Overview
Itinerary
Welcome to Glasgow!
Meet your Tour Director and travel companions at 6 pm for a welcome dinner at your hotel. (D)
Sculpted Horses & Scottish Heroines
Your grand tour of Scotland starts with a visit to The Kelpies, the world's largest equine sculptures. Discover two prominent sites featured in the popular TV series Outlander. Follow your Local Guide through the cobbled streets of the Royal Burgh of Culross, and then visit the stunning ruins of Linlithgow Palace, birthplace of Mary, Queen of Scots. Arrive in Edinburgh, your base for the next three nights. (B) 72 mi / 116 km.
TOUR HIGHLIGHT - CULTURE & TRADITION: The Royal Burgh of Culross is considered one of Scotland's most picturesque examples of life in the 17th and 18th centuries. No wonder it is the filming location for many film and television productions, as well as an inspiring destination for history lovers. Its well-preserved buildings with red-tiled roofs line steep cobblestone streets from the market cross to the hilltop abbey.
Traditions & Treasures
Morning city sightseeing with a Local Guide introduces you to the 200-year-old “New Town” and the famous scientists, inventors, and novelists who lived there. In the “Old Town,” visit Edinburgh Castle to admire Scotland's Crown Jewels. The afternoon is free to enjoy the Scottish capital at your own pace. (B)
TOUR HIGHLIGHT - HISTORIC SPOT: Edinburgh Castle, one of the most important historical strongholds in the Kingdom of Scotland, rules with a 1,100-year history as “the most besieged place in Great Britain.” Here, you'll find the royal regalia and Scotland's Crown Jewels.
Regal Manors & Royal Music
Today's excursion introduces you to parts of the Scottish Lowlands and Border Counties. Head to Abbotsford House to enjoy a guided tour of the home of novelist and poet Sir Walter Scott. It contains an impressive collection of historic relics, weapons, and armor, as well as an extensive library with over 9,000 rare volumes. Return to Edinburgh via Melrose. (B) 80 mi / 129 km.
TOUR HIGHLIGHT - THE ROYAL EDINBURGH MILITARY TATTOO: Unpack your plaid! Edinburgh Military Tattoo performances included on select departures.
LEGENDARY LIVES The 19th century comes alive with echoes of triumph and tragedy at Abbotsford House, where Scottish legend Sir Walter Scott became the biggest-selling author of his day and the fashion for Scots baronial architecture began. Learn how the “Great Scott” popularized tartan, saved the Scottish banknote, and reclaimed his country's Crown Jewels.Scottish Highlands & Scenic Drives
Continue your Scottish adventure by traveling over the elegant Forth Road Bridge and on to the university town of St. Andrews, famous also as the home of golf. From there, on to the Victorian mountain resort of Pitlochry. Enjoy time in the picturesque town before a visit to the Blair Athol whisky distillery. A scenic drive through the Grampian Mountains and Cairngorms National Park brings you to Inverness. (B/D) 200 mi / 325 km.
TOUR HIGHLIGHT - ICONIC FOOTSTEPS: See the fairways and greens at the birthplace of golf, where legendary players of the Scottish game made history in the university town of St. Andrews.
Spend your day your way in Inverness
Explore the Highlands this morning with your choice of included Globus Choice Excursions.
- HIGHLAND HAUNTS - Join your Local Guide for a walking tour of Inverness, known as the Highland Capital. Stroll along the banks of the River Ness and past historical buildings and monuments to hear fascinating historical stories of legends and lore.
- SCOTTISH STORIES & LORE - See the Bronze-Age chamber tomb site of Clava Cairns, the 4,000-year-old prehistoric cemetery familiar to fans of the Outlander series. Visit the romantic Cawdor Castle, the ancestral home of the Campbells of Cawdor but better known for its literary connection to Shakespeare's "Macbeth."
Later a visit to the Culloden battlefield and visitor center to hear the story of the crushing Hanoverian victory over Bonnie Prince Charlie's Scottish clans. There will be some free time this afternoon. (B) 45 mi / 70 km.
Gardens & Grandeur
Continuing further north following the coast road to the magnificently situated Dunrobin Castle, one of the great houses of the Highlands. On arrival in Thurso, the most northerly town on Britain's mainland, enjoy some free time before dinner. (B/D) 109 mi / 176 km.
TOUR HIGHLIGHT - HISTORIC SPOT: Perched in the Northern Highlands overlooking the Moray Firth is Dunrobin Castle, the historic home of the Earls and Dukes of Sutherland. One of the oldest continuously inhabited “Scottish great houses,” the castle evokes images of a French château with towering spires and grand gardens inspired by the Palace of Versailles.
Breathtaking Views & Brews
A fascinating day full of adventure. Head by ferry to the Orkney Islands for a day's sightseeing including the Old Man of Hoy, Skara Brae and Skaill House, the Ring of Brodgar and Kirkwall. Enjoy a guided tour of the Orkney Brewery with a light lunch at the Tasting Hall café, before taking the return ferry back to the mainland in the late afternoon. (B/L/D) 47 mi / 76 km.
