Highlights of Scotland - 8 Days

Welcome to Scotland! Your adventure begins in Glasgow – one of Europe's most vibrant and cosmopolitan cities – with a welcome meeting at 6 pm. If you arrive early, why not get out and discover the city’s world-famous art collections, Victorian and Art Nouveau architecture or the West End’s Botanic Gardens. Maybe take a stroll along the River Clyde – once the heart of the city’s ship-building industry. After the meeting, perhaps 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 independent art spaces, this creative neighbourhood is a great area to experience Glasgow’s food scene and nightlife.

This morning, take a short walk to the train station to catch an early 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. Arrive in Fort William in the early afternoon and have time to explore this iconic town, home to the highest mountain in the UK – Ben Nevis. In the afternoon, weather permitting, you may like 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.

After breakfast, head out for your private drive from Fort William to the gorgeous Isle of Skye. Along the way, stop at the viaduct viewpoint and keep an eye out for the ‘Hogwarts Express’ steam train chugging through, as well as the Glenfinnan memorial, erected in honour of the 1745 Jacobite Rising. After, stop at the World War II Commando Monument before arriving at the Dundreggan Rewilding Centre for a guided tour that shows the restoration of the ancient pinewood forest in action. Then, it’s on to the dramatic cliffs, rugged coastlines and rolling moorland of Skye. Settle into your hotel, then have some free time to relax and take in the surroundings.

This morning, you’ll take a private tour to explore the Trotternish Peninsula – 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 sea cliff that overlooks the cascading Mealt Falls. Along the way, you might also stop at a local gallery or museum. After, return to your accommodation for a free evening. Perhaps pop into a local whisky distillery for a wee dram with some of your fellow travellers.

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 Eileen Donan Castle, which you may recognise from its many features in movies. Take a walk across the stone-arched bridge to the moss-draped inlet, where the castle sits at the meeting point of three great lochs. After spending some time snapping photos and learning about the castle’s many iterations over the centuries, continue to the charming village of Fort Augustus, located on the southern edge of the legendary Loch Ness. Set out on a scenic boat cruise on these mysterious waters (see if you can spot the elusive monster deep below!). After, head north to Inverness – the vibrant capital of the Highlands, known for its rich history and lively culture.

Today, you’ll hop 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. Weave over small islands in the river before crossing a graceful suspension bridge to complete the loop, ending 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.

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.

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.