Driving the Dream
This elegant self-paced journey offers the ultimate way to experience Scotland’s most iconic destinations in comfort and style. Over 6 or 7 unforgettable days, you’ll travel by private chauffeur-driven vehicle, stay in the country’s finest 5-star hotels, and enjoy curated experiences tailored to your pace and preferences.
Begin your adventure in Edinburgh with a stay at the legendary Balmoral Hotel, then choose between extra time exploring the capital or heading straight to the historic coastal town of St Andrews. From there, continue through breathtaking landscapes to the Isle of Mull and finish in Glasgow — with castles, wildlife, distilleries, and unforgettable meals along the way.
Whether you’re drawn to scenic drives, rich heritage, or world-class hospitality, Driving the Dream is the perfect way to see the very best of Scotland — your way.
Day 1
Welcome to Scotland
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Accommodation: The Balmoral, Edinburgh (1 or 2 nights)
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Transport: Executive Vehicle. Driver/Guide
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Itinerary: Airport Transfer, Explore The New Town
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. The transfer will take approximately 30 minutes, depending on traffic. Upon arrival at The Balmoral, settle into your room or as they call them, “Chambers”
Tomorrow starts with a guided walk of The Old Town and so after you have settled into your hotel you can have a walk around The New Town, which isn’t very new. Its story starts in 1752. A proposal was made to expand the city beyond the walls so that the well-to-do members of the population could live in more comfort. In 1766 a competition was announced and was won by an unknown architect called James Craig, who was aged just 23. In the elegant New Town, Georgian townhouses line the broad avenues and open squares.
Shoppers can enjoy The St. James’s Quarter close to Princes Street and upscale boutiques on and around George Street, while office workers and affluent residents grab drinks in chic hotel bars and atmospheric cocktail lounges. Paintings of famous Scots past and present are on show at the neo-Gothic, red sandstone Scottish National Portrait Gallery.
From your hotel it’s a short walk to reachThe Scott Monument which honours the Scottish author Sir Walter Scott. The tower is 200 feet 6 inches high and has viewing platforms reached by a series of spiral staircases giving panoramic views of central Edinburgh and its surroundings. The highest platform is reached by a total of 287 steps.
Dinner
Number One" Inside the Balmoral this 4 AA Rosette restaurant is celebrated for its modern Scottish cuisine, crafted using seasonal ingredients from trusted local suppliers. The restaurant offers a seven-course tasting menu, blending classic flavours with contemporary flair.
Day 2
Explore the Capital
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Accommodation: The Balmoral Hotel, Edinburgh. (1 or 2 Nights)
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Transport: None Free Day
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Itinerary: Private Walking Tour, Edinburgh Castle, Mary Kings Close
Morning
After breakfast you will meet your blue badge guide in the hotel reception. Your guide knows the city inside out so don’t be shy to ask questions. They will be on hand to take you on an exploration of Edinburgh’s Historic Old Town. You will walk from The Palace of Holyrood, climbing the Royal Mile and visiting St Giles Cathedral. Of course, no visit to Edinburgh is complete without visiting the legendary Castle. Parts date back to the 12th century and you will tour round the Great Hall, St Margaret’s Chapel, see the one o’clock gun and the Honours of Scotland.
For lunch there are a multitude of restaurants, cafes and bars to choose from, perhaps you could try Greyfriars Bobby’s Bar next to 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 then look out for the grave of Tom Riddle. This can be reached by going behind the church and walking to the right where graves 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. An alternative eatery could be the delightful Holyrood 9a, a cosy little pub offering a huge range of salads, burgers, steaks, venison and since you’re in Scotland, a haggis burger.
Afternoon
Mary King’s Close is a historic close found under the Edinburgh City Chambers building on the Royal Mile. It took its name from one Mary King, a merchant burgess who lived in 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 it 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 Dome” restaurant. The Dome was originally the site of the old Physicians’ Hall (1775), built and designed by James Craig the celebrated planner of Edinburgh’s New Town. Unfortunately for the College of Physicians the original estimate of £2,725 rose to £4,800 by completion, leaving the college approximately £1,000 in debt. Unsurprisingly after a short time the college looked for a purchaser and eventually in 1843 The Commercial Bank of Scotland made an offer of £20,000 for the site and premises. The Dome became a restaurant in 1996.