LOCAL FAVORITE - LEGENDS & LORE: Orcadian water, the best malt, hops, and yeast are the only four ingredients of hand-crafted ales such as Orkney Dark Island, Northern Light and the world-famous Skull Splitter named after a vicious Orkney Earl. Join a guided tour of the brewery and learn the traditions of beer making and a long, long history of brewing quality ales.
Scottish Fish Stories
A day to sit back and enjoy breathtakingly wild and unspoiled scenery, some of the finest in Britain. The northern coast is lined with miles of yellow-sand beaches and pristine estuaries, and the hills and mountains take on a purple hue as the summer progresses. This is Scotland at its best! Drive to the fishing port of Ullapool, where you enjoy a traditional fish & chips lunch at a local restaurant. Late-afternoon arrival on the Inner Hebridean Isle of Skye. (B/L/D) 219 mi / 353 km.
LOCAL FAVORITE - LOCAL TASTES: Walk along the whitewashed cottages with views of lovely Loch Broom in the charming harbor town of Ullapool. Feast on traditional fish and chips, a Scottish specialty that never fails to satisfy.
Sea & Skye
Striking landscapes, unusual rock formations, and dramatic waterfalls will capture your attention on your drive around the Trotternish Peninsula. Visit the thatch-roofed cottages at the Museum of Island Life, close to the last resting place of Highland heroine Flora MacDonald. Follow the spectacular coast route, before stopping for free time in the picturesque island capital of Portree. Take in the views of the Cuillin Hills as you return to your hotel. (B/D)
100 mi / 161 km.
TOUR HIGHLIGHT - NATURAL WONDERS: Magic abounds on the Isle of Skye, home to some of Scotland's most iconic landscapes to enchant the senses. With magnificent mountain ranges, miles of captivating coastline, and heroic history, Skye casts a spell with its breathtaking beauty and sense of island adventure.
Brave Lads & Bonnie Lands
Start today with a visit to the Museum of the Isles and discover the story of Clan Donald, Scotland's most powerful clan, before returning by ferry across the Sound of Sleat to the mainland. At Glenfinnan, see the monument to the fallen Jacobite clansmen and the famous viaduct, featured in the Harry Potter films. A scenic drive via Fort William, the gateway to Ben Nevis, the UK's highest peak and Glen Coe, takes you to Oban. (B/D) 109 mi / 175 km.
TOUR HIGHLIGHT - HISTORIC SPOT: Long before it was made famous by the Harry Potter films, the Glenfinnan Viaduct was hailed one of the most visually stunning railways in Scotland. Flanked by rolling green hills that are home to the iconic Scottish red deer, the elevated curves of the longest concrete railway in Scotland traverses through a world of adventure and history.
Highland Isles & Miles
A day's excursion to the best of Scotland's western isles. Take a ferry to the Isle of Mull for a scenic drive across the island before another crossing to the fascinating Isle of Iona, and a visit to Iona Abbey before returning to the mainland. (B/D) 75 mi / 121 km.
TOUR HIGHLIGHT - PICTURE PERFECT: Called “Eagle Island” by wildlife watchers, the Isle of Mull is a paradise for birds of prey keeping a watchful eye on the wonderful wild landscapes below. Watch for Scottish red deer, iconic Highland cattle, and rolling hills that paint a picture of quintessential Scotland.
Glasgow Sights & Grand Heights
Take a scenic drive over the mountainous Pass of Brander, then travel from Inveraray to the “Bonnie Banks” of Loch Lomond where there will be the opportunity for a photo stop. Head back to Glasgow and enjoy an orientation drive including the 12th-century cathedral, university buildings, and Georgian Squares. There's free time before a farewell dinner at your hotel. (B/D) 108 mi / 174 km.
TOUR HIGHLIGHT - HISTORIC SPOTS: In Scotland's most populous city, Glasgow's uniquely rich architectural heritage ranges from 19th-century masterpieces to the modern designs of the unique style of Glasgow-born Charles Rennie Mackintosh. Discover exciting experiences around every corner!
Safe travels until we meet again!
