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Stunning Scotland: Highlands & Islands

Join us as we explore the inspiring history, exuberant culture and fascinating sites of Scotland. From windswept highlands to serene islands, home to revered castles and iconic towns, Scotland is a vibrant country overflowing with rich traditions, natural beauty and welcoming hospitality.


NOTE: Tour information is current as of 5/2/2024.

Program Highlights

– Discover Glasgow during an immersive guided city tour, including points of interest such as the Gallery of Modern Art, Glasgow Cathedral, and Barras Market.

– Visit a local distillery to learn about whisky making from professionally trained guides followed by a tasting of their creations.

– Explore impressive Stirling Castle, situated on a volcanic outcrop on the River Forth, and hear of the castle's turbulent history.

– Behold Inveraray Castle, home of the Duke and Duchess of Argyll and their young family.

– Stroll the ruins of Urquhart Castle—an iconic structure rich with over 1,000 years of dramatic history.

– See Culloden Battlefield, which was the site of the final battle of the Jacobite Rising. 

– Visit the Palace of Holyroodhouse—the official residence in Scotland of the late Queen Elizabeth II.

– Experience a special welcoming followed by an exclusive, behind-the-scenes tour at breathtaking Glamis Castle.

– Embrace the charming town of St. Andrews—home to Scotland's oldest and most prestigious university and the birthplace of golf, first played 600 years ago. 

– Witness the impressive showcase of military pipes and drums, Highland dancers, and marching formations of the celebrated Edinburgh Tattoo.

What's Included

  • 8 nights hotel accommodations
  • 8 breakfasts, 2 lunches, and 6 dinners, including a special welcome and farewell dinner
  • Full guiding services of an Orbridge Travel Director and expert local guides
  • Private motor coach transportation
  • Admission to all locations listed on the 10-day itinerary, including the performance of the Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo
  • All ferry fees
  • Gratuities to Orbridge Travel Director, local guides, drivers, porters (where available), and wait staff for included meals
  • Airport transfers for guests arriving and departing during the suggested times

Itinerary

Day 1: En Route from U.S.

Day 2: Arrive in Glasgow, Scotland
Upon arrival to Glasgow Airport set off to discover Glasgow's landmarks and attractions during a guided panoramic tour. Notable sights may include the Gallery of Modern Art, Glasgow Cathedral, St. Mungo Museum of Religious Life & Art, Merchant Square, Barras Market, the People's Palace and Winter Gardens, and the Glasgow Science Centre.

Tonight gather with fellow travelers for a welcome dinner, toasting to the journey ahead. 
Overnight: Radisson Blu Hotel, Glasgow (D)

Day 3: Glasgow | New Lanark | Glasgow
Following a hearty Scottish breakfast, take a guided tour of New Lanark, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This award-winning attraction, situated in a picturesque village near the Falls of Clyde, brings a socially progressive story to life through an amazing set of beautifully restored buildings. Learn about life in the village throughout the years and the visionary ideals that inspired its Utopian foundation. 

Return to Glasgow for a two-course lunch and an afternoon at leisure to further explore this bustling city.
Overnight: Radisson Blu Hotel, Glasgow (B,L)

Day 4: Glasgow | Stirling | Glencoe
This morning journey north to Stirling, where the Lowlands meet the Highlands, for a self-guided tour of stately Stirling Castle and its lovely gardens. Known as one of Scotland’s grandest castles, it looms over many of the most important battlefields in Scottish history. View Stirling Bridge—the site of William Wallace's victory over the English in 1297. See Bannockburn, where Robert the Bruce defeated the same adversary in 1314.

In the village of Killin, stop at family-owned Falls of Dochart Smokehouse. Meet the proprietors and learn about their guiding principles: "to produce and to serve the finest whisky smoked salmon." Hear about the smoking process and the importance of salmon in local traditions followed by a whisky tasting with salmon canapés.

Arriving to the hotel, refresh and unpack, and perhaps stroll the beautiful hotel grounds before rejoining the group for dinner.
Overnight: Kingshouse Hotel (B,D)

Day 5: Glencoe | The Scottish Highlands
Today visit Inverarary Castle, located on the western edge of Loch Fyne in Argyll. Its gardens include approximately two acres of formal lawns and a stunning collection of flowers. The castle is a magnificent, towered mansion and the ancestral home of the Duke of Argyll, Chief of the Clan Campbell. The structure houses many interesting and lavishly decorated rooms, with collections of tapestries and paintings, and superb displays of weapons. Rob Roy MacGregor’s sporran and dirk handle are on display.

