Highlights of Scotland

Arrive in Edinburgh, capital of Scotland since the 15th century and one of the world's finest cities. Meet with your tour guide at the airport and on the way to the hotel and check-in get your first views of the Edinburgh World Heritage Site, the medieval Old Town, Royal Mile and the Georgian New Town, all overlooked by Edinburgh Castle. Later visit the Palace of Holyroodhouse, the Queen's official residence in Scotland. Overnight Edinburgh

This morning visit the medieval fortress that is Edinburgh Castle, built on an extinct volcano in the centre of Edinburgh. Within the Castle see collections of weapons and armour, visit the Royal apartments and the room where Mary, Queen of Scots gave birth to the boy who was to become King James VI of Scotland and James 1 of England. Take in the magnificent views across the old and new towns from the battlements and watch the traditional firing of the One O’clock Gun. This evening enjoy a traditional Scottish banquet to the accompaniment of Bagpipers, Ceilidh Dancers and a local Scottish band. Overnight Edinburgh

A tour of the Royal Yacht Britannia, permanently moored at Leith after decades of service to the Queen and Royal family, is on the agenda for today. Britannia sailed over one million miles, 968 official voyages, and accompanied the Royals on many of their most memorable state tours. This evening tickets are provided to the spectacular Edinburgh Military Tattoo, the most spectacular show in the world, enjoyed by an international television audience of 100 million. Overnight Edinburgh

Enjoy a short excursion to St Andrews the home of golf, this morning and visit the Golf Museum to learn about the story of British golf from its origins in the middle ages through to the present day. Return to Edinburgh and at the Scotch Whisky Heritage Centre enjoy a guided tour and tutored whisky tasting of 4 single malt whiskies from the main whisky producing regions. This evening tickets are provided to one of the Edinburgh Fringe Festival performances.  Overnight Edinburgh

Visit a Scottish Bagpipes workshop this morning and see how these extraordinary musical instruments are made before leaving Edinburgh behind and heading for Fort William in the Scottish Highlands. En route enjoy the wild beauty of the surrounding landscape. Overnight Fort William area

A full day excursion to the Isle of Skye takes the route over the magnificent Skye Bridge. Gaze in awe at the mountain profiles of Skye and visit Armadale Castle Gardens and Museum of the Isles, set in the heart of a 20,000 acre Highland estate, once part of the traditional lands of Clan Donald. Weather permitting take a boat trip and with luck sight Grey Seals and Common (Harbour) Seals as well as porpoise, dolphin and whales. Overnight Fort William area

Spend the day with a knowledgeable and passionate guide travelling the Scottish Highlands over heather covered mountains and sparkling streams. Look out for eagles and deer over a home-made Scottish picnic along with a tutured outdoor whisky tasting. Visit legendary Loch Ness for a short cruise (to find ‘Nessie’?).  Overnight Fort William area

Leave Fort William and head south through the spectacular scenery of Glencoe steeped in 5000 years of history and most famous for a tragic night in February 1692 - the Glencoe Massacre. Visit Glencoe Village in Upper Carnoch to see the monument to the fallen MacDonald’s before visiting the Glencoe Visitor Centre where ‘Living on The Edge’ explores the landscape, wildlife and history of this special place. Continue south to Loch Lomond for a cruise amidst the wonderful scenery then visit a real Scottish Smokehouse where they only use Scottish salmon and produce, to see the traditional way of smoking food.  Overnight Glasgow

Start the day with a tour of Kelvingrove Museum which for generations of Glaswegians has deep and personal significance. Time is then at personal leisure to visit the shops, Sauchiehall Street and the Buchanan Galleries to name but two areas, for those last purchases and souvenirs. A farewell dinner in a local Glasgow restaurant ends the day. Overnight Glasgow

An executive motor coach is provided for the transfer to Glasgow Airport.