fbpx

Highlights of Scotland

Sale!

Highlights of Scotland

Was From $ 5,605 AUD
Now From $ 5,044 AUD
Sale!

Description

Join an eight-day adventure through the best of Scotland and find yourself standing before ancient castles that guard misty lochs and on stunning cliffs overlooking waterfalls. Starting in the vibrant streets of Glasgow, you’ll explore cobblestone streets and lush, grassy landscapes. Learn tales of battle and folklore when you visit the mythological Loch Ness, historic Inverness and the Isle of Skye. Then, end your journey in Edinburgh, where the UNESCO World Heritage-listed medieval Old Town and neoclassical New Town sit in contrast. With an ideal balance of small-group adventure and free time to explore independently, this journey through Scotland will leave you captivated.

Trip Name
Highlights of Scotland
Last Updated
1970-01-01
Days
8
Capacity
12
Highlights
  • Embark on a world-famous train journey through the Highlands via the renowned West Highland Railway, including a crossing of the iconic Glenfinnan Viaduct.
  • Discover Fort William, where you'll relish views of Ben Nevis, the UK's highest peak. Then, join your leader on an optional hike to the summit of Cow Hill for panoramic views of Glen Nevis.
  • Take a private bus tour of the captivating Trotternish Peninsula on the Isle of Skye. Make stops at the pinnacle of the Old Man of Storr and Kilt Rock – a dramatic 90-m-tall sea cliff with views of Mealt Falls.
  • Set out on a scenic boat excursion across the folklore-filled waters of Loch Ness, then travel north to the Highland capital of Inverness.
  • Go on a walking tour of Edinburgh guided by a local guide from Invisible Cities – a social enterprise that provides locals who have experienced homelessness with employment.

Itinerary

ITINERARY CHANGES Our itineraries are updated regularly throughout the year based on customer feedback and to reflect the current situation in each destination. The information included in this Essential Trip Information may therefore differ from when you first booked your trip. It's important that you review this information prior to travel so that you have the latest updates. Due to weather, local conditions, transport schedules, public holidays, political unrest or other factors, further changes may be necessary to your itinerary once in-country. Your group leader or local representative will keep you up to date with any such changes once your trip is underway and has the authority to amend or cancel any part of the trip itinerary if deemed necessary due to safety concerns. , OPTIONAL ACTIVITIES A selection of optional activities that have been popular with past travellers are listed in the day-to-day itinerary. This isn't an exhaustive list and should be used as a guide only for some of what might be available. Prices are approximate, are for entrance fees only, and don’t include transport to and from the sites or local guides unless indicated. All activities are subject to availability, and maybe on a join-in basis. It may not be possible to do all the activities listed in the time available at each destination, so some pre-planning for what you are most interested in is advised. When it's recommended that travellers pre-book these activities, look for a note in the Special Information section of the day-to-day itinerary. For most, they can either be organised independently on the day, or let your group leader or local representative know you are interested at the Welcome Meeting and they can assist. Where activities are considered medium or high risk, we work with operators whose safety and credentials we have sighted and assessed. Although it is possible that you may find the same activity cheaper with another operator on the ground, we cannot vouch for the safety or quality of that operator. Medium and high-risk activities not listed above have not been assessed by us and as such our staff and group leader or local representative are unable to assist you with organising these activities. Activities that contravene our Responsible Travel policies are also not listed. Please remember that the decision to partake in any activity not listed is at your own discretion and risk., MUSEUM VISITS & OPENING TIMES Many sites, attractions and museums are closed on Mondays (and sometimes Tuesdays). We recommend checking the opening times of anywhere you're interested to visit and making reservations where required/possible.

