The Best of Scotland Tour
Welcome to The Best of Scotland Tour, a luxury travel experience showcasing Scotland’s breathtaking landscapes, historic castles, world-class whisky distilleries, and five-star accommodations. From the moment you arrive in Edinburgh, your private chauffeur will guide you through an unforgettable journey, staying in Scotland’s finest hotels and dining at top-rated restaurants featuring fresh, local cuisine.
This exclusive itinerary takes you from the majestic Highlands to the legendary Loch Ness, the historic Culloden Battlefield, and iconic sites like Glenfinnan Viaduct and Edinburgh Castle. Explore ancient ruins, scenic lochs, and world-renowned whisky distilleries while immersing yourself in Scotland’s rich history and culture. Let your ultimate Scottish adventure begin!
Day 1
Welcome to Scotland
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Accommodation: Cromlix (1night)
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Transport: Executive Vehicle. Driver/Guide
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Itinerary: Morning arrival Edinburgh International Airport
Morning
Upon arrival at Edinburgh airport, you will be met by your private chauffeur. You will be escorted to your waiting executive vehicle and this is the start of your Scottish adventure.
Afternoon
Leaving the airport behind we will travel into Stirlingshire passing by the Wallace Monument. It sits majestically on the Stirling skyline and celebrates the legacy of Sir William Wallace, the famous Scottish patriot and martyr whose life was immortalised by Mel Gibson in Braveheart
Your accommodation for the evening, is Cromlix. Cromlix is owned by the Scottish tennis sensation Andy Murray and is a refurbished Victorian mansion sitting in glorious countryside and woodlands.
Dinner
Glasshouse Restaurant. The cuisine celebrates simplicity and is a feast for the senses.
Day 2
History, Chocolate, and Whisky in the Highlands
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Accommodation: Ness Walk Hotel , Inverness (2 nights)
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Transport: Executive Vehicle. Private Driver/Guide
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Itinerary: Scone Palace, Highland Chocolatier, House of Bruar, Dalwhinnie Distllery.
Morning
After breakfast you will head to Perthshire and to Scone Palace a Category A-listed historic house near the village of Scone (Pronounced Scoon) and the city of Perth. It is the Ancestral seat of Earls of Mansfield.
Scone was originally the site of an early Christian church, and later an Augustinian priory. Scone Abbey, in the grounds of the Palace, for centuries held the Stone of Scone upon which the early Kings of Scotland were crowned. Robert the Bruce was crowned at Scone in 1306 and the last coronation was of Charles II, when he accepted the Scottish crown in 1651. Monarchs sat on the Stone of Scone itself, until a wooden platform was added to the Coronation Chair in the 17th century. The Stone was subsequently used in the coronation of English and British monarchs for over 500 years.
In 1996, the stone was returned from London to Scotland, and kept in Edinburgh Castle along with the Honours of Scotland. The stone remains the property of the Crown and is transported to London for use at coronations, the last one being in 2023 for Charles 111. Since March 2024, it has been on permanent public display in Perth Museum. A replica of the stone can be seen at Scone.
You can walk around the palace and explore the gardens which are home to some of the biggest and most beautiful oak trees in the UK. There is a maze, a kitchen garden, a children’s play area and also a café.
Next up is the Master Chocolatier, Iain Burnett, who offers craft premium chocolates that you will not find anywhere else in the world. Only the finest and freshest natural ingredients are used, such as the single-origin cocoa sourced from São Tomé, an island in the South Atlantic. You will experience a guided tasting session which will teach you all about the skills of a Master Chocolatier.
Afternoon
The House of Bruar, where you can also do some shopping. This is an upmarket country wear store with lots of tweed clothing and cashmere. From here you will drive through the wilds of the Cairngorms. This notorious area is incredibly beautiful with its vast open moorland, mountains and plenty of wildlife to look out for.
We will eventually arrive at the Dalwhinnie Distillery, which first started producing in 1897. The distillery is remote and its whisky smoky and distinctive due to its use water from Lochan na Doire-uaine (loch of the green thicket) It Is the highest distillery In Scotland. A tour and tasting will have been arranged for you.
