Tour Overview
Embark on an unforgettable 8-day journey through Scotland’s rich history, vibrant culture, and awe-inspiring landscapes. Starting in Edinburgh, travel through the rolling hills and ancient pine forests of Perthshire, the dramatic Highlands, and the ruggedly beautiful west coast, with stops in two national parks. Feel the warmth of Scottish hospitality with a traditional ‘wee dram’ and marvel at the country’s natural wonders, including a visit to the fabled Loch Ness, perhaps you’ll catch a glimpse of the legendary Nessie! Wander through tranquil rural islands and relax in the charm of a historic country manor house. Learn about vital conservation efforts to restore Scotland’s native forests, step back in time at Blair Castle, a 700-year-old treasure, and the Highland Folk Museum, where Scotland’s ancestral stories are brought vividly to life. Fans of Outlander will recognize this setting, featured in several scenes of the series. Your journey concludes back in Edinburgh, where a unique walking tour reveals the city’s hidden gems and untold stories through the eyes of passionate local guides. This is more than a holiday, it’s a deep dive into the heart of Scotland, leaving you with unforgettable memories and a true connection to this extraordinary land. ...more ...less
Highlights
Itinerary
Day 1: Dunkeld
Location: Dunkeld
Accommodation: Dunkeld House Hotel or similar
Accommodation Name: Dunkeld House Hotel or similar
Meals Included: Dinner
Welcome to Scotland! Your journey begins in Edinburgh, the nation’s vibrant capital and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Famous for its medieval charm, cobbled streets, the iconic Edinburgh Castle, and as the birthplace of Harry Potter. Whether you’ve been exploring Edinburgh or are just arriving, meet your local leader and fellow travellers at Edinburgh Airport at 1:30 pm. From there, you’ll head north on a private transfer, crossing the impressive Queensferry Crossing with its striking views of the Firth of Forth. Your first stop is a local distillery, where you’ll enjoy a whisky tasting, a perfect way to break the ice and immerse yourself in Scotland’s rich heritage. Afterward, continue to your hotel in the picturesque village of Dunkeld, nestled on the banks of the River Tay, Scotland’s longest river. Once settled, join your guide for a welcome briefing to kick off your adventure before enjoying a delicious welcome dinner with your group.
Included Activities:
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Day 2: Dunkeld
Location: Dunkeld
Accommodation: Dunkeld House Hotel or similar
Accommodation Name: Dunkeld House Hotel or similar
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch
Perthshire, often called the "Gateway to the Highlands," is a stunning region in central Scotland, known for its lush landscapes, rolling hills, and picturesque glens. Take a morning walk in a captivating, local, woodland area, known as the Hermitage. The Hermitage was initially crafted in the 18th century as a pleasure ground for the Dukes of Atholl. Its forest paths are flanked by towering ancient pines, leading to crashing waterfalls, where the River Braan plunges into deep, frothy pools below. Overlooking the falls stands a picturesque folly, a perfect spot to admire the powerful and cascading falls. Later in the afternoon, visit a local nature reserve, a tranquil haven for wildlife enthusiasts and nature lovers. This 130-hectare reserve is centred around a large freshwater loch surrounded by woodlands and wetlands, creating a rich and diverse ecosystem. The reserve is best known for its iconic ospreys, which return each spring to breed. The evening is free to explore the local restaurants and pubs.
Included Activities:
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Day 3: Inverness
Location: Inverness
Accommodation: Kingsmills Hotel or similar
Accommodation Name: Kingsmills Hotel or similar
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Today begins with a tour of Blair Castle, a true treasure with over 700 years of captivating history. Its evolving architecture, combined with the serenity of its beautifully maintained gardens, offers a perfect blend of heritage and natural beauty, a delightful immersion into Scotland’s storied past. From there, head north toward the breathtaking Cairngorms National Park, with a stop at a living history museum to explore the lives of Highland ancestors. The Highland Folk Museum brings history to life, showcasing how the people of the Scottish Highlands lived, worked, and dressed through the centuries. Then it is on to Inverness, the cultural heart of the Scottish Highlands. With a history stretching back more than a thousand years, the city has played a pivotal role in events like the Jacobite risings of the 17th and 18th centuries. The late afternoon and evening are yours to explore at your leisure.