Day 1 - Glasgow
Welcome to Scotland! Your adventure begins in Glasgow – one of Europe's most vibrant and cosmopolitan cities. Here, you’ll find world famous art collections, Victorian and Art Nouveau architecture and some of the best shopping in the UK outside of London. You’ll have a welcome meeting at 6 pm tonight to meet your trip leader and fellow travellers. If you arrive early, why not take a stroll along the River Clyde – once the heart of the city’s ship building industry. After the meeting, get to know your new travel friends at a nearby restaurant or grab a ‘fish supper’ in the lively Merchant City. Known for its pedestrianised areas, outdoor dining and designer shopping districts, Merchant City is a great area to get to know Glasgow’s food scene and nightlife.
Day 2 - Fort William
This morning, take a short walk to the train station to catch an early morning train – the world-famous West Highland Line. This captivating railway journey from Glasgow to Fort William takes you through some of Scotland's most breathtaking landscapes. You’ll arrive in Fort William in the early afternoon, giving you time to explore this famous town that’s home to the highest mountain in the UK – Ben Nevis. In the afternoon, weather permitting, you can opt to join your leader on a hike into Glen Nevis, ascending to the summit of Cow Hill. Your efforts will be rewarded with spectacular panoramic views of Glen Nevis, the surrounding peaks and across Fort William to Loch Linnhe and beyond. The rest of the day is free, so maybe hole up in one of the cosy local pubs for a hearty meal – ask your leader for all the best recommendations.
Day 3 - Isle of Skye
Complete your train journey on the West Highland Line this morning. As the train departs from Fort William, you’ll be greeted by the imposing beauty of Ben Nevis, standing tall against the sky. The route then winds through the enchanting Glenfinnan Viaduct, famous for its appearance in the Harry Potter films. Follow the coastline before reaching the charming fishing village of Mallaig. Hop off the train and onto a ferry, which will take you to the Isle of Skye – the largest and northernmost of the major islands is the Inner Hebrides of Scotland. Skye’s landscape is a captivating mix of dramatic cliffs, rugged coastlines and undulating moorland. When you arrive, take a private transfer to a local whisky distillery for a tour and tasting session. Then, continue to your accommodation, where you’ll have some free time to relax and take in the surroundings. Later in the evening, maybe join your trip leader to sample a dram or two!
Day 4 - Isle of Skye
Join your guide for a short morning hike and take in the beautiful scenery. If luck is on your side, you might even catch a glimpse of some of Skye's native wildlife including otters and seals. After the hike, you’ll take a private bus tour to explore some of Skye’s most famous landscapes as you circumnavigate the Trotternish Peninsula. This peninsula is renowned for its dramatic landscapes, including the Quiraing, with its distinct geological formations. You’ll also stop at the towering pinnacle of the Old Man of Storr and Kilt Rock – a dramatic sea cliff which overlooks the cascading Mealt Falls. There will also be the chance to stop at a local gallery or museum along the way. If time permits, you might visit Dunvegan Castle (entrance fees not included) before returning to your accommodation in the late afternoon.
Day 5 - Inverness
Bid farewell to the Isle of Skye and board a private bus to travel over the iconic Skye Bridge and back to the mainland. Continue through picturesque landscapes until you reach the charming village of Fort Augustus, located on the southern edge of the legendary Loch Ness. Here, you'll be treated to a scenic boat cruise on these mysterious waters (see if you can spot the elusive monster deep below the tranquil waters!). After your boat excursion, head north to Inverness – the vibrant capital of the Highlands, known for its rich history and lively culture.
Day 6 - Inverness
Hopping on a local bus to nearby Culloden Battlefield, located on the outskirts of Inverness. It was here that Bonnie Prince Charlie’s Jacobite rebellion came to an end in 1746. Visit the battlefield, then make your way to the city centre to take a walk along the River Ness. This trail weaves over small islands in the river, before crossing a graceful suspension bridge to complete the loop. The trail ends near a local arts centre, looking up at Inverness Castle. The rest of the day is free for you to explore. Maybe visit the castle or seek out a local whisky store, catch a gig, do some souvenir shopping or, if you’re looking for a hidden local favourite, then Leakey’s Bookshop is a must-see.
Day 7 - Edinburgh
Take a morning train to Edinburgh, famous for its literary heritage, historic cobbled streets and striking architecture. The Old and New Towns of Edinburgh gained UNESCO World Heritage status in 1995, in recognition of the striking quality and contrast between each area’s architecture and streetscape. Check into your accommodation, then take an insightful walking tour of the city with Invisible Cities – a social enterprise that trains locals who have experienced homelessness to become tour guides. Hear your local guide’s personal experience of the city as your wind your way through the streets, hitting the highlights. The rest of the day is free for you to explore – maybe visit Edinburgh Castle or the National Museum of Scotland.
Day 8 - Edinburgh
With no activities planned for today, your adventure comes to an end after breakfast. If you wish to spend more time in enigmatic Edinburgh, and it’s highly recommended you do, just speak to your booking agent ahead of time to organise additional accommodation.

