For questions or to reserve:
fsu.orbridge.com
(866) 639-0079
Main Program: August 16, 2025 – August 25, 2025
Pre-Tour: August 13, 2025 – August 17, 2025
Post-Tour: August 25, 2025 – August 27, 2025

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 11/12/2024.

Program Highlights

– 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.

– 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. 

– 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 special welcome and farewell meals
  • 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.
Saturday, August 16, 2025

Day 2: Arrive in Glasgow, Scotland
Sunday, August 17, 2025
Upon arrival to Glasgow Airport an Orbridge representative will be waiting to assist with your transfer to the hotel.

Tonight's highlight includes a proper Scottish welcome dinner and private after-hours tour at Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum. Gather with fellow travel companions for convivial conversation during this delightful dining experience.
Overnight: Radisson Blu Hotel, Glasgow (D)

Day 3: Glasgow | New Lanark | Glasgow
Monday, August 18, 2025
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.

Stop by New Lanark Mill Hotel for a traditional afternoon tea featuring a selection of finger sandwiches and scones with homemade preserves.

The remainder of the day is yours to explore Glasgow at leisure.
Overnight: Radisson Blu Hotel, Glasgow (B,L)

Day 4: Glasgow | Stirling | Glencoe
Tuesday, August 19, 2025
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.

Continue to Glencoe National Nature Reserve for free time to admire the area's striking landscapes. Glencoe is not only a place of natural beauty but also of great historical and cultural importance, the most notable being the Massacre of Glencoe in 1692 where members of the MacDonald clan were killed by government forces. This tragic event is a significant part of Scottish history and is remembered and commemorated in the region. Gain insight into Glencoe's dramatic past and connect with nature while exploring the many footpaths.

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

Day 5: Glencoe | The Scottish Highlands
Wednesday, August 20, 2025
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 opportunities to spot for local wildlife and photograph the stunning homes and castles dotting the shoreline.

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

Day 6: Loch Ness | Inverness
Thursday, August 21, 2025
After breakfast head north to the Commando Memorial, which was unveiled in 1952 to honor the British Commandos who trained in the rugged terrain of the Scottish Highlands during World War II. These soldiers were part of elite units formed in 1940 to conduct highly specialized and often dangerous operations against Axis forces in Europe and beyond. Admire the bronze statues and stroll through the gardens adjacent to the memorial.

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
Friday, August 22, 2025
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 stop at Clava Cairns, an exceptionally well-preserved Bronze Age cemetery complex that offers a fascinating glimpse into prehistoric burial practices. Excavations and studies have revealed the sophisticated construction methods used to build the cairns, including careful alignment of stones and passages highlighting the advanced skills of the ancient builders.

Next visit a Scottish distillery for an informative tour and tasting. Later retreat to the hotel for dinner.
Overnight: Norwood Hall Hotel (B,L,D)

Day 8: Aberdeen | St. Andrews | Edinburgh
Saturday, August 23, 2025
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 
Sunday, August 24, 2025
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.

Then 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.
Monday, August 25, 2025
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: 3

Moderate

Tour days tend to be long, flow at a consistent pace and may include long periods of travel. Guests should be prepared to walk longer distances, climb stairs and tolerate periods of standing, for example on city walks, sightseeing stops or ship excursions, on sometimes uneven surfaces including cobblestones or unpaved pathways and trails. Some destinations may have variations in altitude and/or temperature. Daily pace and timing may vary significantly between longer and shorter travel days, with additional activities possibly occurring in the early morning or evening. Guests are expected to board transportation without assistance. Elevators are not always available at accommodations or sites visited.

• Historic areas are usually more accessible by foot than by vehicle. It may not always be possible for the motor coach to drop guests off at site entrances.

Your Guide(s)

Orbridge Travel Director

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Every departure is accompanied by one of our premier Travel Directors, all of whom have extensive knowledge and experience as guides.

Enriched by their accompaniment and enthusiasm, enjoy the cultures and locations you explore with added confidence, understanding, and appreciation.

Accommodations

Radisson Blu Hotel, Glasgow

August 17 - August 18

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. 