Stop in the charming village of Luss for a brief walk, admiring its quaint slate cottages and panoramic views of Loch Lomond. 

Continue to Loch Lomond for a relaxing boat cruise, taking advantage of photography opportunities of the stunning homes and castles dotting the shoreline, and spotting for local wildlife.

Conclude the exciting day with a lovely dinner at the hotel followed by a restful evening.
Overnight: Kingshouse Hotel (B,D)

Day 6: Loch Ness | Inverness
After breakfast, continue farther north to famous Loch Ness for a tour of Urquhart Castle. Once regarded as one of the greatest in all of the Highlands, Urquhart Castle bore witness to some of Scotland’s most dramatic historical moments. Control over the medieval fortress passed back and forth between the Scots and the English during the Wars of Independence. As those forces departed, the last government troops who occupied the castle destroyed it during the Jacobite Risings, leaving behind the ruins that stand today. Peer into medieval life—learning of the area's history from nearly 1,000 years ago—while observing a full-size trebuchet and a prison cell that is thought to have held the Gaelic bard, Dòmhnall Donn.

Next embark upon a narrated cruise along the mysterious waters of Loch Ness—a body of water so deep it holds more fresh water than all of the lakes in England and Wales combined. 

Later arrive to the idyllic city of Inverness on Scotland’s northeast coast for brief leisure time in town. Many know Inverness as the capital of the Highlands, though it doesn't officially hold this title. Inverness has only been considered a city since 2000.
Overnight: Kingsmills Hotel (B,D)

Day 7: Inverness | Aberdeen
This morning see Culloden Battlefield—the site of the final Jacobite Rising. One of the most harrowing battles in Scottish history, the Battle of Culloden only lasted an hour but would change Scotland and Highland culture forever. Inside the Culloden Visitor Centre, learn more about the conflict from both sides through interactive displays and artifacts before walking the actual battlefield. Reflect on this rebellious event while viewing the headstones of clansmen who gave their lives for the Jacobite cause. 

Following lunch, visit a Scottish distillery for an informative tour and tasting.

Retreat to Norwood Hall Hotel for dinner and this evening's stay.
Overnight: Norwood Hall Hotel (B,L,D)

Day 8: Aberdeen | St. Andrews | Edinburgh
Today visit Glamis Castle—a living, breathing monument to Scottish heritage—for an exclusive behind-the-scenes tour. First enjoy welcome refreshments in the castle's 16th-century kitchen. Your guide will escort you through this stunning architectural treasure highlighting remarkable paintings and unique furniture pieces. This castle was gifted by Robert the Bruce to the Bowes-Lyon family in 1372 and was originally a royal hunting lodge. It's perhaps best known as the childhood home of the Queen Mother, the birthplace of Princess Margaret, and the setting of Shakespeare's Macbeth. The estate comprises more than 13,500 acres and is accompanied by mysterious and ghostly lore including tales of secret chambers.

Later, at pastoral St. Andrews, drive by the Old Course and explore local cafés and boutique shops during leisure time. Admire the medieval architecture of the university and marvel at the perfectly manicured golf courses here, at what is considered to be the birthplace of golf. Gazing towards the water, notice an iconic piece of Scottish landscape—the West Sands—famous for the opening sequence of Chariots of Fire

This evening prepare for an unforgettable performance of the iconic Edinburgh Military Tattoo—as the sun sets against the backdrop of Edinburgh's grand castle. This event celebrates the skills of military bands and display teams from the British Armed Forces, the Commonwealth, and military teams throughout the world. Flaming torches, flying flags, an impressive light display, dancing, colorful uniforms and intricate marching formations complete the emotionally stirring pageantry. Be sure to dress in layers for the outdoors as the seating in the esplanade is uncovered.
Overnight: Kimpton Charlotte Square Hotel (B)

Day 9: Edinburgh 
After breakfast, join a guided panoramic city tour of Edinburgh—Scotland's beloved capital since the 15th century—through its Old and New Towns. This UNESCO World Heritage Site teems with remarkable architecture, medieval fixtures and Georgian-inspired buildings, all converging at Princes Street with a unique view of Edinburgh Castle.

Afterward visit the Palace of Holyroodhouse, the previous residence of Mary, Queen of Scots, that was founded as a monastery in 1128. This property once hosted other royalty including the Bonnie Prince Charlie and the late Queen of England, Elizabeth II. Tour the 14 historic state apartments and imagine life of yesteryear while marveling at the intricate drapery, old wood paneling and ornately designed ceilings. The Queen's Gallery at the Palace of Holyroodhouse hosts a program of changing exhibitions from the Royal Collection. Behold the natural beauty of the palace gardens' rolling lush green pastures, vibrant flowers and Wentworth Elm trees, which were previously thought to have been extinct.