Trip Dates

StartEndPrice FromRoom Type
10-04-202617-04-2026AUD $ 5,044-
24-04-202601-05-2026AUD $ 6,118-
01-05-202608-05-2026AUD $ 6,640-
08-05-202615-05-2026AUD $ 6,475-
15-05-202622-05-2026AUD $ 6,980-
22-05-202629-05-2026AUD $ 6,645-
29-05-202605-06-2026AUD $ 5,845-
01-06-202608-06-2026AUD $ 5,910-
05-06-202612-06-2026AUD $ 6,210-
12-06-202619-06-2026AUD $ 6,645-
19-06-202626-06-2026AUD $ 6,900-
26-06-202603-07-2026AUD $ 6,215-
03-07-202610-07-2026AUD $ 6,645-
10-07-202617-07-2026AUD $ 6,660-
17-07-202624-07-2026AUD $ 6,645-
24-07-202631-07-2026AUD $ 6,645-
03-08-202610-08-2026AUD $ 6,195-
07-08-202614-08-2026AUD $ 6,415-
14-08-202621-08-2026AUD $ 6,045-
21-08-202628-08-2026AUD $ 6,900-
28-08-202604-09-2026AUD $ 6,415-
04-09-202611-09-2026AUD $ 6,900-
11-09-202618-09-2026AUD $ 6,900-
18-09-202625-09-2026AUD $ 6,900-
25-09-202602-10-2026AUD $ 6,645-
28-09-202605-10-2026AUD $ 5,945-
02-10-202609-10-2026AUD $ 6,340-
09-10-202616-10-2026AUD $ 5,745-
23-10-202630-10-2026AUD $ 5,605-
06-11-202613-11-2026AUD $ 5,735-
12-02-202719-02-2027AUD $ 5,665-
05-03-202712-03-2027AUD $ 5,665-
26-03-202702-04-2027AUD $ 5,665-
09-04-202716-04-2027AUD $ 5,665-
23-04-202730-04-2027AUD $ 5,665-
30-04-202707-05-2027AUD $ 5,665-
07-05-202714-05-2027AUD $ 5,665-
10-05-202717-05-2027AUD $ 5,665-
14-05-202721-05-2027AUD $ 5,665-
21-05-202728-05-2027AUD $ 5,830-
24-05-202731-05-2027AUD $ 5,830-
28-05-202704-06-2027AUD $ 5,830-
04-06-202711-06-2027AUD $ 5,830-
11-06-202718-06-2027AUD $ 5,830-
18-06-202725-06-2027AUD $ 6,005-
25-06-202702-07-2027AUD $ 6,005-
02-07-202709-07-2027AUD $ 6,005-
09-07-202716-07-2027AUD $ 6,005-
16-07-202723-07-2027AUD $ 6,005-
23-07-202730-07-2027AUD $ 6,005-
06-08-202713-08-2027AUD $ 6,115-
13-08-202720-08-2027AUD $ 6,115-
20-08-202727-08-2027AUD $ 6,115-
27-08-202703-09-2027AUD $ 6,115-
03-09-202710-09-2027AUD $ 6,115-
10-09-202717-09-2027AUD $ 6,115-
17-09-202724-09-2027AUD $ 6,115-
20-09-202727-09-2027AUD $ 6,005-
24-09-202701-10-2027AUD $ 6,005-
01-10-202708-10-2027AUD $ 5,830-
08-10-202715-10-2027AUD $ 5,830-
22-10-202729-10-2027AUD $ 5,665-
05-11-202712-11-2027AUD $ 5,665-

Accommodation

Hotel (7 nights)

Transport

Train, Private vehicle, Ferry, On foot

Map