Spectacular Scotland - 10 Days
10 Days
Edinburgh
Glasgow
*****
Insight Luxury Gold
Experience the best of Scotland, from its dramatic Highlands and rugged islands to its rich cultural heritage, on a journey thoughtfully designed to support the environment, local communities and heritage preservation. With more MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experiences and sustainable partners than ever, this tour ensures your travels have a positive impact. Meet a descendant of Robert the Bruce at his ancestral home; visit the Balmoral Estate, a royal favourite of King Charles; and explore the revival of tartan at Prickly Thistle, Scotland’s first B-Corp certified textile mill. Search for seals, whales and seabirds in the pristine waters off Dornoch Bay and the Isle of Mull, supporting conservation-focused local operators. Unwind in luxury at Cameron House on the edge of Loch Lomond, where you can glide across the loch on an elegant champagne cruise—all while embracing a new era of responsible, high-end travel.
Itinerary
Day 1: Welcome to Edinburgh
Your tour includes private door to door transfers from your home address to your local departure Airport.
On arrival into Edinburgh Airport, your private chauffeur will meet you and whisk you off to your luxurious hotel.
This evening, dine on fine Scottish cuisine at Wedgwood The Restaurant, an intimate dining gem on Edinburgh’s historic Royal Mile.
Day 2: Edinburgh
Uncover the rich heritage of Scotland’s capital alongside your Local Expert, strolling the iconic Royal Mile to the historic St Giles’ Cathedral. Step inside Edinburgh Castle, majestically perched atop Castle Rock. Later, enjoy time at leisure to wander through Princes Street Gardens, admire the Scott Monument, or explore the masterpieces of the Scottish National Gallery.
Day 3: St Andrews and Perth
Savour a morning of exclusivity at Broomhall House, where Lord Bruce welcomes you for coffee and shares his family’s remarkable legacy. Immerse yourself in the charm of St. Andrews, the birthplace of golf and home to one of the oldest universities in the English-speaking world—where Prince William and Kate Middleton’s story began. As the day unfolds, arrive at your tranquil hotel, where impressive scenery and the stirring sound of a piper’s welcome create a truly memorable arrival.
Day 4: Perth, Culloden and Dornoch
Journey through the spectacular landscapes of Cairngorms National Park, where Scotland’s natural beauty unfolds at every turn. Explore the grounds of Balmoral Castle* with a dedicated expert, discovering the vistas beloved by the Royal Family. Or, visit Crathie Kirk, the church closely tied to royal tradition, before walking the historic battlefield of Culloden, where Bonnie Prince Charlie’s fate was sealed. This evening, dine at the elegant Dornoch Station Hotel, taking in spectacular views of the Scottish coastline.
* Should the Royal family be in residence, the visit to Balmoral Castle will be replaced with a before-hours visit of Scone Palace.
Day 5: Dornoch Sightseeing
Personalise Your Day with a choice of experiences: refine your skills with a golf lesson or explore the grandeur of Dunrobin Castle, a Highland gem. Pause at Loch Fleet Nature Reserve for a scenic viewpoint before enjoying time at leisure—stroll along Dornoch’s beach, visit its historic cathedral, or unwind in the tranquil surroundings.
Today you can select your choice of the below experiences. Your Travel Concierge will discuss and confirm your preference on trip...
Hone your skills with a professional golf lesson at one of Scotland’s legendary courses. Whether a beginner or seasoned player, refine your technique in a stunning Highland setting, perfecting your swing where the sport was born.
or
Step into the grandeur of Dunrobin Castle, Scotland’s northernmost great house. With its striking French château-inspired spires, lavish interiors and coastal gardens, this historic estate offers a fascinating glimpse into the legacy of the Dukes of Sutherland.
or
Pause at Loch Fleet on your way to Dunrobin, where pine-fringed shores frame a tranquil tidal basin. Watch for seals basking on the sandbanks and wading birds feeding in the shallows, a serene glimpse into the Highlands’ natural beauty.
