Scotland: Heritage Cities and Loch Ness

Discover this lovely city on an enjoyable walk along the historical stretch of Edinburgh’s Royal Mile. Meet your local guide at the popular Mercat Cross on Edinburgh’s High Street. The tour makes use of a wireless audio system for the length of the walk. Get ready to soak yourself in colorful Highland history with the true tales of Mary Queen of Scots, David Hume, Adam Smith and Robert Burns. Follow your guide past little-known sights along the Royal Mile, through public wynds, private closes, ancient courtyards and stately old homes of the picturesque Old Town. Steep yourself in the historic ambiance, with tales of this old city’s heroic past, thrilling crimes, energetic politics and everyday life. Pay a visit to the iconic Edinburgh Castle or continue on to the esplanade on Castlehill, as per your preference. Learn how this royal Highland residence has variously served as military barracks and political stronghold down the years, especially during the Jacobite rebellion. Explore the hoary halls and walk around the sprawling grounds. Make your way back to your hotel after the enjoyable trip. (Duration: 2.15 hrs; Timing: 1000/ 1300 hrs; Shared Activity; No Transfer Included; Fitness level: Moderate; Please wear comfortable walking shoes & bring your own headphones if you wish.)

Start at a convenient time as you head out to discover some of the fascinating experiences that await you in the beautiful city of Edinburgh. You could walk up to Calton Hill and savor splendid views of the city’s iconic landmarks. Or, you could pop into one of the many museums in the city for some history and literary insights. If you relish stand-up comedy, you are in the right place to catch a good show at one of the dedicated clubs or at one of the free events in town that are conducted regularly. Stroll down Saint Stephen Street or the Stockbridge area if shopping is at the top of your list. Before you wind up your tour, be sure to savor authentic local flavors at a classic Scottish pub that also offers live folk music performances. (Half Day; Self Organized Activity; No Guide; No Transfers Included; No Admission; Fitness Level: Easy.)

Set out on a quest of the Holy Grail on this tour of medieval abbeys that trace their roots back to the legendary Knights Templar and the mysterious order of the Freemasons. Meet your local guide at the popular Rabbie’s Cafe Bar at Edinburgh’s Waterloo Place. Drive down to the lovely Tweed Valley, overlooked by Scott’s View. Don’t miss this chance to stop by the old statue of the legendary Scottish hero, William Wallace. Wind your way along the Highlands to the quaint little Scottish border town of Melrose, home to the ruined old Melrose Abbey, built in the 12th century by the Cistercian monks. The Abbey is said to contain relics of the legendary Robert the Bruce, who had fought in the Crusades. Take a lunch break at Melrose, before heading out to yet another medieval Scottish monument. Made famous by author Dan Brown’s ‘The Da Vinci Code’, the elegant Rosslyn Chapel still stands shrouded in legends and mysterious symbolism. Who knows, maybe you could chance upon a Holy Grail of your own at this 15th century stone structure? Return to Edinburgh, with mysterious secrets buried deep within your soul! (Full Day; Duration: 7-8 hrs; Timing: 0920 hrs; Shared Activity; No Transfer Included; Lunch included; Fitness level: Easy; Please inform ahead in case of special dietary needs and please wear comfortable walking shoes.)

Head out from Inverness and travel along the Caledonian Canal to unravel the mysteries of the renowned Loch Ness region in this day tour. At Loch Ness, take your pick of two activities to enjoy the beauty of the large freshwater lake. Go on an hour-long cruise around the loch or opt for the half-hour cruise to Urquhart Castle, where you can step ashore and explore the ancient ruins. Travel the short distance to Drumnadrochit, a quaint village that is home to Nessieland center, with exhibits on the mythical monster believed to inhabit the depths of the loch. Enjoy a short break for lunch before you journey on to the charming hamlet of Invermoriston. Travel along the southwest side of the loch to its furthest point, Fort Augustus, to watch the boats sail in on the Caledonian Canal. Enjoy the unique experience of traveling along single track Highland roads till you reach the small community of Foyers. Enjoy a downhill stroll amid soaring pine trees to reach the beautiful Falls of Foyers. Soak in the stunning view of the falls that were a favorite haunt of famous poet Robert Burns, and try to spot the elusive red squirrel. Drive on to the vantage viewpoint at Dores for spectacular views of the loch and the Great Glen rift valley. Return to Inverness in the early evening. (Full Day; Times: 10 hrs; Duration: 7 hrs; 30 min drive time; Shared Activity; No Transfers Included; Fitness Level: Easy. Please arrive at the departure point at least 20 minutes before scheduled departure time.)