Your vacation ends with breakfast this morning. (B)
Trip Inclusions
- Guided walking tour of the Royal Burgh of Culross
- Guided sightseeing in Edinburgh with visit to Edinburgh Castle and the Scottish Crown Jewels
- Admission to The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo (2026: August 8, 15 and 22 departures)
- Guided tour of Sir Walter Scott's Abbotsford House
- Visit to Blair Atholl whisky distillery
- Globus Choice Excursions in Inverness – included in your tour your choice of a visit to Cawdor Castle and Clava Cairns or a guided walking tour of Inverness
- Visit to Culloden Moor Visitor Centre and battlefield
- Visit to Dunrobin Castle and Gardens
- Excursion to the Orkney Islands, including lunch and a guided tour of The Orkney Brewery
- Traditional Fish and Chips lunch in Ullapool
- Visits to the Museum of Island Life and the Museum of the Isles on the Isle of Skye
- Excursion to the Isles of Mull and Iona
- Orientation drive in Glasgow
- 13 Breakfasts, 2 Lunches, 9 Dinners
- Glasgow: DoubleTree by Hilton Glasgow Central (Superior First-Class):
DoubleTree by Hilton - Glasgow is a luxury hotel in Glasgow city center. It is ideally located for the Central Train Station and for all the sights and special events that make Glasgow so unique. The hotel is within a short distance of the fashionable boutiques and restaurants of Princes Square, the roar of Hampden Park for football or music events and the 'Armadillo' for concerts. - Edinburgh: Hilton Edinburgh Carlton (Superior First-Class):
The grand, classically designed Carlton has an excellent central location just off the Royal Mile and is equidistant between the castle and Holyrood Palace. With 189 spacious air-cooling rooms, the hotel is an ideal base from which to explore the city. It offers the elegant Bridge Restaurant, a cocktail bar, a fitness suite with Techno gym equipment, swimming pool, sauna, steam room spa, and a squash court. - Inverness: AC Hotel by Marriott Inverness (Superior First-Class):
Where the River Ness meets the Moray Firth, AC Hotel Inverness, the largest hotel in the city, offers modern accommodation in the heart of the Scottish Highlands. This perfectly positioned hotel is only a short walk from Inverness Railway Station and the finest shopping and sightseeing spots. Our thoughtfully designed guest rooms offer modern decor, flexible workspace, free Wi-Fi, a smart TV and plenty of space to unwind or focus before your meeting in a calm environment. The perfect blend of form and functions for a stay in Inverness. Start the day with a European-style breakfast and end it with hand crafted cocktails at the AC Lounge. The restaurant completes the offer with tapas-style bites and local flavors, perfectly paired with iconic views across the river. After a long day of exploring the legend of Loch Ness, let us pour you a glass of our signature gin tonic whilst you welcome a moment of tranquility on our riverside terrace. Unfold an enriching stay in one of Scotland's most picturesque cities. - Thurso: St Clair Hotel (Superior Tourist-Class):
Unpack and relax in your room. All 34 rooms are freshly decorated and have the essential direct dial telephone, television with Freeview, hairdryer, hospitality tray and en suite shower rooms with complimentary toiletries. - Isle of Skye: Dunollie Hotel (First-Class):
The Dunollie Hotel is set by the serene waterside of Broadford Bay, at the foot of the mountains that lead to the famous Cuillin Hills. With 84 en suite bedrooms, a bar and restaurant, it is perfectly placed to explore an area rich in history. - Oban: Oban Bay Hotel (Superior First-Class):
On the edge of Oban's picturesque esplanade in the heart of Argyll, Oban Bay Hotel is an ideal base for exploring Scotland's west coast and the Highlands. Following a multi-million pound investment the hotel and its restaurant have a fresh modern look. The remodelled spa area features a sauna, steam room, hydropool and treatments from organic Scottish skincare brand ishga. All rooms are en-suite and include a hospitality tray, Scottish toiletries and hairdryer, with front-facing rooms and the hotel's spacious sun lounge offering panoramic views of incredible sunsets over the bay. - Glasgow: Radisson Blu Glasgow (Superior First-Class):
Offering free high-speed, wireless Internet access throughout, the hotel compromises 250 rooms with complimentary amenities like iPod docking stations, bathrobes and slippers. Collage Restaurant, two stylish bars, access to LA Fitness and a first floor dedicated solely to meetings and events round out the offerings. Glaswegian hospitality and Radisson Blu service standards blend to offer guests a memorable, upscale stay.
- Airport transfers at your arrival and departure destination are not included in the price of the tour.
- Itinerary and inclusions subject to change.
- Price is for land, cruise and specified internal flights. International flights not included.
- This tour requires some uphill walking on rough terrain at Edinburgh Castle which may pose a challenge to guests with physical limitations or reliant on mobility devices such as wheelchairs. Some walking involved back to the hotel after the Edinburgh Tattoo for departures that include the Tattoo.
- We encourage all guests to prebook their preferred included Globus Choice Excursions to ensure your selection is available. If your preference is not selected 35 days prior to departure, we will select a Choice excursion on your behalf based on availability.
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Trip Reviews (15) View All Most Recent 'Scottish Highlands & Islands' Reviews
This was a thorough tour of Scotland and all things Scottish.
Spectacular scenery, great excursions, despite some early starts it was well worth it because we would arrive before places got extra crowded, and in some places it had been arranged that we could enter before opening time - a real bonus in peak holiday season. The itinerary was great with a good variety of castles, scenery, highlands and islands. We would have no hesitation in recommending both Global Journeys and Globus Tours.
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Globus Worldwide (2025-26)
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