Day 6: Loch Ness and Oban
Experience a MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience at Prickly Thistle, where the revival of Highland tartan supports sustainable artisans and their craft. Journey along the legendary shores of Loch Ness before exploring the wondrous landscapes of Glencoe with a wildlife ranger, another MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience. Conclude your day in Oban at the elegant Knipoch House Hotel, where sea-view rooms offer a serene retreat.
Day 7: The Isle of Mull
Explore the untamed beauty of the Isle of Mull, where dramatic coastlines and rolling hills create a haven for wildlife. Journey through this beautiful island, home to white-tailed eagles, otters and whales. Personalise Your Day by sampling fine whisky at Tobermory Distillery or take part in a MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience at the Whale and Dolphin Trust, supporting vital marine conservation efforts.
Today you can select your choice of the below experiences. Your Travel Concierge will discuss and confirm your preference on trip...
Discover the craft behind one of Scotland’s finest whiskies at Tobermory Distillery. Learn about the time-honoured distilling process before savouring a guided tasting of their distinctive single malts, each capturing the essence of the Isle of Mull.
or
Step into the world of marine conservation with the Hebridean Whale and Dolphin Trust on the Isle of Mull on this MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience. Learn how their research informs vital protection measures for whales, dolphins and porpoises while engaging communities in stewardship. Spot marine life on your return ferry and contribute to ongoing conservation efforts. Advancing United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goal 14: Life Below Water.
Day 8: Oban to Glasgow
Enjoy an exceptional Michelin-starred lunch , where inventive flavours take centre stage in the heart of Scotland. Then, retreat to the shores of Loch Lomond for a luxurious two-night stay at Cameron House, a stunning spa resort offering relaxation against a backdrop of the beautiful Highlands.
Day 9: Loch Lomond
Day 10: Farewell Scotland
Bid a fond farewell to Scotland with a private transfer to Glasgow Airport to take your flight home or extend your stay in Glasgow.
On arrival back to your UK home airport our driver will meet you and escort you to your waiting vehicle for a private door to door transfer back to your home address.
Includes
- 10 nights in handpicked 5 star hotels in great locations
- ‘Business Class’ style coaches with extended legroom and bathroom facilities (w/c)
- 24/7 personal service – knowledgeable Travel Director & expert driver
- Porterage, plus tips and gratuities at hotels and restaurants are included
- Meals as stated in the itinerary
Excludes
- Flights - please call us on 0844 80 444 80 to obtain a quote and book flights
- Pre & post nights - please call us on 0844 80 444 80 to obtain a quote and book additional nights
- Driver & Tour Director gratuities - these can be pre-paid, please ask your reservations agent when booking your tour
Choose a Group Size / Service or Room Level
Choose Your Departure Date
Prices shown above are per person based on 2 adults sharing. For single, triple, quad and child prices please call us for a quote.
Please call us on 0844 80 444 80 to check the latest up-to-date availability and to book your tour.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
How much is the deposit to secure a tour and when is the balance due?
A deposit of 10% is required when making your booking.
The balance of the holiday cost must be received by us no less than 10 weeks prior to your date of departure. Bookings made within 10 weeks of departure require full payment at the time of booking.
For some tours or if there is a special "Early Booking offer", the balance maybe due sooner than 10 weeks before departure, in this case you will be advised at time of booking when the balance due date would be.
The balance payment date will be shown on your confirmation invoice.
Payments can be made by debit card, credit card or bank transfers.
YOUR PAYMENTS TO US ARE FULLY FINANCIALLY SECURE FOR YOUR PEACE OF MIND: Where your confirmed travel arrangements include a flight and you are resident in the UK (or EU) or the flight departs from, arrives in or transits the UK, this is financially protected through our Air Travel Organiser’s Licence (ATOL) number 6874 managed by the Civil Aviation Authority, Gatwick Airport South, West Sussex, RH6 0YR, UK, telephone 0333 103 6350, email claims@caa. co.uk.
CANCELLATIONS: Cancellations t&c's can differ from operator to operator, these will be confirmed to you with your booking confirmation. For our general Terms and conditions and general cancellation details please click here.