Included Activities:
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Day 4: Argyll
Location: Argyll
Accommodation: Loch Melfort Hotel or similar
Accommodation Name: Loch Melfort Hotel or similar
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
After breakfast, embark on a journey to one of Scotland's most legendary and mysterious sites, Loch Ness. This vast freshwater loch spans around 23 miles and plunges to a depth of over 750 feet. Holding more water than all the lakes in England and Wales combined, Loch Ness is also famous for its elusive resident, the mythical creature ‘Nessie’. Here, embark on a relaxing boat cruise and take in the stunning expanse of this iconic loch. In the afternoon, visit to Dundreggan, a stunning estate rich in diverse landscapes, including woodlands, heathlands, and wetlands. The area is home to important conservation efforts, particularly through the Trees for Life charity, which is dedicated to rewilding the land and restoring native Caledonian pinewood forests. Learn about these vital conservation initiatives, as well as the reintroduction of native species, while exploring scenic trails and enjoying birdwatching in this tranquil natural haven. From here, head west to the harbor town of Oban, known for its picturesque harbour, breathtaking views of nearby islands, and vibrant seafood scene. Upon arrival, check in and take some time to settle into your surroundings.
Included Activities:
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Day 5: Argyll
Location: Argyll
Accommodation: Loch Melfort Hotel or similar
Accommodation Name: Loch Melfort Hotel or similar
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch
Leaving the hotel, it’s a short drive to the 18th-century arched bridge known as the ‘Bridge Over the Atlantic,’ which connects the mainland to the Isle of Seil. Seil and Easdale are two picturesque islands off the west coast of Scotland, linked by this aptly named bridge. Seil, the larger island, features lush landscapes, charming villages, and stunning coastal views. With a population of just 500 people, it really feels like the edge of the world. From here, board a tiny ferry that whisks us across the strait to the even smaller island of Easdale, home to only 50 residents. You’ll explore both islands, soaking in their natural beauty, fascinating history, and tranquil atmosphere - ideal for a peaceful retreat - before heading back to your hotel on the mainland, where the evening is free to enjoy the vibrant scene of Oban.
Included Activities:
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Day 6: Edinburgh
Location: Edinburgh
Accommodation: Carberry Tower (Feature Stay) or similar
Accommodation Name: Carberry Tower (Feature Stay) or similar
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch
Start your day with a hearty breakfast before heading to Kilmartin Glen, one of Scotland’s most significant prehistoric sites. This remarkable valley is home to over 350 ancient monuments, including standing stones, burial cairns, and stone circles, some dating back over 5,000 years. A private guide will take you through the glen, offering insight into the fascinating history of the site, from its role in Neolithic and Bronze Age rituals to its importance in Scotland’s early cultural development. After a brief stop at Loch Lomond continue south, arriving at our historic mansion house. Carberry Tower, dating back to the 15th century, was originally built as a country house and later expanded. Its historical significance is tied to the Jacobite Rising of 1745, with the surrounding area being the site of the surrender of Prince Charles Edward Stuart’s forces during the rebellion. One of the highlights is the Victorian walled garden, which has been lovingly restored. Tonight is free to wander around the grounds and maybe grab dinner at the onsite bistro.
Included Activities:
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Day 7: Edinburgh
Location: Edinburgh
Accommodation Name: Carberry Tower (Feature Stay) or similar
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Today, return to Edinburgh for a walking tour with a difference. The Invisible Cities tour offers a unique perspective on the city’s hidden stories and history. The initiative empowers (mostly homeless) individuals by providing training and employment as guides, raising awareness about homelessness and fostering social inclusion. Through personal stories, the guides challenge stereotypes, encourage empathy, and share fascinating insights and historic details about this iconic city. With the afternoon free, why not explore the quirky independent shops on Market Street or browse the trendy boutiques of George Street. Art lovers will appreciate Edinburgh’s rich cultural offerings, including the Scottish National Gallery and the Dean Gallery. Upon returning to the mansion house, we’ll gather for a farewell dinner to remember, sharing stories and reflecting on the week’s adventures in Scotland.
Included Activities:
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Day 8: Edinburgh
Location: Edinburgh
Accommodation: Carberry Tower (Feature Stay) or similar
Accommodation Name: Carberry Tower (Feature Stay) or similar
Meals Included: Breakfast
This morning after breakfast, there are no activities planned. A transfer to Edinburgh city centre or Waverley Station is included. If you’d like to extend your stay with additional nights in Edinburgh city centre and take a Harry Potter-themed walking tour or just explore the Old Town further, just speak to your booking agent.