Ballachulish Hotel

August 19 - August 20

Nestled along the banks of scenic Loch Linnhe, this charming and cozy property is ideal for recharging after fruitful days of exploration. With Medieval and Renaissance influences, the hotel features Scots Baronial-style architecture adorned with spired turrets and stone arches.

Room Amenities: One king or two double beds, flat-screen TV, complimentary Wi-Fi, phone, coffee and tea maker, safe, iron and ironing board, and en suite bathroom with sundries.

Kingsmills Hotel

August 21

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

August 22

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

August 23 - August 24

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

Bristol, Bath & The Cotswolds


Join this enchanting escape to the heart of England—a journey that weaves together colorful culture, timeless elegance and idyllic charm. From Bristol’s eclectic street art scene and Bath's ancient Roman relics to the Cotswolds' picturesque villages, discover a captivating blend of urban excitement, historic grandeur and bucolic tranquility.

Itinerary

Day +1: En Route from U.S.
Wednesday, August 13, 2025

Day +2: Arrive in London, England | Bristol
Thursday, August 14, 2025
Upon arrival to Heathrow Airport transfer to Paddington Station for the train ride to Bristol.

Nestled beside the River Avon, this vibrant city in the southwest of England offers a compelling blend of rich history and cutting-edge culture. Its historic harborside, once a bustling port, now buzzes with life featuring a variety of museums, galleries and waterside eateries. The M Shed museum vividly recounts the city’s storied past while the Arnolfini Gallery showcases contemporary art in a stunning harborside setting.

Enjoy time to explore the city at leisure.

Later experience an unforgettable three-course dinner at The Ivy Clifton situated within a beautifully restored Georgian building. The restaurant offers an eclectic menu that blends classic British dishes with international influences. Seasonal ingredients and local produce are frequently highlighted, ensuring freshness and quality.
Overnight: DoubleTree by Hilton Bristol City Centre (D)

Day +3: Bristol | Bath
Friday, August 15, 2025
After breakfast set out for the iconic Clifton Suspension Bridge for photography opportunities. This 19th-century marvel arches gracefully over the Avon Gorge. Stroll across the pedestrian walkway to admire the stunning panoramic views from both sides.

Continue to the town of Cheddar for a tasty treat—a visit and self-guided tour at Cheddar Gorge Cheese Company, the makers of authentic cheddar cheese since 2003. Browse through the shop's shelves of delicious cheese varieties plus locally made preserves, pickles and chutneys. Stop by the counter to sample a few flavors before finding the perfect treat for yourself.

Enjoy the scenic drive to the UNESCO World Heritage city Bath for an evening visit to the Roman Baths, one of the best-preserved Roman remains in the world. Dating back to around 70 AD, the Romans constructed this complex around natural hot springs that bubble up from the earth at around 115°F. This site became a sophisticated bathing and socializing complex known as Aquae Sulis, named after the Celtic goddess Sulis, whom the Romans identified with their own goddess Minerva. Exploring the grounds by flashlight adds a magical ambiance to the experience.
Overnight: DoubleTree by Hilton Bristol City Centre (B,L)

Day +4: The Cotswolds
Saturday, August 16, 2025
Following breakfast head north to explore the Cotswolds, a designated Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) in south-central England renowned for its quintessential English charm, honey-colored limestone cottages and undulating terrain. Spanning six counties (Gloucestershire, Oxfordshire, Warwickshire, Wiltshire, Worcestershire and Somerset), the Cotswolds covers nearly 800 square miles.

Visit The Cotswolds Baking Workshop for a private, hands-on baking class with its founder, Susie Whitfield, winner of Gordon Ramsay’s Culinary Genius USA in 2017. Using local ingredients, learn traditional techniques and advanced tips for baking delicious English sweets.