Next stop is Inverness, the capital of the Highlands and The Ness Walk Hotel. This is a 5 star hotel offering a blend of luxury and tranquility. Its elegant surroundings are impeccable.
Dinner
This will be in the Ness Walk’s Torrish Restaurant. With a focus on locally sourced ingredients and a menu to delight the senses, dining at Torrish promises a gastronomic experience.
Day 3
Battlefields, Castles, and Whisky Trails
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Accommodation: Ness Walk Hotel , Inverness
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Transport: Executive Vehicle. Private Driver/Guide
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Itinerary: Cullodon Battlefield, Clava Cairns, Glen Ord Distillery
Morning
Culloden Battlefield will be our first stop where you will learn about the events of 16th. April 1746. The Jacobite army under Charles Edward Stuart was decisively defeated by a British government force commanded by the Duke of Cumberland, thereby ending the Jacobite rising of 1745. One thousand men lost their lives on that fateful day.
From here you will head to Cawdor Castle. The castle is famed for ties to Shakespeare’s Macbeth. You will enjoy a tour of the castle which has stunning drawing rooms, a tapestry bedroom and an array of ancient antiques. The castles gardens are magnificent and there is even a nine hole golf course.
Lunch - The Sun Dancer in Nairn. The restaurant is located at the harbour/marina area of Nairn. With panoramic views over the Moray Firth it is the perfect location to enjoy a tempting menu. Specialties include unique seafoods and grill dishes using fresh local ingredients, some as close as the Moray firth itself.
Afternoon
After lunch we will head to the Black Isle and the Glen Ord distillery. The name of this Highland peninsula is thought to derive from the Scots Gaelic Eilean meaning “island” and dubs meaning “black” the latter most likely a reference to the dark fertile soil.
In its early days, the distillery operated under the name of the Ord Distillery Company. It employed 18 people and was founded in 1838. During World War I in 1917, the distillery was closed, along with a number of other similar businesses, the government needing to preserve barley for food supplies. The distillery reopened after the war in 1919. The distillery closed its doors for a second time in 1939 due to World War 11. It reopened again in1946. The current owners are Diageo. You will enjoy a tour led by a knowledgeable guide.
Back at the Ness Walk you will have some time to relax before dinner.
Dinner
The Mustard Seed - It’s hard not to be seduced to visit The Mustard Seed when the restaurant is a destination in itself. Head Chef Angel Pirev carefully creates his menus to reflect the availability of ingredients with each season while creaming the benefits of having a working kitchen garden behind the house. The busy dining room welcomes residents and non-residents and has long been highly acclaimed for attracting lovers of good food and fine wines from all over the world.
Day 4
Legends, Landscapes, and a Night in a Castle
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Accommodation: Inverlochy Castle (1 night)
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Transport: Executive Vehicle. Private Driver/Guide
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Itinerary: Private Loch Ness Boat Trip, Glenfinnan, Ft.William, Nevis Range Gondola.
Morning
You’re adventure continues with your first stop today being Loch Ness, home to the mythical “Loch Ness Monster”. You will weave round this beautiful loch and your private driver will make sure you visit the best photo stops. You will then make your way to the village of Drumnadrochit, on the shores of Loch Ness. Here you will join your private boat, the “Cluaran Dubh”, meet your skipper Gordon, and embark on your Private Boat Tour which lasts for around an hour. You will enjoy stunning views of Loch Ness, The Great Glen, and Urquhart Castle. Gordon was born, raised, and still lives on the Loch’s shores. He will regale you with stories of witches casting spells to protect Nessie!
Back ashore you can stop by the Loch Ness Centre where you can see state-of-the-art exhibitions about the geological formation of Loch Ness and its legendary monster.
Lunch will be at Fidlers in Drumnadrochit.
Afternoon
Glenfinnan is the next stop. Harry Potter fans will be excited to get the chance to see the Glenfinnan Viaduct, the bridge that carries the Hogwarts Express on its way to that world-famous school of witchcraft and wizardry. The steam train passes over twice a day.There is also the Glenfinnan Monument, a tower overlooking Loch Shiel which stands in memory of those who died for the Jacobite cause.
