Scotland: Land of Lore & Legend
11 Days Starting in Glasgow, United Kingdom and ending in Edinburgh, United Kingdom
Visiting: Glasgow, Loch Melfort, Isle of Mull, Inverness, Edinburgh, Scotland, Edinburgh
Tour operator:
Tour code:
16268
Guide Type:
Fully Guided
Interests:
Cultural, Gardens & Nature Tours, Island Hopping, Wildlife Tours
Activities:
Tour Overview
Embark on an enchanting journey through Scotland, the Land of Lore & Legend, where history and natural beauty intertwine. Begin in the vibrant city of Glasgow, exploring its rich cultural tapestry before venturing into the serene landscapes of Loch Melfort. Witness the skill of border collies at a traditional sheepdog demonstration and savor the tranquility of the Isle of Iona, home to the historic Iona Abbey. Cruise the Moray Firth, keeping an eye out for playful porpoises and seals, and delve into the past at Blair Castle. In Edinburgh, uncover the city's legends with a guided tour of its storied Old Town and majestic Edinburgh Castle. Conclude your adventure with a taste of Scotland's famed "water of life" at a local whisky tasting, celebrating the spirit of this captivating land.
Highlights
Itinerary
Day 1 : Overnight Flight
Location: Glasgow
Accommodation Name: Hilton Glasgow
Rolling landscapes of green hills and rocky coastlines. Lively cities of friendly locals and the renowned “water of life.” This is Scotland, where legends live long and storybook pages come to life.
Day 2 : Glasgow, Scotland
Location: Glasgow
Accommodation Name: hotel
Meals Included: Dinner
Welcome to Glasgow, a cultural trove of art, music, and history. Get ready to experience the eclectic architecture, friendly locals (Glaswegians), and rich traditions that make this city such a fascinating place. Settle into your hotel before joining your fellow travelers this evening for dinner.
Day 3 : Glasgow
Location: Glasgow
Accommodation Name: Loch Melfort Hotel, Arduaine
Soak in the rich culture of Glasgow. Join a local guide on a walking and coach tour that leads you through historic George Square and the beautiful Beaux-Arts style architecture that surrounds it; to Provands Lordship, the oldest surviving house in the city; the medieval Glasgow Cathedral; prestigious Blythswood Square; and the futuristic-looking Science Centre. After lunch on your own in central Glasgow, enjoy some free time to discover the city how you like it.
Day 4 : Glasgow - Loch Melfort
Location: Loch Melfort
Accommodation Name: hotel
Leave the city behind, traveling along sloping fields towards Loch Lomond. Visit a family-run farm with spectacular views of the lake and surrounding hills, see border collies in action during a traditional sheepdog demonstration, and enjoy Scottish snacks. Next, arrive in Luss and explore this quaint lakeside village of stone cottages and bright flowers. After enjoying lunch on your own, it’s off to Auchindrain. Learn about Scotland’s rural history during a self-guided tour of this well preserved open-air farm township dating back to the 16th century. Continue to Loch Melfort and settle into your hotel for the next two nights. Take in a stunning view of the ocean from the hotel before wandering the grounds, home to friendly Highland cows and neighboring the National Trust’s Arduaine Gardens.
Day 5 : Loch Melfort - Isle Of Mull - Isle Of Iona - Loch Melfort
Location: Isle of Mull
Accommodation Name: Best Western Palace Hotel
It’s time to island hop! Setting off from Loch Melfort, take the ferry from Oban to the Isle of Mull, a picturesque island that is the largest of the Inner Hebridean Islands. Continue to the Isle of Iona, one of Western Europe’s oldest Christian religious centers. Journey to Iona Abbey on foot and enjoy free time to explore the tranquility of the grounds on your own before returning to Oban and back to your hotel in Loch Melfort.