Enjoy free time to shop and sightsee before this grand adventure concludes with a special farewell dinner to reminisce over the past week's adventures and bid soraidh ("farewell" in Gaelic) to Scotland. 
Overnight: Kimpton Charlotte Square Hotel (B,D)

Day 10: Edinburgh | Depart for U.S.
After breakfast, guests departing during the suggested times take the complimentary transfer to Edinburgh Airport for flights home. (B)

B = Breakfast, L = Lunch, D = Dinner

(Itinerary subject to change.)

Activity Level

Moderate

Activities are generally not very strenuous, but a fair amount of walking can be expected. It is our expectation that guests on this program are able to follow a guide through paved and unpaved streets of even and uneven terrain at an average pace for two hours. Guests should have the ability to walk up and down stairs without assistance. Due to the nature of some structures, handrails may not be present, and facilities for people with disabilities may be limited. Participation in itinerary activities is up to the individual.

Accommodations

Radisson Blu Hotel, Glasgow

Glasgow's iconic Radisson Blu Hotel provides central access to shops and restaurants along with comfortable, modern rooms and wellness facilities. 

Room Amenities: Individual climate control, work desk and chair, flat-screen TV,  Wi-Fi, phone, coffee and tea maker, safe, and en suite bathroom with sundries and hair dryer. 

Kingshouse Hotel

With panoramic views of the Highlands of Scotland, the iconic Kingshouse Hotel is surrounded by peaks, pools, and rivers. Guests of the property rave not only of the unrivalled views of Buchaille Etive Mor, Scotland's most photographed mountain, but also about the comfy rooms and accommodating staff. 

Room Amenities: Flat-screen TV, writing desk and chair, Wi-Fi, phone, coffee and tea maker, and en suite bathroom with sundries.

Kingsmills Hotel

Dating back to the 18th century, Kingsmills Hotel has hosted various philanthropists, soldiers seeking refuge, and Robert Burns—the famous Scottish poet and lyricist.

The property offers a unique mix of classic style and contemporary comforts, with spacious guest rooms boasting charming décor and modern amenities.

Room Amenities: TV, complimentary Wi-Fi, phone, coffee and tea maker, safe, and en suite bathroom with sundries and hair dryer.

Note: This property does not have air conditioning.

Norwood Hall Hotel

Built in 1881 on the site of the 15th-century Pitfodels Castle, this magnificent Victorian mansion exudes character and charm, with roaring log fires, sweeping staircases, and classic décor. 

Situated amongst seven acres of secluded gardens and expansive woods, the property offers modern amenities, award-winning facilities, and welcoming hospitality.

Room Amenities: TV, complimentary Wi-Fi, and en suite bathroom with sundries and hair dryer.

Note: This property does not have air conditioning.

Kimpton Charlotte Square Hotel

Ideally located beside New Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, this property—which features seven interconnected Georgian townhouses—overlooks one of Edinburgh’s prettiest private garden squares. Excellent service blends with a newly renovated interior of handsome woods, plush fabrics, and rich pops of color. During leisure time, take advantage of the indoor pool or well-equipped fitness room.

Room Amenities: Individual climate control, TV, complimentary Wi-Fi, coffee maker, minibar, safe, and marble en suite bathroom with premium sundries and hair dryer.

NOTE: Numerous points of interest on this tour are in remote locations, therefore hotel options are often limited. Accommodations selected for this tour are the best available.

(Accommodations subject to change.)

Optional Pre-Tour

Dublin


Embrace the Emerald Isle's time-honored traditions and discover present-day modernizations during a hop-on / hop-off tour of the city, visits to a museum and brewery, and an evening filled with lively storytelling and music.

Itinerary

Day +1: En Route from U.S.

Day +2: Arrive in Dublin, Ireland
Upon arrival to Dublin Airport set off on an entertaining hop-on / hop-off tour of the city.

