Classic Scotland: Edinburgh, Inverness and Glasgow

Day 1: A Warm Scottish Welcome

Your journey begins with a seamless arrival, as a dedicated Meet & Greet assistant welcomes you at the airport. A private driver will transfer you to your stylish city retreat, where your Welcome Package awaits, ensuring a smooth and personalized introduction to Scotland.

Step out onto the Royal Mile, the historic spine of Edinburgh’s Old Town, where ancient buildings, whisky shops, and hidden closes reveal the city’s rich past. Follow our curated self-guided route, designed to uncover both renowned highlights and tucked-away treasures before heading to the gorgeous Market Street Hotel.

Day 2: Elegant Edinburgh

This morning, embark on a private walking tour with an expert guide, tracing Edinburgh’s centuries-old streets. Explore both the Old and New Towns, from Princes Street’s Georgian grandeur to the dramatic fortress of Edinburgh Castle. Stroll past St Giles’ Cathedral and uncover the secrets of the city’s underground vaults before stepping inside the castle to view the Crown Jewels of Scotland.

In the afternoon, savor a private whisky tasting at the Scotch Malt Whisky Society’s Kaleidoscope Bar, where a whisky expert will introduce you to the finest drams Scotland has to offer. A gourmet meal rounds off your experience in true Scottish style before you return to your hotel to rest.

Day 3: Wild Scottish Beauty

Venture beyond the city on an intimate small-group tour to explore Scotland’s stunning natural landscapes. Stop at the Kelpies Monument, two colossal steel horse heads honoring Scotland’s industrial heritage, before heading into The Trossachs National Park—a breathtaking expanse of forests, mountains, and shimmering lochs.

Pause at the tranquil shores of Loch Lomond, where you may follow part of the West Highland Way, retracing the steps of Scottish folk hero Rob Roy. Then, journey to the majestic Stirling Castle, the former royal stronghold that played a crucial role in Scotland’s history. Choose to explore its grand halls and sweeping battlements before returning to Edinburgh in the late afternoon.

Day 4: Highlands and Scottish Legends

Board a scenic train to Inverness, the gateway to the Highlands, where a private driver awaits to transfer you to your hotel.

This afternoon, set out on a Loch Ness adventure, first by coach, tracing the loch’s legendary shores, before embarking on a tranquil boat cruise. Stop at the evocative Urquhart Castle, where medieval ruins overlook the inky waters of the loch, steeped in mystery and myth.

As evening falls, immerse yourself in the tales and traditions of the Highlands with an exclusive whisky and storytelling experience. Savor the region’s finest single malts while a master storyteller recounts ancient legends and Highland folklore, accompanied by the lilting strains of traditional music. Journey to Kingsmills Hotel to recuperate in the evening.

Day 5: The Isle of Skye

Today’s small-group journey takes you into the most breathtaking landscapes of Scotland, as you drive along the shores of Loch Ness toward the wild beauty of the Isle of Skye.

Pause at Invermoriston, where an ancient stone bridge spans a tumbling waterfall, before continuing past the Five Sisters of Kintail, a dramatic mountain range cloaked in legend. Stop at the spectacular Eilean Donan Castle, perched on a tidal island at the confluence of three lochs. Choose to explore the castle’s medieval halls before continuing onto Skye’s rugged terrain.

Drive through Glen Suardal and the Red Cuillin Hills, soaking in the otherworldly landscapes, before arriving at Elgol, a remote fishing village with breathtaking views of the Black Cuillin mountains and the wild Atlantic beyond.

Return to Inverness via the scenic Black Isle, passing through windswept Highland countryside, back to Kingsmills Hotel.

Day 6: Whisky, Industry and Heritage in Glasgow

Travel by train to Glasgow, a city that has transformed from an industrial powerhouse to a cultural capital. Upon arrival, an expert guide leads you on an immersive journey into whisky-making, beginning with the Dockside Story, where you’ll uncover the city’s deep-rooted connections to Scotland’s national drink. Step behind the scenes at Clydeside Distillery, where you’ll witness the craftsmanship behind pure new-make spirit, before sampling an exceptional range of Glasgow’s finest whiskies.

In the afternoon, visit the Kelvingrove Art Gallery & Museum, home to masterpieces by Dalí, Rembrandt, and the Glasgow Boys, along with a whimsical floating heads installation that captures the city’s creative spirit.

Enjoy a cozy stay at the Dakota Glasgow.

Day 7: A Cultural Escape

Glasgow’s vibrant streets are best explored on foot, and today, your private guide will introduce you to the city’s architectural treasures and creative energy. Walk through Merchant City, a district of former tobacco barons and tea traders, now home to boutique shops and gourmet cafés. Discover the elegant Buchanan Street, home to Scotland’s finest shopping and historic theaters, before tracing the city’s evolution through its Victorian, Art Nouveau, and modernist landmarks.

In the afternoon, indulge in a quintessentially Scottish afternoon tea at the Willow Tea Rooms, designed by the legendary Charles Rennie Mackintosh. Enjoy delicate finger sandwiches, warm scones with clotted cream and jam, and exquisite pastries, served in an elegant Art Nouveau setting that transports you to Glasgow’s golden age.

Enjoy your final evening in Scotland at the Dakota Glasgow.

Day 8: A Fond Farewell

Your journey through Scotland’s breathtaking landscapes and cultural riches comes to an end as a private driver transfers you to the airport, ensuring a seamless departure.