What does the tour cost include?
The per person price listed covers all hotel accommodations, taxes, all applicable sightseeing and admissions as per the itinerary, motor coach, cruise or rail transportation, services of a professional Travel Director, all meals as shown in the itinerary and luggage handling. All tips have been included for services on trip by dining-room staff, chambermaids and porters at hotels, airports, docks and train stations.
Can i book flights through you?
Yes, we can offer competitive airfares with all the major airlines.
When booking a package with us that includes flights and a tour, your package is then fully ATOL bonded by the CAA for your full financial peace of mind.
Please call us on 0844 80 444 80 and our travel experts will be able to provide a quote for any flight requirements.
You are, of course, welcome to book flights independently but we are therefore not responsible should your flights be delayed and you miss any part of your tour or other arrangements booked with us.
Can i add additional hotel nights before or after my tour?
Many of our clients choose to add extra hotel nights to spend a little more time in their chosen destination. You can reserve additional hotel nights before or after your tour.
Please call us on 0844 80 444 80 and our travel experts will be able to provide a quote for your additional nights and assist with your requirements.
How many guests will be on this tour?
- Our small-group Luxury Gold journeys have an average of 18 guests, allowing you to enjoy a personal experience on your tour.
Can i book twin beds or triple/quad rooms?
Yes, we have options for twin (2 beds) and triple/quad room configurations.
If you a travelling in a party of three or four adult guests, please call us on 0844 80 444 80 and our travel experts will be able to provide a quote for your requirements.
For double rooms (2 guests), 1 Double/Queen or King bed is the normal, Twin beds can be requested at time of booking.
For triple rooms (3 guests) these will normally have 1 Queen/King bed and a fold out bed, or 2 Queen/King beds and a fold out bed.
For Quad rooms (4 Guests) these will normally have 2 Queen/King beds.
How much is the solo/single supplement?
Escorted tours are the perfect option if you're travelling solo, combining the camaraderie of a smaller group with the independence of a solo trip. Many tours offer solo room share options, or a competitive solo supplement.
Please call us on 0844 80 444 80 and our travel experts will be able to provide a quote for your requirements.
Do your coaches have on-board wifi and bathroom faclilites?
With group sizes of a maximum of either 24 or 40 guests across all our tours, there’s always more space in our best-in-class coaches to stretch out and relax, no matter your destination.
Travel in premium style on our fleet include Mercedes and Volvo as our brand partners of choice. And, in Europe, Britain and on select North American tours we take extra space to the next level with our exclusive ‘Business Class’ style custom coaches - our best-in-class coaches that have been custom designed with 13 fewer seats, offering up to 55% more personal space.
Our coaches offer onboard Wi-Fi, bathroom facilities (w/c), charging unites, reclining seats, air conditioning, footrests, tray tables, drink holders and seat pockets
Are gratuities included for the driver, tour director and at restaurants etc?
Gratuities are included at hotels and restaurants. And, you have the option to pre-pay your Travel Director and driver gratuities before you travel if you wish.
Please call us on 0844 80 444 80 and our travel experts will be able to provide a quote for you to pre-pay driver and tour director gratuities.
Do you offer/include Travel Insurance?
Travel insurance is not included in your tour and we do not offer travel insurance.
Please procure Travel Insurance before travelling. This will protect you and will give you peace of mind before you travel and whilst on your tour.
We suggest that your insurance covers the following:
- Cancellation or curtailment of your vacation due to medical or other reasons
- Loss or damage to your property and baggage
- Loss of cash, credit cards etc
- Medical costs and personal accidents
Certain countries require visitors to have valid medical insurance on entry and in Europe, you may find that doctor's surgeries, dentists and hospitals often require payment in cash prior to providing services. Whilst rare, medical evacuation can be exceptionally expensive.
Do remember to bring a copy of your policy, contact phone numbers and details of how to claim when you travel.
Should you choose to travel on Purely Escorted Tour without the required travel insurance, you will have full responsibility for all expenses (trip interruption, trip delay, medical expenses, quarantine expenses and emergency evacuation/repatriation) that may arise while travelling with us.