Day 6 : Loch Melfort - Inverness
Location: Inverness
Accommodation Name: hotel
Meals Included: Dinner
Geological wonders await you in the Highlands. Head to the National Nature Reserve in Glencoe and stop at the visitor center to learn about the spectacular Glencoe mountain range, then walk the trails and experience this unique landscape for yourself. After lunch, continue on to Loch Ness. Wander the undulating ruins of legendary Urquhart Castle and imagine all that transpired inside the walls of this 13th-century medieval fortress. Afterwards, travel to Inverness, capital of the Highlands, to settle into your hotel for the night. After dinner, you may wish to take a stroll with your Tour Manager to neighboring Eden Court along the River Ness.
Day 7 : Inverness
Location: Inverness
Accommodation Name: Voco Edinburgh - Haymarket
Head out on the water and cruise Moray Firth, traveling up the Beauly Firth to the Caledonian Canal and then back out as far as Munlochy Bay. Keep your eyes peeled for otters, porpoises, seals, and numerous shore birds along the way. Continue to Culloden Battlefield, where in 1746 a half-hour battle changed the course of Scotland’s history. Experience the 360-degree battle immersion theater at the visitor center and see artifacts from the conflict. Later this afternoon, return to Inverness and have an afternoon at leisure to explore.
Day 8 : Inverness - Edinburgh
Location: Edinburgh, Scotland
Accommodation Name: hotel
Immerse yourself in history today at Blair Castle & Gardens, the ancestral home of Clan Murray. Explore the ornate 18th-century interiors and wander the nine acres of walled gardens, where you may spot a peacock roaming free. After lunch, continue to Bamff Ecotourism for an Impact Moment. Meet the owners of this tranquil estate and learn why they’re helping to reintroduce the wild beaver population to Scotland. Your day ends in Scotland’s capital city, Edinburgh.
Day 9 : Edinburgh
Location: Edinburgh
Accommodation Name: hotel
This morning, join a local expert for a two-hour walking tour of Edinburgh’s hilly Old Town and discover more about the lore and legends of the capital city. After your tour, visit Edinburgh Castle, home to the Scottish Crown Jewels. Tonight, you may wish to join an optional Scottish cultural show for a night of food, song, and dance.
Day 10 : Edinburgh
Location: Edinburgh
Accommodation Name: hotel
Meals Included: Dinner
The day is yours to explore as you wish. Perhaps you’ll take a stroll among the Georgian architecture of the New Town or journey to Leith for a visit to the royal yacht Britannia. Or you might take advantage of the optional excursion to Stirling Castle, an iconic landmark in Scotland’s history, followed by a brief stop at the Kelpies, the world’s largest equine sculptures. Gather in the evening for a whisky-inspired farewell dinner highlighting the flavors of Scotland and toast to your Scottish explorations.
Day 11 : Edinburgh - Tour Ends
Location: Edinburgh
Wish Scotland a fond farewell as you depart for home.
What's Included
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Accommodation
Stay at the Hilton Glasgow, Loch Melfort Hotel, Best Western Palace Hotel, and Voco Edinburgh - Haymarket, offering comfort and convenience throughout your journey in Scotland.
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Transport
Travel through Scotland by ferry, coach, and on foot, exploring the scenic landscapes and historic sites, with opportunities for self-guided tours and local guided experiences.
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Guided Tours
Join a local guide on a walking and coach tour in Glasgow and a two-hour walking tour of Edinburgh’s hilly Old Town.
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Whisky Tasting
Sip the famous 'water of life' at a local whisky tasting.
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Sheepdog Demonstration
See border collies in action during a traditional sheepdog demonstration at a family-run farm.
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Ferry to Isle of Iona
Ferry to the Isle of Iona and visit Iona Abbey.
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Moray Firth Cruise
Look for porpoises and seals as you cruise Moray Firth.
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Visit to Edinburgh Castle
Discover the historic Edinburgh Castle and the Scottish Crown Jewels.
What's Not Included
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Meals
Lunches are not included and are on your own.
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Optional Excursions
Optional excursions such as the Scottish cultural show and Stirling Castle visit are not included.
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Personal Expenses
Personal expenses such as souvenirs and additional activities not listed in the itinerary are not included.
Experiences
Immerse yourself in the history of Blair Castle.See border collies in action during a traditional sheepdog demonstration at a family-run farm.