Start early as you head out of the city towards Loch Ness. Travel along the Great Glen Fault Line to the magnificent freshwater lake, famed for its mythical monster, Nessie. Take a brief break in the picturesque region of Invermoriston to stretch your legs. Drive past the spectacular landscape of the Highlands as you wind your way westward to the gorgeous 13th-century Eilean Donan Castle. Explore Scotland’s most photographed castle or simply savor the stunning views. Resume your journey to go across the sea to the Isle of Skye. Pass over the red-hued Cuillin Mountains to reach the cozy settlement of Sligachan. Capture awe-inspiring photographs of the clear mountain water before continuing your drive to Portree town. Enjoy a meal at one of the many charming restaurants in town before you explore Trotternish Peninsula. From the breathtakingly beautiful Old Man of Storr to the ancient cliffs of Kilt Rock and the Quiraing landslip, soak in the mysticism of these natural wonders. Relish refreshments in Kyleakin village and choose to visit the ruins of Moil Castle or go across Skye Bridge to Eilean Ban. Explore to your heart’s content before starting on your return journey along a different route that lets you fully enjoy the scenic beauty of the Highland countryside. (Full Day; Times: 0800 hrs; Duration: 12hrs; Shared Activity; No Transfers Included; Fitness Level: Easy. Please arrive at the departure point at least 20 minutes before scheduled departure time.)

Get a glimpse of local life as you set out to explore Scotland’s biggest city on your own. Saunter around Barras Market in the East End or the crafts market in Merchant Square and mingle with the local community. You could also explore your pick of museums or stop by one of the many theaters for an interesting show. Sample local gastronomical delights at one of the trendy restaurants in the hip Ashton Lane area or head to the cozy pubs serving excellent malt whiskeys. Head to one of the public parks for a leisurely stroll and take along a blanket so you can bask in the sun a while as you people watch. If you are looking for a more active pursuit, you could rent a bike and ride down the trails winding around the park. (Half Day; Self Organized Activity; No Guide; No Transfers Included; No Admission; Fitness Level: Easy.)

What a perfect way to enjoy Glasgow’s sights – over traditional afternoon tea as you are driven around on the iconic Red Bus Bistro. Settle yourself on the top deck for a 360° view of the historic and cultural attractions of the city. Accompany these fascinating sights with a culinary indulgence beyond compare as you tuck into scrumptious scones served with home-made jam and freshly whipped cream. Choose your favorite bites from a selection of finger sandwiches, petit fours and mini quiches. Treat your tastebuds to the flavors and textures of Scottish smoked salmon blinis after which you can nibble on mini Victoria sponges and delectable meringues. Wash all this down with unlimited cups of tea and coffee till you come to the end of your hearty afternoon tea tour. (Half day; Duration: 90 mins; Shared Activity; No Transfer Included; Fitness Level: Easy.)

This tour brings together two of Scotland’s chief attractions – the Loch Lomond and Scotch whisky. Kickstart the day with an invigorating drive to the Scottish Highlands. Breathe in the crisp mountain air, which evokes tales of gallantry and fierce independence, for this is where legendary Scottish heroes like Robert Bruce and William Wallace fought, loved, and lived. Take in the spectacular horizon at the Loch Lomond, where towering ranges frame the expanse of glittering blue water. It is now time to head indoors to quench your thirst, and what better way to do that in Scotland than with Scotch whisky! Arrive at the Glengoyne Distillery, famous for its Highlands Single Malt Whisky since 1833. Learn more about their traditional way of producing whisky with pure volcanic water, which gives the spirit its unique color, taste and aroma. Take this opportunity to sample some of the finest whiskeys from the Distillery. With your senses satiated, it is now time to head back to Glasgow. (Half Day; Duration: 4 hrs; Time: 0900/ 1345 hrs; Private Activity; No Transfer Included; Fitness Level: Easy.)