Next enjoy a tour and tasting at Cotswolds Distillery—the first ever full-scale distillery in the Cotswolds. Begin with a brief video to hear of the distillery's inception and traditional production methods before touring the rehabilitated barn where the award-winning spirits are crafted. Pass through the cask warehouse before gathering in the cozy tasting room to sample a range of gin, whiskies and liqueurs each highlighting Cotswolds-grown ingredients including barley and lavender.
Overnight: DoubleTree by Hilton Bristol City Centre (B)

Day +5: Bristol | Train to Glasgow | Main Program Begins
Sunday, August 17, 2025
After breakfast take the complimentary group transfer to Bristol Temple Meads for the train journey to Glasgow, Scotland, to join guests for the main program. (B)

B = Breakfast, L = Lunch, 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: 3

Moderate

Tour days tend to be long, flow at a consistent pace and may include long periods of travel. Guests should be prepared to walk longer distances, climb stairs and tolerate periods of standing, for example on city walks, sightseeing stops or ship excursions, on sometimes uneven surfaces including cobblestones or unpaved pathways and trails. Some destinations may have variations in altitude and/or temperature. Daily pace and timing may vary significantly between longer and shorter travel days, with additional activities possibly occurring in the early morning or evening. Guests are expected to board transportation without assistance. Elevators are not always available at accommodations or sites visited.

• Historic areas are usually more accessible by foot than by vehicle. It may not always possible for the motor coach to drop guests off at site entrances.

Accommodations

DoubleTree by Hilton Bristol City Centre

August 14 - August 16

This centrally located property is ideally situated near Bristol's main shopping area. During leisure time relax in the lounge or recharge in the well-equipped fitness room.

Room Amenities: Individual climate control, writing desk and chair, HDTV, complimentary Wi-Fi, safe, coffee and tea maker, iron and ironing board, and en suite bathroom with sundries and hair dryer.

(Accommodations subject to change.)

What's Included

  • Rail transportation from London to Bristol
  • 3 nights hotel accommodations
  • 3 breakfasts, 1 lunch and 1 dinner
  • Visit to Cheddar Gorge Cheese Company
  • Evening visit to the Roman Baths
  • Private baking lesson
  • Gratuities to local guides, drivers, porters and wait staff for included meals
  • Rail transportation from Bristol to Glasgow, Scotland
  • Group airport transfers for guests arriving during the suggested times

Optional Post-Tour

St. Andrews


Nestled on Scotland's dramatic eastern coast, St. Andrews is a captivating blend of medieval history, stunning coastal scenery and world-famous golf heritage. Known as the birthplace of golf, this charming university town invites visitors to walk in the footsteps of champions at the iconic Old Course and explore its cobbled streets lined with colorful shops and restaurants. Golf enthusiasts may choose to play a round on St. Andrews’ Duke’s course (additional fee), highly regarded as one of the finest championship courses in the British Isles.

Itinerary

Day 10: Edinburgh | St. Andrews
Monday, August 25, 2025
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
Tuesday, August 26, 2025
After breakfast enjoy St. Andrews independently or join the optional Golf Tee Time excursion available for purchase.

Golf Tee Time ($365 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. Tee times and the course are subject to availability at time of booking.

This afternoon experience an award-winning traditional 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,D)

Day 12: St. Andrews | Edinburgh | Depart for U.S. 
Wednesday, August 27, 2025
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

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: 3

Moderate

Tour days tend to be long, flow at a consistent pace and may include long periods of travel. Guests should be prepared to walk longer distances, climb stairs and tolerate periods of standing, for example on city walks, sightseeing stops or ship excursions, on sometimes uneven surfaces including cobblestones or unpaved pathways and trails. Some destinations may have variations in altitude and/or temperature. Daily pace and timing may vary significantly between longer and shorter travel days, with additional activities possibly occurring in the early morning or evening. Guests are expected to board transportation without assistance. Elevators are not always available at accommodations or sites visited.

• Historic areas are usually more accessible by foot than by vehicle. It may not always possible for the motor coach to drop guests off at site entrances.

Accommodations

Old Course Hotel

August 25 - August 26

Bordering the renowned 17th "Road Hole" of the Old Course in the Home of Golf, Old Course Hotel boasts a spectacular location overlooking the famous links courses, West Sands beach and the beautiful Scottish coastline. This prestigious five-star hotel is recognized as one of Europe’s leading resorts. The property features a combination of classically elegant and contemporary interiors, and French designer Jacques Garcia designed many of the hotel’s suites.

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, 1 lunch and 1 dinner
  • Afternoon traditional tea experience
  • 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