What's Included
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Accommodation
Hotel (5 nights), Feature Stay (2 Nights) -
Meals
7 breakfasts, 4 lunches, 4 dinners -
Perthshire - Welcome Dinner
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Perthshire - Whisky Distillery Tour and Tasting
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Perthshire - Loch Of The Lowes Wildlife Reserve Visit
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Perthshire - Waterfall Walk
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Cairngorms National Park - Highland Folk Museum
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Perthshire - Castle Tour
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Inverness - Loch Ness Cruise
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Inverness - Rewilding Center Experience
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Hebredian Islands - Seil and Easdale Day Trip
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Loch Lomond - National Park Visit
What's Not Included
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Insurance
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International Travel
Transport
- Private Vehicle
Accommodation
- Hotel (5 nights), Feature Stay (2 Nights)
Important Information
- 1. A single supplement is available if you’d prefer not to share a room on this trip. The single supplement applies to all nights of your trip and is subject to availability. Please speak to your booking agent for further information.
- 2. Pre trip and post trip accommodation will be at the Voco Edinburgh Haymarket Hotel in Edinburgh city centre.
Mode of Transport
- One of the highlights of this trip is our use of private transportation. Private vehicles allow us to make frequent stops at intriguing points of interest that may not be reachable via public transport. Need a taxi, no problem, please speak to your group leader should you require a taxi outside of what is included.
Accommodation
- OCCASIONAL ALTERNATIVE ACCOMMODATION
- The style of accommodation indicated in the day-to-day itinerary is a guideline. On rare occasions, alternative arrangements may need to be made due to the lack of availability of rooms in our usual accommodation. A similar standard of accommodation will be used in these instances.
- TWIN SHARE BASIS
- Accommodation on this trip is on a twin/multishare basis. We pair up solo travellers with another traveller of the same gender as per the gender marker on each of their passports. Please note there may be times where facilities will be shared rather than ensuite and rare occasions when you share a room with passengers travelling on different Intrepid trips than your own.
- CHECK-IN TIME
- Throughout the trip we request that our hotels prepare rooms in time for our arrival, especially if we're arriving prior to normal check in time. However this isn't always possible which means we won't be able to check-in immediately on arrival at some hotels. Instead, we can store our luggage and explore our new destination.
- PRE/POST TRIP ACCOMMODATION
- If you've purchased pre-trip or post-trip accommodation (if available), you may be required to change rooms from your trip accommodation for these extra nights.
- FACILITIES
- Your accommodation may not always have private en suite facilities or air-conditioning. European hotels generally don't provide kettles or fridges. Bed and room sizes may vary, this is often the nature of small rural hotels.
Check out our Q&As
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Is this trip right for you
On most days you’ll be exploring on your feet, whether that is enjoying a forest walk, exploring tiny islands on the west coast, or discovering the history around each corner in Edinburgh’s Old Town. Therefore, you will need a basic level of fitness and should expect to be walking and active for at least a couple of hours each day. However, this is not a hiking tour. ...more ...less
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What policies are in place for Covid-19?
Please contact us for latest COVID-19 policies
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How long has the tour company been trading?
Intrepid Travel has been taking travellers around the world for over 30 years
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Will the accommodation included meet local health and safety regulations?
Yes
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What Ethical Travel credentials does the tour company have?
Since 2002, The Intrepid Foundation has supported over 130 organisations across the world. We’re creating positive impact through the joy of travel, community and connection.
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Do you operate a “single share” option and how does it work?
Over 50% of traveller travel solo with Intrepid. You can choose to share a room with another solo travelle of the same sex for no additional charge, or choose to pay a single supplement if you’d like your own room. Please request this when booking, and we will secure you a single supplement wherever possible. Please note, if you are booking a last-minute trip, it may be harder for us to secure a single room
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Free Date Changes
Intrepid Travel allows you to make 10 free date changes, as long as the change is made at least 56 days before the start of the tour.
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Transfer as credit to Future Tours
Intrepid Travel allows you to transfer existing payments to a future tour to avoid cancellation fees if you can't travel and inform intrepid travel, 56 days before departure.
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Low Deposit
Intrepid Travel requires a minimum deposit of 400 USD per person or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 56 days before departure.
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Cancellation Policy
We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of intrepid travel charges.
Up to 56 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.
At 55 days before tour starts: Forfeit 30% of booking price.
At 30 days before tour starts: Forfeit 60% of booking price.
At 14 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.
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Terms and Conditions
Enquire for Extra Savings
Rated 5* on Trust Pilot & ABTA Protected.
Premium Scotland
8 Days Starting and ending in Edinburgh
Visiting: Dunkeld, Inverness, Argyll, Edinburgh
Tour operator:
Tour code:
BWPS
Guide Type:
Fully Guided
Group size:
1 - 12
Age range:
15-99