Scottish Castles Experience

Arrive in Edinburgh, Scotland’s majestic capital city. Edinburgh is a great place to wander – particularly through the Old and New Towns where you will find an unusual mix of medieval and Georgian buildings – each beautiful in their own right.
Overnight – Edinburgh

Your small group tour begins this morning as you depart Edinburgh and travel north across the Queensferry Crossing into the ancient Kingdom of Fife. Your first visit of the day is Falkland Palace located in the medieval village of Falkland. You’ll then continue to St Andrews with its cobbled streets, historic buildings and golden sandy beaches. 

After lunch in St Andrews, the tour travels north towards Aberdeen. With over 260 castles, stately homes and ruins dotted around the landscape, Aberdeenshire is known as ‘Scotland’s Castle Country’. 

In the afternoon, you’ll have the opportunity to visit spectacular Dunnottar Castle – perched on a clifftop and surrounded by stormy seas, this is a must-visit destination for history buffs.
Overnight – Aberdeen

Today is packed with stunning historic castles and formal gardens. Your first stop is Castle Fraser, a grand Scottish baronial tower house with a wonderful 18th century walled garden. Hereafter, you’ll visit Banchory and the Falls of Feugh, before enjoying lunch at Ballater in the heart of Royal Deeside.

Crathes Castle is a vision, with its turrets, gargoyles, ghosts stories, original interior and famous garden, this is a real tour highlight. You’re free to explore the house and grounds, and get lost in the turbulent tales of the past, before returning to civilisation.
Overnight – Aberdeen

This morning your tour heads north towards the Moray Coast. Your first visit is Fyvie Castle, dating back to the 13th century, known for its incredible tapestries. Admire the impressive portrait collection and glorious natural setting, before continuing on to the charming Highland town of Nairn.

Enjoy lunch near Brodie Castle, before exploring the castle’s unique art collection – from Dutch Old Masters to modern watercolours. In the afternoon, you can take a memorable Clan Walk at Culloden Visitor Centre, commemorating the final brutal battle in the Jacobite Rising.
Overnight – Forres

Today it’s time to travel south through picturesque scenery, as you make your way to Kingussie where you may have an opportunity for a quick photo stop at Ruthven Barracks. The tour continues to Dalwhinnie Distillery, the highest distillery in Scotland, for a taste of delicious single malt whisky.

From here you’ll continue to Pitlochry in Highland Perthshire for lunch, then travel to Loch Leven for a boat trip to the island where Mary, Queen of Scots was held captive. The ruin of Loch Leven Castle dates back to the 14th century, and is a historic place to explore on foot. 

The tour returns to Edinburgh in the early evening.
Overnight – Edinburgh

Spend another day exploring the many delights of Edinburgh. Visit the most iconic castle of them all – Edinburgh Castle, the Palace of Holyroodhouse, climb Arthur’s Seat, or dine at a Michelin star restaurant in fashionable Leith.
Overnight – Edinburgh

After breakfast your unforgettable holiday will come to an end.