Onwards to Fort William, a charming highland town which sits in the shadow of BenNevis, the highest mountain in the UK. While you won’t have time to climb it simply witness its majesty.
The Nevis Range Mountain Gondola will be our final stop of the day .This impressive feat of engineering transports you 650 metres up the side of Aonach Mòr, the 8th highest mountain in the UK, all the while enjoying the unbeatable scenery of the Scottish Highlands. On top you can spend some time taking in the views and enjoying some of the scenic walks.
And now we travel to your hotel for this evening, actually it’s a castle. Inverlochy is a beautiful 19th century castle near Fort William. A fine Country Hotel, you will enjoy the rest and relaxation you deserve, where every detail for your comfort and enjoyment has been carefully considered and one which you are sure never to forget.
The area surrounding Inverlochy Castle is rich in landscape and history. During a trip to Balmoral in 1873, Queen Victoria spent a week at Inverlochy sketching and painting where she wrote in her diaries “ I never saw a lovelier or more romantic spot”. Nestling in the foothills of the mighty Ben Nevis, Inverlochy Castle sits amidst some of Scotland's finest scenery.
Dinner
The award-winning Chez Roux Restaurant.
Day 5
Scenic Shores, Wildlife Wonders, and Island Luxury
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Accommodation: Isle of Eriska Hotel (1 night)
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Transport: Executive Vehicle. Private Driver/Guide
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Itinerary: Oban, Coryvrackan Boat Trip
Morning
After breakfast your driver will take you to Glencoe which really defies adequate description. Words simply cannot do justice to how impressive Glencoe is. If you drive through it at any time of year, the car parks will always be full of tourists soaking up the breathtaking views and peaceful tranquillity that washes over you as you stand within the massive Glencoe. Your driver will stop at the “Three Sisters” and if you are a Harry Potter fan he can take you to where they built Hagrid’s Hut.
Onwards then to the seaside town of Oban (Gaelic for ‘little bay’). As you arrive in Oban you will not be able to help but notice McCaig’s Tower, standing tall and proud on the town’s skyline. The Colosseum-like Tower takes only 10 minutes to walk to from the town centre. (Mind you it’s all Uphill) Once there take in the spectacular views over Oban and the neighbouring islands.
Lunch – For lunch today you will have the pleasure of visiting a true institution of Oban, The Oban Inn. Established in 1790, this cosy spot has been offering weary travellers food and drink for hundreds of years. Choose from Stornoway black pudding, Orkney mac and cheese, highland beef olives, and much more.
Afternoon
Next up is a wildlife boat tour around the Gulf of Corryvreckan. On this two hour trip your experienced guide will be on hand to tell you all about the surrounding area and help you spot some incredible wildlife, including seals, dolphins, whales, eagles and many other sea birds. There will also be the chance to see the Corryvreckan Whirlpool, the third largest in the world.
Your driver will then take you to the five star Isle of Eriska Hotel which sits at the start of Loch Creran and boasts views over the Morvern Mountains. Here you can relax for the evening, making use of the fantastic spa facilities
Dinner
The hotel restaurant is where more of Scotland’s finest fish and produce are on offer.
Day 6
Royal Legacies, Lochside Beauty, and Edinburgh’s Finest Stay
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Accommodation: The Balmoral Hotel, Edinburgh (2 nights)
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Transport: Executive Vehicle. Private Driver/Guide
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Itinerary: Loch Lomond, Linlithgow Palace, Blackness Castle.
Morning
After breakfast, you will bid farewell to the Isle of Eriska hotel and make your way to Inverary. This is a quant little town (It has a very good whisky shop and a Jail, ask your driver) with a stunning Castle which is first and foremost the family home of the clan Campbell.
It’s very existence reflects the part played by the Campbells in the rich tapestry of Scottish and British History. The contents of Inveraray Castle span many generations of the family and you will get a glimpse of the heritage and way their ancestors lived.
