Day 1-2 DEPART CANADA
Overnight flight to Edinburgh.
Day 2-3 ARRIVE EDINBURGH (2 NIGHTS)
Welcome to bonnie Scotland! Relax after your journey or explore this rugged, fascinating capital city. This evening, meet your companions and Travel Director at a Welcome Pub Reception, which includes a typical Scottish pub meal and drinks.(Welcome Reception)
Day 3-4 EDINBURGH SIGHTSEEING AND FREE TIME
Visit the impressive apartments at Edinburgh Castle during your morning sightseeing tour with an expert Local Guide. See the Royal Mile, the 18th century New Town with its classical facades, the new Scottish Parliament building and Princes Street. Spend the afternoon seeing the sights on your own. Use your included 'hop-on hop-off' sightseeing ticket or perhaps take an excursion to the mysterious Rosslyn Chapel, full of wonderful carvings and references to the Knights Templar. Consider a walk upon Arthur’s Seat, a highland landscape steeped in folklore with stunning panoramic views across the city. During the Edinburgh Festival, your visit will include tickets to the dazzling Edinburgh Tattoo. This evening, consider a traditional Scottish night out.(Full Breakfast)
Day 4-5 EDINBURGH - ST. ANDREWS - CULLODEN - INVERNESS (2 NIGHTS)
Cross the Firth of Forth to St. Andrews, home of golf and site of the Royal and Ancient Golf Club where the game has been played since 1552. Take a picture at the 18th hole. See the ecclesiastical ruins in the town. Past Dundee and Perth, through Pitlochry, a charming highland town, to Blair Atholl on the edge of the Cairngorms National Park. See Blair Castle, the ancient seat of the Dukes and Earls of Atholl, which houses the headquarters of the Atholl Highlanders, Europe's only private army. Visit Culloden Moor, where Bonnie Prince Charlie’s army was defeated by the redcoats, ending his aspirations to the throne.(Full Breakfast / Dinner)
Day 5-6 HIGHLANDS AND ISLE OF SKYE EXCURSION
Photograph the picturesque Loch Ness from its shores and see if you can spot the fabled monster! Following Loch Cluanie through Glen Shiel, visit Eilean Donan Castle, built as a defence against Viking marauders. Cross the bridge connecting Kyle of Lochalsh with the Isle of Skye. Hear romantic tales of Flora MacDonald and her daring rescue of Bonnie Prince Charlie as you traverse the beautiful Cuillin Hills. Dine tonight at your hotel in Inverness.(Full Breakfast / Dinner)
Day 6-7 INVERNESS - GLASGOW (2 NIGHTS)
Admire views of Ben Nevis, Britain’s highest peak. See the site of the tragic massacre at Glencoe in 1692, where scores of the MacDonald clan were ruthlessly cut down for not pledging allegiance to the King. Pass the Clan Memorial where wreaths of remembrance are laid every year. A scenic drive along Loch Lomond brings you to the beautiful Glengoyne whisky distillery for an included tour and tasting. Later arrive in Glasgow for a two night stay.(Full Breakfast)
Day 7-8 GLASGOW ORIENTATION AND LOWLANDS EXCURSION
See the iconic sights of Glasgow, a former titan of commerce and industry. Visit St. Mungo's Cathedral, dedicated to the patron saint and founder of the city. In Alloway, see the birthplace of Scotland’s greatest poet, Robbie Burns. View his monument and the famous Brig O’Doon. Visit Culzean Castle, a neoclassical mansion perched dramatically on a cliff on the Ayshire coast, which is the ancestral home of the Kennedy family. Experience a Farewell Be My Guest Dinner tonight with your travel companions in Glasgow.(Full Breakfast / Be My Guest dinner)
Day 8-9 GLASGOW - CANADA
After a hearty Scottish breakfast, bid farewell to your Travel Director and companions as your holiday in Scotland comes to an end. Transfers are available. Conditions apply.(Full Breakfast)