Day 2/3
A Coastal Journey into St Andrews
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Accommodation: Old Course Hotel (1 Night)
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Transport: Executive Vehicle. Private Driver/Guide
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Itinerary: Three Bridges Boat Trip, Crail, St Andrews Walking Tour
Morning
Depart from your hotel to The Port Edgar Marina on The Firth of Forth are the Three Bridges, the most famous one being The rail bridge which is a cantilever design.. Completed in 1890, it is considered a symbol of Scotland, and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It was designed by English engineers Sir John Fowler and Sir Benjamin Baker. You should also get sight of seals and puffins. An enhanced informative commentary accompanies the trip which lasts 90 minutes.
Back on dry land we will cross the river by The Queensferry Crossing a striking 1.7-mile cable-stayed bridge features 3 sleek towers. From there you will make your way along the scenic Fife Coastal Route, stopping in Crail, a charming fishing village.
Lunch The Shoregate in Crail offers the best in Scottish food.
Afternoon
A short drive from Crail will bring you into the Home of Golf, St Andrews. The town was a medieval pilgrimage centre and ecclesiastical capital of Scotland. Enjoy a guided walking tour by one of the locals, covering, St Andrews Cathedral and Castle ruins, the University of St Andrews and of course The famous Old Course golf course. If you have time take a relaxing walk along the West Sands Beach made famous as the location for the film Chariots of Fire.
Dinner
Named after the 17th hole of the Old Course, this fine dining restaurant is the beating heart of the hotel. With its commitment to using only the finest local ingredients, breathtaking views out over the Fife coastline, and exceptional service, it’s no wonder why the restaurant has earned such a prestigious triple A recognition. It offers sprawling views of the Old Course and the North Sea. Order from the grill or sample the seafood selection, the food is locally sourced, with the chefs picking up fresh seafood regularly.
Day 3/4
Crowned Kings, Craft Whisky, and a Journey to the Isle of Mull
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Accommodation: Isle of Mull Hotel and Spa (2 Nights)
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Transport: Executive Vehicle. Private Driver/Guide
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Itinerary: Scone Palace, Glenturret Distillery, Kilchurn Castle/St Conan’s Kirk, Oban.
Morning
Scone Palace 10.00 tour.
Heading north to Perth you will visit Scone Palace (the pronunciation is Scoone) where 42 Kings of Scotland were crowned on The Stone of Destiny starting in the 9th. century. The first was Kenneth MacAlpin and others included Robert the Bruce. Scone was also the site of Scotland’s first parliament. The Earl of Mansfield is the current owner, and the family still reside in a part of this magnificent palace. There is lots to do including a maze.
Afternoon
Glenturret Distillery
Here tradition meets perfection with each drop of whisky being a testament to centuries of craftsmanship. Located in the picturesque town of Crieff (it’s Gaelic name is Hosh meaning stunning scenery )you will step into a world where every corner of the distillery whispers stories of heritage and each tasting reveals the artistry behind their single malts
Kilchurn Castle
On the shores of Loch Awe the castle was built in the 1400s by Clan Campbell and served as a stronghold for centuries. Explore St Conan’s Kirk, a beautiful lochside church, built in 1881 by Walter Douglas Campbell as a tribute to his mothe. St Conans Kirk houses a bone relic of Robert the Bruce, Scotland’s legendary king. The last part of the day is a short drive into Oban where you will catch the after ferry over to the Isle of Mull. Oban/Craignure Ferry (17.25)
Isle of Mull Hotel and Spa
From luxury rooms to the revitalising Driftwood Spa, this 4-star hotel offers has recently enjoyed a 3 million pounds upgrade. It has a sophisticated elegance and is located minutes from the ferry terminal. With 75 redeveloped luxurious bedrooms and new generously proportioned sea view suites the hotel offers a flexible variety of accommodation, with views to nearby islands and the mainland.
