that is sure to impress. However, despite the impeccable quality of the food, the Table manages to retain a comfortable and relaxed ambiance which is often lacking from fine dining establishments. The restaurant has only one table, a beautiful stone counter seating eight people. Diners can watch as their dishes are prepared in the open plan kitchen and chat to the chefs as they work.