History can often be lost through the years, but here at Inveraray over the decades they have chronicled the past in order to share it with future generations. There have been great achievements, yet mistakes have also been made, something reflected in the family motto, ‘Ne Obliviscaris
From here we will travel the length of Loch Fyne, over The Rest and be Thankful and to Loch Lomond.
Lunch – The Village Rest, Luss
Afternoon
From Luss we head east towards Edinburgh reaching Linlithgow where you will tour the famous Linlithgow Palace. Sitting proudly above Linlithgow Loch, the palace was a Stewart Family stronghold and Mary Queen of Scots was born here. This will be an exciting visit for the history buffs.
You will then make the short journey to Blackness Castle. Built in the 15th century, Blackness Castle has had many uses over the years, including a royal home, a prison, and even a film location for “Hamlet” and “Outlander”. The tour of the castle is fantastic and you will enjoy majestic views over the Firth of Forth.
Our final stop will be tonight’s accommodation which is in the centre of Edinburgh and is The Balmoral Hotel. This iconic establishment stands as a testament to refined elegance and timeless luxury. From the moment you step into the opulent lobby adorned with classic Scottish furnishings, you will be enveloped in an atmosphere of impeccable service and attention to detail.
Dinner
Balmoral Hotel’s Number One restaurant, where the fusion of contemporary elegance and classic charm sets the stage for a culinary masterpiece.
Day 7
Edinburgh Unveiled: History, Legends, and Hidden Secrets
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Accommodation: The Balmoral Hotel, Edinburgh
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Transport: Executive Vehicle. Private Driver/Guide
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Itinerary: Edinburgh
Morning
After breakfast you will meet your blue badge guide in the hotel reception Your guide knows the city inside out so don’t by shy to ask questions. They will be on hand to take you on an exploration of Edinburgh’s Historic Old Town. The High Street, or as it’s generally known “The Royal Mile”, goes from Edinburgh Castle at the top to The Palace of Holyrood House at the bottom and is where you will find The Palace of Holyrood House and the Scottish Parliament.
Lunch - The Witchery” Tumbling turreted staircases, a restaurant lit entirely by candlelight and gothic elegance beholding every corner, Edinburgh’s world-renowned The Witchery by the Castle is a hotel and restaurant like no other."
Afternoon
After lunch it’s time to visit the iconic Edinburgh Castle parts of which date back to the 12th century. You will tour round the Great Hall, St Margaret’s Chapel, see the one o’clock gun and the Honours of Scotland.
Other places to see are Greyfriars Kirkyard Cemetery The cemetery is best known for Bobby, a skye terrier belonging to John Gray who died and was buried in the graveyard in 1872. Bobby is said to have sat by the grave for 14 years and he was buried just inside the gate not far from his master’s grave.
If you are a Harry Potter fan, you can look out for the grave of Tom Riddel. This can be reached by going behind the church and going towards the right as it and others lie in the back section behind what remains of the old and battered Flodden wall. JK Rowling lived nearby and was known to have spent time walking through the graveyard, undoubtedly looking for inspiration.
Another worthwhile stop is Mary Kings Close which is a historic close located under the Edinburgh City Chambers building on the Royal Mile. It took its name from one Mary King, a merchant burgess who lived on the Close in the 17th century. The close was partially demolished and buried due to the building of the Royal Exchange in the year 1753 and later closed to the public for many years. The area became shrouded in myths and urban legends; tales of hauntings and murders abounded. In 1897, Andrew Chesney, the last resident remaining in Mary King's close, was given a compulsory purchase order for £400 and he left the close in 1902. The underground tour is fascinating.
Dinner
The Balmoral Hotel & Brasserie, Number One, a 4 AA Rosette Restaurant where modern Scottish cuisine meets world-class service
Day 8
Farewell – Pick up & Drop Off
After a fabulous trip, visiting the finest hotels in the country, you will say a fond farewell to Scotland. Your private driver will escort you to Edinburgh Airport, help you with your bags, and wish you safe travels.
From all at DFH Scotland Tours
Haste ye Back
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