Discover some of Scotland's most impressive castles on this 4-day group tour beginning and ending in Edinburgh. Wander the walls and gardens of Falkland Palace and Dunnottar Castle, journey through the captivating scenery of Royal Deeside along with it's many historic castles, visit the solemn Culloden Battlefield, the site of the last battle on British soil, and taste the whisky of Cardhu Distillery, the first pioneered by a woman.
Trip Highlights
Included
Not Included
Itinerary
Edinburgh to Aberdeen
Edinburgh - St Andrews - Aberdeen. Departing from Edinburgh, our journey takes us north across the Queensferry Crossing into the historic Kingdom of Fife. Our first stop is Falkland Palace, originally a hunting lodge for Scottish kings before its transformation into a lavish residence. Here, you can tread the same courts as Mary Queen of Scots, who famously played tennis on the world's oldest tennis court. Explore the medieval village of Falkland, also featured in the TV series Outlander.
Continuing to St Andrews, enjoy lunch and wander the charming cobbled lanes and ancient university buildings.
In the afternoon, our journey north brings us to Dunnottar Castle, a dramatic cliff-top fortress renowned as one of Scotland's iconic landmarks. Capture stunning views and hone your photography skills before heading off for a night in Aberdeen.
Please note: Check-in closes at 08:30 (tour departs at 08:45) - Edinburgh Bus Station Pick Up, Gate J and Gate K, inside Edinburgh Bus Station, St Andrew Square, Edinburgh, EH1 3DQ
Overnight: Aberdeen
Exploring Royal Deeside
Aberdeen - Royal Deeside - Aberdeen. Today, we delve into the enchanting Royal Deeside, renowned for its magnificent castles. Our first stop is Castle Fraser, a splendid example of Scottish baronial architecture. After exploring, we can wander through the picturesque 18th-century walled garden.
Next, we head to Ballater for lunch, a charming village with ties to the British royal family. In the afternoon, we visit Crathes Castle, a fairytale-like fortress with a pinkish facade and turrets. Explore the haunted halls and vibrant gardens at your leisure with stunning views of the castle amidst colourful blooms.
We return to Aberdeen for another night.
Overnight: Aberdeen | Breakfast
Fyvie Castle and Culloden Battlefield
Aberdeen - Elgin - Nairn. Our journey north begins with a visit to the historic Fyvie Castle, boasting a rich history dating back to the 13th century and housing impressive collections of arms, armour, and tapestries. Continuing through picturesque scenery, we reach Elgin for lunch. History enthusiasts can admire the intricate carvings of a weathered Pictish stone on the grounds of the ruined Elgin Cathedral.
In the afternoon, we visit the solemn Culloden Battlefield, the site of the final Jacobite Rising. Pay homage to those who lost their lives in the tragic battle, the last fought on British soil.
Afterward, we travel to Nairn for our overnight stay.
Overnight: Nairn | Breakfast
Return to Edinburgh
Nairn - Edinburgh. We journey south through Scotland's breathtaking scenery, beginning with a visit to Cardhu Distillery, the first pioneered by a woman, Helen Cumming, offering a taste of its rich and slightly fruity whisky.
Passing through Kingussie, we may pause for a quick photo at Ruthven Barracks before reaching Blair Castle. We explore this historic site, delving into the history of Mary Queen of Scots, admiring the ballroom adorned with 175 antlers, and strolling through the 9-acre Georgian garden.
Continuing through the lush landscapes of Perthshire, renowned for its remarkable woodlands, we take a break in one of the picturesque towns before returning to Edinburgh in the evening, crossing over the Firth of Forth.
Please note: This tour ends at 18:30 - Edinburgh Bus Station Drop Off, Gate J and Gate K, Edinburgh Bus Station, St Andrew Square, Edinburgh, EH1 3DQ
Breakfast
Prices & Dates
Departure dates are guaranteed with 2 travellers. 'Twin/Double' prices are per person when there are 2 people on the same booking sharing a room. 'Single' prices are applicable to solo travellers and anyone wanting the privacy of their own room.
Prices & Dates
Departure dates are guaranteed with 2 travellers. 'Twin/Double' prices are per person when there are 2 people on the same booking sharing a room. 'Single' prices are applicable to solo travellers and anyone wanting the privacy of their own room.
At a Glance