Founded in 841 by the Vikings, Dublin's interesting past and many monuments illustrate its fascinating history. Today this cosmopolitan capital of the Irish Republic is host to more than one million residents. Begin with a dedication to Ireland’s most famous literary son at the Oscar Wilde statue in Merrion Square. Continue past the sprawling campus of Trinity College, pausing at the imposing gates. Stop at the Molly Malone statue to hear the part mythological, part historical tale of this icon. See Christchurch Cathedral, Dublin’s oldest working structure, which has been welcoming pilgrims for more than 1,000 years. Continue through Temple Bar, a pleasant cobbled area full of restaurants and shops during the day and a lively warren of bustling bars after nightfall. Finally, cross the River Liffey by the unique, white-arched Ha’penny Bridge. 

Later experience an unforgettable dinner featuring live music and dancing at The Merry Ploughboy Irish Music Pub (or similar venue). Touted as "the only pub in Ireland owned and run by traditional musicians," this establishment is an award-winning place that brings life and gaiety to a city steeped in history and culture.
Overnight: The Davenport (D)

Day +3: Dublin
Indulge in a full Irish breakfast at the hotel followed by time to explore Dublin at leisure. Perhaps visit a café for Irish coffee and conversation with the locals, pop into the charming shops on Grafton Street, or simply meander the cobblestone roads and take in the picturesque sights of this bustling city.

Mid-morning visit EPIC, The Irish Museum of Emigration. This state-of-the-art, interactive, and award-winning facility is located inside the beautiful vaults of the 1820 Custom House Quarter building in Dublin’s Docklands. It inspires and guides a journey of discovery with stories of Irish emigration around the world, from early times to modern day. Over centuries, some 10 million people have left the island of Ireland. Step through 20 themed galleries to learn why people chose to leave, see how they influenced the world, and feel the connection between descendants and Ireland today. Through engaging displays, short movies and interesting artifacts, remarkable stories of sacrifice, endurance and adventure are brought to life. EPIC is a must-see to learn more about Ireland, and for those interested in personal Irish ancestry, the Irish Family History Centre is also located here. 

On tap this afternoon is Guinness Brewery's exclusive Connoisseur Experience at the Guinness Storehouse. Back in 1759, an enterprising brewer named Arthur Guinness took a 9,000-year lease on this brewery for an annual rent of £45. Opened in 1904, the Storehouse was an operational plant for fermenting and storing Guinness. Today, the brewery is Ireland's most popular tourist attraction and Europe's largest stout-producing brewery. It also features a very fine exhibition dedicated to the Guinness story. Learn the craft of making this quintessential brew—the ingredients, brewing process, time and passion.

At the Guinness Academy discover the art of pulling a pint of Guinness—a six-step ritual as legendary as the beer itself—taking 119.5 seconds from iconic surge of the pour to the eventual settle. In the private Connoisseur Bar, taste the different types of Guinness while an expert guide/barman orchestrates a journey right to the heart of the black liquid. Raise a glass and toast Sláinte! (an Irish expression meaning "to good health").
Overnight: The Davenport (B)

Day +4: Dublin | Flight to Glasgow | Main Program Begins 
After breakfast take a complimentary group transfer to Dublin Airport for the flight to Glasgow, Scotland, to join guests for the main program. (B)

B = Breakfast, D = Dinner

Pre-tour space is limited. We recommend reserving early for best availability.

This pre-tour is not escorted by an Orbridge Travel Director. Included sightseeing is accompanied by a local guide.

(Itinerary subject to change.)

Activity Level

Moderate

Activities are generally not very strenuous, but a fair amount of walking can be expected. It is our expectation that guests on this program are able to follow a guide through paved and unpaved streets of even and uneven terrain at an average pace for two hours. Guests should have the ability to walk up and down stairs without assistance. Due to the nature of some structures, handrails may not be present, and facilities for people with disabilities may be limited. Participation in itinerary activities is up to the individual.

Accommodations

The Davenport

The Davenport is a traditional, stylish boutique property located in the heart of Georgian Dublin and reimagined with outstanding 21st-century facilities. Built as a church in 1863, it still retains its original neo-classical exterior frontage and recreates the elegance and charm of that era. The hotel features 114 guest rooms, an on-site restaurant, and a bar that’s frequented by guests and locals. Conveniently located in Merrion Square, it's within minutes of Grafton Street, O’Connell Street, Trinity College, city centre museums, and Dublin’s galleries. 

Room Amenities: Individual climate control, spacious sitting area, TV, complimentary Wi-Fi, phone, coffee and tea maker, iron and ironing board, and en suite bathroom with sundries and hair dryer.

(Accommodations subject to change.)