Options
Edinburgh: Stirling Castle & the Kelpies Visit Stirling Castle, one of Scotland's greatest stone castles, and an iconic, integral piece of Scottish history. Steeped in tales of generations of Scottish monarchs, Stirling Castle has lore and legend seeping through every wall. This self-guided visit allows to you to explore at your own pace and to take some free time for lunch. On the way back to Edinburgh we will make a short stop to see the Kelpies. These are the world's largest equine statues and a magnificent piece of engineering to witness. The Kelpies themselves are mystical, mysterious and majestic, merging the rich tapestry of Scotland's past and present. Duration approximately 6 hour(s). Transportation is included. A minimum of 8 passenger(s) is required to operate this option.
Culinaries
Sip the famous "water of life" at a local whisky tasting.
Must See
Explore the culturally rich city of Glasgow.Ferry to the Isle of Iona and visit Iona Abbey.Look for porpoises and seals as you cruise Moray Firth.
Choice Highlights
Glasgow Glasgow is the largest city in Scotland which is situated on the River Clyde in Scotland’s West Central Lowlands. Glasgow is one of Europe’s top financial centers, and is home to many of Scotland’s leading businesses. The city is renowned for its culture, style and the friendliness of its people.
Sheepdog Demonstration
Scottish Highlands The Highlands are a historic region in Scotland dating back to the Middle Ages. The Highlands are considered to be all that is north west of the Highland Boundary Fault, separating it from the Lowlands. This area is mostly made up of mountains, open areas, and rolling hills.
Loch Melfort Loch Melfort is a stunning bay located on the west coast of Scotland. The area is home to friendly Highland cows and neighboring the National Trust’s Arduaine Gardens. The gardens claim to be “an oasis of tranquility on a wild shore.”
Oban
Isle of Mull Visit the beautiful Isle of Mull, teeming with opportunities for naturalists, foodies, and historians alike. Explore towering castles, dramatic mountains, and seemingly endless coastline. Tobermory is the hub of the island and a popular summer resort.
Isle of Iona Iona is an island that serves as one of the area’s oldest Christian religious centers. Ascend to the abbey on foot and enjoy free time to explore on your own. The abbey was pivotal in the spread of Christianity throughout the country. It was utilized as the foundation of a monastic community established by St. Columba.
Urquhart Castle The ruins of this once mighty site rest on the headwaters of Loch Ness. Dating back as far as the 13th century, Urquhart Castle (one of the largest in the country) has been a part of the Wars of Scottish Independence.
Moray Firth Cruise
Culloden, Highlands
Blair Castle Discover Blair Castle, the ancient seat of the Dukes and Earls of Atholl. This historic estate is located in the Perthshire Highlands. It was first built in the 13th century but the majority of today’s castle is from the 15th century. It is home to Europe’s last remaining private army, the Atholl Highlanders.
Whisky Tasting
Edinburgh Castle Edinburgh Castle is a historic castle and fortress located in Edinburgh, Scotland. It sits atop Castle Rock in the city center and is an integral part of Edinburgh’s skyline. In present day the castle is a major tourist attraction for the city. It is the most visited paid visitor attraction in Scotland.
Mode of Transport
Travel through Scotland by ferry, coach, and on foot, exploring the scenic landscapes and historic sites, with opportunities for self-guided tours and local guided experiences.
Check out our Q&As
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What unique wildlife might I see during the Moray Firth cruise?
During the Moray Firth cruise, you might see otters, porpoises, seals, and numerous shore birds.
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What historical experience is included at Culloden Battlefield?
At Culloden Battlefield, you can experience the 360-degree battle immersion theater at the visitor center and see artifacts from the conflict.
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What can I expect during the visit to Blair Castle?
During the visit to Blair Castle, you can explore the ornate 18th-century interiors and wander the nine acres of walled gardens, where you may spot a peacock roaming free.
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What activities are available on the Isle of Iona?
On the Isle of Iona, you can journey to Iona Abbey on foot and enjoy free time to explore the tranquility of the grounds on your own.
