Grand Tour of Scotland

Often referred to as the ‘outdoor capital of Scotland’ due to its excellent hill-walking and skiing, Fort William also has plenty to offer less energetic visitors. You can explore the West Highland Museum, enjoy a short cruise on Loch Linne, or visit the local whisky distillery for an explanation of how the flavoursome drink is made – and perhaps sample the local product!

The spectacular West Highland Line from Fort William to Mallaig includes a crossing of the famous Glenfinnan Viaduct whose graceful arches you may have seen in the Harry Potter films as the Hogwarts Express steams north. From Mallaig station, head to the port and take a ferry to the famed Isle of Skye. If you have time, why not add a couple of nights here?

A taxi will meet you at Armadale port on Skye and take you to Kyle of Lochalsh where you will pick up the Kyle Line train through the Highlands to Inverness. On arrival into Inverness, make your way to the Mercure Inverness (or similar) and check in for a 2-night stay.

Included today is your chance to go Nessie hunting on a small group tour to Scotland’s most famous lake. You’ll have a guided walk around the Highlands village of Invermoriston, as well as an optional visit to the romantic ruins of Urquhart Castle, overlooking the loch and a boat cruise. 

Back in Inverness later on this afternoon, there are plenty of attractions to choose from, including a castle and cathedral, a Victorian market, as well as a wide-range of places where you can eat, drink and relax.

Bid your farewells to the UK’s most northerly city today as you travel south through the Grampian mountains, passing through the ski resort of Aviemore as you share the route with the A9 trunk road towards Perth. 

As you travel through more sedate farmland of Fife, the excitement builds as you approach the iconic Forth Rail Bridge, a UNESCO World Heritage Site completed in 1889, and arriving at Edinburgh’s Waverley station. From here, it’s a 15 minute walk or short taxi ride to the Ten Hill Place Hotel BW Premier Collection (or similar) where you will have a 3-night stay.

A truly magnificent city, Scotland’s capital has a seemingly endless array of attractions to explore.  The majestic castle dominates the skyline, at the top end of the Royal Mile, a street through the famous old town.  On one side of the Royal Mile is Cowgate and the Grassmarket with their lively bars and music venues, and at the lower end of the old town you will find the Scottish Parliament building.  The new town contains some attractive Georgian architecture and there are plenty of inviting shops on Princes Street to tempt you. 

It’s time to leave Edinburgh this morning as you make your way back to Waverley station to take a train south across the border.  Look out for some spectacular views on the left hand side of the train as you race alongside the coast around the border with England.

Don’t forget, although this sample itinerary is based from London, we can arrange travel from any UK station to and from Scotland, contact one of the team for details.