What does a guaranteed departure mean?
A guaranteed departure means the tour will operate no matter how many people are booked to travel on that departure.
In the slim case that a guaranteed departure you are booked on has to be withdrawn due to unforeseen circumstances, you are entitled to a full refund on the funds already paid, or if flexible with your time, we can move you onto another departure that suits you.
What do I need to know about border crossings, visas, entry requirements and passports?
Depending on your nationality, you may need visas to enter certain countries included on your trip. Please note that obtaining visas can take up to six weeks and so it is strongly advised that you consult your local Consulate or Embassy of the country you are visiting to determine which visas they require and how to obtain them.
Note: Purely Escorted Tours is not responsible for obtaining any necessary visas required on your tour.
Information about border crossings and visas, entry requirements varies by destination. Please check the destination you're visiting below for more information:
Europe trips:
Each guest must ensure that their passport is valid for at least six months beyond the conclusion of their trip and that they have acquired all necessary visas and permits. Multiple-entry visas may be required if you are entering a country more than once on your holiday.
Guests are advised that only the countries you plan to visit can provide up-to-date information about their specific visa requirements. Guests should contact the nearest embassy or consulate of the countries they plan to visit well in advance of travel. Please check your itinerary carefully. Remember that requirements vary based on a passport's place of issue and that the process can take time.
Check that multi-entry visas have the correct entry dates and destinations before you travel. Please be aware that with some itineraries, you may travel through a country without making an overnight stop. If this happens on your itinerary, you will still need a visa to enter/exit the country for example an ETA when transiting through UK & Ireland.
Please ensure that you carry proper identification with you at all times, as border crossings will need to see your entry documents and passports. Usually crossing borders is a very straightforward process that is managed by your Travel Director. However, be advised that you may be required to open your luggage and answer simple questions about the length of your stay, purpose of travel, etc.
United Kingdom and Northern Ireland trips incl transiting travellers:
From January 8, 2025 UK law requires travelers both entering and transiting through the UK and Northern Ireland to obtain an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) which must be obtained in advance of travel.
UK eTA applications can be made at the UK Governments official website.
USA trips incl transiting travellers:
US law requires travellers both entering and transiting through the United States are required to obtain an Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA) which must be obtained in advance of travel.
ESTA applications can be made at the U.S. Customs and Boarder Protection website.
Canada trips:
Canadian law requires travellers both entering and transiting through Canada to obtain an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) which must be obtained in advance of travel.
eTA applications can be made at the Government of Canada's website.
Rest of the World trips:
Each guest must ensure that their passport is valid for at least six months beyond the conclusion of their trip and that they have acquired all necessary visas and permits. You are responsible for obtaining all necessary visas before the departure of your guided holiday. Depending on your nationality, you may need visas to enter certain countries included on your trip. Please note that obtaining visas can take up to six weeks before your departure. It is strongly advised that you consult the local Consulate or Embassy of the country you are visiting well in advance to determine which visas they require and how to obtain them.
What if I have mobility issues?
Please notify us of any disability requiring special assistance prior to travelling. We will try our best to accommodate you throughout the tour and will inform the hotels.
What if I have food allergies?
Please advise us of any dietary requirements. We will make arrangements with our suppliers where possible.
You will also need to talk to your Travel Director at the beginning of your tour and they will do their utmost to arrange an alternative menu at the hotels and restaurants.
How much luggage can I bring?
Travelling on a Purely Escorted Tour entitles each guest to travel with one suitcase not exceeding 23kg (50lbs) in weight, with dimensions not exceeding 77.5cm (30.5in) x 56cm (22in) x 32cm (12.5in).
In addition guests may also bring one item of hand luggage that is small and light enough to be carried onto the coach and fit underneath the seat, or in the small overhead compartment above. (Luggage with adjustable handles and wheels will not fit).
Please test the weight of your baggage prior to travel. You should be able to lift and comfortably transport it for short distances.
Baggage allowances vary from airline to airline and you should check with your chosen carrier for details prior to travel.