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What is special about the sheepdog demonstration at the family-run farm?
The sheepdog demonstration at the family-run farm showcases border collies in action, providing a traditional and authentic experience.
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What is the significance of Urquhart Castle?
Urquhart Castle is a 13th-century medieval fortress located on the headwaters of Loch Ness, and it has been a part of the Wars of Scottish Independence.
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What can I do during my free time in Edinburgh?
During your free time in Edinburgh, you can explore the Georgian architecture of the New Town, visit the royal yacht Britannia in Leith, or join an optional excursion to Stirling Castle and the Kelpies.
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Can I pre-purchase optional excursions/activities?
Yes, the majority of optional excursions and activities are available for advance purchase for applicable tours provided that you make your options purchase prior to 15 days of the tour departure. Collette makes it convenient to reserve presold options by visiting our website for a full listing of activities and excursions or when your reservation is made with our reservations staff. In addition, there are benefits to prepurchasing options including a price guarantee once your tour is paid in full. So, while the cost of an optional activity may change from the time you book your tour, once payment is received in full, your preselected options are guaranteed by Collette at their original price. Although you can still purchase options while on tour, reserving them ahead of time ensures you a spot in the event that the activity sells out. Collette will provide a refund if you cancel a presold option prior to tour departure. Any presold options canceled while on tour are nonrefundable.
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Can my children travel on tour?
Children over the age of 5 may travel on a Collette tour accompanied by an adult. Child land rates are valid for ages 5-12, sharing a room with two full-paying adults. Participation in any products that include Safari or Game Drive components, is limited to travelers aged 13 and up. This will include tours to Kenya, Tanzania, South Africa and India.
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What is the difference between a twin room and double room?
In certain countries, hotel rooms tend to be smaller than U.S. standard accommodations. A double room is designed to accommodate two people, but may not have two separate beds. A twin-bedded room has two separate beds of any size, and is the type most commonly utilized.
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Do you provide VISA processing for all applicable destinations?
Collette does not process VISAs. Every nation has its own specific requirements. Check the embassy or consulate website for the country you are visiting to find the forms and information you need. The process of getting a VISA can take two weeks to two months.
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Do I need a passport?
Government-issued ID is required for all air travel. A valid passport is required for all trips outside the USA. All passengers should check with the appropriate foreign consulate for entry and validity requirements. We recommend that your passport has six months validity, and at least 3 blank pages. Passports and visas are the responsibility of each client. International Borders. Any child under age 16 (traveling without a parent or legal guardian to Canada) must have written permission from a parent or legal guardian. Please be advised that if you have been convicted of an offense, or have committed a criminal act that is an offense under the laws where it occurred and would be an offense in Canada, you may be inadmissible into Canada. You will need to apply for a Minister's Permit of Approval of Rehabilitation at a Canadian Consulate. All other travelers should contact the appropriate consulate for entry requirements in other international destinations. In South Africa, children are required to have a passport as well as additional documentation to travel with you into and out of the country. Please consult the South African Embassy for the current specific requirements related to your travel dates. If travelling internationally with a child under the age of 18, please check directly with the airline for the legal documentation that is required. It is the sole responsibility of the guest to procure the proper documentation to travel and many requirements vary by airline and destination. Collette will not be responsible for costs incurred for missed flights or canceled tours where a guest fails to secure proper documentation.
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Is there a lot of walking on tour?
We pride ourselves on bringing travelers the very best experiences a destination offers. Our itineraries include many activities and may consist of walking on uneven terrain or significant walking at times. Some of the most unique sightseeing can mean accessing locations that restrict motorcoaches, especially in historic areas. Some hotels/lodges in remote locations may not have elevators. For your comfort, we recommend bringing walking shoes.
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Low Deposit
Collette requires a minimum deposit of 350 USD per person or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 90 days before departure.
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Cancellation Policy
We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of collette charges.
Up to 91 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.
At 90 days before tour starts: Forfeit 40% of booking price.
At 15 days before tour starts: Forfeit 75% of booking price.
At 1 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.