Daily Itinerary

Days 1 to 2

Welcome to Edinburgh, world-renowned for the medieval stone buildings dotted throughout the city. Steeped in history, this capital manages to make you feel part of that history, yet engages in a most modern way.
Check into your hotel and relax before heading out to sample some of the fabulous local eateries and pubs.

In the morning you will meet at 10 am for your 2hr 15min “Secrets of the Royal Mile” walk. Included is a skip-the-line visit to Edinburgh Castle. After a wander on your own through the quaint narrow streets of the old town, enjoy a hearty Scottish Lunch. You will round out your day of history with our included Old Town Walk which takes you into the Underground Vaults. The walk is 75 mins and will leave you wanting to explore even more of this amazing city.

Days 3 to 4
Optional excursions on offer for today and tomorrow are an Outlander Tour for those fans that want to follow in the footsteps and Jamie and Claire. Harry Potter fans can join a tour that takes them to Diagon Alley, the entrance to Hogwarts. With your guide, take a magical journey into the wizarding world and engage in trivia and everything Harry Potter as you seek out film locations and other notable sites. Learn the history of the series and even more about Edinburgh itself as you walk these famous streets.

Days 5 to 7
A 90 minute drive will have you in Pitlochry for your 3 night stay at the fabulous Fonab Castle. You are in luck because today is the start of the Highland Games. This fabulous day out for all the family is a once in a lifetime opportunity to enjoy activities such as Pipe Bands, Highland Dancing, Throwing the Hammer, Tug O War, Tossing the Caber, Putting the Stone and more .

You must make a pit-stop at the Falkirk Wheel, close to Stirling. The Falkirk Wheel is the world’s only rotating boat-lift which is used to connect the Forth & Clyde and Union canals in central Scotland.

After the excitement of the Highland Games take a Highland Safari, getting you close to many amazing animals: including deer, grouse, Mountain Hare or Golden Eagle. Get a glimpse into the incredible Highland wilderness that awaits. Pitlochry is also spoiled for choice when it comes to whisky distilleries. Eradour, Blair Athol and Bells are noteworthy and close.

There are a variety of graded and marked walks to enjoy so be sure to choose one that suits you. You can hike through the lovely highlands like a local. Maybe you could even hire a Kilt for the occasion.

Last but not least is a trip to Blair Castle. With its rich history stretching back from the time of Mary Queen of Scots, through to the Civil War and the Jacobite cause to the disaster of Culloden. The Castle dates back to 1269 and has been the location of many political struggles over the centuries. Today, it’s varied past is reflected in each of the 30 rooms on display.

You are also around an hour from the Balmoral Estate which is open to visitors except when the Queen is in residence.

Day 8 to Day 10
Leave Pitlochry this morning and drive to Inverness. Your lovely hotel is just on the outskirts of the city and provides free parking. Your rental car is merely a convenience so that you can enjoy Nessie-spotting or walks in the Highlands from Pitlochry through to Loch Lomond.

The city of Inverness retains a relaxing charm and ambience. You’ll find beautiful scenery, fascinating history and a wealth of things to do and places to see. Top city attractions include Inverness Castle, Inverness Cathedral, Inverness Museum, the Art Gallery and the list goes on! The grassy river banks on both sides of the River Ness are regularly used by picnicking holidaymakers and locals alike during the summer months. The tranquil Ness Islands are perfect for a quiet stroll close to the city centre. Why not start exploring Iverness and its historic buildings by walking along the City Heritage Trail.

See some of Iverness’ most iconic sights, like St. Andrews Cathedral, Old High Church, Ness Bridge, The Old Town House or the Victorian Market. The trail has 27 must-see sights which you can follow from a map. The Scots are close to nature and you will find amazing nature and wildlife to enjoy year-round, even near the city. The Merkinch Local Nature Reserve is close and here visitors may spot roe deer and wild weasels. Bird lovers can spot a range of wading birds in the salt marsh, fresh water marsh and reed beds, as well as the occasional Osprey overhead or the elusive Kingfishers at the Muirton Pools. Of course, no visit is complete without a trip to see Loch Ness. You might just see the legendary Loch Ness Monster.

Day 11

Days 12 to 17
Head to Oban to embark Spirit of Fortitude at 3pm. The ship has a secure parking facility where your rental can be left. For the next 6 nights relax and enjoy the fine food and service provided by the renowned Royal Scottish. Begin your Majestic Skye & the Inner Hebrides 6-night cruise. Over the next week you will visit many ports of call, from the mainland to remote islands off the west coast. Beginning in Oban, you will get acquainted with the crew and passengers on-board your lovely ship and get ready to start exploring alongside them.

From Oban you’ll cruise through Oban, Tobermory, Sanna Bay, Arisaig, Mallaig, Loch Nevis, Eilean Donan Castle, Kyle of Lochalsh, Plockton, Applecross, Raasay, Portree, Scalpay, Pabay, Kylerhea, Isleornsay, Knock Castle, Clan Donald Visitor Centre and the Small Isles before returning to Oban.

Day 18
As you disembark your cruise this morning in Oban, you will jump back in the car and head for your final Scottish destination, Glasgow. Once you’ve arrived, you will hit the ground running and begin to get your bearings in this vibrant and dynamic city by grabbing a bite to eat at a bustling local pub. Perhaps go for a relaxing stroll and soak up some of that striking architecture.

Day 19 to 20
Spend the day at leisure in Glasgow. Set off from your hotel and experience what this city has on offer. You could go on a whisky tasting, book a half day walking tour and learn the ropes from a local or how about a trip to Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum. The building itself is worth the trip, not to mention the exquisite art and exhibitions. When you are feeling peckish, stop in at the famous Willow Tea Rooms.

The next morning when you have enjoyed your last Scottish breakfast and checked out of the hotel, your ‘Seasoned Scotland’ Quest comes to an end. “Don’t cry because it’s over, smile because it happened.” Dr Seuss.

Not ready to go home yet?

You can continue travelling by adding free time, extending your journey or enjoying another Quest.
We will help fit Quests and extra travel together to ensure you take advantage of your already included airfares and the add-on component pricing.

Here are some fun ideas:

Continuing in the UK head to England and explore the Lakes District National Park or the Yorkshire Dales.

You might prefer to head further south and cover the Cotswolds and Cornwall, finishing up in London before you return home.

Take a flight or the ferry over to Ireland and commence a spectacular 7 to 10 day self-drive journey, exploring dramatic landscapes and historical sights at your own pace.