Dinner
The hotels Òran Na Mara is Inspired by the island and its local ingredients. The chefs a signature menu that evolves with the changing seasons and draws influence from the rich waters surrounding Mull
Day 4/5
Eagles, Artisanal Cheese & Island Charm on Mull
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Accommodation: Isle of Mull Hotel and Spa
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Transport: Executive Vehicle. Private Driver/Guide
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Itinerary: Wildlife Tour, Mull Cheese Farm, Tobermory
Morning
After breakfast, meet your guide in the Foyer of the hotel and embark on a private wildlife tour of the Island. On a typical day you are likely to see White Tailed Sea Eagles, Golden Eagles, Hen Harriers, Buzzards, Divers and many others, normally 40 to 50 species of birds. Mammals include Red Deer, Common Seals, Atlantic Grey Seals, Otters, possibly Porpoises and Dolphins and even occasional Minky whales.
Afternoon
After a light lunch head up the hill to the Mull Cheese farm where you will Learn about the cheesemaking process from fresh milk to aging. See the cows, traditional dairy equipment, and cheese maturation rooms and discover the farm’s renewable energy setup, which powers operations. Try their famous Isle of Mull Cheddar, known for its rich, nutty flavour and taste Hebridean Blue and other artisanal cheeses. End the day with a relaxing stroll around Tobermory, the capital of the island. Pop into the distillery or visit the Mull museum.
Dinner
Òran Na Mara
Day 5/6
Monsters & Wizzards
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Accommodation: The Kimpton Blythswood Square (1 Night)
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Transport: Executive Vehicle. Private Driver/Guide
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Itinerary: McCaigs Tower, Inveraray Castle, Loch Lomond
Morning
Craignure Ferry Terminal
After breakfast we will take the ferry back to Oban
McCaigs Tower,
From the Oban ferry terminal we can visit one of Oban’s most iconic landmarks, the tower offers stunning panoramic views over the town and Oban Bay, It was built between 1897-1902 by John Stuart McCaig, a wealthy banker and Inspired by The Colosseum in Rome. It was originally planned as a monument to the McCaig’s family and a cultural centre.
Inveraray Jail
A well-preserved example of an early 19th-century prison. Opened in 1820 it was designed to house both criminals and debtors. It reflects the harsh penal practices of the time. Inveraray Jail operates as a popular visitor attraction, offering a glimpse into Scotland’s criminal justice history through interactive exhibits and immersive experience
Lunch - The George Hotel, Inveraray
Scotland's oldest family owned and run hotel Est 1860. Scottish Hotel of the Year Finalist 2024. Wonderful rooms with baths and open fires, AA rosetted dining, historic pub (Whisky Bar of the Year 2022) and Garden Bar on Loch Fyne.
Afternoon
Inveraray Castle.
The original castle was built in the 15th century by the Campbell clan, who were powerful landowners in the region. It was a medieval fortress with defensive features suited to the turbulent times. It is the ancestral seat of the Duke of Argyll and is renowned for its stunning design, rich history, and beautiful grounds.
Loch Lomond
From Inveraray we will travel alongside Loch Fyne and over “The Rest and be Thankful” to Loch Lomond. The loch is renowned for its stunning natural beauty, picturesque islands and diverse wildlife. The loch stretches approximately 22.6 miles and is Scotlands largest loch by area. We will have a brief stop at the village of Luss before arriving in Glasgow, Scotland largest city.
The Kimpton, Glasgow
A landmark hotel in Scotland’s largest, most vibrant city, Glasgow’s Kimpton is celebrated for its gorgeous Georgian architecture. The five star property continues to define Glaswegian luxury as the only hotel in the city with AA accreditation.
Dinner
Bo & Birdy
A modern brasserie reimagined through a traditional Scottish lens, the new restaurant specialises in approachable farm-to-fabulous comfort food made from the larder of Scotland. An all-encompassing wine and cocktail list rounds out the offer.
Day 6/7
Farewell – Pick up & Drop Off
After a fabulous trip, visiting the finest hotels, castles and distilleries 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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