What's Included

  • 2 nights accommodations at The Davenport (or similar)
  • 2 breakfasts and 1 dinner
  • Hop-on / hop-off city tour of Dublin
  • Admission to EPIC, The Irish Emigration Museum
  • Admission to the Guinness Storehouse including the Connoisseur Experience
  • Dinner and live Irish music at The Merry Ploughboy Irish Music Pub (or similar)
  • Gratuities to local guides, drivers, porters, and wait staff for included meals
  • Group airport transfers for guests arriving and departing during the suggested times

Optional Post-Tour

St. Andrews


Famous for its golf links and stunning architecture, St. Andrews is a beautiful university town worth exploring. Whether walking its medieval streets or partaking in optional golf or afternoon tea activities, St. Andrews offers a truly enriching Scottish experience.

Itinerary

Day 10: Edinburgh | St. Andrews
En route to St. Andrews, visit the Falkirk Wheel—an exceptional feat of modern engineering and an inspirational work of art. Designed to reconnect the Forth and Clyde Canal with the Union Canal, this elegant mechanical marvel is the only rotating boat lift in the world. Boats entering the Wheel's upper gondola are lowered, along with the water in which they float, to the basin below. At the same time, an equal weight rises up, lifted in the other gondola. Enjoy "The Falkirk Wheel Experience" aboard special "trip" boats at the site. The distinctive new visitor center gives an absolutely sensational viewpoint from which to see things in action.

Continue to St. Andrews—the Home of Golf—and enjoy lunch at a local pub/restaurant. Afterward walk the legendary Old Course. A bucket list pilgrimage site for golf lovers, follow in the footsteps of legends and experience why pro golfer Jack Nicklaus said, "I fell in love with it the first day I played it. There's just no other golf course that is even remotely close." 

The remainder of the day and evening are at leisure.
Overnight: Old Course Hotel (L)

Day 11: St. Andrews
After breakfast, enjoy St. Andrews independently or choose from optional activities available for purchase. (Timing allows for golf in the morning and afternoon tea later in the day, should you choose to join both.)

Golf Tee Time ($350 per person):
Play a round on St. Andrews' The Duke's course, highly regarded as one of the finest championship courses in the British Isles and a must-play course for any golfer. With five separate tee positions at every hole, The Duke's course appeals to golfers of any skill level. (Package includes greens fee, golf cart, rental clubs, and roundtrip transfers between the hotel and course.)

Note: Tee times and the course are subject to availability at time of booking.

Afternoon Tea Time ($95 per person):
Experience an award-winning afternoon tea with desserts at the Old Course Hotel featuring a delicious selection of delicate pastries and cakes, including homemade scones as well as strawberry and pink champagne preserves.
Overnight: Old Course Hotel (B)

Day 12: St. Andrews | Edinburgh | Depart for U.S. 
After breakfast, guests departing during the suggested times take the complimentary transfer to Edinburgh Airport for flights home. (B)

B =  Breakfast, L = Lunch

Post-tour space is limited. We recommend reserving early for best availability.

This post-tour is not escorted by an Orbridge Travel Director. Included sightseeing is accompanied by a local guide.

(Itinerary subject to change.)

Activity Level

Moderate

Activities are generally not very strenuous, but a fair amount of walking can be expected. It is our expectation that guests on this program are able to follow a guide through paved and unpaved streets of even and uneven terrain at an average pace for two hours. Guests should have the ability to walk up and down stairs without assistance. Due to the nature of some structures, handrails may not be present, and facilities for people with disabilities may be limited. Participation in itinerary activities is up to the individual.

Accommodations

Old Course Hotel

Bordering the renowned 17th "Road Hole" of the Old Course in the Home of Golf, the Old Course Hotel boasts a spectacular location overlooking the famous links courses, the West Sands beach and the beautiful Scottish coastline. This prestigious five-star hotel has 144 rooms and is recognized as one of Europe’s leading resorts. The Old Course Hotel features a combination of classically elegant and contemporary interiors, and French designer Jacques Garcia designed many of the hotel’s suites. Located just a short stroll from the historic university town of St Andrews, it’s a great vacation spot for golfers and non-golfers alike. 

Room Amenities: Individual climate control, writing desk, interactive flat-screen TV, complimentary Wi-Fi, phone, coffee and tea maker, minibar, robes and slippers, and en suite bathroom with sundries and hair dryer.

(Accommodations subject to change.)

What's Included

  • 2 nights accommodations at the Old Course Hotel
  • 2 breakfasts and 1 lunch
  • Admission and fees for included activities
  • Gratuities to local guides, drivers, porters, and wait staff for included meals
  • Private transportation
  • Airport transfers for guests departing during the suggested times

Terms and Conditions